Alexander Goodman, LCSW

Alex Goodman, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. Alex is trained in Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), implementing these strategies frequently in his work.

Alex completed his Bachelor’s degree at Hunter College in Media Studies with a minor in Sociology. At Hunter, Alex developed a passion for human rights and social justice issues and was elected the Vice-President of his campus’ Amnesty International chapter. With a fervent desire to help vulnerable populations, Alex decided to pursue his Master’s in Social Work at Monmouth University, where he became a member of the Phi Alpha Social Work Honor’s Society.

While interning at DaVita Dialysis in Neptune, NJ,, Alex began to recognize the impact physical health has on one’s mental health. This population is often overlooked and Alex identified the importance of utilizing his therapeutic skills and compassion to help adolescents and families struggling with a medical diagnosis. This continues to be an area of interest and expertise.

In treatment, Alex utilizes a strength-based approach with the primary goal of creating a safe space for clients to feel comfortable sharing their struggles. Alex specializes in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, gender identity struggles, and trauma. In addition, Alex has extensive experience working with adolescents within the LGBTQ+ community. Alex is also trained in dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

10 Things to Know About Alexander Goodman, LCSW

1. Why did you choose to become a therapist?

I believe becoming a therapist is a calling. When I was six months old, I was diagnosed with kidney disease and had a transplant at a young age. I always knew I wanted to help others, but it took me some time to get there.

When I decided to become a social worker, my first internship was at a dialysis clinic. When I wanted to develop more clinical skills, I did my second internship at a counseling center where I fell in love with the idea of being a therapist.

2.  What’s your favorite thing about being a therapist?

For me, one of the greatest joys is seeing the positive impact you have made on a client’s life.

3.  What is your general philosophy and approach to helping?

There is no timeline in life; it’s okay to do things at your own pace.

4.  If you weren’t a therapist, what would you be doing instead, or what would your life be like?

I believe I am doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing, BUT music has always been one of my life’s greatest passions. When I first graduated college, I used to manage a few of my friends’ bands. I would probably be doing something like that.

5.  What do you do for self-care? (Mindfulness practices, exercise, etc.)

Self-care is extremely important to me for both my physical and mental health. One of my main sources of self-care is to ensure that I start my morning with some kind of physical activity. Whether I am going for a run or lifting weights, I recognize the positive impact it has on my daily functioning.

I also love to end my day with two self-care activities. I have always been a “skincare junkie” and during the pandemic that increased substantially. Every evening, when I do my nighttime skincare regimen, I feel like I am also removing some of the stressors of that day. After my nighttime skincare routine, I love to watch an episode of The Golden Girls as I feel it helps me decompress and provides a wonderful night’s sleep.

6.  What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 

“In art and dream, may you proceed with abandon. In life may you proceed with balance and stealth.” — Patti Smith

7.  What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?

Stop worrying about what other people think of you and be your fabulous self.

8.  If you could invite three famous people to dinner, alive or dead, who would they be? 

The first would be David Bowie, whose music and style have always been an inspiration to me. Hey, I even named one of my cats after him. The second would be Patti Smith, who is another musical icon for me; her storytelling has always been filled with wisdom and beauty. To change this dinner party up from just musicians, I would also invite Barack Obama.

9.  What’s something you are most proud of? 

When I decided to return to graduate school, I knew it was going to be a challenge. I am so proud of my academic success and knowing that I made the right decision to become a therapist.

10.  What do you wish other people knew about mental health?

I wish people would be more compassionate about those struggling with their mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health is very much real.