1. Anxiety and OCD Treatment Center of Philadelphia
Credentials: Licensed clinical psychologists with specialized training in anxiety and OCD treatment. Clinicians include staff trained at Rogers Behavioral Health, a treatment center specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders.
Specialization: OCD, anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, body dysmorphic disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, neurodivergence.
Therapy Approaches: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing.
Populations Served: Children, adolescents, and adults experiencing OCD, anxiety disorders, and related conditions. Individuals of varying backgrounds with emphasis on inclusive and equitable care considering client’s background, culture, race, ability status, sexuality, and gender.
Background: Dr. Gordon is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders with specialized training in social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and OCD. Completed undergraduate work at Stanford University and received PhD in clinical psychology from Temple University under the mentorship of Richard G. Heimberg, a pioneer in cognitive-behavioral treatment for social anxiety disorder. Staff includes clinicians who worked as Behavior Specialists at Rogers Behavioral Health.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: In-person sessions in Philadelphia. Virtual sessions available in over 35 states.
Location: Philadelphia, PA (contact for specific address)
Contact: https://www.ocdphiladelphia.com
Initial Consultation: Contact through website to schedule initial evaluation.
2. Center for Anxiety, OCD and CBT
Credentials: Licensed clinical psychologists and therapists with specialized training in evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias, health anxiety, perfectionism.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Populations Served: Adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety disorders, OCD, and related conditions.
Background: Specialized practice focused on evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD. Clinicians trained in research-validated protocols for anxiety disorders.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person and telehealth sessions available.
Location: Philadelphia, PA (contact for specific address)
Contact: https://anxietyocdphilly.com
Initial Consultation: Contact practice to discuss treatment needs and schedule initial consultation.
3. Bryn Mawr Psychological Associates
Credentials: All psychologists hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) with advanced training from APA-accredited programs.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, relationship difficulties, life transitions, child and adolescent concerns.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), family systems therapy, evidence-based interventions.
Populations Served: Children, adolescents, adults, and families. Practice committed to providing inclusive and welcoming environment regardless of race, religion, age, nationality, ethnicity, disability, gender expression, or sexual orientation.
Background: Established practice along Pennsylvania’s Main Line. All psychologists prioritize staying up-to-date on effective treatment techniques. Practice emphasizes personable, compassionate care and excellent customer service from first contact through completed treatment. Full-length 55-minute sessions provided (not shortened 40-45 minute sessions).
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for current insurance panel information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Main Line location. Initial phone call is a confidential conversation with one of the psychologists to review concerns and secure the right therapist match.
Location: Bryn Mawr, PA (Main Line, suburban Philadelphia)
Contact: https://www.brynmawrpsych.com
Initial Consultation: Initial phone call with a psychologist to review concerns and determine appropriate therapist match.
4. Jessica Pavelka Counseling, LLC
Credentials: Jessica Pavelka, PhD candidate in psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Training from University of Pennsylvania and the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, stress management.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, meditation coaching, integrative approach combining mindfulness and CBT.
Populations Served: Adults seeking psychotherapy for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and bipolar disorder. Individuals interested in meditation coaching and integrating mindfulness into treatment.
Background: Research and clinical work in mental health and alternative medicine since 2009. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania and the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (founded by Aaron Beck, father of CBT). Additional training with meditation teacher Dr. Lorin Roche.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person and online sessions available. Services available to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware residents.
Location: Philadelphia, PA (contact for specific address)
Contact: https://www.jessicapavelkacounseling.com
Initial Consultation: Contact through website to schedule consultation.
5. NSAC Philadelphia (National Social Anxiety Center)
Credentials: Licensed clinical psychologists and therapists certified in cognitive-behavioral therapy specializing in social anxiety.
Specialization: Social anxiety disorder, shyness, performance anxiety, public speaking anxiety, generalized anxiety, related anxiety conditions.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, social skills training, individual and group CBT for social anxiety.
Populations Served: Adolescents and adults experiencing social anxiety and related conditions.
Background: Regional clinic of the National Social Anxiety Center, an association of independent clinics throughout the United States with certified cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in social anxiety and anxiety-related problems.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: Individual CBT and group treatment for social anxiety available.
