Experiential Therapy in Elkins Park, PA

Photo of Brigette Potgieter - Brigette Potgieter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brigette Potgieter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
You are smart, competent, and lovable, but every day is a struggle to trust that this is true. The "should haves" and "what-ifs" pile up before the first cup of coffee, draining you of energy and motivation. It's time to turn the table on anxiety and depression. You deserve the support and guidance it takes to feel strength, clarity and enthusiasm in your life. You've tried doing this alone. Now It's time to get help.
You are smart, competent, and lovable, but every day is a struggle to trust that this is true. The "should haves" and "what-ifs" pile up before the first cup of coffee, draining you of energy and motivation. It's time to turn the table on anxiety and depression. You deserve the support and guidance it takes to feel strength, clarity and enthusiasm in your life. You've tried doing this alone. Now It's time to get help.
(267) 463-4038 View (267) 463-4038
Photo of Harry Carl Amarnick, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harry Carl Amarnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
(267) 354-8240 View (267) 354-8240
Photo of Ryan Wiggon, MA, MFT
Ryan Wiggon
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Ryan is a marriage and family therapist who offers individual therapy, couples counseling and family counseling for children, adolescents and adults. With degrees from both Millersville University and Walden University, Ryan has worked in a myriad of treatment setting, most notably and recently working in chronically disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Ryan is a marriage and family therapist who offers individual therapy, couples counseling and family counseling for children, adolescents and adults. With degrees from both Millersville University and Walden University, Ryan has worked in a myriad of treatment setting, most notably and recently working in chronically disadvantaged neighborhoods.
(267) 415-1284 View (267) 415-1284
Photo of Su Siegelman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Su Siegelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
There are SO MANY therapists. Why come to me? Come to me if traditional talk therapy hasn’t worked for you. IFS (Internal Family Systems therapy) is a game-changer. As an experienced level 2 trained IFS therapist, I can guide you into a mildly altered state in which you will connect to and heal parts of yourself that are out of balance.
There are SO MANY therapists. Why come to me? Come to me if traditional talk therapy hasn’t worked for you. IFS (Internal Family Systems therapy) is a game-changer. As an experienced level 2 trained IFS therapist, I can guide you into a mildly altered state in which you will connect to and heal parts of yourself that are out of balance.
(267) 202-0960 View (267) 202-0960
Photo of Cori Ettelson - Cori Ettelson, LPC, MEd, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cori Ettelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elkins Park, PA 19027
What would a life free of impairing anxiety and depression mean to you? What would it mean for your relationships, your career and your happiness? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I take a warm, engaging approach to therapy. During your sessions, your voice will be heard and your journey will be respected. I tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and other evidence-based techniques. My clients say this approach gives them the support they need to change their lives and find the joy they have been missing.
What would a life free of impairing anxiety and depression mean to you? What would it mean for your relationships, your career and your happiness? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I take a warm, engaging approach to therapy. During your sessions, your voice will be heard and your journey will be respected. I tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and other evidence-based techniques. My clients say this approach gives them the support they need to change their lives and find the joy they have been missing.
(267) 493-0966 View (267) 493-0966

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anita Devine, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenside, PA 19038
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
(215) 461-3925 View (215) 461-3925
Photo of Laurie Heller Msw Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Heller Msw Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
My practice is dedicated to assist individuals, couples, and families by empowering them to overcome adversities. Entering therapy is a step in demonstrating strength and resiliency. I have an appreciation for this strength and consider it an important part of the therapy process. I approach each client with respect on where they are at the time when entering therapy. When personal growth is felt and experienced it can be rewarding and life altering. It is my intention and responsibility to be an active listener, give thoughtful and educational input for growth and healing at the pace and needs of each client.
My practice is dedicated to assist individuals, couples, and families by empowering them to overcome adversities. Entering therapy is a step in demonstrating strength and resiliency. I have an appreciation for this strength and consider it an important part of the therapy process. I approach each client with respect on where they are at the time when entering therapy. When personal growth is felt and experienced it can be rewarding and life altering. It is my intention and responsibility to be an active listener, give thoughtful and educational input for growth and healing at the pace and needs of each client.
