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Our therapists offer help for LGBTQ+ issues in Philadelphia, PA

Get in-person or online care, and cover the majority of the costs with your insurance.

Get in-person or online care, and cover the majority of the costs with your insurance. Scheduling is easy — call our team and they’ll help you find your perfect match.

Find a provider Call (215) 642-8968

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2,444 people sought LGBTQIA+ counseling help at Philadelphia in the last year

Discover how starting LGBTQIA+ counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a therapist as soon as this week

1  therapist available in  Philadelphia

Philadelphia
Joseph Walsh
Joseph Walsh He/Him
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Joseph Walsh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania and New York State who has over 9 years of experience wor...

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Joseph Walsh

Joseph Walsh

LCSW
Aetna, Ambetter from Pennsylvania Health and Wellness, AmeriHealth Administrators, AmeriHealth Medicare Advantage, AmeriHealth Pennsylvania, Carelon, Carelon | Medicare Advantage, Cigna | Evernorth, Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage, Compsych, Devoted Health | Medicare Advantage, Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network, First Health Network, Geisinger Health Plan, Geisinger Health Plan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Humana Medicare Advantage, Independence Administrators, Independence Blue Cross | BCBS, Independence Blue Exchange, Keystone Health Plan East HMO (CHIP), Keystone Health Plan East HMO | POS, Keystone sixtyfive Medicare Advantage, Martins Point (US Family Health Plans), Medicare PA, Multi Plan PHCS, Oscar Health, Personal Choice PPO | EPO, Railroad Medicare , Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellcare by Allwell | Pennsylvania Health and Wellness, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, Quest Behavioral Health , United Healthcare | Optum EAP
LGBTQIA+, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Life Transition, Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma / PTSD, Grief
Serves ages 65+, 18-64

About

Joseph Walsh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania and New York State who has over 9 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are seeking help in managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and identity issues, among other concerns. He believes that all clients have the potential to grow and to discover greater joy and confidence in their lives. 

He earned his Master's degree in Social Work from CUNY-Hunter College and his approach can be described as holistic, strengths-based, and person-centered, drawing from a number of theoretical models including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solutions-focused therapy (SFT). Believing that all individuals have unique strengths and lived experiences, Joseph works to validate and support those facing mental health concerns and life challenges.  

Whether you have tried therapy before, or this is your first time, Joseph looks forward to connecting, hearing your story, and tackling your goals together. He believes that seeking help is a sign of courage and one of the most important ways to practice self-care. Sessions are always free of judgment and grounded in mutual trust. 

Education and training

Years in practice
9 years
Graduating Institute
CUNY - Hunter College 
Graduating Degree
Master of Social Work
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Evening and weekend sessions

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Common approaches to LGBTQIA+ counseling

Barbara Thomas

Hear from Barbara Thomas, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)

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What is your go-to approach for LGBTQ+ counseling?

My go-to approach for LGBTQ+ counseling is collaborative therapy and trauma focused therapy. I prefer this because building the therapeutic relationship is essential and allows to build trust in the therapy room. Additionally, it allows clients to focus on their goals and to enhance their sense of themselves through empowerment. I utilize trauma-focused counseling as well, due to the trauma impact many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community experience and the context of being in a minority group. My personal experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community allows some insight into the resilience of our community.

What tools do you teach in LGBTQ+ counseling?

I teach the following tools in LGBTQ+ counseling:

  • breathing techniques (square breathing, breath work)
  • mindfulness/present focus
  • grounding techniques (five senses, physical sensations, fidget/focus object, muscle relaxation)
  • journaling (freeform, bullet, prompts, daily success/struggle)
  • socratic questioning (cognitive challenging and rationalization of thoughts)
  • reframing (perspective shift and broadening mindset)
  • self-care skills (awareness of importance of basic needs)

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in LGBTQ+ counseling?

I know a client is making meaningful progress in LGBTQ+ counseling when there is trust in the therapeutic relationship and the goals set up initially are beginning to be achieved. I always like to preface that progress is not linear and will be an ongoing tool during treatment to challenge negative perceptions of self.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement LGBTQ+ counseling?

