Emily Matis, Doctoral Intern

Emily Matis, MA

Doctoral Intern

Supervised by: Oxana Kopeikin, PhD

Scope of practice

  • Relationship difficulties
  • Anxiety and Depression
  • Women’s Health
  • Eating Disorders 
  • Athletes and Sports Psychology
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Life transitions 
  • Family issues and boundary setting
  • Borderline traits and personality disorders

Practice Philosophy

I strive to create a trusting bond with each of my clients as we work collaboratively to address specific needs and explore optimal goals. I combine aspects from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and culturally sensitive perspectives to help my clients through challenges they are facing while better appreciating who they are. Together, my patients and I will explore the stories and struggles that have shaped them including early familial attachments, traumas, and multigenerational patterns that have had great impact on the present day. I may integrate solution-focused therapies like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help my clients develop new coping strategies and alleviate self-blame. Through our work together, I hope to instill confidence in my patients and to uncover how distressing life periods can also serve as opportunities to pivot and grow.

I believe that therapy is an opportunity to embrace change and see oneself more fully. At times, people may feel stuck in pain and helpless to create new pathways forward. I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore vulnerabilities through a more compassionate lens and work towards positive growth. With greater understanding and courage to change comes greater agency in life. I believe that self-discovery at best is a fluid, lifelong endeavor marked by challenges and risks. In our work together collaboration is key, and I am here to support and guide you in leading your most authentic life.

Training Background and Research

I have held clinical positions at New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell’s Behavioral Health Center, Fordham University’s Counseling Center, Yale Neuropsychology, NYU Langone’s Child Study Center, the Parnes Family Clinic, and the Therapists of New York Group Practice. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and groups struggling with identity formation, relationship issues, mood-related disorders, eating disorders, as well as profound trauma. My research explores how traumatic events, such as COVID-19, may impact athletes’ self-concept and mental health.

I earned my Masters in Clinical Psychology at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Albert Einstein-Yeshiva University in New York, NY and received my undergraduate degree from Emory University in Atlanta, GA.

On a Personal Level…

Prior to pursuing my doctorate, I lived in New York City working in international business development. Before that, I played soccer at Emory University, and continue to enjoy intramural sports as well as pilates, traveling, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.