AEDP Therapists in West Chester, PA
Terry Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19383
I specialize in helping individuals navigate major life changes or transitions. This might include getting married or divorced, caring for a partner or relative, welcoming a new child, changing jobs or careers, getting older, mid-life uncertainty, losing a loved one. These types of changes can feel destabilizing and create anxiety or depression, even if the change is something you want. Many clients come in saying they feel stuck and don't know what to do anymore. Talking through these life events and understanding how they affect you can help reduce the worry and uncertainty, making it easier to think clearly and make decisions.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate major life changes or transitions. This might include getting married or divorced, caring for a partner or relative, welcoming a new child, changing jobs or careers, getting older, mid-life uncertainty, losing a loved one. These types of changes can feel destabilizing and create anxiety or depression, even if the change is something you want. Many clients come in saying they feel stuck and don't know what to do anymore. Talking through these life events and understanding how they affect you can help reduce the worry and uncertainty, making it easier to think clearly and make decisions.
Nan F Schiowitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
Guiding my work is the belief that life is precious, and that learning to live more fully in the present relieves suffering. I will work with you confidentially. I will expertly help you manage extreme stress, discover strengths, and change patterns getting in the way of health and happiness. I work actively and collaboratively, and am eager to help adults struggling with a whole range of problems including: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and confidence, abuse and trauma, relationship issues, separation/divorce, personality issues, severe illness, and substance abuse.
Guiding my work is the belief that life is precious, and that learning to live more fully in the present relieves suffering. I will work with you confidentially. I will expertly help you manage extreme stress, discover strengths, and change patterns getting in the way of health and happiness. I work actively and collaboratively, and am eager to help adults struggling with a whole range of problems including: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and confidence, abuse and trauma, relationship issues, separation/divorce, personality issues, severe illness, and substance abuse.
Tracy Rappold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
When anxiety becomes too much it starts affecting the quality of your life. You may find you have difficulty with the day-to-day: looking after yourself, holding down a job, trying new things or simply enjoying your leisure time. Physical symptoms from anxiety feel like they are filling up your body: stomach churning, light-headed or dizzy, headaches, backache, etc. With anxiety, the rate and intensity of your anger can increase, leading you to seek anger management. Social situations can be a source of stress in which your body might tighten up for a fight response. You feel overwhelmed; thinking no way I am capable of interacting.
When anxiety becomes too much it starts affecting the quality of your life. You may find you have difficulty with the day-to-day: looking after yourself, holding down a job, trying new things or simply enjoying your leisure time. Physical symptoms from anxiety feel like they are filling up your body: stomach churning, light-headed or dizzy, headaches, backache, etc. With anxiety, the rate and intensity of your anger can increase, leading you to seek anger management. Social situations can be a source of stress in which your body might tighten up for a fight response. You feel overwhelmed; thinking no way I am capable of interacting.
Kate Short
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
The foundation of good therapy is trust. As we build trust together, we can begin to explore, identify and tolerate emotions in healthier ways. Emotions are never the problem. Instead, emotions are data- guiding us to truth and potential. When we manage our emotions, and learn from them, we can avoid the traps of language, thinking, and habit that inhibit healthy development, that leave us stuck. Therapy is like an excavation. It is a cathartic oxygenation of buried experience done by an individual with the help of a therapist.
The foundation of good therapy is trust. As we build trust together, we can begin to explore, identify and tolerate emotions in healthier ways. Emotions are never the problem. Instead, emotions are data- guiding us to truth and potential. When we manage our emotions, and learn from them, we can avoid the traps of language, thinking, and habit that inhibit healthy development, that leave us stuck. Therapy is like an excavation. It is a cathartic oxygenation of buried experience done by an individual with the help of a therapist.
Makenzie Pacocha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
If you are dealing with the impact of past or current trauma, all while trying to keep it together and manage the stress of daily life- you are in the right place. I work with adults and teens (16+) who yearn to heal, but feel like they can never quite find a therapist that they can be real with. You may be facing relationship challenges and attachment wounds, anxiety and low self-worth, past patterns resurfacing, or approval seeking and perfectionism. You deserve time and space to navigate these complexities, to untangle the threads of your experiences, and to rediscover profound self-compassion and connection.
If you are dealing with the impact of past or current trauma, all while trying to keep it together and manage the stress of daily life- you are in the right place. I work with adults and teens (16+) who yearn to heal, but feel like they can never quite find a therapist that they can be real with. You may be facing relationship challenges and attachment wounds, anxiety and low self-worth, past patterns resurfacing, or approval seeking and perfectionism. You deserve time and space to navigate these complexities, to untangle the threads of your experiences, and to rediscover profound self-compassion and connection.
