LGBT therapists in Pennsylvania

Hi! I have been in the therapy field for over 18 years, working with individuals and families in both outpatient, group, and residential settings. After a few unsatisfying careers and emotional stagnation in relationships, I recognized I needed to do some significant work on myself. I pursued therapy for myself which led me to appreciate the capacity and curiosity to want to help others.

I’m Dr. Stephanie Smigiel, PhD, LPC, the founder of Smigiel Counseling, and I’ve worked in the behavioral health field since 2013 supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. My practice is grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach, shaped by both professional training and lived experience. I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals and trauma across the lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood, and tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs, goals, and strengths.

I’m deeply committed to providing nonjudgmental, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care. I understand that mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all, and I take the time to listen, learn, and adapt to what works best for you.

I don’t expect perfection — I expect real people, with real experiences, showing up as they are. I bring not only clinical expertise but also lived understanding of how layered and complex healing can be. You’ll never have to shrink or code-switch in my care — your story, identity, and truth are all welcome here.

I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in ADHD, mood disorders, and complex or unclear diagnoses. My approach is collaborative but direct - I focus on getting the diagnosis right and creating a treatment plan that truly fits your life.

I have experience across outpatient and residential settings, and I often work with patients who are looking for more clarity or haven’t found answers elsewhere.

My goal is to help you better understand your symptoms, feel more in control, and move forward with confidence.

Currently accepting summer 2026 clients for short-term therapy. Some availability for longer term clients.

I want to make the task of being human a little bit easier. That's it. That's the whole goal.

I trained in Gestalt therapy through a three-year program, Nonviolent Communication, and improvisational comedy and performance — not because they're quirky credentials, but because they each taught me something real about how people change, connect, and find themselves. I also bring a background in alternative education and hold social location (race, gender, class, dis/ability) as foundational to understanding how we experience the world.

I specialize in trauma, grief, LGBTQIA+ identity, gender dysphoria, maternal mental health, anxiety, and the work of becoming more fully yourself. Here and Wow Therapy is a space where that work is taken seriously — and can occasionally be a little fun.

I am open to new ideas and problem solving, through listening and exploring options. I welcome in depth conversations and always learn from my clients. Creating an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is a primary goal. Setting attainable realistic goals for life. I have experience in business, schools (k-12 and higher education) and the Family Court System

My experiences include extensive training for diverse populations: Community Oriented Police, School Police officers, First Responders and Hospital security.

I have also taught coparenting classes and work with hundreds of couples in creating and implementing parenting plans. I have instructed and supervised counselors in training at both the University level and have been a hands on field instructor.

In the area of leadership, I have been president of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association, president od the board of both Circle Group Homes and the William Gladden Foundation. I have served on many community boards and current chair the scholarship committee for The Greater Allegheny Education Foundation.

I’m a warm, solution-focused, and person-centered therapist who values direct and authentic communication. My approach is grounded in respect and collaboration, working with clients to navigate challenges and build meaningful change. I specialize in supporting individuals experiencing psychosis, OCD, and autism, and also have expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, BPD, and suicidal ideation. I work with clients across a range of concerns, including grief, relationship struggles, men’s and women’s issues, and PTSD. My goal is to create a supportive space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered to grow.

I encounter clients where they are. As we build a relationship, we explore coping skills. I believe that small progress is still progress.