President-elect Donald Trump’s overwhelming 2024 win has triggered a surge in therapy requests from liberals in New York City. Local therapists say the election has left many of their clients feeling anxious, angry, and uncertain about the future.
“It’s like 2016 all over again,” said Manhattan psychologist Chloe Carmichael, who reported a 15% spike in inquiries. “A lot of people are feeling scared and overwhelmed.”
Therapist Alyson Cohen described receiving a flood of messages from clients the day after the election, with many expressing fears for their children’s futures. “Some of my female clients are even second-guessing having kids because of concerns about health care and reproductive rights,” she said.
The election has also strained romantic relationships, particularly for couples who voted for opposing candidates. Relationship therapist Lisa Brateman noted that some Democratic voters in these relationships feel deeply hurt by their partner’s support for Trump. “It can feel like a personal dismissal of their fears,” Brateman explained.
The swift resolution of the election has offered a small measure of comfort for some clients. “People are relieved they don’t have to endure weeks of uncertainty,” Carmichael said, pointing to Trump’s clear victory in both the Electoral College and the popular vote.
As liberals in deep-blue New York City grapple with the implications of Trump’s return to the White House, therapists anticipate a continued surge in demand for sessions to help clients process their emotions.
