Strength-Based Therapists in Swarthmore, PA

Photo of Rachel Kolman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Kolman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I take a trauma-informed approach to care and utilize tenets of CBT and psychotherapy in addition to a strength-based approach and aspects of mindfulness.
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
I take a trauma-informed approach to care and utilize tenets of CBT and psychotherapy in addition to a strength-based approach and aspects of mindfulness.
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
(484) 897-7139 View (484) 897-7139
Photo of Katie Alvayero, MA, LBS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Alvayero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LBS, LPC
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I have expertise in autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and trauma, utilizing evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, and Strength-Based counseling.
I specialize in working with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating challenging transitions, seeking balance, managing relationship conflicts, and enhancing social skills in demanding environments like school and work. With over 13 years of experience in child, adolescent, and family therapy, I also offer clinical and licensure supervision. My warm and collaborative style fosters an environment of unconditional positive regard and safety, encouraging open expression of thoughts and feelings.
I have expertise in autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and trauma, utilizing evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, and Strength-Based counseling.
I specialize in working with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating challenging transitions, seeking balance, managing relationship conflicts, and enhancing social skills in demanding environments like school and work. With over 13 years of experience in child, adolescent, and family therapy, I also offer clinical and licensure supervision. My warm and collaborative style fosters an environment of unconditional positive regard and safety, encouraging open expression of thoughts and feelings.
(484) 559-1858 View (484) 559-1858
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, & Strength-Based Therapy to create a personalized plan.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, & Strength-Based Therapy to create a personalized plan.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
(484) 559-6065 View (484) 559-6065
Photo of Allison Conner, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Conner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
My focus is on utilizing strength-based approaches to highlight the strengths that my clients already possess.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
My focus is on utilizing strength-based approaches to highlight the strengths that my clients already possess.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
(484) 878-5272 View (484) 878-5272
Photo of Gregory Mairs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Mairs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
 With some trauma-focused techniques & a positive strength-based approach, I will help clients explore positive paths forward with their goals.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
 With some trauma-focused techniques & a positive strength-based approach, I will help clients explore positive paths forward with their goals.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
(484) 257-7472 View (484) 257-7472
Photo of Hal Shorey, PhD, Psychologist
Hal Shorey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I am an experienced clinician with training in a host of treatments and interventions and will tailor a treatment specifically suited to your needs and life circumstances.If you are like most clients, you have been trying to find ways to have a more satisfying and rewarding life that is free of distress and the pain of the past. The good news is that I can help you overcome the symptoms and situations that have been keeping you from enjoying your life the way you deserve. I work with individuals, couples, and provide discrete services for working professionals.
I am an experienced clinician with training in a host of treatments and interventions and will tailor a treatment specifically suited to your needs and life circumstances.If you are like most clients, you have been trying to find ways to have a more satisfying and rewarding life that is free of distress and the pain of the past. The good news is that I can help you overcome the symptoms and situations that have been keeping you from enjoying your life the way you deserve. I work with individuals, couples, and provide discrete services for working professionals.
(215) 515-2486 View (215) 515-2486
Photo of Leah Bowden - Higher Ground Behavioral Health, PsyD, Psychologist
Higher Ground Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Welcome to Higher Ground Behavioral Health! We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call or email us.
Welcome to Higher Ground Behavioral Health! We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call or email us.
(610) 638-2642 View (610) 638-2642
Photo of Thanh Nguyen, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thanh Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
(610) 549-1076 View (610) 549-1076
Photo of Ky'neike King - Krown Jewelz Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krown Jewelz Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
You are your most precious commodity and Krown Jewelz Wellness wants to assist you in being your best self. I will use every tool in my wheelhouse obtained in my 25+ years in the helping profession and working with various populations to assist you in that journey. You are the expert on your life. I will support you in your continued life transitions so you can move forward in a healthy and happy way.
You are your most precious commodity and Krown Jewelz Wellness wants to assist you in being your best self. I will use every tool in my wheelhouse obtained in my 25+ years in the helping profession and working with various populations to assist you in that journey. You are the expert on your life. I will support you in your continued life transitions so you can move forward in a healthy and happy way.
(610) 726-0434 View (610) 726-0434
Photo of Pollie M Lang, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pollie M Lang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
My goal in working with you is to hear your story, patiently help you make sense of your confusion and pain, help you create unique coping skills, and build a preferred life worth living. Years ago I worked with cancer patients and their families at a Bone Marrow Transplant Unit in South Carolina. Their situations were varied and complex, their physical and emotional pain was deep. As they talked about their pain, hopelessness, worthlessness, loss, anxiety, and uncertainty, together we made sense of their confusion. Likewise, as we work together, I will help you and your challenges in the same caring and skillful way.
My goal in working with you is to hear your story, patiently help you make sense of your confusion and pain, help you create unique coping skills, and build a preferred life worth living. Years ago I worked with cancer patients and their families at a Bone Marrow Transplant Unit in South Carolina. Their situations were varied and complex, their physical and emotional pain was deep. As they talked about their pain, hopelessness, worthlessness, loss, anxiety, and uncertainty, together we made sense of their confusion. Likewise, as we work together, I will help you and your challenges in the same caring and skillful way.
(610) 549-1620 View (610) 549-1620
Photo of Hilary Kratz, PhD, Psychologist
Hilary Kratz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing assessment and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I specialize in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., hair-pulling, skin-picking), tic disorders, and related concerns among youth, as well as supporting parents through parenting challenges and stress. I am based in the greater Philadelphia region and currently provide telehealth services to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware residents.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing assessment and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I specialize in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety, OCD, body-focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., hair-pulling, skin-picking), tic disorders, and related concerns among youth, as well as supporting parents through parenting challenges and stress. I am based in the greater Philadelphia region and currently provide telehealth services to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware residents.
