Why Psychotherapy

"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything? Taking a new step, uttering a new word, is what people fear most"

- Fyodor Dostoevsky

Life can be full of challenges and tribulations that can impact our well being and mental health. I believe our inherent resiliency and adaptability as humans help us overcome the many challenges that we face. Therapy allows for a person to be their true self, and to have their strengths and talents fully recognized. My work with clients is grounded in acceptance, validation, and empathy. I strive to create a safe environment for my clients to begin the process of change and growth.

From my perspective, psychotherapy is about lasting change, and gaining the insight and tools needed to make that change. One of the strengths of therapy is to be heard without being judged or told how to feel or think. Therapy can lead to greater insight than simply talking to family and friends. It can offer encouragement and support for you to take a new step toward lasting change.

Although change can be challenging at first, we are often called to it because something is just not working. Establishing a trusting relationship with a therapist can help bridge the gap between the anxiety to change, and the change needed to engage in a more fulfilling life. If you feel ready to take the next step, please contact me to set up an appointment.

Approach & Specialties

Client Centered

I believe my clients are the experts in their own lives. I strive to offer them a different perspective and support them in making the changes they want to make. I view behavior as occurring in a cultural context and shaped by the relationships in our lives.

Client Populations

I have an interest and experience working with: survivors of trauma, college students, acculturating individuals (international students, immigrant, first generation, etc.), and people struggling with addiction issues.

Psychodynamic & Relational Psychotherapy

My approach is insight oriented with a focus on past experiences and how they can shape our current functioning and relationships. It is rooted in creating a safe and trusting working relationship through validation and a non-judgmental stance.

Anxiety & Addiction

I can provide useful skills to help clients manage anxiety and/or addiction. I have familiarity with the addiction process and can provide clients with information and guidance on a path to attaining or maintaining sobriety. Note: I cannot provide early recovery or intensive addiction services.

Trauma-Informed

Other Clinical Issues & Concerns

Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, adjustment and life transitions, self-esteem, career difficulties or indecision, mood instability and management, men's issues, and existential concerns.

About Me

I am a Licensed Psychologist providing psychotherapy in the Philadelphia area. I have 10 years of therapy experience. I hold a Ph.D in Counseling Psychology and a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling. I provide psychotherapy services for adults and and specialize in working with trauma, mood disorders, addiction and dual diagnosis, college students, and acculturating individuals.

My approach is primarily integrative, combining psycho-dynamic, client centered, and existential lenses. I have the benefit of working in broad clinical settings and client populations prior to starting my practice. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient and outpatient settings, hospitals, college counseling centers, and addiction centers. These experiences have allowed me to be a more flexible clinician and better tailor my approach to different client needs.

I identify as Albanian-American. I was born in Albania and moved to the United States at a young age. My worldview is influenced by my bi-cultural identity and contributes to my open minded and empathic nature. Outside of my work and career interests, I enjoy learning about history, comedy, and spending time with family and friends.

Rates & Policies

Fee

Sessions are $185 for 50 minutes. Payment is due at the time of your session. I accept cash, credit card, or check.

Insurance

I am an in network provider for Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, and Highmark BCBS.

I can provide a receipt of service to submit to your insurance company as an out-of-network provider. Out-of-network service may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance plan, please call your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Cancellation Policy

24 hours advance notice is required if you need to cancel or change the time of your appointment. A $75 fee will be collected for no-shows or late cancellations.

Contact

Xhihani Psychological Services LLC

Andi Xhihani, PhD