Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Ithaca, NY covered by United Healthcare

I help women reconnect with themselves—especially in the moments when life hasn’t gone according to plan. Many of the women I work with are helpers themselves: therapists, educators, healthcare workers, mothers. They’re navigating overwhelm, grief, perfectionism, relationship struggles, and questions of identity. They’re high-achieving and deeply caring, yet often unsure how to extend the same compassion inward.

I served as the chief psychologist at universities including Cornell and the Rochester Institute of Technology. During that time, I had the privilege of working with young adults and professionals as they navigated challenging and transformative periods. Since then, I have been working in private practice, helping clients manage challenges related to anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.

As a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) with 17 years of hands-on experience, I've had the privilege of guiding countless individuals through life's toughest moments, helping them rediscover their inner strength and joy. I graduated from Adelphi University in 2007, where I honed my skills in evidence-based therapeutic techniques, but what truly sets me apart is my deep commitment to seeing each client as a unique person with their own story, dreams, and potential. My practice is built on a foundation of empathy, integrity, and genuine care — I don't just listen; I truly hear you, validating your experiences without judgment. Over the years, I've supported people from all walks of life, whether they're navigating the fog of anxiety, the weight of grief, or the complexities of relationships, always tailoring my approach to what resonates most with you. Clients often tell me they feel an immediate sense of relief knowing they're in a space where vulnerability is met with compassion and expertise. I'm passionate about holistic well-being, incorporating mind-body connections and practical strategies that extend beyond the session room into your daily life. What drives me? Witnessing those transformative "aha" moments when someone realizes they have the power to shape their future. If you're ready to invest in yourself and explore how therapy can unlock a more empowered, fulfilling path, I invite you to reach out — let's start this journey together and see how far you can go.

Are you... A young adult struggling in the attempt to to navigate life transitions, school, the workforce, family life or other issues?
Or a couple having trouble finding the right words to communicate and find expression in your relationship?
You can thrive.

Hi! I’m Hudi Kowalsky, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a passion to help teens and young adults find meaning and purpose in their lives.

How my practice is different:

Goal Focused Therapy. I believe in short, goal-focused therapy. That’s why, we set goals and together we hit the ground running. If you put in the work, you’ll see results within 12 weeks. I know that’s a bold statement, but my past clients can attest to that.

Client Feedback. I check in periodically on your thoughts about the process. I want to hear from you, what’s working? What isn’t? Is there anything that you’d like to see different? And then I tweak it accordingly.

I know it can be hard to find the right therapist. Maybe you think it’s only for people with “serious” issues. Maybe you’ve been to a few therapists but you didn’t see change and you’re wondering what another therapist can offer you. Maybe you’re afraid of what people will think of you if you go to therapy. Maybe you’re not sure therapy is worth the investment.

I understand. That’s why I’m here to answer any questions you may have prior to booking an intake session.

I'm an experienced therapist, deeply passionate about working with my clients to create positive lasting change through non judgmental exploration of past experiences, patterns and current challenges. I have extensive experience working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, specializing in the treatment of depression, trauma and anxiety. Based in a holistic approach, my clients are supported and guided in achieving their goals. I help by creating an insightful, safe journey to healing.