Optum Therapists in Pennsylvania

Hello! I am a licensed therapist practicing in Pennsylvania and working with a variety of clientele. I work with a variety of ages, from anyone from 12 and above. I'm also willing to work afternoons, weekends, and evenings to meet anyone where they need to be, should that be needed. I use a variety of treatments to meet my clientele where they are emotionally and developmentally. I tend to work with several mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and various personality disorders. I also work well with adjustment disorders, as well as trauma. I look forward to working with anyone that feels they could benefit from therapy. Thank you for your time, and I wish you and your family a great day!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Master's Degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh and have been providing therapy services for 14 years. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and married couples. I help clients struggling with an array of life and mental health concerns move forward with their mental health and overall functioning.

I am a therapist that has always been someone that easily connects and empathizes with everyone, especially clients, and it has helped me to build deep and meaningful relationships with the clients I have served. My goal as a therapist is not only to help you work on any issues you are facing and coming into therapy with, but also help you to build yourself up into who you want to be, regardless of how that is. I want you as a person, to be happy with yourself and find balance in your life.

Hey everyone! I am here to help with providing ways to get started in developing a new and happier you. I graduated from the University of Alabama with a Masters Degree in Counseling and I am also a certified rehabilitation counselor, having worked with youth and adults with learning disabilities. In addition I have a post-graduate certificate in Addiction Studies. I am a believer that if the mind and body are focused on goals, obstacles can be overcome, as you become more confident and powerful. We will begin our journey together as we work in small steps toward developing your new goals. These will always be your goals and I am here to help guide you toward them. My work begins by listening to you and then we will summarize what your expectations are. Then I will reflect to you what you have communicated. I will tell you what we can expect to change and how we will be able to make that change happen. My therapeutic techniques are driven by your needs and how you will respond to the new direction. No one said life would not send us off the pretty path that we all want to remain on. It happens. I can't think of anyone who has not had obstacles to overcome. I specialize in helping people overcome rejection, low self-esteem, work issues, disabilities, anxiety, living in the past, how to forgive themselves, addictions, how to stop living your life as the victim, and how to love and accept yourself and others.

My name is Karen Johnson and I am a licensed clinical social worker that has a vast array of professional and personal experience. I am a graduate of Temple University and have close to 20 years of experience working with mostly adults, but several years of working with children and adolescents early in my career. I strongly believe, you know yourself best and would like to work with you in a collaborative fashion. I see each client as a whole person that encompasses the mind, body and spirit. I use an eclectic approach in my work using a variety of tools such as mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation and other mind and body-based techniques. You are your own expert and I can help you facilitate change and growth in your daily life.

As of 1/7/2025 only accepting individual clients for new referrals! My passion is working with children, teenagers, young adults, couples and families to process trauma and difficult experiences so they can experience growth and healing within themselves and their relationships. Through my work with individuals and family's I have learned the deep importance of understanding "what has happened" to people rather than viewing people through the lens of "what is wrong with people". Likewise, the importance of understanding one's family of origin and how this shapes our views of people and the world and impacts how we relate with people and navigate our world. I work from a relational, psychodynamic, family-systems, trauma-informed, and neurobiological perspective. Feel free to reach out for more information!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for 4 years in a residential treatment facility focused on helping youth ages 11 to 18 and outpatient clients dealing with challenges due to Autism, familial conflict, depression, anxiety, and other struggles. I collaborate with children, adolescents, young adults and adults to create a treatment plan setting attainable goals. I have evening and weekend appointments to accommodate those individuals or families if that works better for you. If you need other times than I have listed available, please reach out to me. I can try and accommodate and meet you and / or your family when convenient.

Welcome! My name is Lizbeth, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I know that making the decision to see a therapist is not easy; and being open, vulnerable and honest about what you've been going through is a big deal. But guess what? You don't have to face any of life's obstacles, changes, ups or downs alone. I will walk alongside you in your journey to healing and self-growth. I'm here to offer you support, kindness, and a non-judgmental, listening ear to help you navigate each milestone and stage of your life. I have over 9 years of clinical experience working with a variety of clients dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, young adulthood, recently moved, burnout, dating and mid-life crisis. I am passionate about helping others and utilize a strengths-based focus to help you create the life you wish to lead in order to feel fulfilled. Are you ready to let go of what isn’t working? Want to take a step towards your desires and goals today? Let's do this together, from the comfort of the location of your choice via teletherapy!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 25 years experience working with children, adolescents and families. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Ecosystemic Famliy Structural Therapy (EFST). CBT has helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life.

