Chris Payton, LCSW

Chris Payton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York with eight years of professional experience. He helps people who are struggling with depression, addiction, anger, low self-esteem, and the effects of trauma and abuse. He also offers focused support around HIV and AIDS related concerns.

Chris works in a straightforward, respectful way. Sessions are built around what a person needs right now. He listens to practical problems and helps people create step-by-step plans to cope and move forward.

He commonly uses problem-focused methods to address difficult thoughts, behaviors, and cravings. Chris also draws on motivational interviewing to help people find their own reasons for change. Together these approaches aim to make goals easier to reach in everyday life.

Every plan is tailored to the individual. Chris checks in regularly to adjust what’s working and what isn’t. He emphasizes small, achievable steps so progress feels manageable.

People who want clear, goal-oriented sessions may feel comfortable with his style. He aims to create a calm, nonjudgmental space to talk through pressing concerns and develop realistic coping strategies.

Practical approaches for online therapy

Chris commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT breaks problems into small, manageable steps and teaches practical coping skills for issues like depression, anger, and addictive behavior.

He also uses Motivational Interviewing to help people find and strengthen their own reasons to change. This approach is conversational and collaborative, useful when someone feels stuck or unsure about next steps.

Finding the right mix of methods is part of the work. Chris will discuss goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful, and then tailor an approach together in session. The plan can change as progress is made.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is good for face-to-face conversation and skill practice. Phone calls can fit into a short break and need less bandwidth. Live chat and text messaging work well for quick check-ins, brief coaching, or when writing feels easier than talking. These options make it simpler to fit therapy into a busy schedule and keep continuity between sessions.