Family Therapy in State College, PA

Photo of Mary Ann Gastiger, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Gastiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Trauma get filtered down through the generations, and those who were traumatized unintentionally traumatize family members.
My experience in the field of mental health extends over thirty years. I specialize in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma, but also, a number of other issues which brings people to treatment who are looking for relief from their symptoms.
Trauma get filtered down through the generations, and those who were traumatized unintentionally traumatize family members.
My experience in the field of mental health extends over thirty years. I specialize in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma, but also, a number of other issues which brings people to treatment who are looking for relief from their symptoms.
(814) 324-9540 View (814) 324-9540
Photo of Madalyn Elizabeth Smith, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madalyn Elizabeth Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
(814) 821-2480 View (814) 821-2480
Photo of Maggie Chestney, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maggie Chestney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
My approach is trauma-informed and I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, humanistic-existentialism, mindfulness and somatic awareness.
It takes a lot of courage to be honest about how you're feeling and get the resources you need while working through life problems, challenges, or traumatic experiences. As your counselor I will meet you where you are and work diligently to create trust and safety in our relationship so you can bravely share your troubles and explore the patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. I aim to create a therapeutic space that's warm, nonjudgmental and accepting. We'll work collaboratively to meet your needs and goals.
My approach is trauma-informed and I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, humanistic-existentialism, mindfulness and somatic awareness.
It takes a lot of courage to be honest about how you're feeling and get the resources you need while working through life problems, challenges, or traumatic experiences. As your counselor I will meet you where you are and work diligently to create trust and safety in our relationship so you can bravely share your troubles and explore the patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. I aim to create a therapeutic space that's warm, nonjudgmental and accepting. We'll work collaboratively to meet your needs and goals.
(814) 501-4341 View (814) 501-4341
Photo of Dempsey Young, PsyD, Psychologist
Dempsey Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
State College, PA 16803  (Online Only)
I truly believe that one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. From this understanding and processing of your unique story, you can let go of traumas that control you, anxiety and depression road blocks, bad relationships, and overall the emotional pain that may prevent you from living a happy and fulfilling life that gets you excited to wake up to everyday. I want you to be free of that pain so that you can find meaning, excitement, and purpose in work, friendships, relationships, family, and really ALL areas of your life. You DESERVE this and I'm here to help you on this healing journey!
I truly believe that one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. From this understanding and processing of your unique story, you can let go of traumas that control you, anxiety and depression road blocks, bad relationships, and overall the emotional pain that may prevent you from living a happy and fulfilling life that gets you excited to wake up to everyday. I want you to be free of that pain so that you can find meaning, excitement, and purpose in work, friendships, relationships, family, and really ALL areas of your life. You DESERVE this and I'm here to help you on this healing journey!
(814) 831-7352 View (814) 831-7352
Photo of Timothy C Evans, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy C Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
My name is Timothy C. Evans. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist and Addiction Counselor in the states of Pennsylvania and Texas. I have 38 years of practice. I moved my practice to State College, Pennsylvania, from the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas area to be closer to my family. I received my Master of Divinity in 1983 from Oral Roberts University School of Theology in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I completed postgraduate work at Texas Christian University Brite Divinity School in Ft. Worth, Texas. Later I received my Masters of Science in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University: Commerce, Texas in 1987.
My name is Timothy C. Evans. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist and Addiction Counselor in the states of Pennsylvania and Texas. I have 38 years of practice. I moved my practice to State College, Pennsylvania, from the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas area to be closer to my family. I received my Master of Divinity in 1983 from Oral Roberts University School of Theology in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I completed postgraduate work at Texas Christian University Brite Divinity School in Ft. Worth, Texas. Later I received my Masters of Science in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University: Commerce, Texas in 1987.
(717) 613-6970 View (717) 613-6970
Photo of Cody D Bair, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody D Bair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Not accepting new clients
I earned a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA and a MSW from the University of New England in Portland, ME.