Hi! I'm Amanda, LPC in Pennsylvania. I started my journey as a school counselor at a high school for 13 years and then transitioned into an outpatient facility. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults as they navigate their lives. I love learning about and connecting with others. I help support individuals with adjusting to new situations, set boundaries, feel empowered, manage the demands of life, learn better coping and implement self-care. Together we can identify what's not working, explore thoughts, feelings, and core concerns, in order to create better balance.

With over 25 years of experience in community mental health and higher education, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. I hold a PhD in Counselor Education and a Master's in Counseling, equipping me to provide exceptional support to those in need. I welcome adults seeking additional support, encouragement, and mental health counseling. My services include both individual and group counseling, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. My extensive training and experience enable me to assist individuals facing a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, from minor struggles to more serious issues. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to help my clients achieve their mental health and well-being goals.

I am a therapist with 10 years of experience in the field, with specialties in treatment of trauma, anxiety, and grief. I also practice utilization of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Prolonged Exposure, along with experience in use of mindfulness, emotional tolerance and person-centered techniques with my clients. I've worked in community mental health for much of my career, so I have had experience with clients who had struggled with challenges such as housing insecurity, incarceration and addiction and complex grief. I also enjoy working with people who face challenges with self-image and relational trauma through education on boundaries and healthy communication as well as self-advocacy.

The journey of healing begins with a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect. My worldview and core values determine my approach to therapy and engaging with you. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to therapy: I consider the art and science of healing to support the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. I have decades of rich and varied life experiences which inform my practice. I have worked in schools with children as an educator with a great understanding of human development, I am a grass-roots level community development social worker and a mental health clinician in community behavioral health.

Hello! My name is Jessie (they/[any pronoun is fine]), and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Pennsylvania, based out of Philadelphia. I received my Master's Degree from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research and have been in practice full-time for over four years. My passion is supporting the growth and development of children, adolescents, and families--especially LGBTQ+ youth.

Hello! Welcome to my site, my name is Ryan Brooks Leslie, licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist. I'm glad you found me here. There are few situations in life which are comparable to being in therapy; A helping relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, humility, educated/objective guidance, and genuine connection, in order for you to better navigate this thing we call "life". Being able to say anything, without fear of judgment, reproach, or rejection can allow you to truly face the obstacles that separate you from happiness and freedom; to be the best and most fulfilled version of yourself. I have spent the better part of 18 years educating myself and honing my counseling skills to people in this endeavor, and I must say I love being a therapist and have great confidence in my therapeutic skills and their benefit to you. I am experienced in addictions, trauma (EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, improving social skills, existential life issues and transitions. I have found that it is often a combination of forces within and without of ourselves that create our unique situations that we need help with. While I have many methods to facilitate processing (talking, art therapy, mindfulness, EMDR), I believe that you are the expert of your unique story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the challenges of your life. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I commend you for your effort and I am here to support, empower and be a fellow traveler on your journey. "The most powerful thing in the world, is an idea whose time has come"- Victor Hugo

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both PA and NJ. I have been in private practice since 2001. I work with ages 15 years and older and I LOVE my career. I work with teens and young adults who are transitioning and have seen these clients through the entire process of not being accepted by peers and, very sadly family, to life incredible full lives. I have a past client's wedding to go to in May :) I get to witness my clients come to live the lives they've always wanted and I'm a small part of that. I absolutely love my job.

I help my clients get results fast. Therapy isn't a complicated process. We meet, we talk about expectations of therapy, identify specific treatment goals and map out a plan. Our work takes place in the boundaries of a safe, corrective emotional relationship. I put patients’ feelings into words, focus on symptom management and reduce their impact on personal and professional lives. I've been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist and clinical social worker for over 15 years. I use a CBT/ Solution Focused approach in helping patients reduce anxiety and elevate and stabilize depressed mood. I help people move toward wellness in a safe, non-judgemental space. Therapy works. It is about growth and evolution, and I've observed that there is great joy in embracing positive new behaviors based on this collaborative approach. I look forward to working with you!

As Jack Kornfield says, "No matter how difficult the past, you can always begin again today." Our history shapes us but does not define us. Are you looking for a therapist who can see how your unique, and sometimes difficult, experiences, as well as your values, interests, and goals, have helped you grow into the person you currently are? I will guide you through any barriers while we work together to develop and reach your goals.

I’m Dr. Terry Matz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience serving military Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. As both a former Army Behavioral Health Officer and seasoned civilian therapist, I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, and life transitions using evidence-based therapies like CBT and supportive approaches. I aim to provide a compassionate, culturally competent space where healing, growth, and resilience are possible.

