Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA (Shadyside)

Mikayla Weston is a Master’s Level Clinician in the state of Pennsylvania. She has experience partnering with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and more. 

Mikayla completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Grove City College and her Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from Messiah University. Mikayla utilizes a person-centered approach to counseling with techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, and more that emphasize awareness, mindfulness, acceptance, responsibility, and life skills necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual. 

Mikayla works towards an atmosphere of comfort and openness in order to foster a growing and caring relationship with each client. She strives for a therapeutic environment that is collaborative and goal-oriented in order for clients to create and achieve goals and engage in meaningful connections.

"As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in being a compassionate and empathetic listener."

Rachael Heiser is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 5 years of experience working with families, couples, and clients of all ages to cope with concerns or conditions related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, abuse, trauma, grief, loss, mood disorders, adoption-related issues, infidelity, and much more. 

She earned her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. Rachael is an active member of the AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. She also has years of experience working with a number of therapy modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative family therapy (NFT), emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and structural family therapy (SFT).

In sessions, Rachael provides a safe and empathetic atmosphere for you and your family to have honest (and sometimes difficult) conversations. She approaches each session with an open mind. Rachael believes we all have internal strengths but sometimes just need some help navigating these strengths to achieve our goals.

"As a trauma survivor and care provider, I am deeply invested in my client's feelings of comfort, safety, and choice in the therapy process."

Darby Testa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania. In her 10 years of direct care and supervisory experience, she has worked to promote social justice for individuals and care systems. Darby has extensive training and experience working with teens, adults, and seniors who are affected by chronic health conditions, sleep, disorders, mood disorders, dysfunctional relationships, and coping. She is open-minded, non-judgmental, and compassionate.

Darby earned her Master's degree from the University of Michigan. She works to support individuals and couples to enhance or develop skills to manage life stressors, mood disruptions, and communication by building on their existing strengths. With a strong background in both mental health and addiction treatment, Darby competently and comfortably treats behavioral health disorders. Treating the person, not just the problem or its symptoms, is critical to long-term success in therapy. Darby seeks to understand you and your world and help you to adapt to its changing demands.

Darby will help you to identify your goals from session one. She understands that any life change has benefits and drawbacks worth exploring and will meet you where you are with readiness and willingness to change, to help make the most impact. Whatever your motivation, Darby is ready to listen. As a trauma survivor and care provider, she is deeply invested in her client's feelings of comfort, safety, and choice in the therapy process.

"As a therapist excited to serve you, I use person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness therapies."

Anne M. Riddle is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has vast clinical experience working with individuals, children, and families with a vast array of issues such as abuse, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, panic attacks, suicide, major depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, tobacco addiction, bipolar depression, child neglect, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Mrs. Riddle has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the Pennsylvania State University DuBois Campus. She graduated with an honorary membership from the Delta Mu Sigma honor society. She went on to receive a Master’s degree in counseling from St. Bonaventure University with a membership of the Chi Sigma Iota honor society. Mrs. Riddle attended the Hamburg, NY campus of St. Bonaventure University and received her degree in 2008.

"As someone who has dealt with anxiety and depression and many significant losses, I understand the complexities of managing mental health."

Christina McClarren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. Christina is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families grow beyond current challenges. She specializes in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief, chronic/serious mental health issues, communication, and managing life stressors.

Christina completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in a variety of settings including corrections systems, school systems, and outpatient settings. Christina utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including expressive art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), family therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, and play therapy.

Christina values the importance of the therapeutic relationship and ensures that the treatment process is a mutual collaboration. She is confident that she will be able to support you on your journey to help you achieve your goals and learn the skills to manage whatever life may throw at you. If you are ready to begin the therapy process, schedule an appointment with Christina today.

Jodi is a Master’s level clinician in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Duquesne University. Jodi’s passion is helping her client navigate mental health challenges in order to live an authentic, meaningful life. Her experience encompasses depression and anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, body image issues, and spirituality. She is LGBTQ+ allied, gender affirming, trauma informed, and dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere for all clients. Jodi draws from a variety of techniques in her client-centered approach. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma and solution-based approaches help her connect with clients where they are now, in order to help them get to where they want to be. She is also adept at incorporating a client’s spirituality into therapy. Deciding to work with a counselor can prompt many emotions, from hope to fear – sometimes all at once! Jodi’s goal is to welcome you, and create a space where you can feel secure, supported and respected in your journey.

"As a gay man, I empathize with those who feel like they're outsiders."

Evan Csir is a Licensed Practicing Counselor with over 9 years of experience. He is passionate about working with people, especially autistic individuals. He is experienced in helping clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD issues.

Evan earned his BA in English and Psychology from Thiel College in 2007 and his MA in Counseling in 2013 at Edinboro University. Evan has worked with children his entire professional career as he's worked in BHRS and family-based therapy. He also participated in the intensive family coaching program (parent-child interaction therapy which is done in the home). Evan uses person-centered, behavioral therapy, CBT, and DBT techniques.

Evan is a firm believer that we are all works in progress and never stop growing. He likes to use the metaphor of maintaining a yoga pose: The things in life that challenge us the most are the poses we need to work on the most.

