Barbara Thomas, LMFT

Philosophy of Care

Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Pennsylvania. She has experience working with children, adolescents, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family/life transitions. Additionally, she has experience working with autism spectrum disorder, trauma, grief & loss, and multigenerational family patterns. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University and attained her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hall University.

Barbara provides systemic, client-centered, contextual, and cognitive-behavioral therapy for children, adults, couples and families. Barbara focuses on the specific and unique needs of each individual through an adaptable, relational lens that encourages a fresh perspective into your life. Barbara incorporates empirically supported theories, family system theories and relational dynamics into therapy.

Barbara works to create a comfortable and open atmosphere to foster a growing and caring therapeutic relationship with you. She hopes to collaborate with you to create and achieve goals that enhance your strengths and personal fulfillment.

Education

Seton Hall University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Self esteem
• Trauma
• Relationship issues
• Life transitions
• Multigenerational family patterns
• Family restructuring
• Grief & Loss

Moira McCormick, LPC

Philosophy of Care

I specialize in working with children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, anger and life transitions. I have extensive experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum. Within a therapeutic setting, I put much emphasis on healthy relationships and I believe the key to that is incorporating parents and/or caregivers into treatment.

In addition to outpatient counseling, I work as a school therapist in a local public middle school. I am very much aware of the stress that exists in the school environment (both social and academic). I enjoy helping adolescents discover their true potential and overcome obstacles that they are faced with.

I am warm, humorous and original in my approach. 

I am able to highlight positive qualities within individuals and provide tools and creative ways to incorporate these qualities into everyday life. I believe that everyone deserves to live the life in which you desire. Often times, we just need a reminder of our self-worth and a refresh of therapeutic tools.

Education

Immaculata University
MA Counseling Psychology

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Trauma
• Anger
• Life transitions

Bronwen Gale, LPC

I'm a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania as well as a registered art therapist. I earned a master's degree in art therapy and counseling from Drexel University and have practiced in a number of mental health settings. I have experience working with clients who present with diverse clinical issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use. I believe psychotherapy is a collaborative effort, in which the therapist supports client strengths and insights as a means of eliciting change. I intend to offer compassionate, affirming care which provides opportunities to challenge old patterns and to build new interpersonal skills. I also offer arts-based interventions if that feels like something which would be helpful for you (and no, you don't have to be an artist!).

I look forward to working with you!

George Zappalorta, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

My name is George Zappalorta. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Also, I am also a Certified Substance Addictions Counselor and Certified Gambling Addictions Counselor. I graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia PA in 1997 with a Master in Social Work. My work background is worked in mental health for over 20 years, also, did work in addictions, anger management, and worked in inpatient psychiatric hospitals and other levels of care in psychology and addictions. I had a career in Child Welfare as an investigator, case manager and supervisor for over 20 years.  In the past , I worked forensic clients from summary offenses to felonies.

George utilizes collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, supportive psychotherapy,  solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and couple.

George seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Education

Temple University
Master in Social Work

Specialties

• Addictions
• Adolescent/Child Services
• Anxiety Disorders
• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Bereavement- Grief Counseling
• Certified Employee Assistance Professional

Jared Epler, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Jared Epler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has worked in the counseling field for over 10 years. He works with adolescents and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, career issues, life transitions, and issues surrounding LGBTQ+ identity. He has a Master of Science degree in School & Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. Jared approaches his work from a person-centered perspective. Trust, empathy, and a strong therapeutic relationship are the foundation of his approach. Jared also uses techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy to best support his clients. Jared embraces creativity and flexibility to meet his client’s needs. Jared brings warmth and empathy to build a strong and trusting relationship with his clients. He looks forward to working together to help you identify the best way to move towards the life you imagine.

Education

University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science degree in School & Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Career Issues/Career Counseling
• Depression
• Stress management
• LGBTQ+ issues
• Life transitions
• Relationship Issues

Jeffrey Spencer, LPC

Philosophy of Care

I have earned of Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Arts degree in community counseling from and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Doctor of Education degree from Duquesne University in Counselor Education and Supervision. My doctoral dissertation addressed the ethics of counselor supervisors. 

