"In our work and in our living, we must recognize that difference is a reason for celebration and growth, rather than a reason for destruction."
— Audre Lorde
About Me
Luz Cotto- Charneski, LCSW, Psychoanalyst
I’m Luz Cotto-Charneski, LCSW—a bilingual (Spanish/English), psychoanalyst, bicultural psychotherapist with extensive experience in both private practice and inpatient/outpatient mental health settings. I work with adults, couples, and families facing a wide range of emotional and relational challenges.
My areas of specialization include supporting clients navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, grief and loss, low self-esteem, destructive patterns in relationships, and addiction. I am deeply committed to helping individuals break unhealthy cycles and build more authentic, connected, and fulfilling lives.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, mindfulness-based practices, and systems theory. This integrative style allows me to tailor therapy to your unique needs while fostering a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment.
I earned my degree from Smith College School for Social Work and continue my clinical development through my affiliation with The Mitchell Center for Relational Studies in New York City, where I deepen my understanding of the powerful role relationships play in healing.
I have also completed a 5-year certification program through the Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, where I received advanced training in understanding the deeper, often unconscious forces that shape our thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. This extensive training allows me to support my clients with a deeper, more comprehensive approach to healing and self-discovery.
My approach is rooted in connection, compassion, and the belief that every person holds the strength and potential for meaningful growth.
Ready to break old patterns and step into something new?
Let’s begin your healing journey—together.
Book your free consultation today.
Our Therapy Services
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Unhealthy / Painful relationship patterns
These patterns often show up as cycles of conflict, disconnection, or emotional hurt that repeat over time—sometimes without us fully realizing why. They may include difficulty communicating, fear of vulnerability, people-pleasing, emotional avoidance, or staying in relationships that feel one-sided or unsafe. Often rooted in early experiences, these patterns can be painful but not permanent. With awareness and support, they can be understood, healed, and transformed.
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Trauma | Abuse History
Trauma and abuse can leave deep, lasting impacts—affecting how we see ourselves, trust others, and feel in our own bodies. Whether it’s from childhood, past relationships, or specific events, healing is possible. You deserve safety, support, and space to reclaim your story.
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Grief and Loss
Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something meaningful and it doesn’t follow a timeline. Whether you're grieving a loved one, a relationship, a life change, or even a version of yourself, your pain is valid. Healing begins by giving that grief a safe place to be felt, understood, and honored.
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Depression | Persistent Panic
Depression can feel like a heavy fog, while panic can strike without warning both leaving you exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure how to move forward. These experiences can make daily life feel unmanageable, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.
