Tessa McArdle, LSW

Tess is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work from The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice. Since 2016, Tess has worked closely with youth and families in a range of school settings, from elementary through college. Through this work, Tess has developed a passion for working with children, youth, and young adults. Tess understands mental health as the exploration and uncovering of one’s true self. She believes engaging authentically with others to explore one’s internal world and to identify and heal one’s wounds can be a liberatory, and at times, a radical act.

Tess has experience helping clients through challenges including adjustment, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, multigenerational trauma, learning differences, and identity formation. She is interested in a variety of psychodynamic theories and interventions (Intersubjective, Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems) and utilizes skill-based interventions such as CBT, TF-CBT, and DBT when appropriate. She also has experience working with children with a variety of diagnoses and is trained in Play Therapy techniques.

Tess is an attentive listener, critical thinker, and brings her sense of humor, empathy, and curiosity to her therapeutic relationships. She believes the therapeutic space is co-created between client and therapist and welcomes shared learning and exploration. Ultimately, Tess prioritizes safety and encourages curiosity, compassion, and growth.