As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I believe in a holistic approach to treatment to understand where you've been, where you're at, and where you want to go. I work with adults experiencing challenges at any life stage. I have experience working with those struggling with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, grief, and everyday challenges that life brings. As a therapist, father, and husband, I understand the importance of connection, creating a safe environment, and fostering growth.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I understand that the first couple of sessions in therapy can be anxiety provoking; therefore, the initial sessions are more structured to ease that and help me get a better understanding of the presenting issue that you have identified and its history. The subsequent sessions are more client-centered as confidence in session and rapport have been built. I find that the presenting problem isn't always the core issue and that clients leave having achieved more than they came in for.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

As an LCSW, I have a passion for people and the overall human experience. My whole adult life has been spent working with and trying to better the lives of those around me. I've worked as an outpatient therapist in the suburbs of Philadelphia as well as the streets of Kensington, with those experiencing the effects of severe trauma, depression, anxiety, and the impact of the opioid epidemic. Before my experiences as a therapist, I worked in homelessness prevention in Bucks County and with foster youth as a life skills counselor in Montgomery County. I also have a background in health and fitness.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

My approach is client-centered. I strongly believe in the therapeutic alliance and modeling the functioning of a healthy relationship. Though the question "How does that make you feel?" has its place, I believe participation and engagement by both parties are central to treatment. I lead with empathy and support and challenge when needed. Addiction - I have experience working with addiction beginning with my time as an outpatient therapist in Kensington, Philadelphia. I currently run co-occurring intensive outpatient groups that focus on sustaining recovery, gaining new tools, and learning additional skills. The road to sustained sobriety can look different for everyone. Recovery is not a cookie cutter approach and needs to be tailored to an individual's strengths, resources, and goals. Depression and Anxiety - Depression and anxiety are the two most prominent diagnoses that I come across as a therapist. The foundation of who I am as a therapist begins with addressing the everyday trials and tribulations that life can bring, especially in a post pandemic world and the political climate that we live in. I believe peeling back the layers to understand the core beliefs and cognitive distortions present is paramount to addressing the root of depression and anxiety. PTSD - I have experience working with trauma beginning with my time as an outpatient therapist in Kensington, Philadelphia. I currently work with those experiencing symptoms of trauma ranging from childhood abuse and neglect to the traumatic experiences of veterans and first responders. I have training with the FLASH Technique and CBT for suicide prevention.

About Ben Keller

Appointments