Al Fernandes
LSW | Licensed Social Worker (In supervision toward clinical licensure)
Hi, I’m Al (she/her he/him)
I’m a Licensed Social Worker with an MSW from the Smith College School for Social Work. When we take time to slow down and give our pain attention, we make meaning out of our struggles and experience healing. I love this process both in my own therapy and when working with others. It’s engaging, but more importantly it’s an opportunity to resist oppressive forces by offering ourselves love and space. Using various methods, we can: carefully explore grief and trauma; pull apart shame, and be present for parts of you that deserve compassion; empower you over oppressive systems; make room for more pleasure and joy; relate to others differently, more deeply, or more often; affirm who you are, and find gratitude for what you’ve learned.
While I may sometimes challenge you, you can expect from me sincere warmth, curiosity, and genuine, authentic care. You can also trust that you don’t need to explain your identity; I see you. As a Queer, Bigender therapist, I rely on who I am, certain frameworks, and communication to ensure I understand you. Queer theory, anti-racism, gender-affirming practices, and social justice-oriented psychotherapy inform my style.
I come from a White working-class family and have worked in intense labor and community organizing. I work with people of any age, sexuality, and see folks in relationships and families of any kind. I specialize in working with LGBTQ folks, men’s and women’s issues, and couples. Together we’ll create a consistent space – where humor, play, and feedback are encouraged, and a place that you look forward to coming back to each week!
Areas of focus: Depression; Anxiety and Fear; Gender and Sexuality; ADHD; Neurodivergence; PTSD; OCD; Complex Trauma, including childhood and sexual CPTSD; Grief; Relationship Issues; Men’s and Women’s Issues; Self-esteem.
In my spare time, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, connecting with friends, curated memes, hiking, and gardening.
I offer in-person therapy in Northern Liberties and can meet virtually.
I sincerely look forward to meeting you! Take care.
Al accepts Highmark, Quest, Aetna and Cigna insurances.
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