More Therapists Nearby
Kenneth Brick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Unionville, PA 19375
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience. Fully certified in The Gottman Method (for couples) and a second level "AEDP" therapist (Applied Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy - utilize a variety of emerging approaches to both couples work and individualized mental health treatment. Expertise in the modernized application of bio-physiology and its application to human well being. Use a collaborative integration of traditional psychodynamic principles, more modern - cognitive focused psychologies, emotionally oriented frameworks biology/neurology.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience. Fully certified in The Gottman Method (for couples) and a second level "AEDP" therapist (Applied Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy - utilize a variety of emerging approaches to both couples work and individualized mental health treatment. Expertise in the modernized application of bio-physiology and its application to human well being. Use a collaborative integration of traditional psychodynamic principles, more modern - cognitive focused psychologies, emotionally oriented frameworks biology/neurology.
Mary Anne M Lacour
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kennett Square, PA 19348
Waitlist for new clients
I welcome clients who are grappling with grief, life transitions, identity explorations, and issues of meaning and purpose. Much of my experience has been assisting students with the adjustment into and out of college and graduate school. I also have experience working with people who are navigating the challenges of mid-life and/or transitions into older adulthood. A particular interest of mine is the adjustment to parenthood. I aim to help clients face both the losses and opportunities that transitions hold, in order to deepen their ability to be fully present to their life. My goal is to help build resilience and joy.
I welcome clients who are grappling with grief, life transitions, identity explorations, and issues of meaning and purpose. Much of my experience has been assisting students with the adjustment into and out of college and graduate school. I also have experience working with people who are navigating the challenges of mid-life and/or transitions into older adulthood. A particular interest of mine is the adjustment to parenthood. I aim to help clients face both the losses and opportunities that transitions hold, in order to deepen their ability to be fully present to their life. My goal is to help build resilience and joy.
Laura McCorry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Are you experiencing a recent loss or death? One minute, we’re going about our lives as usual and then sometimes in an instant, everything changes. With these changes grief brings, are you finding yourself disconnected from the world around you, your family/friends, and the person you used to be? Many people who are grieving find themselves struggling to make it through the day, relating to other people, and imagining a life after loss. Grief can be an incredibly isolating experience but you don't have to navigate it without support. Let's work together to help get to know your grief and integrate your loss.
Are you experiencing a recent loss or death? One minute, we’re going about our lives as usual and then sometimes in an instant, everything changes. With these changes grief brings, are you finding yourself disconnected from the world around you, your family/friends, and the person you used to be? Many people who are grieving find themselves struggling to make it through the day, relating to other people, and imagining a life after loss. Grief can be an incredibly isolating experience but you don't have to navigate it without support. Let's work together to help get to know your grief and integrate your loss.
Maury L. Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD, MPsy
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Media, PA 19037 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
Online Therapists
Abigail (Abby) Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119 (Online Only)
I’m trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and credentialed as an AEDP Level 2 therapist.
Hi, I'm glad you found my page. When I meet with someone who has been seeking therapy, they've often had a hard time feeling connected to others or they struggle to be in the moment. Others deal with low self-worth, negative beliefs about themselves, or feeling they cannot get where they want to be in life. In our therapeutic work, I want to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your strengths, feel empowered to manage emotions when life feels overwhelming, and build more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. I take a warm and genuine approach to getting to know you as an individual and what helps you.
I’m trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and credentialed as an AEDP Level 2 therapist.
Hi, I'm glad you found my page. When I meet with someone who has been seeking therapy, they've often had a hard time feeling connected to others or they struggle to be in the moment. Others deal with low self-worth, negative beliefs about themselves, or feeling they cannot get where they want to be in life. In our therapeutic work, I want to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your strengths, feel empowered to manage emotions when life feels overwhelming, and build more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. I take a warm and genuine approach to getting to know you as an individual and what helps you.
Heloise (Lois) Ridley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansdale, PA 19446 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Lois supports adults struggling to connect with others, establish healthy boundaries, or communicate within their current relationships due to early childhood trauma. She utilizes a trauma-informed, culturally responsive lens to support clients with unconditional regard and occasional humor. Based upon a client’s needs and preferences, her clinical orientation can include a blend of AEDP, family systems, trauma-healing, strengths-based, and narrative therapy. Lois strives to provide a loving "no judgement zone" for clients to pursue their healing. She serves as a cheerleader in her clients' journey towards NEW hope and resilience.
