Find a therapist in Philadelphia, PA — covered by insurance

I hold a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and have spent 20+ years in social services supporting people with autism, IDD, trauma, and mood challenges. My work is grounded, affirming, and shaped by real-world experience with diverse, often underserved communities.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and certified in addictions (ICAADC) with years of experience working with individuals facing substance use, trauma, mood disorders, and major life transitions. I'm bilingual (English/Spanish), culturally competent, and bring deep compassion and professionalism to every session. Clients appreciate my direct, honest approach that still feels safe, supportive, and empowering. I believe that healing is possible with the right tools, guidance, and trust.

Thank you so much for reaching out and considering me to walk alongside you. My goal is to help you do more than just get through the day—I want to help you truly thrive. As a Licensed Professional Counselor here in Pennsylvania, I specialize in solution-oriented care designed to help you navigate things like anxiety, depression, and work stress with a renewed sense of self-acceptance.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported from the very first session. I am known for being down-to-earth, genuine, and easy to talk to. I have several years of experience providing family therapy and working with individuals facing anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, family conflict, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and flexible, allowing us to work together to identify goals and develop practical strategies that support meaningful change.

Hi! I'm so glad you're here. As a board certified and licensed counselor, I believe counseling is a collaborative process and I strive to empower clients by honoring their strengths, insight and lived experiences. My clinical experience has primarily been working with individuals and families across a range of life challenges. I am especially passionate about focusing my work on maternal mental health and supporting military spouses.

I’m Dr. Carly Ellman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and sports social worker with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and athletes across a wide range of life transitions.

My therapy style is warm, honest, collaborative, and grounded in compassion. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and my role is to help you build clarity, confidence, and tools that support your wellbeing both inside and outside the therapy room.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, sport-related stress, or a desire for deeper self-understanding, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental place to explore and grow.

My background includes clinical practice, college teaching, and working directly with youth, parents, and coaches to strengthen mental health, resilience, and relationships through evidence-based approaches.

I’ve also earned a Sports Social Work Certificate and serve on the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Mental Health Registry, where I work with athletes navigating performance pressure, identity, anxiety, and stress.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Transformative Journey Counseling, LLC. I hold a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Springfield College and a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from Saint Joseph’s University. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University.

I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, stress, trauma, and adjustment-related challenges. My work focuses on empowering clients to gain insight, build resilience, and find healthy ways to cope and grow through life’s transitions.