Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy
Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy
Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy, as featured on the MTV True Life episode: “I Have Misophonia” premiering Friday, December 16th, 7:00 PM EST. See Clip >
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Moderate to severe anxiety triggered by chewing sounds, including: | ||
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You may also be affected by visual stimuli, such as repetitive foot or body movements, fidgeting or movement you observe out of the corners of their eyes. Intense anxiety, rage and avoidant behavior may develop as a result of misophonia.
* Do you feel your family and friends don’t understand how much you suffer?
* Do you often feel you can just suffer through a social event where there is eating present only to find that you must “escape” before you have a panic attack?
* Do you find that some people are at first understanding and make some efforts not to make the triggering sounds in front of you, but soon forget and constantly have to be reminded, causing you to feel angry, anxious and depressed?
* Are you avoiding social activities that you enjoy because of the misophonia?
* Are you fearful of losing your job and/or is the misophonia effecting your job performance?
You may be a candidate for Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy, or MCRT.
Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R, with over 20 years of clinical experience, a New York University graduate, developed Misophonia Cognitive Retraining Therapy and founded Misophonia Cognitive Center™ in response to the growing number of people with Misophonia coming to his private practice from audiologists and ENTs. He discovered that by helping people to retrain and reinterpret the thoughts around their Misophonia, anxiety and depression symptoms began to improve. But even more important so did the Misophonic trigger response.
Misophonia, characterized by intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, can significantly impact relationships with loved ones. The challenge lies not only in managing one’s own emotional responses but also in effectively communicating with family members and partners about this condition. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of misophonia on relationships and provide strategies for open and constructive communication with your loved ones.
Misophonia can strain even the most loving relationships due to the distress caused by trigger sounds. Common scenarios include:
Repeated exposure to trigger sounds can lead to tension and frustration between individuals with misophonia and their loved ones. This tension can erode the quality of the relationship over time.
To avoid trigger sounds, individuals with misophonia may isolate themselves or limit social interactions, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation for both parties.
Loved ones may not fully grasp the intensity of emotional responses triggered by misophonia, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Open and empathetic communication is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships when misophonia is involved. Here are some strategies for effectively communicating with loved ones:
Take the time to educate your family members or partner about misophonia. Share information about the condition, its triggers, and the emotional responses it elicits. Knowledge can lead to understanding.
Communicate your feelings and experiences openly but calmly. Use “I” statements to express how specific trigger sounds affect you emotionally without placing blame.
Discuss coping strategies that you find helpful when dealing with misophonia triggers. Encourage your loved ones to be supportive and understanding of your needs.
Work together to establish boundaries that respect your need for a trigger-free environment when necessary. Find compromises that allow both parties to feel comfortable.
Consider involving a misophonia specialist or therapist in your communication process. They can facilitate discussions and provide guidance on managing misophonia-related challenges.
For loved ones of individuals with misophonia, practicing empathy and understanding is essential. Here are some ways to support someone with misophonia:
Recognize that misophonia is a real and challenging condition. Be patient when your loved one is struggling with trigger sounds.
Whenever possible, avoid making trigger sounds around your loved one. This small gesture can go a long way in reducing their distress.
Encourage your loved one to seek treatment or therapy for misophonia. Treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be highly effective.
Misophonia can pose challenges in relationships, but with open communication, education, and empathy, it is possible to maintain strong and supportive connections with your loved ones. Seeking the guidance of a misophonia specialist can provide valuable support and strategies for managing misophonia-related issues in relationships.
To explore misophonia treatment options and receive expert guidance on managing your condition within the context of your relationships, contact Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz offers online sessions and speaks five languages, ensuring accessibility to effective treatment.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Convenient Online Sessions
Multi-lingual
What is the latest research misophonia? This condition is characterized by strong emotional reactions to specific sounds, has gained increased attention from researchers and clinicians in recent years. This growing interest has led to new insights and promising treatment approaches for individuals living with misophonia. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest research findings and the potential treatment options that offer hope to those affected by this condition.
