Orna Guralnik

Dr. Orna Guralnik is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst whose work explores intimate human relationships, cultural theory, and psychological science. Guralnik earned her master's and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from Yeshiva University and completed psychoanalytic training at New York University. Before her clinical practice, she served as a principal at Lucid Consulting and Worklab Consulting, organizations focused on research and organizational consulting. Her career has been shaped by a commitment to understanding the personal, cultural, and political forces that influence human behavior and connection.

Guralnik is recognized as the therapist on the Paramount+ documentary series "Couples Therapy," which provides an in-depth look into the process of psychotherapy with couples. The series is noted for its documentary approach, offering viewers insight into the dynamics of therapy sessions and the complexities of relationships. Clips from the show have gained significant attention on social media platforms such as TikTok, reflecting its cultural impact. "Couples Therapy" has been renewed for additional seasons at Paramount+ with Showtime.

Guralnik teaches in the postdoctoral psychoanalysis program at New York University and is on faculty at the NYU PostDoctoral Institute for Psychoanalysis and the National Institute for the Psychotherapies in New York City. She teaches courses on the trans-generational transmission of trauma, sociopolitics and psychoanalysis, and dissociation. Guralnik is co-founder of the Center for the Study of Dissociation and Depersonalization at Mount Sinai Medical School, where she received funding from NIH and NARSAD grants. She serves on the editorial boards of "Psychoanalytic Dialogues" and "Studies in Gender & Sexuality." Her scholarly work addresses topics such as cognitive functioning in depersonalization disorder and the intersection of psychoanalysis and sociopolitical ideology.

Guralnik lectures and publishes on couples therapy, culture, dissociation, depersonalization, and the relationship between culture and psychoanalysis. She writes for both academic and general audiences and is authoring a book. Guralnik has addressed the ethical considerations of televising therapy, emphasizing the authenticity of the sessions depicted and her initial hesitancy to participate due to the traditionally private nature of psychoanalysis. Her public engagement reflects a broader mission to make psychoanalytic concepts accessible to a wider audience.