Stephen Chao, LSW (they/he)
Psychotherapist (Available Soon, Waitlisting)

As a therapist, I believe that healing and growth occur through the affirming relationships we have with both ourselves and others. I believe that empathy, authenticity, curiosity, nonjudgment, gentleness, and trust are central to building such relationships. I believe that each of us is the expert on our own life and contains a wealth of strength and resilience. And I believe that we can always learn more about ourselves and the world around us to expand our skills and perspectives.

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My therapy practice is inspired by the liberation health model, which encourages us to seek insight into how our personal, family, and community histories, the cultural messages we absorb, and the political and material conditions we live in impact our mental health. I also draw from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to offer practical skills that can help with cultivating mindfulness, tolerating distress, regulating emotion, and practicing effective interpersonal communication. I am open to exploring alongside you the ways that intersecting systems of oppression, such as racism, sexism, queerphobia, capitalism, etc., impact how you exist in the world – and to following your lead on your journey of healing and growth.

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Through my past experiences at a university LGBTQ resource office in rural West Texas and an LGBTQ-centered clinic here in Philly, I have worked with older youth and adults navigating depression, anxiety, difficult interpersonal and family relationships, substance use concerns, and life transitions. As a queer, non-binary, Asian-American person, I am particularly passionate about supporting folks who are exploring their gender and/or sexuality, grappling with internalized racism, and/or navigating intergenerational histories of migration and trauma.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or if you would like to connect!

Education & Credentials

Licensed Social Worker, PA #SW141681

Master of Social Work, University of Pennsylvania

Treatment Areas:

Adult Therapy, Teen Therapy

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Languages: English

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Accepted Plans: Medicaid, Quest

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Pending Plans: United