Mental Health specialist

Staci Hoover LCSW

About

As as person living with EDS (and some of its co-morbidities), I have experienced the uncertainty, stress, grief and constant struggle for balance inherent in living with chronic health challenges. As I shared my symptoms and concerns with my care team, they’d share bits of other patients stories with me and it quickly became apparent that we, the folks impacted by these chronic illnesses, share more than our diagnoses; We need to share the stories we have lived. We need to know those stories don’t end with our diagnosis. We need to feel empowered to write our next chapter. In order to make this a reality, I began my private practice in 2015 to meet the unique needs of clients and families who seek to live well with EDS and co-morbid syndromes. Using teletherapy, I employ an eclectic approach which borrows from narrative therapy, a strength-based approach, elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), some Polyvagal Theory, psycho-education, solution-focused interventions and a good bit of playfulness, in order to support folks in meeting the needs their bodies require, so they may live the lives they desire.

EDS Healthcare in New York

The NYIT EDS/Hypermobility Treatment Center operates in Old Westbury and Central Islip, offering specialized rehabilitation and treatment. Mount Sinai South Nassau Chiari EDS Center in Oceanside focuses on EDS with Chiari malformation. Weill Cornell provides pain management expertise. New York Medicaid covers genetic testing with prior authorization. Wait times at major programs can be 6 months or longer.

Both EDS Centers of Excellence are on Long Island, leaving upstate New York significantly underserved. Patients in Buffalo, Syracuse, Rochester, and the Adirondacks face drives of 4-6+ hours to reach these programs. Wait times of 6 months or more are common. Rural upstate access is very limited, and telehealth is important for follow-up care.

Finding Mental Health for EDS

Look for a therapist who has worked with chronic illness patients and understands that EDS-related anxiety and depression often have physical triggers, not just psychological ones.

Address

49 W 24th St
New York, NY 10010