Lois supports adults struggling to connect with others, establish healthy boundaries, or communicate within their current relationships due to early childhood trauma. She utilizes a trauma-informed, culturally responsive lens to support clients with unconditional regard and occasional humor. Based upon a client’s needs and preferences, her clinical orientation can include a blend of AEDP, family systems, trauma-healing, strengths-based, and narrative therapy. Lois strives to provide a loving "no judgement zone" for clients to pursue their healing. She serves as a cheerleader in her clients' journey towards NEW hope and resilience.
Edward Joseph Dixon III
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I have been trained in several models of therapy including EDMR, Eco-Systemic Structural Family therapy and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy among others.
When working with individuals my focus is to provide deep, compassionate understanding while working together to access emotions connected to your true self that help unlock natural healing processes. With families my focus is to connect and support each family member while working toward a path that is important for the whole family. I have experience helping individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, oppositional behaviors, social isolation and trauma.
I have been trained in several models of therapy including EDMR, Eco-Systemic Structural Family therapy and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy among others.
When working with individuals my focus is to provide deep, compassionate understanding while working together to access emotions connected to your true self that help unlock natural healing processes. With families my focus is to connect and support each family member while working toward a path that is important for the whole family. I have experience helping individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, oppositional behaviors, social isolation and trauma.
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130
With adults I find that the AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) as well as IFS (Internal Family Systems) Models show effectiveness.
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.
With adults I find that the AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) as well as IFS (Internal Family Systems) Models show effectiveness.
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.
Brian D Barber
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
You want more and deserve better. For many adults and youngsters, feelings of anxiety and depression leave you feeling like you are just getting by. Meeting in person, talking about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns within a safe therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you become unstuck and rebuild a life with purpose and meaning. For some, this may include processing painful emotions, grieving losses, navigating difficult relationships, or changing self-defeating patterns. Therapy is hard work and by reading this page, you’ve already shown you’re curious to learn more about yourself and are motivated to change.
You want more and deserve better. For many adults and youngsters, feelings of anxiety and depression leave you feeling like you are just getting by. Meeting in person, talking about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns within a safe therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you become unstuck and rebuild a life with purpose and meaning. For some, this may include processing painful emotions, grieving losses, navigating difficult relationships, or changing self-defeating patterns. Therapy is hard work and by reading this page, you’ve already shown you’re curious to learn more about yourself and are motivated to change.
Virginia Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
Have all the years of overworking, people-pleasing, and striving for perfection suddenly caught up with you? Your brain is always on, replaying each time you've messed up, trying to figure out whether someone is mad at you, constantly asking “but what if...?” Even when people tell you things are okay, something inside of you doesn't believe them and you brace for the other shoe to drop. You're exhausted, but you feel guilty when you try to rest, and then mad at yourself for not being able to "chill out" like everyone else. With all you're holding on the inside, how are you supposed to enjoy the life you've worked so hard to build?
Have all the years of overworking, people-pleasing, and striving for perfection suddenly caught up with you? Your brain is always on, replaying each time you've messed up, trying to figure out whether someone is mad at you, constantly asking “but what if...?” Even when people tell you things are okay, something inside of you doesn't believe them and you brace for the other shoe to drop. You're exhausted, but you feel guilty when you try to rest, and then mad at yourself for not being able to "chill out" like everyone else. With all you're holding on the inside, how are you supposed to enjoy the life you've worked so hard to build?
Amy Leonard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
If you are feeling stuck, alone, or confused about yourself or your relationships, then therapy could be a helpful next step for you. I would love to help you explore your story and learn how to tap into your ability to grow and heal. My style is warm, conversational, and relational, because I believe the main way we grow and change is by being in authentic and non-judgmental relationships. Whether you are facing relational concerns, a life transition, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, or any type of trauma, my goal is to help you gain both the insight and the skills you need to navigate your concerns.
If you are feeling stuck, alone, or confused about yourself or your relationships, then therapy could be a helpful next step for you. I would love to help you explore your story and learn how to tap into your ability to grow and heal. My style is warm, conversational, and relational, because I believe the main way we grow and change is by being in authentic and non-judgmental relationships. Whether you are facing relational concerns, a life transition, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, or any type of trauma, my goal is to help you gain both the insight and the skills you need to navigate your concerns.
Philly Somatic Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Tired of repeating old, unsatisfying patterns in relationship? Ready to break free from constricting insecurities and inhibitions? Need help being kinder and more accepting toward yourself? Want to live less in your thoughts and more in your body? Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to psychological healing and personal growth that works directly with the mind-body connection. Gentle but powerful, somatic psychotherapy works deeply to help you gain crucial insight, experience new ways of being and feeling, and cultivate lasting change.
