About

A Space for Your Full Self

Heartspace Therapy was created to offer a different kind of therapy experience, one that centers your full humanity, your lived experiences, and your right to exist exactly as you are. We believe that healing happens in spaces where you feel seen, respected, and safe enough to be real.

As a queer-owned therapy practice in Chelsea, NYC, our work is rooted in both clinical expertise and lived understanding. We recognize that identity, culture, relationships, and systems all shape how we move through the world. Therapy here is not about fitting into a mold. It is about creating space for you to explore, grow, and define your life on your own terms.

Our Mission

Our mission is to expand access to affirming, anti-oppressive mental health care for people who have historically been overlooked, misunderstood, or marginalized in traditional therapy spaces.

We are committed to creating a space where clients feel empowered to explore their identities, process their experiences, and build meaningful, fulfilling lives. We approach this work with deep care, curiosity, and respect for the complexity of each individual we work with.

Our Values

Affirmation Over Judgment

We believe that every identity, relationship structure, and lived experience deserves respect. Our role is not to judge or pathologize, but to support you in understanding yourself more fully.

Collaboration Over Authority

Therapy is not something done to you, it is something we build together. Your voice, your goals, and your perspective guide the work.

Context Matters

We recognize that mental health does not exist in a vacuum. Culture, systemic oppression, family dynamics, and lived experiences all play a role in shaping who you are and how you feel.

Authentic Connection

The relationship between therapist and client is central to the healing process. We show up as real people, not as distant experts, so that you can feel safe enough to do the same.

Meet Our Therapists

Sara Beth Clayton

MA, MEd, MHC-LP

Engy Aly

MA, MHC-LP

Daniel Spence

MA, LMHC

Sean Bray

MA, MHC-LP, PhD in philosophy

Who We Serve

We work with individuals, couples, and families from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Many of our clients come to us seeking a space where they do not have to explain or defend who they are.

Our Approach to Therapy

Our work is grounded in a trauma-informed, relational, and anti-oppressive framework. This means we pay attention not only to your internal world, but also to the external forces that have shaped your experiences.

We focus on building a strong, trusting relationship where you feel supported in exploring difficult emotions, patterns, and questions. Together, we work to deepen insight, develop tools, and create meaningful change that aligns with your values and goals.

Therapy here is not about fixing something that is broken. It is about understanding yourself more deeply and creating space for growth, healing, and self-acceptance.

A Practice Rooted in Community

Heartspace Therapy was built out of a desire to create more accessible and affirming spaces within mental health care. We are proud to be part of the Chelsea community and to support clients across Manhattan and New York.

We believe that healing is not just individual, it is relational and collective. The work we do with our clients is part of a larger commitment to care, equity, and connection.

Ready to Take the Next Step

Starting therapy can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you are ready to begin or simply exploring your options, we are here to support you.

What Our Clients Say