Before diving into the latest research, let’s briefly recap what misophonia entails. Misophonia involves intense emotional reactions, such as anger, anxiety, or disgust, triggered by specific sounds, often referred to as “trigger sounds.” These trigger sounds can vary from person to person but commonly include noises like chewing, slurping, or pen tapping.
Researchers have made significant strides in understanding misophonia, and their findings shed light on potential treatment approaches:
Neuroimaging studies have revealed that misophonia is associated with heightened activity in certain brain regions, including the anterior insular cortex and the amygdala. These brain areas are involved in emotional processing and the “fight or flight” response.
Recent research has indicated that individuals with misophonia may have heightened sensitivity to specific frequencies or patterns in sounds. This heightened sensitivity may contribute to the intense emotional responses triggered by certain noises.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has emerged as one of the most promising treatment approaches for misophonia. CBT helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage emotional reactions to trigger sounds.
Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, involves gradual and controlled exposure to trigger sounds in a therapeutic setting. Over time, this exposure can help individuals desensitize and reduce their emotional responses to these sounds.
Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques have shown promise in helping individuals with misophonia manage their emotional reactions. These practices promote self-awareness and emotional regulation.
While not a primary treatment, medication may be considered in some cases to manage anxiety or emotional symptoms associated with misophonia. Medication should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.
For individuals living with misophonia, seeking specialized treatment is essential. Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, specializes in the treatment of misophonia and offers a comprehensive approach that includes CBT, exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
To explore the latest research findings and promising treatment approaches for misophonia, contact Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz offers online sessions and speaks five languages, ensuring accessibility to effective treatment. Take the first step towards managing your misophonia and improving your quality of life.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Convenient Online sessions
Multi-lingual
Misophonia, a condition characterized by extreme emotional reactions to specific sounds, can affect people of all ages, including children. Recognizing the signs of misophonia in children and understanding how to support them is crucial for their well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore misophonia in children, signs to look for, and strategies for parents.
Misophonia can manifest differently in children compared to adults. Children may not always be able to express their feelings and emotions effectively, making it challenging to recognize misophonia. Here are some common signs that may indicate misophonia in children:
Children with misophonia may experience sudden and intense emotional outbursts in response to trigger sounds. These outbursts can include anger, frustration, or even tantrums.
Children may develop avoidance behaviors to escape trigger sounds. For example, they may leave the room during mealtime or isolate themselves during noisy activities.
Misophonia can also manifest as physical symptoms in children, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, or digestive discomfort when exposed to trigger sounds.
Misophonia can impact a child’s academic performance and social interactions. They may have difficulty concentrating in noisy environments or avoiding situations where trigger sounds are present.
As a parent, there are several strategies you can employ to support your child with misophonia:
Encourage open and non-judgmental communication with your child. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and frustrations related to misophonia.
Work together with your child to identify their specific trigger sounds. Understanding the triggers can help you take proactive steps to minimize exposure.
Teach your child age-appropriate coping strategies to manage their emotional responses to trigger sounds. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can be helpful.
Designate a quiet and trigger-free space in your home where your child can go to relax and de-escalate when needed.
Consider consulting a misophonia specialist or therapist who can provide guidance and treatment options tailored to your child’s needs.
Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, specializes in the treatment of misophonia in children and adults. Dr. Katz offers online sessions, making treatment accessible and convenient for families. He also speaks five languages, ensuring effective communication.
If you suspect that your child may be experiencing misophonia, don’t hesitate to reach out to Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz can provide expert guidance and support to help your child manage misophonia and improve their quality of life.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Misophonia, characterized by extreme emotional reactions to specific sounds, often goes hand in hand with anxiety. The distress triggered by sounds like chewing or tapping can lead to increased anxiety levels, creating a challenging cycle for those affected. In this blog, we’ll delve into the connection between misophonia and anxiety and explore treatment options to address both conditions effectively.
Misophonia can be a source of significant anxiety for individuals who experience it. The mere anticipation of encountering trigger sounds can lead to heightened anxiety levels. When exposed to these sounds, individuals may feel a surge of anxiety, which can manifest as racing thoughts, increased heart rate, and a sense of impending panic.
Furthermore, misophonia-related anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviors. People may go to great lengths to avoid situations, places, or people that may trigger their misophonia symptoms. This avoidance can restrict their daily activities and social interactions, further contributing to anxiety and isolation.