Hi, I’m Paula Srock, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have had the privilege of working with individuals, families, and couples, helping them navigate life’s challenges and strengthen their emotional well-being. My clinical approach is grounded in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed Care. These frameworks allow me to explore how the environments we grew up in shape our views of ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. I am passionate about supporting my clients on their journey toward healing and peace. My goal is to help individuals accept their past without allowing it to define their future—empowering them to live more fulfilling and authentic lives.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years of experience. I earned my Master's Degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland OH and am based in PA. I really enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of changing and maintaining roles in life---exploring young adulthood, how to maintain your own identity as a parent, how to create a life worth living in whatever stage you are in. I am a gender affirming therapist. I am an ally in the LGBTQAI+ Community, always keeping my eyes and ears open to find ways to improve my allyship. The current political climate is traumatic and oppressive to members of the LGBTQAI+ Community. I want to create space in session to discuss how that may be affecting you or retraumatizing you. I am also a member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. I am comfortable providing documentation for medical transition. I am very comfortable with working with those who use self harm as a coping mechanism--there is no shame or expectation you must stop when you engage in therapy. I'm fine with talking about suicide, whether it's your own personal experience of trying to find a life worth living, your experience of supporting someone who lives with suicide in their life, or grief around experiences of suicide. I do not believe inpatient hospitalization is an effective treatment for those experiencing suicide and do everything I can as a therapist to keep people out of the hospital when in suicidal crisis. I do believe therapy is political. I am social justice focused, continuing to do my own anti-racism work. I believe in Health at Every Size. I believe that our environment and what we experience in life has a profound affect on us and must be discussed in therapy.

Hello, my name is Jennifer. Are you feeling out of sorts, or have you lost your way? Maybe you are having relationship issues, loss or things that happened in your past. Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? I have over 15 years of experience in helping others with several life struggles. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, a Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and a Certified Integrated Mental Health Professional. I am concerned about a person's physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. My clients experience me as someone who listens and is willing to help provide skills to help you to have a more positive life journey. I see clients from many different types of backgrounds. I am not only comfortable with seeing individuals, but also families. I am experienced in multiple treatment modalities, and I make sure that we are always focusing on your goals.

If you are here because you are struggling with anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and life transitions there is a way out. If you are experiencing panic attacks and anxiety I can provide you the hope that you can heal. If you feel stuck in life, let's get unstuck. I work with those experiencing grief in relationships, loss of loved ones, pets, and autonomy. My clients are creative individuals who often take the world on their shoulders. I work with parents, partners, children, siblings, and professionals who need to be heard and seen.

I'm Fred. I’m a licensed clinical social worker with experience in both medical and behavioral health settings, specializing in anxiety, trauma, and addictions. My approach is practical and collaborative — rooted in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and supported by evidence-based tools. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where clients can challenge unhelpful patterns, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with what matters most.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Pennsylvania. I have been practicing social work for over 20 years and have 5 years of experience in outpatient mental health treatment, working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I'm passionate about helping my clients recognize their lives have purpose and they are so much more than the challenges they face.

Hi there! My name is Allison, I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I have spent most of my clinical experience working in community mental health! I have been practicing for 4 years and have recently received my license. I help children and adults struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma related stressors. Work, school, and social settings are areas of greatest strength for me.

I work by using an integrative approach and adapt the approaches that is best suited for the client’s needs. I have experience in delivering Person Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy & Dialectic Behavioural Informed Therapy. I understand that therapy can be daunting but I offer a safe, confidential, emphatic and non-judgemental environment. My aim is to help clients understand their mental health issues better and empower them to achieve the changes they need in order to live a better quality of life. I have been a Counselling Psychologist for over 10 years and have a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals in the UK. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I also have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.

My name is Amber Phillips. I am a dedicated therapist with a strong belief in the importance of empowering my clients to make autonomous decisions. I view my role as that of a guide, helping my clients to bridge the gap between their every day thoughts and actions. Ultimately, leading you to healthier, more effective behavior and overall communication with others. With a reserved, curious, and passive demeanor, I do my best to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore your thoughts and emotions. I firmly believe in the power of leading clients to your own answers, rather than providing solutions for you. You know your life better than anyone else! I am committed to fostering an environment where you feel empowered to take control of your own life, and make decisions that are best for your overall well-being.

Hi, I am honored you are taking time out of your busy day to consider me as your therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. I received my Masters in Social Work from Marywood University and have been practicing for 20+ years. I assist individuals like you — thoughtful, resilient, and ready to face the hard things, even when they feel confusing or uncertain - through empathy, compassion, and challenge.

