Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Hayley Roverana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
Dr. Amana Carvalho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19093
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
Penny Orr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS, RPT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
Michael Zwizanski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
John Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
I also specialize in LGBTQ and transgender issues.
I am John Watson. I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have been working as a therapist for over 20 years. I am an expert on addiction and substance abuse. I specialize in treating individuals with alcohol abuse, drug abuse, gambling, video game addiction, and porn addiction.
I also specialize in LGBTQ and transgender issues.
I am John Watson. I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have been working as a therapist for over 20 years. I am an expert on addiction and substance abuse. I specialize in treating individuals with alcohol abuse, drug abuse, gambling, video game addiction, and porn addiction.
Walnut Psychotherapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Walnut Psychotherapy Center is a group of LGBTQ+ affirming therapists dedicated to the effective use of long-term psychotherapy. We are wholeheartedly subscribed to understanding the complexity of the human mind and condition. We think of our histories, our attachments, and our traumas as essential facets of the puzzle that makes up how we function in today's world.
Walnut Psychotherapy Center is a group of LGBTQ+ affirming therapists dedicated to the effective use of long-term psychotherapy. We are wholeheartedly subscribed to understanding the complexity of the human mind and condition. We think of our histories, our attachments, and our traumas as essential facets of the puzzle that makes up how we function in today's world.
Ari (Jake) Kirkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
Dr. Luis Ramírez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, (They, Them, Ellxs)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I remember my own experience meeting my new therapist. I was anxious to talk to a new person. I did not know if I would make sense. I did not want to feel judged. I remember feeling lost and hopeless. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to change the bad feelings and I resisted to believe that there was something wrong with me. I wanted someone who could guide me to understand my world and myself. I wanted a safe space. I needed to find someone who could collaborate with me in changing and resisting. I did not want a therapist who treated me as a study object. I just wanted to feel fully human.
I remember my own experience meeting my new therapist. I was anxious to talk to a new person. I did not know if I would make sense. I did not want to feel judged. I remember feeling lost and hopeless. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to change the bad feelings and I resisted to believe that there was something wrong with me. I wanted someone who could guide me to understand my world and myself. I wanted a safe space. I needed to find someone who could collaborate with me in changing and resisting. I did not want a therapist who treated me as a study object. I just wanted to feel fully human.
Billy Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
Therapy is like any other relationship - it's important to find someone whose values and approach resonate with you. In my practice, therapy is a collaborative process between therapist and client. I see my role as that of a non-judgemental companion, someone who holds space and reflects you back to you. I am here to bear witness to your journey without judgment. My hope is to support you in exploring how the stories we are told, and tell ourselves, inform our worldview - our sense of self, relationships, and even our mood.
Therapy is like any other relationship - it's important to find someone whose values and approach resonate with you. In my practice, therapy is a collaborative process between therapist and client. I see my role as that of a non-judgemental companion, someone who holds space and reflects you back to you. I am here to bear witness to your journey without judgment. My hope is to support you in exploring how the stories we are told, and tell ourselves, inform our worldview - our sense of self, relationships, and even our mood.
Pat Brosseau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Accepting new clients! The world is just... really hard right now. It's difficult to imagine how therapy would even help when the world is on fire. You constantly feel "other", in so many ways, which makes maintaining social and romantic relationships nearly impossible. You know you have a long list of things to process, but have never felt like you've had a truly safe, nonjudgmental space to do that. In order to heal, you know on a visceral level that you need to feel fully accepted, not just tolerated. You are starting to drown from the overwhelming stress, anxiety, neurodiversity, perfectionism, low self-worth, and isolation.
Accepting new clients! The world is just... really hard right now. It's difficult to imagine how therapy would even help when the world is on fire. You constantly feel "other", in so many ways, which makes maintaining social and romantic relationships nearly impossible. You know you have a long list of things to process, but have never felt like you've had a truly safe, nonjudgmental space to do that. In order to heal, you know on a visceral level that you need to feel fully accepted, not just tolerated. You are starting to drown from the overwhelming stress, anxiety, neurodiversity, perfectionism, low self-worth, and isolation.
Jessie Timmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I am passionate about engaging in therapy that prioritizes our relationship and your expertise about your own journey and what is right for you. We will work together to create a safe space for exploration of your concerns, what is going well and what needs work. You can expect me to be nonjudgmental, to pay close attention to you and to respond with appropriate care to meet you where you are. I enjoy working with people who are experienced with therapy as well as newcomers.
I am passionate about engaging in therapy that prioritizes our relationship and your expertise about your own journey and what is right for you. We will work together to create a safe space for exploration of your concerns, what is going well and what needs work. You can expect me to be nonjudgmental, to pay close attention to you and to respond with appropriate care to meet you where you are. I enjoy working with people who are experienced with therapy as well as newcomers.
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Christine Ruberti-Bruning
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
It can be hard to face our feelings, and sometimes challenging to put them into words. Our deepest, most painful experiences can be overwhelming and scary. I’m here to hold a safe space to help you work through whatever issue that is troubling you. My aim as a therapist is to help you find ways to heal and access a more authentic self. I will help you find your strengths, and guide you through areas in your life that need change. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, disordered eating, body image concerns or chronic dieting, I would love to help.