Addressing both misophonia and anxiety is essential for improving overall well-being. Here are some treatment options to consider:
CBT is an evidence-based approach that can be effective for both misophonia and anxiety. CBT helps individuals recognize and reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage emotional reactions. It can also target avoidance behaviors and gradually expose individuals to trigger sounds in a controlled manner.
ERP is a therapeutic technique that involves controlled exposure to trigger sounds while preventing the typical emotional or behavioral response. Over time, this exposure can reduce the intensity of the emotional reaction and anxiety associated with trigger sounds.
Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage anxiety and emotional responses to trigger sounds. These practices promote a calm and centered state of mind, making it easier to cope with misophonia triggers.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage anxiety symptoms. However, medication is typically used in conjunction with psychotherapy and should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare professional.
When addressing misophonia and anxiety, it’s essential to seek the guidance of a specialized therapist or treatment center. Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, specializes in the treatment of misophonia and its associated conditions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with misophonia and anxiety, reach out to Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz offers online sessions and speaks five languages, ensuring accessibility to effective treatment. Don’t let misophonia and anxiety control your life—take the first step toward a healthier and happier future.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and effective approach in the treatment of misophonia and various other psychological conditions. Misophonia, characterized by intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or tapping, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Here, we explore how CBT can be an essential component of misophonia treatment.
CBT is a therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and behaviors. By addressing and altering these patterns, individuals can learn to manage their emotional responses more effectively.
When applied to misophonia, CBT aims to achieve several important goals:
CBT helps individuals recognize their specific misophonia triggers and understand the emotional reactions they experience in response to these triggers. This awareness is crucial for targeting treatment effectively.
CBT encourages individuals to examine and reframe their thoughts and beliefs about trigger sounds. This process can help reduce the intensity of emotional responses and create a more balanced perspective.
CBT equips individuals with practical coping strategies to manage misophonia symptoms. These strategies may include relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices.
Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, involves gradual and controlled exposure to trigger sounds. Over time, this exposure can reduce the emotional distress associated with these sounds.
CBT can teach stress management skills that are particularly beneficial for individuals with misophonia, as stress can exacerbate symptoms. Learning to manage stress can lead to more controlled emotional responses to trigger sounds.
CBT helps individuals build resilience and develop strategies for handling difficult situations involving trigger sounds. This can lead to increased confidence and improved overall well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with misophonia, seeking the guidance of a trained CBT therapist with expertise in misophonia treatment is essential. Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, specializes in misophonia treatment and offers CBT as part of his comprehensive approach.
To explore the role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in misophonia treatment and receive expert guidance on managing your misophonia symptoms, contact Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™. Dr. Katz offers online sessions and speaks five languages, making treatment accessible and effective.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
Are there are effective coping strategies that can help individuals manage their Misophonia symptoms and improve their quality of life? Misophonia, characterized by strong emotional reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or tapping, can lead to feelings of anger, anxiety, and frustration. Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate misophonia in your daily life.
Invest in high-quality noise-canceling headphones. These headphones can help block out trigger sounds or provide soothing background noise, allowing you to focus on your tasks without being overwhelmed by noise.
Share your misophonia diagnosis with your family and friends. Explain what triggers your symptoms and ask for their understanding and support. They can help by being mindful of their own behaviors and modifying them when necessary.
Designate a quiet and trigger-free space in your home where you can retreat when you need a break from trigger sounds. Make this space comfortable and calming, so you can relax and recharge.
Mindfulness meditation techniques can help you stay grounded and calm when exposed to trigger sounds. Learning to observe your reactions without judgment can reduce the intensity of your emotional responses.
Practice deep breathing exercises to manage stress and anxiety when triggered. Slow, deep breaths can help regulate your body’s response and reduce the fight-or-flight reaction.
Consider therapy with a misophonia specialist or a therapist experienced in treating misophonia. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are two common approaches that can help you better cope with trigger sounds.
Progressive muscle relaxation techniques can help relieve physical tension caused by misophonia-triggered stress. By systematically tensing and relaxing muscle groups, you can promote relaxation and reduce discomfort.
