Your guiding light for mental wellbeing!

Your guiding light mental wellbeing!

Therapy Your Way

WPA Counseling strives to make therapy accessible to all. Our office is conveniently located in Irwin, PA. Can’t make it into the office? No worries – we’ve got you covered with teletherapy. We’ll schedule every appointment for a time and place that you’re comfortable with. Get ready to set sail on a mental health journey!

Providing You with Shelter from the Storm.

All your appointments will take place in our soothing office environment with fully private rooms and individualized care. WPA Counseling is a safe space where you and your counselor can work together through the storm of mental illness and see the sunshine through the dark clouds. We are personally invested in your mission to help you achieve a healthier mind.

Our Counseling Services

Individual

You don’t have to sail the seas of mental health alone. WPA Counseling offers individual counseling with a licensed therapist who will become the lighthouse you need.

Marriage/Couples

Mistrust, finances, in-laws, WPA Counseling offers comprehensive counseling for a range of issues that commonly strain the relationships of marriage and couples.

Family

A family unit is a complicated unit. WPA Counseling understands that healthy minds are crucial to keeping a family together and strong through thick and thin.

Coaching

Sometimes life is overwhelming, and we’re unsure of which of many paths to take next. WPA Counseling is here to give you a nudge in the right direction with accredited coaching.

Meet Our Team

Your Guiding Light

At WPA Counseling, our compassionate team is here to support you on your mental health journey. Let us guide you toward a brighter, healthier future.

Learn more

Meet Our Team

Your Guiding Light

At WPA Counseling, our compassionate team is here to support you on your mental health journey. Let us guide you toward a brighter, healthier future.

Learn more

Somatic Therapy vs Talk Therapy: Which Heals Trauma Faster?

by WPA Counseling | August 25, 2025 | Trauma | 0 Comments

Have you ever noticed that even after talking through your trauma, your body still holds tension? That’s because trauma affects both the mind and body. This is where the debate of somatic therapy vs talk therapy for trauma comes in, and why therapists often recommend blending approaches like CBT, EMDR, and somatic healing together.

Marriage Counseling in Pennsylvania: Myths That Hold Couples Back

by WPA Counseling | August 19, 2025 | Counseling | 0 Comments

Marriage counseling in Pennsylvania is often misunderstood. Many couples believe it is only for those heading toward divorce, or that it means they have failed as partners. In reality, counseling is a proactive tool that helps couples communicate better, manage stress, and reconnect emotionally.

Is This Normal? Or Is It Emotional Abuse?

by WPA Counseling | July 14, 2025 | Blogs | 46 Comments

Relationships aren’t always easy; disagreements happen, feelings get hurt, and rough patches come and go. But how do you know if what you’re experiencing is normal conflict in a difficult relationship or something more harmful, like emotional abuse? It’s an important...

Before You Give Up on Your Marriage, Read This

by WPA Counseling | July 7, 2025 | Counseling | 10 Comments

Is It Too Late to Fix My Marriage? Here’s What You Should Know Before You Give Up You’re asking this because you still care. Maybe you are exhausted. Maybe you’re heartbroken. You are not sure what to call what you have anymore, but it doesn’t feel like a...

What Nobody Tells You About Relationship Trauma and Emotional Abuse

by WPA Counseling | July 7, 2025 | Trauma | 10 Comments

Emotional abuse doesn’t leave visible bruises, but its wounds can run deep, especially when disguised as love. Survivors often wrestle with confusion, shame, or guilt, unsure whether what they experienced “counts” as abuse. But when love feels like fear, control, or...

This Might Be Why You’re Still Struggling: Signs of PTSD

by WPA Counseling | July 7, 2025 | Trauma | 11 Comments

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or haunted by memories you can’t seem to shake, you’re not alone. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects many people; not just veterans or survivors of extreme violence, but anyone who has experienced trauma...

The Real Reason High-Functioning Anxiety Often Goes Unnoticed

by WPA Counseling | June 9, 2025 | Counseling | 128 Comments

On the surface, everything looks perfect. The individual is highly organized, constantly busy, and always reliable. Colleagues describe them as driven. Friends see them as dependable. Family members admire their energy and achievements. Beneath this mask of control,...

10 Signs You Might Be Missing That It’s Time for Therapy

by WPA Counseling | June 9, 2025 | Counseling | 9 Comments

Everyone experiences emotional ups and downs, but sometimes those struggles become persistent and overwhelming. When emotional pain begins to interfere with daily life, relationships, or physical health, it may be time to seek help. Yet, many people delay therapy,...