It can be hard to face our feelings, and sometimes challenging to put them into words. Our deepest, most painful experiences can be overwhelming and scary. I’m here to hold a safe space to help you work through whatever issue that is troubling you. My aim as a therapist is to help you find ways to heal and access a more authentic self. I will help you find your strengths, and guide you through areas in your life that need change. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, disordered eating, body image concerns or chronic dieting, I would love to help.
Shannon McKenzie
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
You are so tired of merely existing. You want to find self-acceptance, but sometimes you struggle with knowing what that "self" even is. You feel like you don't belong anywhere and that everyone around you has abandoned you. You feel like you are doing all of this alone. You are in pain and no one around you even knows, because you refuse to let them see it. Or you don't want to be a burden. But you know deep down you can't keep going like this, because you're a pressure cooker and you just need some relief. Or some guidance. Or SOMEthing. You may feel like you face rejection everywhere... but not here.
You are so tired of merely existing. You want to find self-acceptance, but sometimes you struggle with knowing what that "self" even is. You feel like you don't belong anywhere and that everyone around you has abandoned you. You feel like you are doing all of this alone. You are in pain and no one around you even knows, because you refuse to let them see it. Or you don't want to be a burden. But you know deep down you can't keep going like this, because you're a pressure cooker and you just need some relief. Or some guidance. Or SOMEthing. You may feel like you face rejection everywhere... but not here.
Open Space Counseling, Consulting & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Open Space CCW is a LGBTQIA+ competent, relationship minority affirming, and social justice-oriented practice. Our goal is to eliminate fear of judgement as a barrier to personal growth and wellness. We help people move from merely surviving their lives—to truly thriving. FINALLY. We want people to walk in and feel—in their gut—genuinely welcomed with open arms and open minds. We want people to finally LET GO of the things that have been weighing them down—unabashedly and without hesitation. Our clinicians show up authentically, so that you feel like you can, too. NOTHING is off limits around here. We are holding this space for you.
Open Space CCW is a LGBTQIA+ competent, relationship minority affirming, and social justice-oriented practice. Our goal is to eliminate fear of judgement as a barrier to personal growth and wellness. We help people move from merely surviving their lives—to truly thriving. FINALLY. We want people to walk in and feel—in their gut—genuinely welcomed with open arms and open minds. We want people to finally LET GO of the things that have been weighing them down—unabashedly and without hesitation. Our clinicians show up authentically, so that you feel like you can, too. NOTHING is off limits around here. We are holding this space for you.
Jackie Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019 (Online Only)
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
Gene-Leigh Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! You are feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed. You feel "other". And our current social and political climate is exacerbating it. You feel like no one gets it. You have such a hard time trusting people, so the idea of taking the first step to start therapy is terrifying. You don't feel like yourself anymore, and sometimes you wonder what that even means. You feel shame. You feel like you simply "don't have time for therapy", but also know you can't continue like you have been. You want to feel more grounded, balanced, and resilient. But you have no idea how to get there.
Currently accepting new clients! You are feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed. You feel "other". And our current social and political climate is exacerbating it. You feel like no one gets it. You have such a hard time trusting people, so the idea of taking the first step to start therapy is terrifying. You don't feel like yourself anymore, and sometimes you wonder what that even means. You feel shame. You feel like you simply "don't have time for therapy", but also know you can't continue like you have been. You want to feel more grounded, balanced, and resilient. But you have no idea how to get there.
Mike Elliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19135
Waitlist for new clients
I am a cognitively oriented therapist. That is a fancy way to say I pay a lot of attention to your thoughts. There are only three things in the universe you can control: your thoughts, your feelings, and your behaviors. It is your thoughts that drive your feelings and behaviors. The better you manage your thoughts, the better you manage your emotions and your life.
I am a cognitively oriented therapist. That is a fancy way to say I pay a lot of attention to your thoughts. There are only three things in the universe you can control: your thoughts, your feelings, and your behaviors. It is your thoughts that drive your feelings and behaviors. The better you manage your thoughts, the better you manage your emotions and your life.
Charles Tyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach.
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach.
Mav Atis-Valentine
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143 (Online Only)
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
Ying Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Therapy is for everyone, not just folks experiencing crisis or those experiencing life’s more difficult struggles. Everyone deserves an affirming therapist and a therapeutic space where they can discuss any and all challenges or concerns. I facilitate this by being a cheerful, warm, and active participant during sessions. I find that my clients appreciate and benefit from my engaging demeanor and the colorful metaphors I use to convey concepts.
Therapy is for everyone, not just folks experiencing crisis or those experiencing life’s more difficult struggles. Everyone deserves an affirming therapist and a therapeutic space where they can discuss any and all challenges or concerns. I facilitate this by being a cheerful, warm, and active participant during sessions. I find that my clients appreciate and benefit from my engaging demeanor and the colorful metaphors I use to convey concepts.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Cheltenham
- Drexel Hill
- Elkins Park
- Gladwyne
- Lansdowne
- Lower Merion
- Narberth
- Upper Darby
- Wyncote
- Wynnewood
Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.