Life is like a nature hike and sometimes, depending on the terrain, we need a walking stick. I view my role as a therapist as that of the walking stick. I am here to assist you on your journey and offer support in achieving your goal(s). In sessions, we will examine what is and is not working in your life and adjust accordingly. We may examine a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, divorce reaction, LGBTQ2S+, anger, grief, boundary-setting and more. My goal is to create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, deeply understood and supported to do the work that will provide you with a firmer sense of self.
I earned a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA and a MSW from the University of New England in Portland, ME.
Life is like a nature hike and sometimes, depending on the terrain, we need a walking stick. I view my role as a therapist as that of the walking stick. I am here to assist you on your journey and offer support in achieving your goal(s). In sessions, we will examine what is and is not working in your life and adjust accordingly. We may examine a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, divorce reaction, LGBTQ2S+, anger, grief, boundary-setting and more. My goal is to create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, deeply understood and supported to do the work that will provide you with a firmer sense of self.
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Photo of Elizabeth A Mason, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth A Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
I believe that therapy is a wonderful way to explore inner thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, encouraging environment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a variety of challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, post partum, infertility, miscarriage, parenting struggles, and family and relationship difficulties. I believe in the integration of body, mind, and spirit and the importance of bringing balance to one's life for optimal functioning. Our journey together would work toward wellness and healing in a trusting, safe, and secure relationship.
I believe that therapy is a wonderful way to explore inner thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, encouraging environment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a variety of challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, post partum, infertility, miscarriage, parenting struggles, and family and relationship difficulties. I believe in the integration of body, mind, and spirit and the importance of bringing balance to one's life for optimal functioning. Our journey together would work toward wellness and healing in a trusting, safe, and secure relationship.
(814) 376-3217 View (814) 376-3217
Photo of Bethanne Fetzer - A Journey To You LLC Professional Counseling Svcs, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Journey To You LLC Professional Counseling Svcs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Do you want to simply "survive" in life, or do you want to "thrive" in life? Unfortunately many of us are simply surviving. My name is Bethanne Fetzer. With over two decades in the field of human services I, along with my dedicated staff have created a space coupled with highly effective treatment approaches to help you to live again! We offer services to those who need to heal from: depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, sex and gender issues, trauma, abuse, and grief and loss. When we rid our lives of these "toxins", we make room to begin a life journey that we never thought was possible!
Do you want to simply "survive" in life, or do you want to "thrive" in life? Unfortunately many of us are simply surviving. My name is Bethanne Fetzer. With over two decades in the field of human services I, along with my dedicated staff have created a space coupled with highly effective treatment approaches to help you to live again! We offer services to those who need to heal from: depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, sex and gender issues, trauma, abuse, and grief and loss. When we rid our lives of these "toxins", we make room to begin a life journey that we never thought was possible!
(814) 476-8470 x1 View (814) 476-8470 x1
Photo of Katrina Heeman, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrina Heeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Waitlist for new clients
Frequently utilizing Internal Family Systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and have basic training of EMDR.
Mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, anger, stress, etc., are just that- symptoms! These symptoms are our bodies way of telling us "something's not right" or "there needs to be a change here." It is imperative that we are mindful in listening to our bodies, and intentionally work to meet our emotional needs. In therapy, we dedicate time to build insight, strengthen more compassionate mindsets, and learn coping skills which regulate our bodies.
Frequently utilizing Internal Family Systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and have basic training of EMDR.
Mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, anger, stress, etc., are just that- symptoms! These symptoms are our bodies way of telling us "something's not right" or "there needs to be a change here." It is imperative that we are mindful in listening to our bodies, and intentionally work to meet our emotional needs. In therapy, we dedicate time to build insight, strengthen more compassionate mindsets, and learn coping skills which regulate our bodies.