How Individual Counseling Helps You Break Free From Anxiety and Depression

by WPA Counseling | April 29, 2025 | Counseling | 141 Comments

Anxiety and depression often feel overwhelming, isolating, and endless. If you are struggling, it can seem as though no one truly understands the weight you carry each day. However, there is hope. Individual counseling for anxiety and depression offers a pathway...

How to Reconnect Through Couples Counseling in Pittsburgh

by WPA Counseling | April 29, 2025 | Counseling | 37 Comments

Relationships are the heartbeat of life, offering companionship, support, and love. However, even the strongest couples face challenges that test their bond. If you’re searching for couples counseling in Pittsburgh, you are not alone, and you are taking a brave first...

What Nobody Tells You About Getting Grief Counseling

by WPA Counseling | April 29, 2025 | Counseling | 25 Comments

Grief can feel overwhelming, isolating, and endless. When you are in the depths of sorrow, it can seem like no one truly understands the weight you carry. However, you do not have to navigate this painful journey alone. Grief and loss counseling services offer...

Before You Give Up on Your Family, Try This Counseling Approach

by WPA Counseling | April 29, 2025 | Counseling | 52 Comments

Families are meant to be a source of love, support, and belonging. However, even the strongest families encounter conflict. Disagreements, misunderstandings, and hurt feelings can slowly erode relationships over time. When tensions run high, many wonder if things can...

Online Trauma Therapy That Works: Start Healing from Home in Pennsylvania

by WPA Counseling | April 29, 2025 | Trauma | 23 Comments

Start Healing from Trauma, Without Leaving Home Trauma can affect every part of your life, your mood, your relationships, your sleep, and your sense of safety. But healing is not only possible; it’s accessible. At WPA Counseling, our online trauma therapy helps you...

What Nobody Tells You About How Trauma Therapy Really Works

by WPA Counseling | April 15, 2025 | Trauma | 130 Comments

If you are wondering what trauma therapy is and if it can help you heal from past experiences, you have found the right resource. This therapy is not about erasing memories; it is about regaining control over your life in a safe and supportive environment. This guide...

How Trauma Therapy in Pittsburgh Helps You Take Back Control

by WPA Counseling | April 7, 2025 | Trauma | 21 Comments

If you’ve been through something traumatic; whether recently or long ago, you might feel like you’re constantly bracing for the next blow. Maybe your heart races at small triggers, or you shut down emotionally without knowing why. Whether it’s PTSD,...

5 Key Steps to Emotional Recovery Most People Miss

by WPA Counseling | April 7, 2025 | Trauma | 99 Comments

Healing from trauma is not just about surviving it is about reclaiming your life and thriving again. Whether you are facing overwhelming memories or struggling with daily triggers, you are not alone, and recovery is entirely within your reach. In this engaging and...

3 Stages of Trauma Recovery You Might Not Know About

by WPA Counseling | April 7, 2025 | Trauma | 22 Comments

Trauma recovery is not about forgetting the past; it’s about learning to live fully in the present. Whether you are navigating the aftermath of a single traumatic event or coping with the long-term effects of complex trauma, healing is possible. And while it rarely...

What Nobody Tells You About Starting Trauma Therapy

by Cydney Thomas | March 17, 2025 | Trauma | 87 Comments

Understanding Trauma Therapy: A Path to Healing Trauma can leave lasting imprints on both the mind and body, affecting emotions, relationships, and overall well-being. It can arise from various sources, including abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or significant...

Before You Let Anxiety Win, Read This

by Cydney Thomas | March 17, 2025 | Counseling | 23 Comments

Don’t Let Anxiety Hold You Back! We’re Here to Help Anxiety can feel overwhelming, making everyday tasks difficult and causing constant worry. If you struggle with persistent stress, racing thoughts, or panic attacks, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience...

The Real Reason Irwin Counseling Is Helping People Transform Their Lives

by WPA Counseling | April 24, 2024 | Uncategorized | 499 Comments

Dive into how local counseling services can truly uplift your life right here in Irwin, PA. Hey, Irwin! Let’s Chat: Ever thought about counseling? Getting local counseling in Irwin PA, it’s not just for the tough times—it’s about stepping up your game in life’s...

