AUTHOR

David Tzall PsyD

he/him/his

Private Practice

Licensing & Certifications:

Licensed Psychologist

Professional Background

Dr. David Tzall is a licensed psychologist practicing in New York. He currently serves as Deputy Director of the Health and Wellness Unit of the NYPD and maintains a private practice in Brooklyn. After completing an undergrad degree in history, his attention shifted to psychology, earning a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology. He found that his passion lay in exploring the personal narratives of clients and giving a voice to those who were often not recognized.

He has gained extensive clinical experience working with an SMI population in civil and forensic hospitals and with incarcerated individuals. He advocates for criminal justice reform, including the need for drug courts and mental health resources. In his practice, Dr. Tzall works with individuals and high-conflict couples. As a parent coach and coordinator, he also engages with parents in various parts of their developmental process.

Dr. Tzall approaches clients from an attachment-informed, interpersonal perspective where individuals experience corrective emotional experiences that can shift their rigid patterns of being. His training is in motivational interviewing and dynamic-relational therapies, and he specializes in trauma and recovery, substance use, and interpersonal issues. He is a culturally responsible clinician who recognizes that his clients’ cultures can be both collective and individual.

Professional Affiliations

New York State Psychological Association

Education

PsyD, Nova Southeastern University, 2015

Why I Write for Choosing Therapy

I write for Choosing Therapy due to its exceptionally talented editorial team and its commitment to maintaining high editorial standards. Being a part of a team that prioritizes accuracy, relevance, and clarity ensures that the content I produce reaches its full potential and makes a meaningful impact on readers. I also choose to write because of the importance of having a platform that caters to both lay people and licensed professionals alike. Mental health is a complex and multifaceted domain, and having a reliable source of information accessible to individuals at various levels of expertise is invaluable.

Areas of Focus

David Tzall specializes in diverse therapeutic domains, offering expertise in couples counseling, trauma recovery, attachment issues, mood disorders. He also provides support for individuals grappling with substance abuse and addiction.

Couples counseling
Trauma processing and recovery
Attachment concerns
Mood disorders and emotion regulation (e.g. depression and anxiety)
Substance abuse/addiction

Featured Articles

Signs of a Relapse: How to Track the Stages of Relapse

10 Relapse Signs & Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Imminent or ongoing relapse signs and symptoms depend on the individual and the substance or behavior. Relapses occur in emotional, mental, and physical stages, each with varying symptoms. However, common warning signs of relapse include increased cravings or urges, withdrawal symptoms, changes in mood or behavior, social isolation, and denying or rationalizing substance use.

March 3, 2024

Bipolar Disorder vs. Anxiety Disorder: Understanding the Differences

Bipolar disorder and anxiety are two distinct mental health issues. Bipolar disorder is characterized by a disturbance in mood and thought from episodes of mania and depression. The manic episodes will likely disrupt your daily routine, with most individuals with BPD experiencing bouts of major depression, though not required for the diagnosis. Anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social phobia, and panic disorder are characterized by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioral and somatic disturbances.

March 3, 2024

How to Get Out of Bed When Depressed: 7 Tips From a Therapist

Depression can be extraordinarily immobilizing, making you feel like you can’t get out of bed and zapped of motivation. Start small when tackling the funk of depression. Set achievable goals, like sitting up, getting dressed in regular clothes, or taking a short walk. Practice self-compassion and engage in activities you enjoy, even if briefly.

March 3, 2024

PTSD Hyperarousal: Symptoms & Causes

Hyperarousal is a heightened state of physiological and psychological alertness and reactivity. In the context of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), hyperarousal refers to an excessive and persistent state of being on edge, easily startled, and constantly vigilant. Physiological symptoms accompany this state, including heart palpitations, rapid breathing, and excessive sweating.

March 3, 2024

“You deserve to prioritize your mental health: Therapy is a way to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Investing in yourself is a powerful act of self-care. You have the power to create positive change. You are not defined by your struggle. You are valuable, worthy, and capable of living a fulfilling life, despite any challenges you may face.”