Hi! I’m Claudia,

I'm a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Philadelphia. Understanding that our environments—culture, society, community, and relationships—profoundly influence our well-being, I adopt an integrative, personalized approach to therapy. My practice is rooted in cultural humility and committed to anti-oppressive, trauma-informed care. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most profound healing tool we have and work from a relational framework.

In our collaborative sessions, we’ll focus on building a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and trust. This connection serves as a foundation for you to express emotions, identify needs, set boundaries, and advocate for yourself. Together, we’ll explore and understand defense mechanisms developed in response to past experiences, fostering curiosity and self-compassion as you move toward your authentic self.

I believe that through our relationships, we learn to express our emotions and needs, set boundaries, and advocate for ourselves; therapy is no different.

I integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing into my practice. I view mental health conditions as adaptive responses shaped by individual, relational, and societal contexts. Our work will involve understanding these coping mechanisms, fostering self-compassion, and developing new ways of engaging with the world. While diagnoses can aid in accessing treatment and accommodations, my focus remains on understanding your unique experiences. I focus less on labeling signs and symptoms as “what is wrong with you” and instead emphasize how these responses helped you survive difficult circumstances.

I view therapy as a space to explore and understand your emotions, enhancing our ability to meet your needs and communicate them effectively. Valuing autonomy, I encourage you to guide our sessions by identifying weekly focuses, fostering curiosity and compassion. Together, we’ll tap into your inherent capacity for healing and growth, moving toward your authentic self.

I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and young adults, providing an affirming space for all sexual and gender identities and expressions. I work well with folx struggling with people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, mood disorders, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, caregiving roles, relationship difficulties, and family-of-origin concerns.

Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy cooking, baking, puzzling, crafting, spending time outdoors, and running. I’m happiest on a walking trail with my wife, coffee in hand!

If my approach resonates with you and you’re feeling ready, let’s connect! Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.