How to Start Online Therapy in Pennsylvania (And Make It Work for You)

by WPA Counseling | April 17, 2024 | Uncategorized | 96 Comments

Let’s talk about something important—your mental health. With our busy schedules, it’s easy to neglect, but just like hitting the gym for your body, your mind needs attention too. That’s where Pennsylvania online counseling services come into...

This Might Be Why Your Arguments Never Seem to End

by WPA Counseling | February 26, 2024 | Uncategorized | 459 Comments

Shifting Perspectives Conflict is often perceived negatively within families. By shifting perspectives and viewing conflict as an opportunity for growth instead, however, this can completely transform how we handle disagreements among family members and navigate...

Is It Selfish to Want Therapy; Even If Nothing’s ‘Wrong’?

by WPA Counseling | February 8, 2024 | Uncategorized | 211 Comments

Separating Fact from Fiction in Counseling for Individuals As mental health awareness rises, misconceptions regarding counseling for individuals persist despite efforts at raising awareness. This blog seeks to disprove common myths surrounding individual counseling as...

How Trauma Counseling Is Changing Lives in Pennsylvania

by WPA Counseling | December 22, 2023 | Trauma | 166 Comments

Healing Together: Pennsylvania Trauma Counseling Services Welcome to Your Journey of Healing The weight of past trauma can make everyday life feel overwhelming and isolating. At WPA Counseling, we want you to know that you don’t have to walk this path alone. Our...

Anxiety Counseling in Pittsburgh

by WPA Counseling | December 22, 2023 | Uncategorized | 164 Comments

Meet WPA Counseling – Pittsburgh’s Compassionate Response to Anxiety Anxiety counseling in Pittsburgh – In the heart of Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, there’s a place to find peace and healing from anxiety – WPA Counseling. As our city pulses with life,...

How to Get Real Help for Anxiety, Without Leaving Home

by WPA Counseling | December 22, 2023 | Uncategorized | 28 Comments

Embracing the Digital Shift in Mental Health We’ve all seen how technology is changing our lives and mental health care is no exception. More and more of us are discovering the benefits of online anxiety therapy. Online counseling is a convenient and effective...

What Nobody Tells You About Finding a Good Therapist in Rural Areas

by WPA Counseling | December 19, 2023 | Uncategorized | 186 Comments

The Transformative Power of Online Counseling for Rural Mental Health The article explores the impact of online mental health therapy on rural communities, discussing the challenges in accessing mental health services, the benefits of online counseling, success...

Get Support from Home: Online Counseling in Pennsylvania

by WPA Counseling | December 19, 2023 | Uncategorized | 155 Comments

What You Should Know about Counseling Online in Pennsylvania. Get insight into the significance, advantages, approaches to therapy, and future trends associated with online counseling among residents in Pennsylvania. Book An Online Counseling Session Now Online...

What Nobody Tells You About Grieving During the Holidays

by WPA Counseling | December 18, 2023 | Uncategorized | 159 Comments

Recognizing the Signs of Holiday Grief: What to Look Out For Hey there, friends. Let’s chat about something really important: coping with grief during the holidays. You know, it’s not always easy to spot the signs of holiday grief, especially when everyone...

Before You Face Grief Alone, Read This

by WPA Counseling | December 14, 2023 | Uncategorized | 143 Comments

Grief Counseling in Pittsburgh Grief is an experience shared by all, yet each griever’s journey differs considerably from person to person. Pittsburgh boasts an eclectic blend of cultures and communities whose residents seek comfort through various means. Grief...

How to Reclaim Your Life After Trauma (Even If You Don’t Know Where to Start)

by WPA Counseling | December 14, 2023 | Trauma | 202 Comments

Exploring Growth and Empowerment Life after trauma may feel like wading through thick fog; yet believe it or not, there’s a path through it – not simply back to ‘normal’ but to becoming stronger and more vibrant than ever before! This blog...

The Real Reason PTSD Doesn’t Just Go Away on Its Own

by WPA Counseling | December 12, 2023 | Trauma | 23 Comments

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can often remain hidden behind silence and mistrust, yet emerge out of deeply distressful experiences in profound ways that ripple throughout society. This blog intends to shed some light on PTSD by offering insight into its...

This Might Be Why You Still Struggle with Anxiety, Trust, or Boundaries

by WPA Counseling | December 12, 2023 | Trauma | 49 Comments

When we think back on our childhoods, most of us remember them fondly. For some of us though, those memories also include darker times. Hurtful and fearful experiences from early life that do not simply pass with time; instead, they continue to shape who we are as...

