Thrive Therapy & Sexological Institute, LLC @ PhIIRST

My Background I have lived in suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Wilmington, Delaware, but found a home in southwestern Chester County, PA. I have worked in in social services, legal matters (child support, social security disability, civil & criminal matters), and mental health. Network My practice is included in a larger network of providers known as Philadelphia Institute for Individual, Relational, and Sex Therapy (PhIIRST). I work at both PhIIRST locations - Media and Philadelphia, PA. I also offer virtual appointments. ​My Location in the World White Cis-gender female Queer identified Kink/BDSM identified Non-traditional relationship identified (non-monogamy/polyamorous) Christian ally Native land acknowledgment Both PhIIRST offices and my virtual home office are located in the native land of Lenape Haki-nk (Lenni-Lenape) ​Credentials Master of Social Work, Widener University Master of Education in Human Sexuality Studies, Widener University. Specialization Certificate in Social Work and Trauma Practice, Widener University Practicum 1: hospice care Practicum 2: Coatesville VA Medical Center Event Planner for Gamma Eta Rho (Human Sexuality Studies) Gottman Method Level 1 Internal Family Systems Level 1 trained Pursuing licensure as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and toward certification as a sex therapist through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT). About My Therapy Practice My therapeutic style encompasses humor, self-disclosure, compassion, and empathy. I feel that honesty and authenticity are important. I feel that we are all ever-evolving through learning and growing. My goal is to provide a safe and calm sanctuary where you can feel comfortable to share your innermost thoughts and feelings without worry of being judged. I will work in collaboration with you to find ways to manage challenges that may arise and cause distress by helping you to set realistic goals and to create steps to achieve those goals, all while allowing you to find empowerment in those actions, bringing hope to tough situations, and enhancing your strengths and resiliency. My therapy approach is catered to you in what is called an integrated therapeutic approach. This means that I use various theories and models in session so that I can create unique treatment plan and interventions with you. Theoretical Basis and Interventions Some theories that inform my work include (but are not limited to): Internal Family Systems, Cognitive/Behavioral, Bowenian, Attachment, Solution-Focused, Narrative, and the Gottman Method ​ Clients I work with adult (18+) individuals, partners, couples, and multiple partners. ​ Areas of Interest (but not exhaustive) alternative sexualities (kink, BDSM, swinger) LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Aromantic) Non-traditional relationship styles like polyamory & ethical/consensual non-monogamy) Intimacy issues Sexual pain Sexual dysfunction Affirmative consent Anxiety, depression, anger, shame Self-esteem, self-worth, body image Grief and loss (non-death, death, dying, bereavement) Hospice support Veterans Wedding therapist Separation/divorce mediation Your Journey I know realizing that you need help or additional support is a huge step. Life can be difficult, but you do not need to tackle everything on your own. Let me help you in your journey called life.