(814) 205-9079 View (814) 205-9079
Photo of Brenton Joo Mitchell - Being Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Being Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
Through evaluation, psycho-education focused on increasing our awareness of the challenges being faced, along with utilizing evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) we can work together to develop measurable outcomes that will lead to a healthier you.
For some of us, our ability to maintain a loving, empowered relationship with ourselves can be more challenging due to circumstance, our mental health (or lack thereof), and events that may have happened to us. Perhaps this shows up as struggling to show up for ourselves in ways we do for others. For many, when we feel like our potential is different than our reality, we may turn against ourselves.
Through evaluation, psycho-education focused on increasing our awareness of the challenges being faced, along with utilizing evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) we can work together to develop measurable outcomes that will lead to a healthier you.
For some of us, our ability to maintain a loving, empowered relationship with ourselves can be more challenging due to circumstance, our mental health (or lack thereof), and events that may have happened to us. Perhaps this shows up as struggling to show up for ourselves in ways we do for others. For many, when we feel like our potential is different than our reality, we may turn against ourselves.
(814) 501-4547 x20 View (814) 501-4547 x20
Photo of Lois Ann Pessolano Ehrmann, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lois Ann Pessolano Ehrmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am certified in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, clinical supervision and telemental health.
I have spent a lifetime researching and training in the best sensitive ways to help people of all ages to heal from traumatic experiences. My own journey led me to the most responsive and humane strategies to help children learn to trust once again that adult caregivers could be safe and on their side. While I have recently retired from direct care I love helping other professionals learn how to use EMDR, IFS, Attachment Focused therapies as well as trauma treatment in general to be the most healing presence they can be for their clients.
I am certified in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, clinical supervision and telemental health.
I have spent a lifetime researching and training in the best sensitive ways to help people of all ages to heal from traumatic experiences. My own journey led me to the most responsive and humane strategies to help children learn to trust once again that adult caregivers could be safe and on their side. While I have recently retired from direct care I love helping other professionals learn how to use EMDR, IFS, Attachment Focused therapies as well as trauma treatment in general to be the most healing presence they can be for their clients.
(814) 601-0620 View (814) 601-0620
Photo of Sarah Jefferson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
(814) 619-0627 View (814) 619-0627
Photo of Pat Piper, PhD, Psychologist
Pat Piper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Waitlist for new clients
For more than 25 years I have helped children, adolescents, college students, adults, seniors, couples and families deal with the difficulties in their lives. Whether you are the parent of a child with school or behavior problems, a couple needing relationship counseling, a child, adolescent, or adult with depression and/or anxiety, a college student dealing with the challenges of being on your own, or a family trying to cope with the stresses of divorce, I am here to work actively with you to make the changes necessary to improve your life.
For more than 25 years I have helped children, adolescents, college students, adults, seniors, couples and families deal with the difficulties in their lives. Whether you are the parent of a child with school or behavior problems, a couple needing relationship counseling, a child, adolescent, or adult with depression and/or anxiety, a college student dealing with the challenges of being on your own, or a family trying to cope with the stresses of divorce, I am here to work actively with you to make the changes necessary to improve your life.
(570) 995-1984 View (570) 995-1984
Photo of Kathryn Pohland, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Pohland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16803  (Online Only)
I provide therapy across the lifespan in individual, family and couples therapy. I work with clients struggling to manage symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, and ADHD. I offer sessions for parents struggling with a child dealing with ADHD, emotional and behavioral difficulties. You don't have to be in a "psychological crisis" to seek therapy.
I provide therapy across the lifespan in individual, family and couples therapy. I work with clients struggling to manage symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, and ADHD. I offer sessions for parents struggling with a child dealing with ADHD, emotional and behavioral difficulties. You don't have to be in a "psychological crisis" to seek therapy.
(814) 501-4294 View (814) 501-4294
Photo of Steve Eugene Shephard - Shephard Associates LLC, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shephard Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
I have been passionate about teaching, coaching, and helping individuals reach their goals for my entire life. I spent much of my professional career as a gymnastics coach. Since retiring from coaching in 2010, I went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with people dealing with a variety of issues including trauma, child sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, and more. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Bowen Family Systems therapy. I want to help you reach your best self and live your best life.
