As an LGBTQ+ person today, it’s easy to feel like everything is unraveling while you’re just trying to hold it together. If you’re exploring your identity, coming out or transitioning, or struggling to cope in an increasingly hostile world, it’s a lot to carry on your own. You might be questioning who you are or what you want. Maybe you’re carrying shame, fear, or doubt. You may feel stuck in an endless loop of negative thoughts and overwhelming emotions, "numbed out," or unable to engage fully in your life. If that sounds familiar, you're in the right place. I'm Linden, a Philadelphia-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in LGBTQ+ issues and gender-affirming therapy. I provide a judgment-free space for my clients to seek relief from their symptoms and a more authentic life. As a queer and trans therapist, I’m familiar with the challenges you may be facing.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During your initial session, we'll go over some important intake information, and then we'll leave plenty of time for you to share your story and ask me questions. One of the most important aspects of therapy is the client-therapist relationship, so we'll also make sure we're a good fit. Over the next few weeks, we’ll get to know one another and begin exploring the issues that brought you to therapy in more depth. We'll move at your pace and focus on what's most important to you.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I blend talk therapy with solutions-focused techniques to provide relief from your symptoms and help you navigate daily life. My clients often tell me that previous experiences with therapy involved lots of listening and affirmation without being challenged or directly confronting their problems. If you choose to work with me, your goals will be the focus of treatment, and I'll check in often to make sure if we're on the right track. My style is warm but direct, and I like to bring some humor into the therapy room. I began my career 20 years ago at a community-based healthcare organization serving individuals living with co-occurring medical, mental health, and substance use concerns. Later, I served as a clinical supervisor overseeing a team of behavioral health and social service providers. My professional background also includes roles promoting access to reproductive and sexual healthcare, HIV/AIDS care, and environmental justice.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My clients often come to therapy feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, or unsure about their future. They may be seeking clarity on issues including sexual orientation and gender identity, coming out or transitioning, social isolation, relationship or family problems, internalized shame or stigma, body image issues or dysphoria, and low self-esteem. I particularly enjoy working with folks struggling with social anxiety. These are common issues, and relief is possible. I encourage you to reach out and look forward to hearing from you!
Gender-affirming therapy
Gender is a core part of your identity, shaping how you see yourself and how you move through the world. Being a transgender, nonbinary, or gender expansive person means dealing with unique stressors. Whether you’re questioning your gender or pursuing transition, I offer gender-affirming therapy tailored to your needs. We can explore what gender means to you, coming out, social or physical transition, and the many ways gender identity and expression can impact your life. In order to reduce barriers to care, I also offer diagnostic assessments and letter-writing services for my clients seeking gender-affirming medical care. Referral letters require attending a minimum of 2 sessions.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I frequently integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into more traditional talk therapy. This approach helps my clients identify what's most important to them in life and take values-based action, even in the face of barriers they may be facing. ACT can be a great fit for someone looking for concrete tools and a clearer path forward.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
Clients with anxiety may benefit from Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). ERP is a structured, evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders. If you've been to therapy before and "just talked about" your anxiety without results, ERP may be a good fit for you.