"I am excited to partner with you to help you take one more step in the direction you want to go in life."

Sean Burns is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience in behavioral health and drug and alcohol treatment settings. Sean specializes in working with teenagers and adults, ages 14 to 100, challenged by anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, work difficulties, marital/relationship conflict, school stress, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, grief/loss experiences, faith/religious beliefs, and behavioral issues. Sean also has experience in dealing with addiction affecting individuals and families. He provides skills, tools, educational information, and suggestions to help clients take the next step.

Sean received his Master of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. He utilizes approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, faith-based and Christian counseling, and motivational interviewing.

Sean can assist you in improving the relationships that mean the most to you and set appropriate boundaries within more challenging ones. He invites you to partner with him for your health and well-being and encourages you to schedule an appointment today.

Howard Buckwold is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, co-parenting, self-esteem, anger, grief in adults, adolescents, children, and families.

Howard holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with Mental Health Certification from the University of Pittsburgh. He is an LGBTQ+ ally as well as gender, non-monogamy and kink-affirming. Howard works toward building a safe, warm environment in which clients can face challenges, reach goals, build connection, and live an authentic, fulfilling life.

Howard seeks to create an environment of trust and safety, aiding his clients in whatever challenges they may face. Howard believes clients benefit from inward exploration combined with a focus on changing patterns of thought and behavior. Howard will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs, utilizing a person-centered/humanistic approach combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, Gestalt, existential, and solution-focused therapeutic techniques.

"As a woman of color who was raised in an interracial home. I can bring a unique perspective to any situation of exploration and intersectionality's.Monica"

Monica Cwynar is a Licensed clinical social worker with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping her patients reach their goals. She is interested in working with adults and children and helping them live fulfilled lives. Monica specializes in depression, end of life, grief, anxiety, relationship challenges, co-parenting, trauma, family, and major life transitions. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh, where she was the first minority to receive a Hartford Fellowship in the School of Social Work.

Monica utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, gestalt, exploration of patterns and emotions, psych education, role playing, structured problem solving, and cognitive reframing.

Monica is passionate about normalizing mental health treatment and removing the stigma while encouraging access for all. If you're ready to take the first steps in meeting your goals, then Monica is ready to get started.

"As a seasoned professional with 30+ years of experience in the counseling and child welfare fields, I am committed to providing a safe emotional and psychological space that is conducive to change in leading a meaningful and fulfilled life."

Christine Nichols is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years in child welfare and counseling settings. Christine is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Christine's specialties include anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence development, life transitions, career planning and transition, parenting/co-parenting, family conflicts, grief and loss, and end-of-life/hospice care.

Christine earned her Master’s in Social Work at Rutgers University. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy

Christine is authentic in her approach to the support of individuals and family systems. Christine will join with you to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to enter into the therapeutic relationship to meet desired goals.

"I will strive to assist you on your journey of self-exploration while creating a safe, genuine, and open-minded environment for growth and self-improvement."

Jordan Stash is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with all age groups, including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He strives to assist his clients in a variety of ways, helping them navigate through difficult times, processing emotions, and more. He specializes in several areas including depression, anxiety, gender identity, sexual orientation, LGBTQIA+ issues, and child therapy.

Jordan holds his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Student Affairs from California University-Pennsylvania. He has worked with children on the autism spectrum, assisting them with recognizing behaviors, processing emotions, and more. He is a former behavioral therapist who utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT).

Everyone has different perspectives and personal experiences. Jordan believes he can offer guidance and support on your new journey to a more productive, insightful sense of well-being. Jordan will help you develop skills and techniques, as well as cultivate a greater understanding of yourself and your experiences. Reach out to schedule with Jordan today.

"As an individual who has dealt with mental health concerns personally and professionally, I believe in psychoeducation and the healing of the body in correlation with the mind."

Danielle (Dani) Lusty is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a decade of experience working with individuals ages 11 and above who struggle with anxiety, depression, time management, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She has treated a variety of populations including the homeless, individuals within the legal system, and those suffering from alcohol and substance misuse disorder.

Dani has a Master’s in Art Therapy with a specialization in Counseling from Seton Hill University. She uses a variety of clinical techniques that focus on reality therapy, solution-focused treatment, and a person-centered approach.

Dani is honored to serve others in their time of need and educate her clients on how their presenting symptoms affect their minds and bodies. She encourages you to book an appointment today!

“Thoughts become things...choose the good ones!" (-Mike Dooley/TUT). Kate has 15 years’ experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. She takes a holistic, eclectic, integrative approach to counseling, with the desire to create a "home base" -- a safe, caring, empathic and nonjudgmental environment to explore, heal, and reunite the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of who you are. She incorporates traditional evidence-based modalities; wisdom gleaned from broad life experiences; a deep, spiritual relationship with her own humanness; and good old-fashioned common sense. One of Kate’s greatest realizations is that our thoughts and beliefs are not always reliable sources of information. When faced with stress, sorrow, pain, trauma and tragedy, inaccurate thoughts and beliefs can lead to depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, and unnecessary suffering. This in turn can lead us down distressing paths. Kate commends you for recognizing and accepting that you can't figure it all out by yourself. She desires to help you learn to think clearly and effectively in times of crisis; show courage in the face of trauma; and find humor amid tragedy. She endeavors to help you make sense out of things that just don't seem to make sense.