Hello! I’m Sheena Thomas, a licensed mental health clinician with over 10 years of experience in the Behavioral Health field. I’m passionate about helping others overcome mental health challenges and giving you the tools to create a life of balance and fulfillment utilizing scientific evidence-based practices as well as a holistic approach. It is my belief and testament that your life does not have to reflect your struggles and that you have the ability to learn how to control what may be currently controlling you. So, I welcome the opportunity to work with you.

I am an older male with many years of experience. I am familiar and proficient in utilizing psychodynamic therapy as well as more prevalent modalities such as CBT, ACT and mindfulness. I am also proficient in couples therapy. I have studied emotionally focused treatment and have also helped couples to improve their physical intimacy. In recent years I have studied mindfulness and integrate it into other modalities such as ACT.

Hello, I’m Angela. I support women in midlife who feel lost, stuck, or invisible after spending decades caring for others. Whether you’re preparing for an empty nest, adjusting to life after your children have left, or rediscovering who you are in this next chapter, you’re not alone. Many of my clients arrive feeling burned out, uncertain about the future, and unsure of who they are now that their roles have shifted. You may have spent years putting others first — as a mother, partner, caregiver, or professional — only to realize you don’t quite know what you want anymore. Together, we’ll create space to process that loss, reawaken your sense of self, and build a life that reflects your values, strengths, and desires — not just your responsibilities.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of clinical experience—and more than 20 years in leadership and behavioral health programming—I’m deeply committed to helping individuals, couples, and families connect, heal, and thrive. I offer personalized, evidence-based counseling services for people facing a wide range of life challenges, from anxiety, depression, and trauma to relationship issues, identity exploration, and performance struggles. I specialize in empowering clients across the lifespan, drawing on Reality Therapy and other client-centered approaches to help you take control of your life, reconnect with what matters most, and make meaningful, lasting change. Whether you’re seeking support through a difficult transition or ready to overcome long-standing obstacles, I provide a warm, collaborative space to clarify your goals and build the tools to achieve them.

I’ve been license in the state of Pennsylvania to practice counseling. I receive my masters degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Over the years, I have been involved in helping men develop skills to remain non-abusive worked in substance-abuse treatment and currently enjoy collaborative care with primary care, physicians as well as private practice.

Hi, I'm Joe Ropelewski, LCSW, and I have been successfully providing therapy to individuals, couples and families for 25 years. Since graduating with my Masters of Social Work (MSSA) degree from Case Western Reserve in 1999, I have gained knowledge and skill in helping people make changes that work best for their lives. I also have a great deal of lived experience, having raised 4 children, survived cancer, suffered depression and anxiety, and also lived with chronic pain...YOU are the expert on yourself, though, and I will respect your power to make your best choices.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience in many areas including aging and dementia care, grief and loss, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse and sexual offender assessment and treatment. I have worked both inpatient and outpatient settings providing individual, family and group therapy to individuals of all ages. I am open minded and will bring compassion and non-judgment to our relationship.

Hi, I'm Lauren Sileski, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors. I have a lot of experience working with students and parents and view clients through a holistic lens. I value health and wellness and having worked as a personal trainer, I see how our daily habits and mindset influence our mental health. My goal as a therapist is for you to recognize your strengths and find the confidence to move towards your goals with an improved mindset.

Hello! My name is Anna and I am a Licensed Therapist. I have 15+ years providing therapy service and treatment to children, teenagers, adults, and older adults in southwestern Pennsylvania. My experience ranges from Outpatient Mental Health, Outpatient Addiction, Inpatient Addiction, supportive services for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Survivors, for Court Ordered and Self Referred children and adults of all genders.

I am a licensed psychologist in PA, with a specialty in clinical psychology. For the past 30 years I have specialized in college mental health working with young adults and late adolescents from a variety of theoretical perspectives, specializing in individual, group therapy, and family therapy as well as hypnotherapy modalities. Prior to becoming a psychologist, I had training and experience with helping individuals and families with substance abuse, recovery from sexual, emotional, and physical abuse history, and personality or interpersonal style problems.

Hello! My name is Haley and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker helping individuals navigate life’s challenges by using a person-centered, strengths-based approach for practice. My goal as a therapist is to support and promote personal growth and emotional well-being. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore and process feelings, develop new coping strategies, and work toward your individual goals. I have experience working with individuals to reduce the impact of anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and struggles with substance use.

I have been practicing since 2014 and have worked in a variety of contexts within the scope of therapy- ranging from children, couple's work, adults, teenagers, and the aging population. I deliver an authentic approach to therapy that punctuates the importance of the relationship between client and therapist as the primary mechanism for change. I believe all clients deserve to be met with dignity and respect and try to convey that in sessions.

