About Me 

Sage in Time Mental Health Counseling, PLLC

Derek Wittman, LMHC, LPC | 315-743-8050 | Email me*

Meet Derek Wittman
Your Therapist

Welcome to my therapeutic space – a sanctuary where healing and self-discovery unfold. I am Derek, and I hold professional mental health licenses in both New York and Pennsylvania. I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and even families toward more balanced and fulfilling lives and relationships.

Credentials and Experience:

With over ten years of experience in the field, I hold both licenses in New York and in Pennsylvania, ensuring that my practice aligns with the highest standards of professionalism and ethical care. My journey in mental health has been shaped by a diverse range of experiences, from working with a variety of individuals.  Perhaps you are marginalized within the healthcare system.  Maybe it's about how you look or speak.  Maybe others don't understand and belittle you for expressing your gender identity or sexual orientation.  

Perhaps your relationships do not meet the expectations of mainstream society.  Regardless where and why you are treated differently, or less than you deserve, I'm sorry that you were treated poorly, dismissed.  You deserve better.  You deserve a caring and provider supporting not only you, but one who also contributes to community mental health initiatives.

Philosophy and Approach:

My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses the strength and resilience to overcome life's challenges. I employ a collaborative and integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT).  Working with couples involves these concepts to establish healthier patterns of communications to strengthen partnerships.  Additionally, I offer the option of Gottman Method Couples Therapy.  Regardless, my treatment approaches all are geared to tailor our sessions to your unique needs.

Compassion and Empathy:

I understand that taking the step towards therapy requires courage. In our sessions, you'll find a compassionate and empathetic partner who listens without judgment. Your experiences, thoughts, and emotions are honored, creating a safe space for exploration and healing.  It is my hope, should you require it, to also guide you into your own understanding of Compassion for yourself.

Specializations:

Therapists are not specialized in the same way as physicians are when it comes to our education.  Most of us find our specializations through clinical experience, interests in pre- and post-licensure continuing education studies (required in most United States jurisdictions).  We may have letters after our names for some of those certifications, but the certifications are not board certifications, but rather through organizations that are recognized for being pioneers in the research and application of evidence-based techniques and approaches to therapy.  


While my practice encompasses a wide range of issues, I have a particular passion for griefwork, self-esteem, family of origin issues, perfectionism, academic and medical professional stress.  Additionally, I place a strong value on lifting shame over past behaviors, hurts, and within relationships.  Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, I am here to provide support and guidance.

Holistic Well-being:

I believe in the importance of addressing mental health within the context of overall well-being. Our work together extends beyond symptom relief to foster personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of self.

Get in Touch:

Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a profound and transformative decision.  When you're ready to know more, let's take the first step together.  Give me a call, send me an email*, or even use one of my insurance-dependent online schedulers to set up a free 15 minute consultation with me to learn more.  I am committed to creating a therapeutic alliance that empowers you on your path to mental wellness.

Thank you for considering me as your mental health partner. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life.


*Note: email to me is NOT HIPAA compliant, so please do not include specifics about your needs, but do include at least your first name and a callback number.  Email FROM me is HIPAA-compliant through Paubox.com and Google Workspace via Business Associate Agreements with both.