The Real Reason Traditional Depression Treatment Might Not Be Enough

by WPA Counseling | December 12, 2023 | Uncategorized | 27 Comments

Eating Your Way to Better Mood: Holistic Depression Management: Did you know that what’s on your plate can influence what’s going on inside of you? This is true! For those struggling with depression, eating a well-rounded and nutritious diet is vital in...

Signs of Depression You Might Be Overlooking

by WPA Counseling | December 11, 2023 | Uncategorized | 26 Comments

Understanding Depression Depression is more than simply feeling sad. It is an acute mental health disorder affecting millions of people around the globe and is often misinterpreted as weakness or something easily overcome with sheer willpower. Yet depression is...

Before You Burn Out This Holiday Season, Try These Mindfulness Tips

by WPA Counseling | December 11, 2023 | Uncategorized | 29 Comments

Alright, folks, let’s get real for a sec: the holidays, while fabulous, can also turn our stress dial up to eleven. But what if I told you there’s a way to skate through this season with a bit more peace and a lot less chaos? That’s where mindfulness and...

5 Simple Moves That Help You Beat the Winter Blues Fast

by WPA Counseling | December 8, 2023 | Uncategorized | 153 Comments

Alright, team! The days are shorter, the air’s got that nippy bite, and our couches are looking extra snuggly. But before you dive into full-on hibernation mode, let’s chat about a secret weapon against those winter doldrums: staying active. No, I’m...

How to Beat Holiday Stress Before It Ruins the Season

by WPA Counseling | December 7, 2023 | Uncategorized | 21 Comments

Hey There, Holiday Warriors! Let’s Talk About Beating Holiday Stress Welcome! Ah, the holidays. We’re supposed to be sipping hot cocoa and singing carols, right? But let’s be real: sometimes it feels more like we’re juggling a dozen snowballs...

The Real Reason Depression Counseling Builds Long-Term Strength

by WPA Counseling | September 28, 2023 | Uncategorized | 21 Comments

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When facing emotional, physical or mental adversity of any sort, our ability to bounce back quickly is known as resilience. For individuals suffering depression this term describes not just recovery; rather thriving. Depression...

What Nobody Tells You About Holistic Depression Counseling

by WPA Counseling | September 20, 2023 | Uncategorized | 143 Comments

Over the last decade, holistic approaches to health and wellbeing have experienced rapid expansion. Recognizing that mind, body, and spirit are inextricably intertwined, holistic health approaches seek to restore equilibrium with comprehensive care that restores...

This Might Be Why Counseling Didn’t Work for You Before

by WPA Counseling | September 5, 2023 | Uncategorized | 183 Comments

Counseling often conjures images of therapy rooms where individuals sit quietly to discuss their emotions. But counseling encompasses multiple fields that offer many different forms of assistance tailored specifically to address different needs and issues. In this...

How to Cope with Political Anxiety Without Feeling Helpless

by WPA Counseling | August 25, 2023 | Counseling | 258 Comments

Political Division Rises I can’t recall a time in my life when politics where more talked about, publicized, and feared. The term “influencing” has opened the doors to newfound political exposure and not everyone is happy about it all. In fact,...

What Nobody Tells You About Combining Therapy and Coaching

by WPA Counseling | August 19, 2023 | Counseling | 173 Comments

In the journey of self-improvement, we often come across two distinct yet powerful paths: counseling and coaching. Each provides unique benefits and perspectives for personal and professional growth. But what happens when we blend these two dynamic approaches? By...

Is It Normal to Feel Anxious About Starting College?

by WPA Counseling | August 14, 2023 | Blogs | 303 Comments

The transition to college is often viewed as an exciting journey of independence, growth, and new opportunity. While that is true for many, the reality can be far more complex. Students and parents alike often face emotional challenges, overwhelming pressures, and...

How to Heal Your Mind and Body at the Same Time

by WPA Counseling | August 7, 2023 | Counseling | 20 Comments

As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, more people than ever are seeking support from mental health professionals. Today, we recognize that we were designed to thrive in synergy: mind, body, spirit, emotions, and even social connections. Traditional...