(610) 580-0224 View (610) 580-0224
Photo of Gene R Purdie Jr, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gene R Purdie Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in mental health, relationships, and addiction recovery. I collaborate with young adults, couples, and families to move beyond seeming impasses and engage fulfilled and connected lives. My approach includes identifying the message behind uncomfortable emotions and problematic behaviors, disconnecting from unhelpful thoughts and self-judgements, and exploring alternative perspectives through use of relatable (and often humorous) analogies.
I am a licensed professional counselor specializing in mental health, relationships, and addiction recovery. I collaborate with young adults, couples, and families to move beyond seeming impasses and engage fulfilled and connected lives. My approach includes identifying the message behind uncomfortable emotions and problematic behaviors, disconnecting from unhelpful thoughts and self-judgements, and exploring alternative perspectives through use of relatable (and often humorous) analogies.
(215) 240-1316 View (215) 240-1316
Photo of Jeannette Jefferson, MA
Jeannette Jefferson
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I am enthusiastic about working with young adults, teens, children and I believe there is no such thing as an ideal client since we're not living in the most ideal world. I believe in being that supportive and directive person in a client's life who is taking the journey with them. I work with a wide range of issues and address these through evidence based practices and skills within Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, sand tray, and positive psychology. In regards to children, I focus my skills on therapeutic play and art to aid in processing and emotion regulation.
I am enthusiastic about working with young adults, teens, children and I believe there is no such thing as an ideal client since we're not living in the most ideal world. I believe in being that supportive and directive person in a client's life who is taking the journey with them. I work with a wide range of issues and address these through evidence based practices and skills within Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, sand tray, and positive psychology. In regards to children, I focus my skills on therapeutic play and art to aid in processing and emotion regulation.
(610) 839-7508 View (610) 839-7508
Photo of Meg Ardizzi - Meg Ardizzi LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Ardizzi LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for children, adolescents and adults. Individual and family work, parental/ adult coaching, coping mechanisms and realistic goal setting. Positive experience and outcome for clients.
Dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for children, adolescents and adults. Individual and family work, parental/ adult coaching, coping mechanisms and realistic goal setting. Positive experience and outcome for clients.
(610) 440-4695 View (610) 440-4695
Photo of Alexandra Nelson, PhD, Psychologist
Alexandra Nelson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in women's health psychology and maternal mental health. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, collaborative, and solution-focused. I use evidence-based treatments grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques to foster an affirming and productive experience. I work with clients to develop effective coping skills to improve mood and quality of life, reduce anxiety and distress, enhance resilience and self-worth, and identify and modify thinking and behavior patterns to support achievement of personal, family, relationship, and career goals.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in women's health psychology and maternal mental health. My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, collaborative, and solution-focused. I use evidence-based treatments grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques to foster an affirming and productive experience. I work with clients to develop effective coping skills to improve mood and quality of life, reduce anxiety and distress, enhance resilience and self-worth, and identify and modify thinking and behavior patterns to support achievement of personal, family, relationship, and career goals.
(857) 412-7962 View (857) 412-7962
Photo of Robert Heasley, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Heasley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I work with individuals and couples to create positive changes in their lives. This includes those struggling in areas such as self-esteem, intimacy, addressing emotional needs, healing from past hurts/trauma, a history of neglect or abuse, or challenges regarding gender and sexuality. I work with couples, straight/lesbian/gay, who are working on their relationship, whether as a result of an affair, or realizing differences that keep them from being close. My research focuses on men and the effects of expectations on men’s lives. Pursuing therapy represents a longing to heal. My work is about supporting that process.
I work with individuals and couples to create positive changes in their lives. This includes those struggling in areas such as self-esteem, intimacy, addressing emotional needs, healing from past hurts/trauma, a history of neglect or abuse, or challenges regarding gender and sexuality. I work with couples, straight/lesbian/gay, who are working on their relationship, whether as a result of an affair, or realizing differences that keep them from being close. My research focuses on men and the effects of expectations on men’s lives. Pursuing therapy represents a longing to heal. My work is about supporting that process.
(484) 406-4186 View (484) 406-4186
Photo of Lydia Debiase, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Debiase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
(610) 365-4436 View (610) 365-4436
Photo of Joe Alvayero, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joe Alvayero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I earned a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine, complementing my double major in Psychology and Sociology from the State University of New York at Buffalo. I offer counseling services and mental health support to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, specializing in Sports Psychology as a designated provider for the Philadelphia Eagles and use the evidence-based Eco-Systemic Family Therapy Model to help families, couples, and individuals achieve their treatment goals.
I earned a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine, complementing my double major in Psychology and Sociology from the State University of New York at Buffalo. I offer counseling services and mental health support to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, specializing in Sports Psychology as a designated provider for the Philadelphia Eagles and use the evidence-based Eco-Systemic Family Therapy Model to help families, couples, and individuals achieve their treatment goals.
(215) 795-5231 View (215) 795-5231
Photo of Nicholas J DeMarco - Higher Ground Behavioral Health , PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Higher Ground Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Welcome to Higher Ground Behavioral Health! We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call or email us.
Welcome to Higher Ground Behavioral Health! We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call or email us.
(856) 335-3129 View (856) 335-3129
Photo of Karen Goren, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Goren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
As a Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist, I believe in the power of relationships and am passionate about engaging people in a collaborative, creative process of healing. I am trained to listen for a client's internal sense of knowing, believing that a person naturally wants to grow and heal in ways that we will discover together.
As a Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist, I believe in the power of relationships and am passionate about engaging people in a collaborative, creative process of healing. I am trained to listen for a client's internal sense of knowing, believing that a person naturally wants to grow and heal in ways that we will discover together.
(610) 421-9856 View (610) 421-9856
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Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.