About

About

A Space for Your Full Self

Heartspace Therapy was created to offer a different kind of therapy experience, one that centers your full humanity, your lived experiences, and your right to exist exactly as you are. We believe that healing happens in spaces where you feel seen, respected, and safe enough to be real.

As a queer-owned therapy practice in Chelsea, NYC, our work is rooted in both clinical expertise and lived understanding. We recognize that identity, culture, relationships, and systems all shape how we move through the world. Therapy here is not about fitting into a mold. It is about creating space for you to explore, grow, and define your life on your own terms.

Our Mission

Our mission is to expand access to affirming, anti-oppressive mental health care for people who have historically been overlooked, misunderstood, or marginalized in traditional therapy spaces.

We are committed to creating a space where clients feel empowered to explore their identities, process their experiences, and build meaningful, fulfilling lives. We approach this work with deep care, curiosity, and respect for the complexity of each individual we work with.

Our Values

Affirmation Over Judgment

We believe that every identity, relationship structure, and lived experience deserves respect. Our role is not to judge or pathologize, but to support you in understanding yourself more fully.

Collaboration Over Authority

Therapy is not something done to you, it is something we build together. Your voice, your goals, and your perspective guide the work.

Context Matters

We recognize that mental health does not exist in a vacuum. Culture, systemic oppression, family dynamics, and lived experiences all play a role in shaping who you are and how you feel.

Authentic Connection

The relationship between therapist and client is central to the healing process. We show up as real people, not as distant experts, so that you can feel safe enough to do the same.

Meet Our Therapists

Sara Beth Clayton, MA, MEd, MHC-LP

Sara Beth Clayton

MA, MEd, MHC-LP
Daniel Spence, MA, LMHC

Daniel Spence

MA, LMHC
Sean Bray, MA, MHC-LP

Sean Bray

MA, MHC-LP, PhD in philosophy

Who We Serve

We work with individuals, couples, and families from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Many of our clients come to us seeking a space where they do not have to explain or defend who they are.

Our Approach to Therapy

Our work is grounded in a trauma-informed, relational, and anti-oppressive framework. This means we pay attention not only to your internal world, but also to the external forces that have shaped your experiences.

We focus on building a strong, trusting relationship where you feel supported in exploring difficult emotions, patterns, and questions. Together, we work to deepen insight, develop tools, and create meaningful change that aligns with your values and goals.

Therapy here is not about fixing something that is broken. It is about understanding yourself more deeply and creating space for growth, healing, and self-acceptance.

A Practice Rooted in Community

Heartspace Therapy was built out of a desire to create more accessible and affirming spaces within mental health care. We are proud to be part of the Chelsea community and to support clients across Manhattan and New York.

We believe that healing is not just individual, it is relational and collective. The work we do with our clients is part of a larger commitment to care, equity, and connection.

About

Ready to Take the Next Step

Starting therapy can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you are ready to begin or simply exploring your options, we are here to support you.

What Our Clients Say

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Nick Mohammed profile picture
Nick Mohammed
December 1, 2022
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I had never discussed anything with a therapist before I started talking to Daniel. I can honestly say that he is an excellent listener and gives insightful advice. He's professional, intelligent, and has a real warmth that can't be faked. I consider myself a bit of a cynic but seeing Daniel is nothing like what I imagined seeing a shrink would be like. I would highly recommend him as a psychologist if you're looking for someone to help, he just "gets it".
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Rachel RC Scott-Mohammed
December 1, 2022
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They say that empaths only exists in science fiction, but anyone who knows the Daniel knows that's not true at all! Daniel is such an approachable person and knows how to make you comfortable in your own space. His presence makes you feel safe and he genuinely wants to help you heal and elevate your life. His compassion for the human spirit goes above and beyond everything you could ever ask for in a therapist! I would give 5,000 stars if I could!
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Yu Li profile picture
Yu Li
November 30, 2022
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I’ve been seeing Daniel for a few years now and cannot say enough good things about him. He’s compassionate, genuine, and tailors his approach based on my individual needs. I especially appreciate how he always remembers small details, which makes me trust that he is really listening and cares about my individual growth. He’s also always willing to work with me if I have a conflict!
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Tanisha
November 30, 2022
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My husband and i have been seeing Daniel for a while now for couples counseling. I was nervous about whether he'd be a good fit but Daniel has helped us through some tough situations. He's very caring and I think he's amazing and we're very grateful to have him.
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Kutluhan Unalir profile picture
Kutluhan Unalir
November 30, 2022
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Finding the right people to care for has been a long journey for me until I came across the good people of HST- From the moment I made contact I could feel I was listened to and my needs were a priority. the location also is a bonus as it is very central
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Sharon Ringel
November 30, 2022
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There are no words for me to express how much I appreciate heartspace therapy and in particular Nadav. Personally, heartspace therapy is a life-changing experience for me. The repair work, honesty (sometimes brutal), and acceptance I got during my sessions–and more importantly the tools I learn to give those to myself–changed my life forever. I will always be grateful to heartspace for helping me discover myself. I started this journey with very little faith in changing old habits and patterns and I came out of there a completely different person. Thank you for showing me the light when it got really dark and for always reminding me that I am worthy of love and affection. It sounds simple now, but it took me a while to get there. I am forever grateful for showing me how and where I should go.
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Lauren Goldberg
November 29, 2022
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Daniel is such a kind, caring person. He’s incredibly easy to speak to - never a hint of judgement, just open ears and compassion.
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ziv kaner
November 13, 2022
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I had the privilege of being Nadav’s client. Nadav is caring, loving, compassionate, committed, and overall wonderful therapist. They helped me overcome many challenges and I can’t recommend them enough. One of the best therapists out there—you won’t regret working with them.
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Matan Eldar
November 13, 2022
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Frankly, I was really nervous to start therapy. I knew I could benefit from the support but hesitated to “dig deep”. Those fears were gone within the first few sessions with Nadav. They made me feel safe and at ease to share myself more openly. They continuously checked in with me to see how I was feeling during the process. I’m now a big advocate of therapy and if you can work with Nadav, please give yourself that gift. At least 5 starts from me!