I have over 16-years of clinical experience in providing mental health counseling to children, adolescents and adults. I have worked in schools, in homes, and in private practice. I have addressed an array of diagnosis and personal issues. I have particularly focused on, and I have become skilled at treating, depression and anxiety.

Education

Duquesne University
Doctor of Education 

Specialties

• Couples/Relationship Counseling
• Marriage Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Schizophrenia Spectrum and Psychotic Disorders
• Christian Counseling

Jennifer Polen, LCSW

I am a firm believer that therapy is for everyone. Therapists aren’t magicians. We are simply trained to use and share a broad “tool box” of skills for managing life’s problems. Therapy is hard work, but should result in you building your skills and capacity to manage whatever life has thrown your way.  

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with individuals and families of all ages. I identify as a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, but as a Social Worker I frame all of my work by exploring how individuals exist within their family and community systems. 

I am a compassionate and caring therapist who has worked on the “business side” of behavioral health for years. As such, you will find me to be a warm, easy to talk to clinician with a results orientation. I have significant experience treating individuals with trauma-exposure, attachment issues, eating disorders, and physical symptoms stemming from emotional states. I will see adults and adolescents for individual sessions, and provide family therapy for young people 14 and below. 

Megan Gaughan, MA

Philosophy of Care

Megan Gaughan is a Master’s level resident with a certificate in forensic psychology. She is currently working towards a License in Professional Counseling (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania and has experience providing counseling to youth, adults, and families. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree with a dual major of Psychology and Family Studies from Albright College and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rosemont College.

Megan provides professional and compassionate services through a trauma focused perspective. As your therapist, her goal is to create a genuine relationship with you to promote a safe place for you to explore your goals. 

Megan approaches therapy from an eclectic orientation to meet you where you are to develop obtainable goals and process through difficulties you may be experiencing. Together, we will take a collaborative effort in understanding and processing your experience. This may be a difficult journey, but therapy can provide the support needed to work through life’s challenges.

Education

Rosemont College
Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety Therapy
• Stress Counseling
• Depression Counseling
• PTSD

Natalie Carlone, LCSW

Natalie Carlone is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. Natalie received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Connecticut. 

Natalie is passionate about her role in helping others and improving their ability to see their own potential. She has experience treating a variety of areas, including anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma symptoms, relationship problems, and life transitions. Through a person-centered, holistic approach to therapy, Natalie hopes to ensure that the individual is the expert in their treatment in their journey toward self-discovery. Natalie provides an adaptable approach to therapy, catered to the individual’s unique needs and goal, with influences from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing. 

Natalie engages individuals through creating an empathetic and supportive environment. She believes that a strong foundation in the therapeutic relationship is essential to acceptance and healing. By joining Natalie, she hopes that you will begin a meaningful experience to achieve the growth and insight that you desire.

Rachel Sims, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Rachel Sims is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with experience working alongside people to better manage mental health struggles, change unhealthy behaviors, improve relationships and live present and connected lives. Rachel has experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Addictions Counseling and Masters of Art Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University. 

Rachel utilizes mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, and interpersonal therapy to help people better manage strong emotions, identify and change negative thought patterns, live more fully in the present moment, and improve connections and relationships in order to decrease life difficulties and mental health issues. 

Rachel is able to offer a warm and non-judgemental space for you to process, be heard and supported, deepen insight, gain coping skills, utilize strengths, challenge unhelpful thoughts, improve relationships, set goals, and live a fulfilling and meaningful life. Please reach out to Rachel if you could benefit from this therapeutic relationship. 