Tired of repeating old, unsatisfying patterns in relationship? Ready to break free from constricting insecurities and inhibitions? Need help being kinder and more accepting toward yourself? Want to live less in your thoughts and more in your body? Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to psychological healing and personal growth that works directly with the mind-body connection. Gentle but powerful, somatic psychotherapy works deeply to help you gain crucial insight, experience new ways of being and feeling, and cultivate lasting change.
Alyssa Seagraves
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
I’m proud of you for taking the step to start looking for help, I think you are super brave. I know that the idea of starting therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy is highly stigmatized and we’re taught from a young age that asking for help is a sign of weakness. However, I believe that taking this step shows immeasurable strength. I am here to walk hand-in-hand with you while shedding light on what you are struggling with; to help you see the greatest parts of yourself and work through the depths of your pain.
I’m proud of you for taking the step to start looking for help, I think you are super brave. I know that the idea of starting therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy is highly stigmatized and we’re taught from a young age that asking for help is a sign of weakness. However, I believe that taking this step shows immeasurable strength. I am here to walk hand-in-hand with you while shedding light on what you are struggling with; to help you see the greatest parts of yourself and work through the depths of your pain.
John Machalaba
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
My approach to therapy is one that prioritizes the creation of a relationship that is safe, mutual, and honest. I want my clients to feel empowered and free to explore themselves and grow into the person they wish to become. I am calm, warm, and active. I offer my clients feedback and challenge them in ways that encourage growth, often with some levity and humor. I value knowing my clients as a person and prioritize understanding and appreciating their perspective. I work together with my clients to identify negative patterns in their life and provide the opportunity to create new, healthy experiences.
My approach to therapy is one that prioritizes the creation of a relationship that is safe, mutual, and honest. I want my clients to feel empowered and free to explore themselves and grow into the person they wish to become. I am calm, warm, and active. I offer my clients feedback and challenge them in ways that encourage growth, often with some levity and humor. I value knowing my clients as a person and prioritize understanding and appreciating their perspective. I work together with my clients to identify negative patterns in their life and provide the opportunity to create new, healthy experiences.
Edwin A Garcia
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Many of us at time struggle with managing the stress of life and it can become overwhelming. The good news is you are not alone! Reaching out for support is the first step, and a clear sign that you are apart and ready for a change. I am here to be a part of your support system. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and many other concerns. I believe that you are ready to move on with your life and that you have the strength to empower yourself.
Many of us at time struggle with managing the stress of life and it can become overwhelming. The good news is you are not alone! Reaching out for support is the first step, and a clear sign that you are apart and ready for a change. I am here to be a part of your support system. I have worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, and many other concerns. I believe that you are ready to move on with your life and that you have the strength to empower yourself.
See more therapy options for West Chester
Nearby Searches for West Chester
- Chadds Ford
- Chester Heights
- Cheyney
- Downingtown
- Exton
- Frazer
- Glen Mills
- Kennett Square
- Lionville
- Malvern
- Paoli
- Thornton
AEDP Therapists
Who is AEDP therapy for?
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) is for adults who have experienced emotional pain in the past that, because it has not been adequately addressed and processed, interferes with current functioning. The problems might manifest in a number of different ways, from excessive anger to relationship difficulties to PTSD to eating disorders, poor self-esteem, and depression. They may also be accompanied by physiological symptoms. AEDP helps people accept and digest challenging emotional experiences.
Why do people need AEDP?
People need AEDP as a way to manage distressing emotions—including anger, shame, and guilt—that in some way hamper the ability to function and form satisfying relationships in the present. The therapist-client relationship is believed to provide corrective emotional and relational experiences that facilitate positive changes in brain function, forge pathways for processing traumatic experiences, and allow resolution of emotional pain.
What happens in AEDP therapy?
Once individuals have established a strong bond with the AEDP therapist and the therapist has established a safe and secure environment, clients are encouraged to explore their most painful emotional experiences. They may be asked to pay attention to disquieting body sensations as well as to psychological discomfort. Individuals learn how to process emotions, rather than avoid them. Through the strength of the therapist-client bond, each session is intended to provide a powerful positive experience for individuals, enabling growth.
What problems does AEDP treat?
AEDP is intended to treat the unprocessed emotional pain caused by earlier distressing experiences, which commonly includes behavioral avoidance of current situations and experiences for fear that they will reactivate painful feelings. Emotional pain and avoidant behavior play a role in a wide array of mental health conditions, which is why AEDP is applied to the treatment of a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship difficulties, and eating disorders.