LCSW, 6 years of experience
Hello! I am Risa, an LCSW licensed in PA and DE. I provide long-term, insight-oriented therapy for adults navigating trauma, relationship issues, mental health conditions and identity exploration. I integrate DBT, EMDR, and IFS-informed strategies to help clients build emotional regulation and lasting resilience over time. My practice is best suited for individuals seeking a consistent, stable therapeutic space. I strive to empower my clients to unpack old wounds, understand themselves, and build healthier patterns at a sustainable pace. My style is warm, authentic and deeply attuned, while also being clear and direct when needed. My clients often reach meaningful and sometimes unexpected milestones through our long-term work together. While every journey is unique, I create a steady, supportive space where long-term growth feels possible. I love being part of those moments and growth.
In our first session, my goal is to help you feel safe, understood, and we will talk about what brought you here, what you are hoping for, and what feels most overwhelming right now. I ask gentle, clarifying questions so I cam understand your story and you are welcome to ask questions you may have about my treatment approach. Most clients have told me that the first session feels grounding and surprisingly comfortable. Please come to my therapy space as you are. We will use our first session to get to know each other and explore whether we feel like a good fit to work together. :)
My greatest strength as a therapist is the balance of advanced clinical training and genuine human connection. I have completed advanced EMDR training for complex PTSD/trauma, and I began my career with an internship at an LGBT Center in California. I continue to take CEUs regularly and see myself as a lifelong learner-I love what I do and consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients. I strive to create a radically safe space, which may look different for each person-we can explore together what safety means for you. Ultimately, my goal is for clients to leave each session with something meaningful-whether it is a new skill, an insight, or simply a moment of relief or even a smile. Therapy should be a place where you feel supported, challenged when needed, and always cared for. I work with diverse group of clients from different cultural backgrounds, orientation, identity, political views and lived experience.
My ideal clients are willing to show up consistently and take the risk of being honest and vulnerable at times. Therapy does not have to be long-term, but I work best with people who can commit to weekly sessions. I do not typically assign homework, but if you are open to it, we can discuss journal prompt, reading and activities that may be able to support your growth.
I have completed advanced EMDR training and regularly integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) techniques into my practice to support clients working through trauma, anxiety, and deeply rooted emotional patterns. My approach is informed by evidence-based protocols, and I tailor each session to meet my client's unique needs and readiness.
I offer DBT-informed therapy that helps clients build emotional regulation, mindfulness, and effective coping skills to create a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.
If early experiences were inconsistent, stressful, or emotionally unavailable, it can show up later as anxiety, people-pleasing, shutdown, fear of abandonment, or difficulty communicating needs. Attachment-based therapy helps you understand these patterns with compassion — not blame. Together, we work to build emotional safety, strengthen your ability to regulate, and create healthier, more secure connections. This approach helps you heal old wounds, improve relationships, and feel more grounded and confident in who you are.