"As a young man in a predominately female profession, I am sensitive to the vast issues that all genders in today's society are faced with and have an understanding of generational miscommunication."

Noah Mickey is a Licensed Professional Counselor with three years of experience in the mental health field. He is passionate and eager to help children, adolescents, adults, and couples build a deeper understanding of their unique challenges and work toward a brighter future. Noah specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, coping skills, and men's issues.

Noah completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, followed by his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He is currently receiving supervision to complete his License in Professional Counseling. He has a history working in addiction counseling, as well as in a child and adolescent mental health inpatient hospital. While there, he treated children ages 5-18 and worked in conjunction with the families. Noah utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT), mindfulness, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Everyone has a story and a unique journey in life. Noah is confident that he would be able to support you on your journey, helping you to gain new insight and build upon techniques that will allow you to cope with anything you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with him today!

"As a holistic therapist, I utilize compassion and strong listening skills to understand and appreciate clients while assisting them in addressing their needs, pursuing self-care, and achieving their goals."

Angela Illig is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who possesses over 16 years of experience in the mental health field, serving youth and adults with individualized care. Angela is passionate about working with individuals and couples to manage obstacles, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and reach their full potential. She sees herself as a human potential enhancer, assisting clients in recognizing and capitalizing upon unique strengths in the counseling process. Angela specializes in assisting clients with career or life transition, stress, anxiety, depression, coping, family dynamics, sexuality, relationships, confidence, identity, motivation, and codependency. She has aided families and couples with communication and conflict resolution skill-building, advocacy and assertiveness, grief, co-parenting, and building positive family dynamics. 

Angela completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling and Higher Education at Syracuse University and her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Administrative and Policy Studies in Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Angela is a counselor and university instructor, with ample experience aiding others in navigating the stressors of life. She is a consistent advocate and promoter of wellness, and works to build rapport with her clients, infusing enthusiasm, transparency, and authenticity into sessions. Angela appreciates the delicate balance of properly supporting and challenging clients while integrating various elements of theories into practice. She employs the practical, goal-oriented treatment of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in helping clients grow and achieve success. Angela also utilizes multiple other approaches in her work, including solution-focused therapy, positive psychology, structural family therapy, and psychoeducation.

Angela believes that we all deserve to be able to live fully, put our best feet forward, and focus on strengths and self-care in restoring our lives to wellness. She is patient-centered and motivated by her clients' success. Angela is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to achieve that potential, gaining new perspective, confidence, and skills. If you are ready to begin, schedule an appointment with her today!

"As a therapist, I understand the power of listening first in order to understand how I can best help you."

Melissa Alcorn-Ferry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is energized by helping people reach their goals and potential. Melissa specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.

Melissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in homes, schools, communities, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment programs. This professional experience enables her to provide the support and guidance her clients are seeking. Melissa uses multiple treatment approaches which she matches to her client's needs and preferences. Some examples are brief treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and family therapy.

Your emotional well-being can have an impact on your life. If you’re having a hard time, Melissa is confident she will be able to meet you where you are on your journey and help you accomplish your goals. Whether you have hit a bump in the road or you are ready to address a difficult issue, Melissa can help with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to talk and do the work, schedule an appointment with her today.

"As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I aim to provide relational therapy that validates self-growth and processes the impact of trauma. "

Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Pennsylvania. She has experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family/life transitions. Additionally, she has experience working with autism spectrum disorder, trauma, grief & loss, and LGBTQ+ specific issues. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University and attained her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hall University.

Barbara provides systemic, client-centered, contextual, and cognitive-behavioral therapy for children, adults, couples, and families. Barbara focuses on the specific and unique needs of each individual through an adaptable, relational lens that encourages a fresh perspective into your life. Barbara incorporates empirically supported theories, family system theories, and relational dynamics into therapy.

Barbara works to create a comfortable and open atmosphere to foster a growing and caring therapeutic relationship with you. She hopes to collaborate with you to create and achieve goals that enhance your strengths and personal fulfillment.

"I believe that every person is an expert in their own life and it is my job as a psychologist to help them achieve their version of health and happiness."

Rachael Viehman is a Licensed Psychologist with 18 years of experience. She specializes in supporting individuals dealing with depression, mood swings, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, parenting-related challenges, and caregiver stress. Rachael has worked in large-scale community mental health clinics, specialty hospitals, specialized treatment programs, and research institutions treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly. She also has experience working as part of interdisciplinary treatment teams and is comfortable communicating with and working alongside psychiatrists and general practitioners in supporting the health of her clients.

Rachael received her Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from the University of California Los Angeles. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness, humanistic, and supportive approaches while holding space for clients' individual preferences and needs.

Rachael is dedicated to creating a warm, supportive, and reliable environment where each person receives an individualized treatment plan designed to utilize their strengths and skills. She is an empathetic, highly skilled diagnostician who connects with her clients and helps them feel understood, supported, and empowered to achieve health and happiness.