Clients can supplement their time in LGBTQ+ counseling by seeking out resources in their local LGBTQ+ community, joining queer spaces that are affirming and supportive, research history of the LGBTQ+ movement and daily journaling to reflect.

What should someone do to prepare for starting LGBTQ+ counseling?

To prepare for their first LGBTQ+ counseling session, an individual can notice their struggles, goals, and timeline of symptoms. An individual can also remember that they can ask the therapist questions about their therapeutic style and explore/advocate for their needs in a clinician. Additionally, they can create a safe space in their home that helps build routine and privacy for online therapy.

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Starting LGBTQIA+ counseling

What is LGBTQ+ counseling?

LGBTQIA+ counseling is a type of queer affirmative counseling dedicated to assisting individuals and couples in navigating the intricate intersections of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health, with a primary goal of fostering well-being, self-acceptance, and affirming a client’s life experiences as a queer individual. Although not all LGBTQ+ individuals seek specialized counseling, a substantial number discover vital support and empathy within these inclusive and affirming therapeutic settings.

How does LGBTQ+ counseling work?

Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Philadelphia, PA typically begins with an initial assessment to understand your specific needs. LGBTQ+ counselors aim to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for anyone within the LGBTQ+ community by encouraging self-acceptance and offering an understanding of your identity and experiences. LGBTQ+ therapy addresses issues like coming out, discrimination, mental health challenges, and gender transition, and provides support for LGBTQ+ relationships.

Why is LGBTQ+ counseling important?

LGBTQ+ counseling is incredibly important because it can help queer individuals accept their identity, learn self-love, and give them important tools for facing the challenges of being a queer person in today’s society, among many other benefits. LGBTQ+-affirming therapists can understand the unique perspective and experiences of queer individuals as they help them process past trauma, address family conflicts, treat issues with anxiety, and more.

Is LGBTQ+ counseling conducted in person or online?

Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Philadelphia, PA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does LGBTQ+ counseling last?

The number of sessions for LGBTQ+ counseling depends on the specific needs and goals of the individual. It could encompass a relatively limited series of sessions or extend into a longer counseling plan. The precise quantity and duration of sessions typically emerge through collaborative discussion with the counselor, taking into account the client’s progress and their therapeutic objectives.

Need more help deciding?

LGBTQ Competent Therapy in Philadelphia, PA—Counselors

A bedrock of emotional healthy is freedom to be oneself. That means acknowledging likes and dislikes. That means being honest about strengths and weaknesses. It also means being true to one’s gender and sexuality. People who identify at LGBTQ face particular challenges as they seek emotional health and freedom. That is one of the many reasons Thriveworks Philadelphia offers LGBTQ competent therapy. We know that our LGBTQ clients face unique challenges, and we are ready to help them as they fight against repression and fight for freedom. If this resonates with you and you think you could benefit from counseling, reach out to Thriveworks Philadelphia today to schedule your first appointment.

LGBTQ Sensitive Counseling

Many untrue and unfair stigmas still plague many in the LGBTQ community, and these stigmas exact a psychological and emotional price. What is the real-world impact of that toll? Consider these grievous realities:

  • The cis-gendered and straight population has a substance abuse rate of 9 percent, but the LGBTQ population’s substance abuse rate is 30 percent.
  • LGBTQ youth, ages 10-24 face more fear, prejudice, hatred, and bulling in their homes and in their schools than their cis-gendered and straight peers.
  • LGBTQ people are diagnosed with mental illness at twice the rate of others.
  • Many LGBTQ people report experience a heightened anxiety called “minority stress.” This often results from facing family rejection, social exclusion, the denial of human rights, harassment, prejudice, and abuse.
  • A lead cause of death for LGBTQ youth is suicide.

As sobering as these realities are, they only tell half the story. The LGBTQ also faces a dual-stigma: those who often need mental health care the most may have the hardest time finding a competent therapist. The American Psychological Association officially defined homosexuality as a pathology up until 1973. Even though the definition has changed, many therapists are not informed or accepting of the care LGBTQ clients need.

