What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.52
Average wait time
4.50
Bedside manner
4.64
“Monika is very patient and creates a safe environment to open up and explore oneself. I got through a very difficult time in my life thanks to her. The way she asks questions and helps to navigate through emotions make all the difference. I can without any doubt recommend her!”
MRMore than 1 year ago
“I was assigned to therapist Monika Pekala, from John Ryder’s office and she has been wonderful. So far it has been an extremely helpful, productive and fruitful journey. I’ve learned so much about how to help better navigate the ups and downs in life. She has also been beneficial in helping me deal with and understand past traumas. She is kind, generous of spirit and a great listener. Couldn’t recommend her more! ”
EGMore than 1 year ago
About Dr. John Ryder
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Identity
Gender
MaleLanguages spoken
English, Polish
Getting to know Dr. John Ryder
**Please ensure your insurance card is uploaded during the booking process, the membership ID is provided, or you respond to the insurance card request within 24 hours of booking. Otherwise, your appointment may not be confirmed.**
John Ryder is a licensed psychologist, achievement coach, and hypnotherapist in private practice. He holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Psychology from City University of New York, City College. With over 35 years of experience using an evidence-based system, he helps you overcome obstacles and achieve your true potential. As an advocate of positive psychology, he promotes a more optimistic perspective on life and always seeks to develop your personal strengths that will make your life easier.
He served as an Assistant Professor at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. He published *POSITIVE DIRECTIONS: Shifting Polarities to Escape Stress and Increase Happiness*, a personal development book. Dr. Ryder travels widely, giving lectures and workshops, and has been interviewed by the media numerous times as an expert.
Also providing care alongside Dr. Ryder is Monika Pekala, MA, EdM, LPMHC, a psychotherapist. She holds two master’s degrees in Psychological Counseling and Educational Psychology from Columbia University.
Monika provides personal counseling using cognitive behavioral therapy. She helps her clients correct negative patterns and overcome anxieties, stress, panic attacks, work on grief and loss, and build healthy self-esteem.
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Office location
Dr. John Ryder and Positive Psychology Associates
405 Lexington Ave, # 2621, New York, NY 10174
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- City University of New York, City College, PhD in Psychology
- City University of New York, City College, Master’s in Psychology
Professional memberships
- International Positive Psychology Association
NPI number
1417125022
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.52
Wait time
4.50
Bedside manner
4.64
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
25 reviews
Most relevant
Great, it's been 4 visits already and definitely seeing much progress in a good direction. highly recommended!
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
He is so insightful and knows how to immediately put you at ease.
More than 1 year agoAB
Over all excellent, very comfortable office space.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Monika is very patient and creates a safe environment to open up and explore oneself. I got through a very difficult time in my life thanks to her. The way she asks questions and helps to navigate through emotions make all the difference. I can without any doubt recommend her!
More than 1 year agoMR
I was assigned to therapist Monika Pekala, from John Ryder’s office and she has been wonderful. So far it has been an extremely helpful, productive and fruitful journey. I’ve learned so much about how to help better navigate the ups and downs in life. She has also been beneficial in helping me deal with and understand past traumas. She is kind, generous of spirit and a great listener. Couldn’t recommend her more!
More than 1 year agoEG
Finding the right therapist is a journey in itself, but my experience with my therapist, found through ZocDoc, has been a beacon of light during challenging times. From our first interaction, her calming presence and genuine empathy created a sanctuary of trust and open communication.
Her approach is a harmonious blend of various therapeutic techniques, each tailored to my unique needs and experiences. Through cognitive-behavioral strategies and mindfulness, she has guided me to deeper self-awareness, emotional resilience, and empowerment. Each session with her feels like a step forward, regardless of the size.
What sets her apart is not just her professional expertise, but her heartfelt commitment to my well-being. She goes above and beyond, punctual and responsive, always ready with additional resources and support. Her warmth and compassion have made the therapeutic journey less daunting, and the genuine connection we’ve built is a testament to her dedication to her clients.
More than 1 year agoRP
I have worked with Dr. John Ryder and Ms. Monika Pekala for 4 years now. They are both exceptional mental health professionals. They offer objective and educated opinions, and I have made great strides since in their care. As a psychotherapist, Ms. Pekala creates a space for me to share my views while being at my best. Dr. Ryder, a psychologist, provides techniques that I have used to transform my mindstate for the better. Making the decision to seek help was not easy for me, but I am grateful I did so.
More than 1 year agoArun T.Verified patient
on time
punctuational
April 7, 2021Brian W.Verified patient
Very understandable and patient. I've only had two sessions and already feel better and comfortable working with him. I would definitely recommend.
October 6, 2013Initials hidden
Doctor Ryder is great at CBT. Helped me with my panic attacks now I have none. Helped me process trauma and think positively. He is the only Doctor who was able to help me with my deep rooted issues. I highly recommend Dr. John Ryder
More than 1 year agoAB
Dr. Ryder is incredible. His method extremely practical and helpful. He has an amazing way of cutting through the nonsense and getting right to the point. He's warm and patient and truly cares about his patients.
More than 1 year agoDA
More than 1 year agoSP
July 14, 2021Mason K.Verified patient
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
March 15, 2021Kiaam K.Verified patient
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
March 12, 2019Joe L.Verified patient
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
More than 1 year agoJennifer S.Verified patient
May 15, 2018Robert K.Verified patient
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
January 25, 2018Tianxiao (susan) Y.Verified patient
September 28, 2017Samantha B.Verified patient
How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. John Ryder?
Generally, Dr. John Ryder has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Ryder's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. John Ryder accepting new patients?
Dr. John Ryder generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Ryder's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. John Ryder accept my insurance?
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Can I make an appointment with Dr. John Ryder online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Ryder using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. John Ryder work with?
Where is Dr. John Ryder's office located?
Dr. John Ryder's office is located at 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. John Ryder?
Dr. John Ryder frequently sees patients for Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, Sleep Problems, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. John Ryder on their profile.
What languages does Dr. John Ryder speak?
Dr. John Ryder speaks English and Polish.
How do patients rate Dr. John Ryder in reviews?
25 patients have reviewed Dr. John Ryder. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.52/5. They have a 4.64/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.5/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.