Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Philadelphia, PA

I am a licensed professional counselor with three years of experience. I earned my Master of Arts from Franciscan University of Steubenville and have specialized training in CBT, ACT, solution-focused brief therapy, person-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care. I typically work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, grief, and trauma. Whether navigating a specific crisis or pursuing personal growth, I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and equipped to achieve their goals.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I draw primarily from CBT, helping clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build practical skills. Together, we'll work to build self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful progress toward your goals.

Seeking support takes courage, and reaching out is often the first step toward meaningful change. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply looking to better understand yourself, you don't have to navigate those challenges alone. If you're ready to begin, I invite you to schedule an appointment. I look forward to working with you.

Lauren Shaak is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and seniors manage anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction, stress, and self-esteem challenges. She offers individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are open, motivated, and ready to change their lives for the better. Lauren believes treatment should invite discussion of diverse issues, needs, and goals, and that a positive dynamic between therapist and client is key. The ability to connect with all clients is at the heart of her philosophy of care.

Lauren has a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Alvernia University. She utilizes a variety of approaches including acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, culturally sensitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.

Starting therapy can be daunting, but the healing journey doesn’t have to be scary. Lauren offers a space to be seen, heard, and validated at a time when feelings of fear and vulnerability may be at their peak. Please consider the benefits of beginning a healing, therapeutic journey with a counselor who can offer support, empathy, and perspective.

Jim Houck is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been involved in the clinical mental health field since 1996. He is also a retired pastor and university professor who has trained others pursuing their counseling degree at various levels of professionalism. Jim has experience counseling people who have had near-death experiences and helps them integrate their spirituality with their mental health issues. He believes that all people have the answers within themselves. Jim’s experiences with Native American, European, and Hindi cultures have given him a keen sense of the intergenerational among these populations. 

Jim completed his Masters of Science in Counseling and his Ph.D. in Counseling, Education, and Supervision at Loyola University. 

Jim's empathy and compassion are a culmination of personal and professional experiences, advanced knowledge, and love for others. Jim is confident that he can walk with you on your journey so that you may find the healing you are searching for. If you are ready to start or continue your journey, schedule an appointment with him today!

Teresa Casimire is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 5 years of experience. She supports individuals navigating anxiety, negative thinking, and emotional challenges. She helps clients build emotional awareness and develop healthier responses to life's stressors through a compassionate, collaborative approach. Teresa emphasizes self-acceptance, forgiveness, and gratitude as foundational tools for improving mental health and personal growth.

Teresa earned a Master’s in Education in Guidance and Counseling from the City University of New York. She uses a reflective, person-centered approach to support emotional regulation and growth. Her goal is to help clients feel safe, empowered, and ready to make meaningful progress in their mental health journey.

Teresa values self-reflection and open-mindedness, believing growth stems from understanding oneself. Her priority is building a comfortable, trusting environment so clients can explore challenges and move forward with confidence and clarity. Reach out to Teresa today!

My name is Irlande Stavien, and I have been working in mental health for the past 13 years. My path into this field began with a desire to better understand people—their struggles, their resilience, and the many ways life can shape emotional well-being. I hold a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Psychiatric Rehabilitation, as well as a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. 

For 8 years, I worked in one of my state's largest hospitals, and over the last 5 years, I've continued to grow while helping others work toward becoming the person they envision themselves to be. Working with individuals from many different backgrounds has strengthened my understanding of the importance of compassion and genuine human connection. 

I focus on creating a nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, supported, and able to move toward healing and personal growth at their own pace. My approach is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and meeting people where they are while helping them build the life they want.