Browse specialtiesSee all specialties A-Z
Chiropractors
Dentists
Dermatologists
Ear, Nose & Throat Doctors
Endocrinologists
Eye Doctors
OBGYNs
Ophthalmologists
Optometrists
Orthopedic Surgeons
Podiatrists
Primary Care Doctors
Psychiatrists
Psychologists
Therapist-Counselors
Discover
Are you a top doctor or health service?
Discover
Are you a top doctor or health service?
Dr. John Ryder and Positive Psychology Associates
2 specialties405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY4.76
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.76
Wait time
4.75
Bedside manner
4.82
Insurances accepted
99% of patients have successfully booked with these insurances
Aetna
UnitedHealthcare
Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield (Health)
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Book an appointment for freeThe office partners with Zocdoc to schedule appointments
Scheduling details
All procedures
See if they’re in-network
Available appointments
All provider availability
Today, Apr 21 – Mon, May 4
Insurances accepted
99% of patients have successfully booked with these insurancesAetnaUnitedHealthcareEmpire Blue Cross Blue Shield (Health)Blue Cross Blue Shield of MassachusettsAnthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
1 office location
Dr. John Ryder and Positive Psychology Associates
405 Lexington Ave, # 2621, New York, NY 10174
Providers at Dr. John Ryder and Positive Psychology Associates (0)
No results
This practice has no doctors that match your search criteria.
Dr. John Ryder and Positive Psychology Associates
**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, appointment may not not be confirmed.
Monika Pekala, MA., EdM., LMHC is a Cognitive Behavioral therapist working under the supervision of Dr. Ryder. She holds two master degrees in both Psychological Counseling and Educational Psychology from Columbia Univeristy. Monika draws upon positive psychology and an integrative wellness approach that includes coaching, mindfulness, meditation, psychodynamic and Gestalt Therapy. She provides personal and group counseling where cognitive behavioral, supportive, and educational interventions are provided to patients to ensure safe and effective growth and healing. By focusing on mind and body awareness, Monika
helps her clients correct negative thought patterns and overcome anxiety, stress, panic attacks, grief, and loss while building healthy self-esteem. Monika provides therapy in both English and Polish.
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.76
Wait time
4.75
Bedside manner
4.82
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
30 reviews
Most relevant
Great, it's been 4 visits already and definitely seeing much progress in a good direction. highly recommended!
Initials hidden
He is so insightful and knows how to immediately put you at ease.
ABVerified patient
Over all excellent, very comfortable office space.
Initials 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!
MRVerified patient
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!
EGVerified patient
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.
RPVerified patient
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.
Arun 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
ABVerified patient
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.
DAVerified patient
SPVerified patient
July 14, 2021Mason K.Verified patient
Initials hidden
March 15, 2021Kiaam K.Verified patient
Initials hidden
Initials hidden
Initials hidden
March 12, 2019Joe L.Verified patient
Initials hidden
Jennifer S.Verified patient
May 15, 2018Robert K.Verified patient
Initials hidden
January 25, 2018Tianxiao (susan) Y.Verified patient
September 28, 2017Samantha B.Verified patient
I’m so grateful for my time working with Monika. She is incredibly kind, warm, and genuinely invested in your growth. From the very beginning, she created a safe and supportive space that allowed us to build a strong, trusting bond. She consistently recommended insightful books and resources that supported my healing even outside of sessions. I always felt truly seen and cared for, and I would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a thoughtful, compassionate therapist.
MCVerified patient
Monika is the real deal. She is warm and direct without being harsh but honest. She somehow knows what questions to ask. Finding a therapist in NYC can sometimes feel like online dating. There are many profiles, bios and promises, but working with her is when you realize, “yes, this is what it’s supposed to feel like.”
You walk in thinking you’re stuck for life, and you walk out with three life realizations and a new perspective. Her practice is beautiful and her manners professional, and I find her feedback refreshingly real. No therapist-speak overload — just smart, grounded support that actually helps you move forward in life, and not stay stuck.
DSVerified patient
I’ve worked with several therapists over the years, and this has been by far the most effective experience. From the start, I felt heard, understood and challenged by Monika in a way that was constructive and thoughtful. Sessions are focused, insightful and grounded in real understanding rather than generic advice. I’ve gained clarity, perspective and practical tools that have made a meaningful difference in both my personal and professional life. I would highly recommend Monika Pekala to anyone looking for serious counseling.
DBVerified patient
I found Monika on Zocdoc back in 2018, and I’m very grateful to have connected with her. She is thoughtful, patient, and easy to talk to. To this day, she consistently provides practical tools that have helped me learn, grow, and better understand myself. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking meaningful support.
NMVerified patient
April 11, 2026Charlotte M.Verified patient