(215) 431-6675 View (215) 431-6675
Photo of Hannah Sadock Lmft, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Sadock Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Welcome fellow warriors! As a therapist, a unique factor of supporting individuals, couples, and families is their lived experience. Each story is different from the next though all share the same characteristic, resilience. Through each journey, the hardships brought unbearable pain, though underneath, the foundation of resilience is building, preparing each for managing the next difficulty in life. Resilient. Your journey through life gives you this gift, and with my commitment to upholding an authentic, honest relationship, I will travel the road with you to find your resiliency.
Welcome fellow warriors! As a therapist, a unique factor of supporting individuals, couples, and families is their lived experience. Each story is different from the next though all share the same characteristic, resilience. Through each journey, the hardships brought unbearable pain, though underneath, the foundation of resilience is building, preparing each for managing the next difficulty in life. Resilient. Your journey through life gives you this gift, and with my commitment to upholding an authentic, honest relationship, I will travel the road with you to find your resiliency.
(267) 459-8423 View (267) 459-8423
Photo of Christine Molnar, PhD, Psychologist
Christine Molnar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults with all anxiety disorders using mindfulness based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Specifically, I work with people who have obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder,generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic with or without agoraphobia, and specific fears such as driving, flying, getting needles, you name it. I integrate mindfulness training with CBT because exposure to what is feared can feel overwhelming without mindfulness training or some other way of weathering extreme fear.
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults with all anxiety disorders using mindfulness based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Specifically, I work with people who have obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder,generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic with or without agoraphobia, and specific fears such as driving, flying, getting needles, you name it. I integrate mindfulness training with CBT because exposure to what is feared can feel overwhelming without mindfulness training or some other way of weathering extreme fear.
(267) 287-8347 View (267) 287-8347
Photo of Hannah Lee, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenside, PA 19038
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
(267) 754-8020 View (267) 754-8020
Photo of Natalie Ullmann - Teen And Young Adult Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Ullmann - Teen And Young Adult Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel so heavy and confusing, and if you’ve experienced traumas or challenges it will feel even heavier. I practice warm and genuine therapy for teens and young adults as they navigate the world, their mental health, relationships, and major life transitions. Whether new to therapy or looking for a different approach, I strive to build the supportive relationship with clients as they heal and understand their own unique life experiences.
Life can feel so heavy and confusing, and if you’ve experienced traumas or challenges it will feel even heavier. I practice warm and genuine therapy for teens and young adults as they navigate the world, their mental health, relationships, and major life transitions. Whether new to therapy or looking for a different approach, I strive to build the supportive relationship with clients as they heal and understand their own unique life experiences.
(267) 494-0616 View (267) 494-0616
Photo of Allison Brunner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Brunner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
(215) 274-0820 View (215) 274-0820
Winnie Nagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19111
Providing clinical supervision for LPC
Providing clinical supervision for LPC
(215) 509-5366 View (215) 509-5366
Photo of Cecelia S. Baldwin, DMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecelia S. Baldwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing as a therapist, trainer, and consultant in Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. I offer individual therapy, couples counseling and family counseling for children, adolescents and adults. I have a broad and unique base of clinical experience and education. I have a particular passion and expertise in working with children, adolescents, individuals and families struggling with relationships difficulties. I have significant experience and advanced clinical training treating varying degrees of psychological trauma.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing as a therapist, trainer, and consultant in Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. I offer individual therapy, couples counseling and family counseling for children, adolescents and adults. I have a broad and unique base of clinical experience and education. I have a particular passion and expertise in working with children, adolescents, individuals and families struggling with relationships difficulties. I have significant experience and advanced clinical training treating varying degrees of psychological trauma.
(484) 725-6952 View (484) 725-6952
Photo of Kelly Marie Coutts - Reinvent Counseling, MS, LBS
Reinvent Counseling
MS, LBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Stressed-out teens and tweens with a desire and need to learn coping skills to deal with all types of anxieties and life stressors.
Stressed-out teens and tweens with a desire and need to learn coping skills to deal with all types of anxieties and life stressors.
