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Rebecca McDermott, LMFt
Relationship THERAPIST IN PEnnysylvania
I believe you are the expert in your life.
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While technically I am an expert, I see my role as your guide through the tough stuff.
Looking to feel more grounded, centered and at peace?
You’re in the right place.
A bit about my experience: A previous career in public relations, and a transition to motherhood had me longing for more meaningful connection and communication. It’s not so much of what we say but how we say it and the action behind it.
These transitions led me to begin my graduate degree at Chestnut Hill College, located in the beautiful Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. Graduating in 2013 after bringing two more souls into the world, I began the practice of helping others in a variety of settings. From a non-profit family therapy center, to a partial hospitalization program for children and adults, school-based therapy and finally private practice, I’ve realized that we aren’t all that different. Humans have a unique experience of wanting to be seen, heard and understood. I seek to do that in each session.
I opened my private practice in 2017 with a focus on couples counseling driven by the motivation that children are affected mostly by the quality of their parents relationship. I believe that most couples are doing their best to manage it all but life is tough. It can be scary and at times hopeless to not be seen by the person you love. Helping partners turn to one another and deeply connect is something I truly love about my work.
How I work
Therapy with me isn’t all sitting & talking.
We’ll also work on real, practical skills that you can apply to your day-to-day life. And even laugh a little along the way.
We’ll meet for an initial session and I’ll gather some information on what is bringing you into therapy now. Then I’ll ask some questions about who you are and get some history of what shaped you. As a trained family therapist I recognize that people are influenced by all the systems in which they are a part. Family, culture, religion it plays a part in who we are. From there we will:
Set an initial goal for therapy.
Check in on the initial fit between us.
Schedule a follow up session.
Look for action to take outside of therapy.
My core values
We all need a framework, a compass, something to guide decisions. Along with whole-hearted belly laughter I value compassion, connection, safety and joy.
Compassion
I truly care about what you are going through and I’m going to let you know that. Validation, appreciation, asking permission are some of the tools I use to show that. My clients and kids would describe be as firm and loving.
Connection
True, real, authentic.
Joy
Life is also about living, even when we’re not on vacation. Finding joy in small, everyday things is a cornerstone of my mental wellness practice.
Safety
Secure relationships are rooted in safety and safety looks different for everyone. I work to create internal safety for myself so any emotional blocks I may experience don’t stop you from exploring more of your depth. We’re in this together.
My Background & Training
Education & Licensure
MS from Chestnut Hill College, 2013.
PA LMFT, 2018
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Core Skills, 2021
Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, 2022
Clinical Experience
Center for Families and Relationships, Phila. Pa 2012-18
Horsham Clinic PHP, 2015-18
Adjunct Professor Chestnut Hill College 2018-19
Minding Your Mind Presenter 2023-current
specializing in:
Relationships
Parenting
ADHD
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