Finding an LGBTQ+ Competent Therapist

What does it look like for mental health professionals to offer LGBTQ competent care? How can individuals ensure their therapist will respect their gender and sexual orientation? Here are a few tips for choosing a therapist.

  • When calling to schedule an appointment, ask about the counselor’s experience with LGBTQ clients. It is okay to request past examples.
  • Listen to your intuition. If you feel comfortable, schedule an appointment. If at any point, you do not feel comfortable, move onto another therapist.
  • During your appointment, let your counselor know that LGBTQ sensitive therapy is important to you.
  • During treatment, disclosure whatever you feel safe disclosing about your sexual orientation and gender.
  • During treatment, disclose whatever you feel safe disclosing about past traumas and current mental health struggles you are experiencing.
  • There is no right or wrong topic for therapy. Many people choose to discuss topics like…
    • Gender and sexual identity
    • Safety concerns
    • Healthy communication
    • Dealing with discrimination and non-acceptance
    • How and when to come out
    • Dating and other relationships
    • Family concerns
    • Transcending gender roles
    • Addiction
    • Eating disorders
    • Depression
    • Anxiety and stress
    • Self-esteem issues
    • Past trauma and abuse

Setting Up an Appointment at Thriveworks Philadelphia for LGBTQ Informed Counseling

Do you want to work with a mental health professional who offers LGBTQ competent care? If you are ready to start counseling, the professionals at Thriveworks Philadelphia are ready to meet with you. When you contact our office, a scheduling specialist will answer your call and help you make an appointment. You may have your first appointment within the week of your first call. We also offer evening and weekend sessions, and we accept many different insurance plans.

Life is hard. Scheduling therapy should not be. Let’s work together. Call Thriveworks Philadelphia today.

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Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Philadelphia therapists and counselors accept 41 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Ambetter from Pennsylvania Health and Wellness

