How was Groundwork Therapy founded?

Groundwork Therapy was founded in 2018 in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, by a wife-and-wife team, Dr. Melissa Johnson and Dr. Philicia Rubin. They created the practice to offer high-quality, contemporary psychotherapy to a creative, diverse, and evolving community.

What is the mission of Groundwork Therapy?

The mission of Groundwork Therapy is to provide high-quality, contemporary psychotherapy in a space that feels safe, confidential, accessible, and aesthetically modern—reflecting both the spirit of Brooklyn and the transformative nature of therapy.

Why is it called "Groundwork Therapy"?

The name “Groundwork Therapy” reflects Brooklyn’s constant development and reinvention, as well as the foundation-building nature of the therapeutic process. It highlights the belief that growth and positive change begin by laying the groundwork.

Which subway lines are near your office?

The office is accessible by the A, C, 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines, making it convenient from many Brooklyn and NYC neighborhoods.

What is the atmosphere of your therapy space?

Groundwork Therapy was intentionally designed with a modern, relatable aesthetic. The space is meant to feel warm, comfortable, and contemporary, with details like curated waiting room music and a therapy dog to help clients feel more at ease.

Do you have a therapy dog?

Yes. Groundwork Therapy features a therapy dog as part of creating a welcoming and comforting environment for clients in the office.

Do you share updates or more about your space on social media?

Yes. Groundwork Therapy shares updates about the practice, its space, and its community on Instagram, offering a glimpse into the feel and vibe of the office and team.

OUR STORY

Melissa Johnson, PSYD and Philicia Rubin, PSYD - in Groundwork Therapy Office with Apollo

Groundwork Therapy was founded in 2018 in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, by a wife-and-wife team, Dr. Melissa Johnson and Dr. Philicia Rubin.

Our mission is to provide high-quality, contemporary psychotherapy to this creative, diverse, and ever-evolving community.

From the beginning, we set out not only to establish a safe, confidential, and accessible therapy practice, but also to create a professional space with a modern, relatable aesthetic.

We also wanted a name that reflected both the spirit of Brooklyn and the transformative nature of therapy. “Groundwork Therapy” captures the borough’s constant development, reinvention, and evolution, as well as the essential foundation-building that takes place in the therapeutic process. Growth and positive change begin with laying the groundwork—because all growth starts with Groundwork.