Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Shaw.
Hi Cynthia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely!
My name is Dr. Cynthia Shaw, I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Authentically Living Psychological Services, a NJ/NY-based boutique mental health group practice specializing in providing holistic, existential, and trauma informed servcies to adolescents and adults struggling with existential depression and angst, relationship challenges and loneliness, identity and meaning making, as well as trauma and grief.
I knew I wanted to be a psychologist before I had the language for it. I was always a listening ear and confidant for others, and had ease extending grace and understanding to others, even those with more complex life histories. I began studying psychology in high school and went on to receive advanced degrees in clinical psychology. I’ve worked in inpatient, school settings, assisted living facilities, and forensic settings, before moving into the private practice space, and eventually branching off on my own.
Being an entrepreneur has been one of my greatest joys. I’ve loved creating something from scratch, shaping it into my own vision, and building a space where the incredible members of my team can provide high-quality care to our community. Just as meaningful has been cultivating an environment where clinicians can grow, develop their skills, and deepen their work with clients.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Is any life path ever smooth?
As many have experienced, I’ve certaintly have had my fair share of struggles along the way. Whether that be from physical illness, cognitive fatigue, or heightened anxiety throughout schooling and upon building a business. There have been so many unknowns and learning curves along the way that have made this path super rocky. However, I’ve felt immense privilege in being able to experience this path and am grateful for all the learning thus far.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Authentically Living Psychological Services is a boutique group practice rooted in existential and relational therapy. At its core, the practice is about helping people slow down enough to actually look at their lives, how they’re living, what feels meaningful, and where they feel stuck. We work with adolescents and adults navigating things like grief, loneliness, identity questions, relationship struggles, and those quieter moments of existential dread that don’t always have a clear label. What makes the practice unique is that we don’t rush to pathologize the human experience. Instead, we make space for it. Our clinicians blend depth-oriented, evidence-based, and holistic approaches, and we care deeply about creating therapy that feels thoughtful, human, and grounded in real life, not manualized or formulaic. The goal isn’t to “fix” people, but to help them reconnect with themselves and live more intentionally.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Oh, I wasn’t expecting that question! Thank you for asking.
I’m not sure if one childhood memory stands out. Admittedly, I have a terrible memory when it comes to my past (I blame it on all the brain juice used in higher education and with my current clients)!
Overall, I think back fondly on my childhood. I’ve had a very supportive family, which I think has helped a lot when it comes to the pursuit of my life goals and ventures.
Pricing:
- Individual therapy: 350
- Therapy with associates: 225-275
Contact Info:
- Website: https://authenticallylivingpsych.com