  • AmeriHealth Administrators

  • AmeriHealth Medicare Advantage

  • AmeriHealth Pennsylvania

  • Capital BlueCross of Pennsylvania | BCBS

  • Capital BlueCross of Pennsylvania | BCBS Medicare Advantage

  • Carelon

  • Carelon | Medicare Advantage

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Clover Health

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Self-pay costs at Philadelphia
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.9 Learn about verified reviews
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★★★★☆
The therapist listened really well and was very kind. . I didn't really receive any suggestions to improve what is going on or to help me with what I'm dealing with (anxiety/panic attacks). I'm not sure if this was because it was an introductory meeting today.
Read more The therapist listened really well and was very kind. . I didn't really receive any suggestions to improve what is going on or to help me with what I'm dealing with (anxiety/panic attacks). I'm not sure if this was because it was an introductory meeting today.
Roniya Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★☆
I really appreciate Joe's technique, he seems genuinely interested to learn how I think and how my mind works and then apply his expertise to best achieve the changes I want in my life.
Aidan Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have been seen by Christina Camara(T) for years now. I wouldn't find the right words for the person she is.Christina, my therapist, is an exemplary professional who has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to provide empathetic, supportive, and effective therapy. Throughout our sessions, I have been impressed by her exceptional listening skills, her capacity to establish a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere, and her genuine care.. This talent enables her to provide insightful reflections and I always tell her that seems like she is reading my mind. By actively engaging with me in this manner, Christina creates a safe and supportive environment, allowing me to feel comfortable sharing my innermost struggles and fears.. Christina's uses different therapeutic approaches in her practice. Her proficiency in techniques has been particularly beneficial in addressing my specific challenges. By tailoring her approach to my unique needs, Christina has helped me develop more effective coping strategies, reframe negative thought patterns, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness. Her ability to adapt her approach as needed has been instrumental in my progress, and I appreciate her willingness to explore different methods to ensure the best possible outcomes.. Furthermore, Christina's non-judgmental and supportive approach has been a constant source of comfort throughout our sessions. Her warm and genuine nature puts me at ease, allowing me to discuss sensitive topics without fear of criticism or rejection. This sense of safety and acceptance has been essential in fostering a strong therapeutic relationship, enabling me to trust Christina implicitly and feel confident in her guidance.. Christina is an outstanding therapist who has made a profoundly positive impact on my life. I feel fortunate to have Christina as my therapist and highly recommend her to anyone seeking a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience. I know that if something I am going through impacts me , she is there for me and I appreciate her a lot. I wish other people knew her power!
Read more I have been seen by Christina Camara(T) for years now. I wouldn't find the right words for the person she is.Christina, my therapist, is an exemplary professional who has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to provide empathetic, supportive, and effective therapy. Throughout our sessions, I have been impressed by her exceptional listening skills, her capacity to establish a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere, and her genuine care.. This talent enables her to provide insightful reflections and I always tell her that seems like she is reading my mind. By actively engaging with me in this manner, Christina creates a safe and supportive environment, allowing me to feel comfortable sharing my innermost struggles and fears.. Christina's uses different therapeutic approaches in her practice. Her proficiency in techniques has been particularly beneficial in addressing my specific challenges. By tailoring her approach to my unique needs, Christina has helped me develop more effective coping strategies, reframe negative thought patterns, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness. Her ability to adapt her approach as needed has been instrumental in my progress, and I appreciate her willingness to explore different methods to ensure the best possible outcomes.. Furthermore, Christina's non-judgmental and supportive approach has been a constant source of comfort throughout our sessions. Her warm and genuine nature puts me at ease, allowing me to discuss sensitive topics without fear of criticism or rejection. This sense of safety and acceptance has been essential in fostering a strong therapeutic relationship, enabling me to trust Christina implicitly and feel confident in her guidance.. Christina is an outstanding therapist who has made a profoundly positive impact on my life. I feel fortunate to have Christina as my therapist and highly recommend her to anyone seeking a compassionate and effective therapeutic experience. I know that if something I am going through impacts me , she is there for me and I appreciate her a lot. I wish other people knew her power!
Xhensila Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Rob is great! Making progress.
Brian Dec 2023
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I had the pleasure of working alongside Marie for years. Her work with her clients is unparalleled. She is clinically exceptional, while somehow maintaining an authenticity that makes working with her in any capacity a wonderfully positive experience. I would recommend Marie to anyone who is serious about helping themselves, and particularly those with a history of trauma.
Read more I had the pleasure of working alongside Marie for years. Her work with her clients is unparalleled. She is clinically exceptional, while somehow maintaining an authenticity that makes working with her in any capacity a wonderfully positive experience. I would recommend Marie to anyone who is serious about helping themselves, and particularly those with a history of trauma.
Philadelphia Aug 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Marie is the best around. So knowledgeable and supportive with her clients. She helped me through many traumatic situations without judgment. If you are looking for an amazing therapist to help you, she is who you need.
Philadelphia Aug 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Marie Moriarty Puggi is a fantastic clinician. She’s very person centered and empathetic. She goes above and beyond for her clients and their families. They have shown a great deal of appreciation for the efforts she makes with her clients. They want to talk with her and engage and do the work in order to heal. Highly recommended.
Read more Marie Moriarty Puggi is a fantastic clinician. She’s very person centered and empathetic. She goes above and beyond for her clients and their families. They have shown a great deal of appreciation for the efforts she makes with her clients. They want to talk with her and engage and do the work in order to heal. Highly recommended.
Philadelphia Aug 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Marie is an excellent Therapist. She assisted me with various ways to change my perspective. Marie's assistant me with positive ways to view situations and how to be accountable for my behavior. Marie is very kind and personable. She made me feel important and that I should matter to me first.
Read more Marie is an excellent Therapist. She assisted me with various ways to change my perspective. Marie's assistant me with positive ways to view situations and how to be accountable for my behavior. Marie is very kind and personable. She made me feel important and that I should matter to me first.
Philadelphia Aug 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
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Where to find us

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1518 Walnut Street Suite 202, Suite 208
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling Providence is located at 245 Waterman St Suite 504A, Providence, RI 02906, between Wayland Ave. and Butler Ave.

Phone number

(215) 642-8968

Languages spoken by PA providers

  • English
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm

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Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 12:01am - 11:59pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm

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Locations Pennsylvania Philadelphia counseling & therapy LGBTQIA+ counseling in Philadelphia
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