Location: Philadelphia, PA (contact for specific address)
Contact: https://nationalsocialanxietycenter.com/regional-clinics/philadelphia/
Initial Consultation: Contact practice to discuss treatment options and schedule initial evaluation.
Mental Health Industry in Pennsylvania
Average Therapy Session Costs
Individual therapy sessions in Philadelphia range from $125 to $275 per session depending on the provider’s credentials and experience. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) typically charge $125 to $200 per session. Licensed Psychologists with doctoral degrees generally charge $175 to $275 per session. Psychiatrists may charge $250 to $450 for sessions including medication management. Couples therapy sessions typically range from $150 to $300. Group therapy sessions are more affordable, generally $40 to $80 per session.
State Licensing Requirements for Psychologists
To practice as a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, professionals must complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program. Candidates must complete at least 1,750 hours of postdoctoral supervised experience over a minimum of 12 months. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) must be passed. The Pennsylvania Psychology Law Exam must also be passed. Continuing education is required for license renewal. The Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology administers licensure with an application fee of $105.
Telehealth Regulations
Pennsylvania permits licensed psychologists to provide telehealth services to clients located within the state. Pennsylvania is a member of PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), allowing psychologists with E.Passport credentials to practice telepsychology across member states. Providers must use HIPAA-compliant platforms and obtain informed consent specific to telehealth services. Many Pennsylvania practices expanded virtual service availability and continue offering this option.
Mental Health Parity Laws
Pennsylvania’s Mental Health Parity Act requires health insurers to provide coverage for mental health conditions equal to coverage for physical health conditions. The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) applies to group health plans. Pennsylvania has additional protections requiring insurers to cover treatment for mental health diagnoses without discriminatory limitations.
Professional Organizations
The Pennsylvania Psychological Association (PPA) represents practicing psychologists, offering continuing education, advocacy, and professional resources. The Philadelphia Society of Clinical Psychologists provides local networking and professional development. The Pennsylvania Counseling Association supports licensed counselors throughout the state.
Workforce Availability and Wait Times
Pennsylvania has a substantial mental health workforce, with Philadelphia being a major hub due to its medical schools and training programs. Wait times for new patients typically range from two weeks to six weeks depending on the provider, specialty, and insurance acceptance. Providers accepting Medicaid often have longer wait lists. Specialized services such as OCD treatment or psychological testing may have extended wait times.
Common Mental Health Concerns
In the Philadelphia region, commonly treated conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and PTSD, OCD, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, adjustment disorders related to life transitions, and substance use concerns.
State-Funded Mental Health Resources
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services oversees public mental health services. Community Behavioral Health (CBH) serves as the behavioral health managed care organization for Philadelphia Medicaid recipients. Community mental health centers throughout Philadelphia provide sliding-scale services. Crisis services are available through Philadelphia’s crisis hotline and mobile crisis teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect to pay for therapy in Philadelphia without insurance?
Private pay rates in Philadelphia typically range from $150 to $225 per 50-minute session with a licensed therapist. Sessions with doctoral-level psychologists (PhD or PsyD) generally cost between $175 and $275. Main Line suburban practices may charge slightly higher rates. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income. Initial consultations may be offered free or at a reduced rate.
How do I verify that a psychologist is licensed in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology maintains an online license verification system through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) at pals.pa.gov where you can search by name or license number. This database shows current license status, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions. All practicing psychologists must maintain active licensure.
What is the difference between an LPC, LCSW, and psychologist in Pennsylvania?
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) hold master’s degrees in counseling and provide therapy services. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) hold master’s degrees in social work with clinical training. Psychologists hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) and can provide therapy as well as psychological testing and assessment. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Pennsylvania psychologists cannot prescribe medication.
Can Philadelphia therapists provide telehealth to clients in other states?
Pennsylvania is a PSYPACT member state, allowing Pennsylvania-licensed psychologists with E.Passport credentials to provide telepsychology services to clients in other member states. Some Philadelphia-area practices specifically note they can serve clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. For clients in non-PSYPACT states, the psychologist would need licensure in that specific state.
What resources are available for therapy training in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to several major training institutions for mental health professionals. The Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy, founded by Aaron Beck, offers training in CBT. Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania have doctoral psychology programs. The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine offers psychology training. These institutions contribute to a well-trained local workforce.