Create a list of positive coping statements to remind yourself that you can handle trigger situations. For example, “I am in control of my reactions” or “I can choose how I respond to this sound.”
Consider using white noise machines or apps to create a background of soothing sounds that can help mask trigger noises. This can make trigger sounds less noticeable and disturbing.
Taking care of your overall well-being is essential. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and engage in activities you enjoy. A healthy lifestyle can make you more resilient to misophonia triggers.
Remember that you don’t have to face misophonia alone. Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™ specializes in misophonia treatment. He offers online sessions and speaks five languages to ensure accessibility to effective treatment. Reach out to him to explore further strategies and therapies to manage your misophonia and improve your daily life.
Call Today for a Professional Consultation.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
646-585-2251
https://misophoniacognitivecenter.com/about-steven-katz/
How can we go about understanding the condition known as misophonia? Misophonia, a lesser-known but significant condition, can have a profound impact on an individual’s life. Characterized by intense emotional reactions to specific sounds, misophonia can lead to distress, anger, and anxiety. To better comprehend this condition, let’s explore its causes, symptoms, and common triggers.
While the exact causes of misophonia are not yet fully understood, researchers believe that it may be related to the way the brain processes certain sounds. Some individuals with misophonia have heightened sensitivity to particular frequencies or patterns in sounds, leading to strong emotional responses. Genetics may also play a role in misophonia, as it can run in families. It often emerges in adolescence or early adulthood and can persist throughout a person’s life.
Misophonia manifests through a range of emotional and physical symptoms when exposed to trigger sounds. These symptoms may include:
Misophonia triggers can vary from person to person, but some sounds are more commonly reported as triggers. These may include:
If you or someone you know is struggling with misophonia, it’s important to seek professional help. Misophonia treatment specialists, like Stephen Geller Katz at the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, can provide guidance and support for managing misophonia symptoms. Treatment options may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and coping strategies like mindfulness meditation.
Don’t let misophonia control your life. Reach out to the Misophonia Cognitive Center™ to start your journey toward better understanding and managing this condition.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
646-585-2251
Dr. Katz offers online sessions and speaks five languages to ensure accessibility to effective treatment.
There’s a promising approach that may help alleviate misophonia symptoms: mindfulness meditation. If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from misophonia, you know just how challenging it can be to cope with the everyday sounds and triggers that can send you into a state of distress. The anger, anxiety, and frustration that often accompany misophonia can significantly impact your quality of life.
Misophonia, often referred to as “sound sensitivity syndrome,” is a condition characterized by an extreme emotional reaction to specific sounds. These trigger sounds, such as chewing, slurping, or tapping, can lead to feelings of anger, anxiety, and even panic in individuals with misophonia. Coping with misophonia can be incredibly challenging, and finding effective treatment options is essential for improving one’s well-being.
Mindfulness meditation is a centuries-old practice that involves bringing one’s full attention to the present moment without judgment. It’s about being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise, and learning to accept them without reacting impulsively. Mindfulness meditation is often associated with practices like deep breathing, body scanning, and guided meditation sessions.
So, how can mindfulness meditation benefit individuals struggling with misophonia? Here are some key ways:
Increased Awareness: Mindfulness meditation helps individuals become more aware of their emotional and physical responses to trigger sounds. By recognizing the early signs of distress, individuals can intervene before their reactions escalate.
Emotional Regulation: Through mindfulness meditation, individuals can learn to regulate their emotional responses. This can help reduce the intensity of anger, anxiety, or irritation triggered by misophonia.
Enhanced Tolerance: Mindfulness teaches individuals to be more accepting and non-reactive to uncomfortable sensations. This can lead to greater tolerance of the trigger sounds, making them less distressing over time.
Stress Reduction: Regular mindfulness practice is known to reduce overall stress levels. Since stress can exacerbate misophonia symptoms, this reduction can be particularly beneficial.
Improved Focus: Mindfulness meditation enhances concentration and focus. This can help individuals redirect their attention away from trigger sounds and onto more positive or neutral aspects of their environment.