Education

Indiana Wesleyan University
Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Substance Abuse
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trauma Related Disorders
• Life Transitions
• Stress Management
• Relationship Issues
• Anger Management

Robert Kuehl, LPC

Robert earned his bachelor’s degree from Temple University and received a Master’s degree in clinical counseling from Eastern University. Robert has enjoyed working with adolescents and adults in helping them live with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, physical/psychological trauma, psychosis, personality disorders, anger, relationship problems, life transitions, grief and many others. Robert employs a psychodynamic approach to conceptualizing problems and a Client-Centered approach to building therapeutic rapport. While Robert uses several different models for change he often draws from Cognitive Therapy and Motivational Interviewing but treatment will be personalized for your needs.

The foundation for Robert’s work is the belief that we were built for relationships and as a result the relationship between therapist and person-in-therapy is the vehicle for change. Providing a warm, non-judgmental space in which people feel secure is priority number one. Where you go from there is completely up to you!

Stefany Diaz, LCSW

If you are reading this, you may be someplace on your journey working towards personal development and possibly moving through a difficult point in life. 

My style is to establish a trusting alliance with my client, empowering them to create their goals and use my expertise to work with them through their process.  Being strengths- based, nonjudgmental and goal focused, I will use a therapeutic technique that best fits your needs and style, prioritizing safety and self-determination.  Some techniques I use include cognitive therapy, motivational interviewing, supportive therapy, and play therapy.

I work with a wide range of clients, ages 5 and up, including adolescents, young adults, mature adults, families and individuals, in English and Spanish. I work with those struggling with a range of symptoms including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, work/ life balance, transitional challenges, and relationship issues.

I am an experienced clinical social worker, and a Level 2 Reiki Practitioner in Traditional Usui Reiki.  I received my Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies, with concentrations in African American Studies, Child Development and Spanish, from Syracuse University. My Masters in Social Work, Advance Generalist Practice, was earned at CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx, NY. Additional training was completed in dual diagnosis through Columbia University.

Takahide Watanabe, LPC, LMHC

Philosophy of Care

Takahide Watanabe is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Massachusetts and New York who has 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, cultural adjustment issues and interpersonal relationship issues. Watanabe received his Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Hosei University in Japan, Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Michigan University and received his Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University.  

Watanabe is an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist and utilizes collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based approaches to therapy. Watanabe practices thorough and continuous assessment with clients’ feedback on treatment to promote the process of healing from attachment related trauma.

Education

Boston University
Master's in Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine

Specialties

• Acute and Post Traumatic Stress
• Cultural adjustment issues
• Grief & Loss
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management
• Self esteem
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues

 

Keisha Smith, LCSW

My name is Keisha Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Pennsylvania. I attended Temple University where I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work and I also attended Boston University in which I received a Masters of Criminal Justice. 

I use a Person Centered/Narrative Therapy Approach. Therapy is about you and not me. I listen and we work together to develop all aspects of your treatment and discuss what your time in therapy will look like. Making the decision to come and talk to someone is not easy and my goal is to make it a as smooth as possible while we are doing the work along your journey. 

I have significant experience working with youth who are adjudicated or at-risk at the prevention, intervention, and rehabilitative stages. 10 years of experience providing support and therapeutic interventions for youth, individuals and families. 

 

Alexis Kilduff, LPC

Alexis earned her bachelors degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in 2007 and her masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from the Boston University School of Medicine in 2009. Since obtaining her masters, Alexis has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are dealing with any number of mental health concerns. Whether it be in a school, community and home based work, or in an outpatient office; Alexis has committed herself to meeting each individual where they’re at mentally and emotionally. Whether it is working through a difficult life transition, chronic anxiety or depression, grief, body image and self esteem, eating disorders or anything else that is keeping you from living the life you want to; she believes in working with you and tailoring treatment to meet your unique needs.  

Alexis feels strongly about “buying in” to therapy and working as a team to overcome whatever it is each person is dealing with. She believes deeply in connections and her warm approach will help to put you at ease so you can get the support and care that is right for you. 

Therese M. Walsh, LPC

I joined Thriveworks with a desire to work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families in an effort to embrace change, process life events, and further personal growth and development. The therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to learn more fully about one’s self and it is a privilege for me to be able to embark on that journey and help influence an individual’s ability to experience transformation and gain increased satisfaction in life. It is my privilege to join clients on this journey. 