(814) 501-4377 View (814) 501-4377
Photo of Angela Holter, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angela Holter
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
I use a person-centered, feminist, and family systems approach that examines your unique individual needs, as well as examining the impacts of societal systems and family upbringing.
I create a warm, supportive space for my clients where they are free to be themselves without the pressures of society and others. Therapy is a unique space where you can show up as is and begin to process and understand yourself and the root of your behaviors. I support clients with family and relational issues, communication, loneliness, school and work stress.
I use a person-centered, feminist, and family systems approach that examines your unique individual needs, as well as examining the impacts of societal systems and family upbringing.
I create a warm, supportive space for my clients where they are free to be themselves without the pressures of society and others. Therapy is a unique space where you can show up as is and begin to process and understand yourself and the root of your behaviors. I support clients with family and relational issues, communication, loneliness, school and work stress.
(267) 382-5348 View (267) 382-5348
Photo of Laura Gayle Turner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Gayle Turner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
My clients are people navigating life transitions, learning to love their bodies, or questioning their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. Our time together might look like healing trauma, reconnecting with family, or using mindfulness exercises to create more bodily awareness. Through this process, I spend time with clients to discover the values and pieces of their identity making them who they are. A big part of my role is empowering these individual pieces so clients can feel whole.
My clients are people navigating life transitions, learning to love their bodies, or questioning their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. Our time together might look like healing trauma, reconnecting with family, or using mindfulness exercises to create more bodily awareness. Through this process, I spend time with clients to discover the values and pieces of their identity making them who they are. A big part of my role is empowering these individual pieces so clients can feel whole.
(332) 241-6686 View (332) 241-6686
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(814) 212-5439 View (814) 212-5439
Photo of Todd Raymond Avellar - Avellar Warden Psychological Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Avellar Warden Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801
We will work with you to ensure that your family, work, and identity are integrated in all aspects of your care.
Our skilled doctoral-level therapists offer personalized and comprehensive psychological care. Together, we help with most mood, behavioral, relational, and life transition issues. You will receive an assessment of your psychological health and a personalized plan to fit your unique needs, goals, and life situation. Most importantly, you will develop insights and strategies to take therapy “on the go.”
We will work with you to ensure that your family, work, and identity are integrated in all aspects of your care.
Our skilled doctoral-level therapists offer personalized and comprehensive psychological care. Together, we help with most mood, behavioral, relational, and life transition issues. You will receive an assessment of your psychological health and a personalized plan to fit your unique needs, goals, and life situation. Most importantly, you will develop insights and strategies to take therapy “on the go.”
(412) 850-2156 View (412) 850-2156
Photo of Allison Short, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801  (Online Only)
In my free time, I enjoy going to musicals, practicing yoga, and spending time with friends and family.
You are not a diagnosis, a project, or a problem to be solved. Together, we’ll create a space that nurtures your exploration, self-discovery, and healing. As a gender-affirming therapist, I have experience counseling trans and queer individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I believe therapy can help you overcome any barrier or struggle by offering a safe, judgment-free space where you can be your most authentic self. I’ll supportively challenge you to view yourself, others, and your problems from a new perspective.
In my free time, I enjoy going to musicals, practicing yoga, and spending time with friends and family.
You are not a diagnosis, a project, or a problem to be solved. Together, we’ll create a space that nurtures your exploration, self-discovery, and healing. As a gender-affirming therapist, I have experience counseling trans and queer individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I believe therapy can help you overcome any barrier or struggle by offering a safe, judgment-free space where you can be your most authentic self. I’ll supportively challenge you to view yourself, others, and your problems from a new perspective.
(267) 500-8968 View (267) 500-8968

See more therapy options for State College

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.