(267) 291-0787 View (267) 291-0787
Photo of Jodi Schwartz-Levy, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Schwartz-Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Now offering virtual and in person therapy. As one of a handful of psychologists worldwide with a doctorate in Somatic (body-oriented) Psychology, I am able to work with the cognitive, emotional, somatic, spiritual, and energetic aspects of a person. I am an ideal therapist for people that have tried traditional therapy and feel that "something was missing".
Now offering virtual and in person therapy. As one of a handful of psychologists worldwide with a doctorate in Somatic (body-oriented) Psychology, I am able to work with the cognitive, emotional, somatic, spiritual, and energetic aspects of a person. I am an ideal therapist for people that have tried traditional therapy and feel that "something was missing".
(215) 995-3191 View (215) 995-3191
Photo of Cat McLaughlin, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cat McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
You've probably been to a therapist before, and it hasn't quite felt right. Or maybe you liked them, but felt disconnected from their approach. Felt that there was a way to work more deeply with your emotions, but your therapist wanted to talk about your thoughts, and give you homework. Felt really bogged down in the details, and the negative, of what's been going on in your life. Haven't really laughed.
You've probably been to a therapist before, and it hasn't quite felt right. Or maybe you liked them, but felt disconnected from their approach. Felt that there was a way to work more deeply with your emotions, but your therapist wanted to talk about your thoughts, and give you homework. Felt really bogged down in the details, and the negative, of what's been going on in your life. Haven't really laughed.
(267) 460-7530 View (267) 460-7530
Photo of Erin O'Brien, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Licensed in both PA and DE, my approach is integrative, intersectional, developmental, and contextual with a belief in the value of connection and the power of possibility. I understand that we are heavily shaped by our relationships, family experiences, and positionality in the world with regard to race, culture, class, gender identity, sexuality, etc. My practice is relationship and sexual intimacy focused, and I've deepened my lens to include training in the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, in addition to past experience with PACT, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Method, and IMAGO.
Licensed in both PA and DE, my approach is integrative, intersectional, developmental, and contextual with a belief in the value of connection and the power of possibility. I understand that we are heavily shaped by our relationships, family experiences, and positionality in the world with regard to race, culture, class, gender identity, sexuality, etc. My practice is relationship and sexual intimacy focused, and I've deepened my lens to include training in the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, in addition to past experience with PACT, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Method, and IMAGO.
(302) 570-2130 View (302) 570-2130
Photo of James Ellerbe, MAR, MSOL, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Ellerbe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAR, MSOL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19126  (Online Only)
Assistance in life is often needed and desired but seldom sought. There is a place of hope for the heart and a person who wants to find their way. When we get out of our way, we find freedom from suffering and begin to embrace the change, transition, and transformation to a new reality of life. The new life is freedom from the silent conversation from within, seeking relief sometimes from self and dealing with the burdens of life.
Assistance in life is often needed and desired but seldom sought. There is a place of hope for the heart and a person who wants to find their way. When we get out of our way, we find freedom from suffering and begin to embrace the change, transition, and transformation to a new reality of life. The new life is freedom from the silent conversation from within, seeking relief sometimes from self and dealing with the burdens of life.
(215) 598-6603 View (215) 598-6603
Photo of Sonya Kearney - Transformational Therapist, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sonya Kearney - Transformational Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19150
" Real transformation sometimes requires real honesty" - I would love to assist you with finding the path to your true self. Are you trying to find the right therapist? Not knowing what, who you need can make a situation worse when you want relief. Let me help you! I enjoy working with individuals who are trying to make meaning of their lives. Whether it involves issues concerning anxiety, depression, stress, anger, life transitions, academic/work performance, bridging the gap between social media and IRL. I will provide a supportive and safe space to assist you in gaining insight into your life. My aim is to help you optimize YOU.
" Real transformation sometimes requires real honesty" - I would love to assist you with finding the path to your true self. Are you trying to find the right therapist? Not knowing what, who you need can make a situation worse when you want relief. Let me help you! I enjoy working with individuals who are trying to make meaning of their lives. Whether it involves issues concerning anxiety, depression, stress, anger, life transitions, academic/work performance, bridging the gap between social media and IRL. I will provide a supportive and safe space to assist you in gaining insight into your life. My aim is to help you optimize YOU.
(215) 883-8912 View (215) 883-8912

See more therapy options for Elkins Park

Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.