My areas of specialization include trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, healthy sexual development, relationship discord, conflict resolution, loss and grief, and effective communication styles. 

My counseling style is eclectic as I acknowledge the unique characteristics that are present within the many approaches to therapy. This allows for the use of the most appropriate tools as the therapeutic relationship evolves and allows adaption to honor the distinct and dynamic human being.. Many of the hours I have spent in professional development have been focused on cognitive behavioral treatment approaches and dialectical behavioral therapy. 

Credentials:

• Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
• Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling (MS)- Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Bachelor of Arts, Psychology – Alvernia University 
• Psi Chi (Counseling Honor Society) Member 
• American Counseling Association Member 

Thomas DeGeorge, PhD

Dr. DeGeorge has been working with individuals, couples and families for 30 years. In his practice, Dr. DeGeorge implements a client centered approach developing and fostering a connection with his clients that focuses not only on their concerns but all aspects of their life and relationships. Dr. DeGeorge believes that all individuals, couples and families can achieve a better and more stable emotional, pragmatic, and daily lifestyle.

Dr. DeGeorge believes in the art of integrative counseling in his therapeutic approach. His approach is based on what the client, couple, needs and what works best, based on their own personality, strengths, weaknesses and interests.

Dr DeGeorge has presented at the International Association of Martial and Family Counselors, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the IAMFCA conference in Oxford, England, and The Asia/Pacific Conference in Brisbane, Australia.

A native Philadelphian, Dr. DeGeorge returns after nearly 28 years living in the Pittsburgh area. He is an Assistant Professor in the Graduate Counseling Department at Rosemont College.

Amanda Pitchko, LPC, NCC

Amanda Pitchko earned her undergraduate degree from Albright College, majoring in Psychology. She then earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rider University, graduating with honors. While at Rider University, she co-authored a research article entitled “Naturalistic Recovery from Non-suicidal Self-Injury: A Phenomenological Inquiry”. This work was published in The Journal of Counseling and Development. Amanda is a nationally certified counselor and a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. For several years, Amanda has helped serve the needs of women with Eating Disorders and other co-morbid mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders. In addition, Amanda is trained to work with individuals experiencing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, including military veterans. Amanda’s clinical approach serves to meet the needs of individuals, couples or families by utilizing skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. Amanda is passionate about restoring people to emotional and cognitive health, assisting persons to become better connected to themselves and to others.

Akeesha Washington, LPC, CAADC

Known for her tireless work ethic, energetic presentation, and hands-on approach to client needs, Akeesha M. Washington is an agent of change. As a therapist, Akeesha’s goal is to help clients live their B.E.S.T. life: that is, to Be Empowered to Strive & Thrive in your everyday life. Her multifaceted career experiences over the past 10 years have supported Akeesha in gaining a variety of expertise in areas including working with:

• Children, adolescent, & adults
• Relationship challenges including couples, & family systems
• Childhood, adult, & transgenerational trauma
• Career counseling
• Phase of life changes
• Life stressors and next steps

Akeesha is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to match the most effective interventions needed to help clients live their B.E.S.T. lives. Akeesha is trained in an array of evidence-based practices including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Mindfulness & Meditation
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Play Therapy
• Addictions/Substance Abuse

Akeesha is a Philadelphia native. She obtained two graduate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education in School and Mental Health Counseling, and her bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University. Akeesha is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CAADC), certified PA Professional School Counselor, and a professional member of the American Counseling Association. In addition to private practice, Akeesha works as a school counselor in a K-8 school in Philadelphia.

Akeesha is a therapist who is committed to excellence - for others and herself. She promotes a positive work-life balance by scheduling time for self-care most often through travel, exploring hidden treasures in Philadelphia, and spending time with family and friends. Akeesha has found that in doing so, she has achieved her own B.E.S.T. life. Akeesha is committed to helping you pursue your personal goals and achieve your B.E.S.T. life as well.