If you’re interested in incorporating mindfulness meditation into your misophonia management strategy, here are some steps to consider:
While mindfulness meditation can be a valuable tool for managing misophonia symptoms, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Some individuals may benefit from additional therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, or counseling.
For those seeking expert guidance and specialized treatment for misophonia, Stephen Geller Katz, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of the Misophonia Cognitive Center™, offers comprehensive misophonia treatment services. Dr. Katz has a deep understanding of misophonia and its impact on individuals’ lives, and he is dedicated to helping people overcome its challenges.
If you or a loved one is struggling with misophonia, reach out to Stephen Geller Katz for effective treatment solutions. Dr. Katz offers online sessions, making it convenient for individuals to access expert care from anywhere. Additionally, he is fluent in five languages, ensuring that language is not a barrier to getting the help you need.
Contact the Misophonia Cognitive Center™ today to schedule a consultation:
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER ™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
646-585-2251
In this blog post, we will dispel some common myths and misconceptions about misophonia and provide facts to help individuals better understand the condition. Misophonia is a condition that involves a strong emotional response to specific sounds, known as trigger sounds. Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding this condition that can make it difficult for individuals with the condition to get the help and support they need.
Fact: Misophonia is a neurological condition that involves an abnormality in the way the brain processes certain sounds. Willpower alone cannot overcome the emotional response to trigger sounds associated with misophonia.
Fact: While the prevalence of misophonia is not well established, research suggests that it may be more common than previously thought. Misophonia can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Fact: Misophonia can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. It can cause emotional distress, interfere with daily activities, and lead to social isolation and anxiety.
Fact: While there is no cure for misophonia, there are effective treatments that can help individuals manage trigger sounds and improve overall well-being. These treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
Fact: Misophonia involves a strong emotional response to specific sounds, even if those sounds are not particularly loud or annoying to others. The emotional response associated with misophonia can be intense and overwhelming.
Misophonia is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. By dispelling common myths and misconceptions about misophonia, we can better understand the condition and provide effective support and treatment for individuals with misophonia.
If you or a loved one is struggling with misophonia, the Misophonia Cognitive Center™ can provide effective treatment and support. Our online therapy sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), can help you manage trigger sounds and improve overall well-being.
Don’t let myths and misconceptions about misophonia prevent you from getting the help and support you need. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Katz.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
Penthouse Floor
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251
In this blog post, we will explore the latest research on misophonia and its implications for treatment. Misophonia is a condition that involves a strong emotional response to specific sounds, known as trigger sounds. The latest research on misophonia has shed new light on the condition and its potential treatments.
The latest research on misophonia has uncovered several key findings that are important for understanding the condition and its potential treatments. Some of the latest research on misophonia includes:
Recent research has suggested that misophonia may be a neurological condition, rather than a psychological one. Specifically, misophonia appears to involve an abnormality in the way the brain processes certain sounds, leading to an exaggerated emotional response.
Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be an effective treatment for managing misophonia symptoms. CBT involves identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with more positive and adaptive ones. This can help individuals develop coping strategies for managing trigger sounds and improve overall well-being.
Research has suggested that exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing individuals to trigger sounds, may also be effective for managing misophonia symptoms. This type of therapy can help individuals desensitize to trigger sounds and reduce the emotional impact of those sounds over time.
The latest research on misophonia has important implications for treatment. Specifically, the research suggests that misophonia is a neurological condition that can be effectively managed with treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and exposure therapy. Additionally, the latest research highlights the importance of early intervention in managing misophonia symptoms and improving overall well-being.
The latest research on misophonia has provided valuable insights into the condition and its potential treatments. By understanding the neurological basis of misophonia and the effectiveness of treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and exposure therapy, individuals with misophonia can develop effective coping strategies and improve overall well-being.
If you or a loved one is struggling with misophonia symptoms, MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER™ can provide effective treatment and support. Our online therapy sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, can help you manage trigger sounds and improve overall well-being.
Don’t let misophonia control your life. Contact Stephen Katz today to learn more about our services and schedule an online appointment.
MISOPHONIA COGNITIVE CENTER ™
Stephen Geller Katz LCSW-R
19 West 34th Street
New York, NY 10001
646-585-2251