I work with clients in order to help them to find wellness and balance. People often face difficulties with life's challenges, whether it's a temporary struggle or something that has been a longstanding problem, I strive to empower my clients to find their own inner resources. We all have our unique sources of strength and resiliency to deal with difficulties. My goal is to help guide you to your own strength by listening, engaging genuinely, and providing practical tools that you can use in your everyday life. My specialties include working with individuals who struggle with: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, addictions issues, couples/marital counseling, work/life balance, personal growth counseling, challenges with aging, trauma and PTSD, and anger management issues. I am trained in Cogntive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Counseling, and am a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. My name is Nicole, and I have been serving clients in the mental health field for 25 years. Much of my work has been focused on children, adolescents, and parents, however, I also have 6 years of experience in crisis counseling with adults with a variety of life issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other serious mental illnesses. My goal is always to build a therapeutic alliance with my clients and respect them as the experts in their own lives. With this as my main objective, I have been able to assist countless individuals in improving their overall wellness as individuals and in their relationships.

Here you are. You have noticed a challenge in your life. You have tried many things. You are (almost) ready to overcome this and live as a better version of yourself. You are looking for help. First of all, take time to give yourself a pat on the back. It’s not easy to know when you need help. Let’s pick up right where you are. Let’s figure out together how to set goals, make decisions, recognize barriers, stay motivated, find balance, deal with stressors, cope with losses, and accept setbacks. Let’s make sure that you embrace your identity and that you create and maintain positive relationships. Let’s do this! I am looking forward to meeting you.

Life is hard. Sometimes it feels like problems come one after another. It is overwhelming. You don't have to get through it alone. Therapy is a great place to talk about life's problems where you can say anything and not be judged. No matter what you’re facing, talking with someone can help. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel like you’re grabbing coffee with a friend…a friend who happens to be a licensed counselor with more than 11 years of experience. In my time working as a counselor, I have helped patients manage and overcome obstacles like anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. From challenges with the overwhelming pressure of academic life, work life, career choices, relationship challenges, and more, I will be there to offer an objective perspective on your situation and provide healthy tips and resources to navigate it. My approach empowers personal growth while always ensuring you feel safe, seen, and heard. Depending on your needs, I utilize CBT, DBT, and Reality Therapy approaches in sessions. Currently, all sessions will be conducted virtually, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own home and on a more flexible schedule. Let's do this together.

Hello there! I am privileged and honored to call myself a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), living in the state of PA. I have been working in the field of psychology for about 8-years now. I help children, adolescents, and young adults gain tools and skills needed to help improve their functioning and life satisfaction.

I believe therapy does not have to last a lifetime. However, the best benefit comes from allowing the process the time needed to achieve the outcomes aligned with healing and change. Therapy can serve as a road to achieving the wellness everyone deserves by breaking unhealthy patterns. As a therapist I provide a safe place for self-discovery, to learn new skills, and receive non-judgmental support. I bring ten years of clinical care experience with children/adolescents, and adults. In recent years my focus has been ERP therapy for the treatment of OCD, social anxiety, and phobias. Oh, and I am a proud cat mom who loves Law & Order SVU and is working to reduce her Pepsi intake :) "When there is no enemy within, the enemy outside do you no harm" -African Proverb

I have seen people in almost all professional and community arenas (even jails). My work has been a mix of public and private sector involvement, including 11 years of community mental health service and 30 years of individual practice. I have extensive experience in both home- and office-based psychotherapy, program development, clinical supervision, and clinical innovation. Special populations have included people with developmental disabilities, children and adolescents at risk for out-of-home placements, people with substance abuse issues, and geriatric populations; all have experienced various forms of grief, loss, and trauma while navigating the simple task of living and surviving. If you modify the title of Johnny Cash's song I've Been Everywhere to I've Done Everything (except prison work), that pretty much sums up my years of professional experience.

Fulfilling our potential is a lifelong journey of becoming more at peace with ourselves, deepening the intimacy in our relationships, being more authentically human, and feeling more alive each day. Along the way, certain challenges arise to cause us distress or confusion. Such moments can make us feel held back, afraid, or unsure of where to go from here. But these moments can also be the points of growth and healing from which we renew ourselves in ways we did not think possible. It is a great privilege helping men and women in their search to improve their relationship with themselves and others, to lessen the burden of emotional pain, to experience freedom from addictions, or to embark on new life challenges - to find the hope and courage needed to take those important next steps.

Hello I'm Risa! I am a licensed clinical social worker/therapist. I am passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered. My approach is centered around building a strong therapeutic relationship, meeting you where you are, and walking alongside you as you navigate life's challenges. I use various evidence-based modalities in order to address presenting issues.