Transgender Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Melissa Sziga Dessereau, LMFT, MA, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
(267) 705-6288 View (267) 705-6288
Photo of Dr. Jacob Glickman, PsyD, MA, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(267) 490-4762 View (267) 490-4762
Photo of Julian R Malys-Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Julian R Malys-Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
(267) 491-9371 View (267) 491-9371
Photo of Patricia Gherovici, PhD, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Patricia Gherovici
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
(215) 642-8654 View (215) 642-8654
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, PhD, Psychologist
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332
Photo of Dr. Amana Carvalho, PsyD, Psychologist
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.
(724) 252-4637 View (724) 252-4637
Photo of Hayley Roverana, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(724) 576-6753 View (724) 576-6753
Photo of Sara Edwards, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, and we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, and we can get started soon without the wait.
(215) 688-5866 View (215) 688-5866
Photo of Marquita Bolden - Therapy Center of Philadelphia, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Center of Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
We welcome people who are transgender or gender non-conforming regardless, as well as people of color.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
We welcome people who are transgender or gender non-conforming regardless, as well as people of color.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
(267) 310-1241 View (267) 310-1241
Photo of Sophie Nathan, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
(856) 644-1253 View (856) 644-1253
Photo of Penny Orr, PhD, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(843) 755-6390 View (843) 755-6390
Photo of Daniel Pinsk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Pinsk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19122
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
(215) 273-9338 View (215) 273-9338
Photo of Kris Burke, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kris Burke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with clients who are often seen outside the “typical,” including transgender, gender expansive, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. I provide counseling for adolescents, adults, and families in the greater Philadelphia area. I am a queer, trans non-binary therapist and I believe deeply in working toward social justice, so I pay close attention to your intersecting identities and environments to help us both understand your experiences.
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with clients who are often seen outside the “typical,” including transgender, gender expansive, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. I provide counseling for adolescents, adults, and families in the greater Philadelphia area. I am a queer, trans non-binary therapist and I believe deeply in working toward social justice, so I pay close attention to your intersecting identities and environments to help us both understand your experiences.
(215) 714-3500 View (215) 714-3500
Photo of Bec Miller, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bec Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
I often provide gender-affirming care to transgender or questioning youth.
Hi there, I'm Bec! I work extensively with trauma, teens, and LGBTQ+ folks. Many of my clients have felt discriminated against and judged in the past, because they don't meet the status quo of what society thinks they "should" be. I help people develop their self-confidence and explore their trauma so that they can live life freely, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, and make long-lasting meaningful connections with others.
I often provide gender-affirming care to transgender or questioning youth.
Hi there, I'm Bec! I work extensively with trauma, teens, and LGBTQ+ folks. Many of my clients have felt discriminated against and judged in the past, because they don't meet the status quo of what society thinks they "should" be. I help people develop their self-confidence and explore their trauma so that they can live life freely, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, and make long-lasting meaningful connections with others.
(484) 779-9485 View (484) 779-9485
Photo of Hannah Heffner, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Heffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
(484) 549-9434 View (484) 549-9434
Photo of Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling, LCSW, MSW, MCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MCP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146  (Online Only)
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
(215) 660-3937 View (215) 660-3937
Photo of Morgan Karcher, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Karcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
(610) 822-2303 View (610) 822-2303
Photo of Robin Frederick Witts, MSW, CS, CPRP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Frederick Witts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CS, CPRP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19140  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
(267) 930-1630 View (267) 930-1630
Photo of Cori Grachek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cori Grachek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I work with clients ages 18-70+, of diverse ethnicity/religious backgrounds, sexual orientation, male, female, non-binary, transgender, with people experiencing issues with relationships, divorce, coming out, communication, family, discerning religious life, anxiety, depression, career decisions, managing stress.
Life can be really hard. Sometimes you need help to move through the tougher times. You are the expert on your life and with my experience and expertise we form a strong, workng relationship. I work and teach from an integrative perspective incorporating mindfulness with the traditional therapeutic approaches Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic. I believe that healing, growth and change are best supported by raising our awareness around our thoughts, actions, feelings and our physical selves. I advocate movement, internal work and meditative practice when appropriate.
I work with clients ages 18-70+, of diverse ethnicity/religious backgrounds, sexual orientation, male, female, non-binary, transgender, with people experiencing issues with relationships, divorce, coming out, communication, family, discerning religious life, anxiety, depression, career decisions, managing stress.
Life can be really hard. Sometimes you need help to move through the tougher times. You are the expert on your life and with my experience and expertise we form a strong, workng relationship. I work and teach from an integrative perspective incorporating mindfulness with the traditional therapeutic approaches Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic. I believe that healing, growth and change are best supported by raising our awareness around our thoughts, actions, feelings and our physical selves. I advocate movement, internal work and meditative practice when appropriate.
(215) 839-1086 View (215) 839-1086

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.