Therapeutic Process Approach

I believe therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist. As such, clients create goals, while therapists are present to assist in reaching them. I strive to create an environment which is affirming and comfortable. I often use humor and self disclosure, as a way to increase the therapeutic relationship when appropriate. Additionally, I regularly challenge clients in their assumptions regarding thoughts, behaviors, and interpersonal interactions. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my practice, tailoring therapy to the individual client(s) I am serving.

Areas of Focus:

• LGBTQ+ Concerns
• Men
• Questioning Sexuality and Gender
• Sexual Dysfunctions
• Polyamory
• Open Relationships
• Relationship Concerns
• Intimacy Concerns

I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and love working within the community. Sessions may focus on community related concerns including: coming out issues, relationship concerns, and worries about friendships/networking. It can also include issues not related to specific LGBTQ+ identities. As one of the few male Certified Sex Therapist practicing in the Philadelphia and Media areas, I enjoy working with male and masculine identified clients. I often find they are not generally given the latitude to be emotionally expressive; doing so with another male can be very affirming. I specialize in working with men who are struggling to understand issues related to gender and sexual orientation.

Background and Expertise

20 years experience in mental health and social services

Degrees:

• PhD in Human Sexuality with a focus on Sex Therapy
• MEd in Human Sexuality
• MFT with a focus on Sex Therapy
• BA in Speech Communications
• BS in Health Promotion and Education

Certifications and Associations:

• Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor – American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
• Certified Sex Therapist – American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, practicing in Philadelphia and Media
• Certified Health Education Specialist – National Commission for Education Credentialing
• Certified Sexologist – American College of Sexologists
• Licensed in PA, CT, NY, NJ, DE
• AASECT Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor

Theoretical Orientations

I blend therapeutic theoretical orientations with public health behavioral change models rather than using one specific orientation or model. Therapeutic orientations and models which influence my work are:

• Emotion Focused Therapy
• Narrative Therapy
• Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Sex Therapy
• The Crucible Model
• Solution Focused Therapy
• Health Belief Model
• Transtheoretical Model (also known as Stages of Change Model)
• Social Learning Theory
• Social Psychology

In Person Sessions

100 S. Broad Street
Suite 2210
Philadelphia, PA 19110