Empowering Pennsylvania: Accessible Mental Health Support Statewide

by WPA Counseling | July 31, 2023 | Blogs | 24 Comments

In a time when mental health challenges are more visible than ever, access to effective, compassionate care is vital. That’s where WPA Counseling steps in. With physical locations in Irwin and Penn Hills, and secure online therapy services available across the entire...

This Might Be Why You Always Feel Behind (Even When You’re Doing Everything Right)

by WPA Counseling | June 27, 2023 | Counseling | 151 Comments

In today’s fast-paced, performance-driven world, the pressure to constantly achieve can be exhausting. Society often equates success with material milestones; like owning a large house, driving a luxury car, or taking lavish vacations. Social media only intensifies...

The Real Reason You Still Feel Down After the Pandemic

by WPA Counseling | June 6, 2023 | Blogs | 21 Comments

Pandemic-Related Depression: Understanding and Coping with Mental Health Challenges The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on the world, affecting various aspects of our lives. Beyond its direct physical impact, the pandemic has also taken a toll on mental...

Is This Normal? What Clinical Mental Health Counseling Actually Offers

by WPA Counseling | June 6, 2023 | Counseling | 23 Comments

Struggling with anxiety, trauma, or emotional stress? You are not alone, and help is available. At WPA Counseling, we specialize in mental health counseling that supports your emotional wellness, personal growth, and healing. Whether you’re seeking help for...

Is It Normal to Want More Out of Life; Even When Things Look Fine?

by WPA Counseling | January 25, 2023 | Uncategorized | 66 Comments

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, many people are searching for guidance, direction, and support. The pressures of daily life, combined with the increasing complexity of career and personal goals, have made professional support more vital than...

Is Online Counseling Right for You? A Complete Guide

by WPA Counseling | January 24, 2023 | Counseling | 33 Comments

In today’s digital-first world, everything from groceries to doctor visits has moved online, and therapy is no exception. Online counseling, also called teletherapy or virtual therapy, has become a lifeline for many individuals seeking mental health support with...

What Nobody Tells You About Sarcasm and Hidden Shame

by WPA Counseling | January 12, 2023 | Uncategorized | 35 Comments

A client once shared something that lingered in my thoughts long after our session: “Sarcasm is how I hide my shame.” The more I reflected, the more I realized how true this can be. In the film Anger Management, there is a powerful line where Jack Nicholson tells Adam...

Is This Normal? How to Know If You Should Try Therapy

by WPA Counseling | January 12, 2023 | Blogs | 33 Comments

Is therapy right for you? Choosing to begin therapy can feel intimidating, daunting, or even frightening. Many people find themselves nervous about sharing deeply personal experiences and thoughts with someone they have never met before. You might worry about...

The Real Reason Your Marriage Might Be in Trouble (And How to Spot It)

by WPA Counseling | January 11, 2023 | Blogs | 36 Comments

Marriage is a profound journey filled with shared joys, mutual support, and deep emotional connections. Yet, even the strongest relationships can encounter challenging moments. As marriage counselors often witness, these challenges frequently revolve around...

This Might Be Why You’re Struggling to Move On From Loss

by WPA Counseling | January 6, 2023 | Blogs | 163 Comments

Grief is a natural and profound emotional reaction to significant loss. Most people associate grief with the death of a loved one, but grief can also arise from other substantial life changes such as job loss, divorce, moving away from home, or even the loss of a pet....

What Nobody Tells You About Choosing Between Things and People

by WPA Counseling | January 6, 2023 | Blogs | 30 Comments

Many people spend their lives chasing something they cannot quite name. They say, “I just want to be happy,” believing that happiness is the ultimate goal. But what if there is something more enduring, more grounding, and ultimately more fulfilling? I often pose this...

Before You Give Up the Fight to Stay Present, Read This

by WPA Counseling | January 5, 2023 | Blogs | 61 Comments

Anxiety and depression are more than mental health buzzwordsthey are battles waged quietly by millions. While often diagnosed separately, these conditions share a surprisingly similar core challenge: they both disconnect us from the present moment. Whether someone is...

What Nobody Tells You About Grieving Political Change

by WPA Counseling | August 18, 2021 | Blogs | 29 Comments

Grief is most often associated with the loss of a loved one, but it also applies to many other forms of loss, political loss included. Just as we might feel disappointment after losing a game, we can also experience a profound emotional response when political...

Is It Normal to Feel Burned Out as a Parent?

by WPA Counseling | August 18, 2021 | Blogs | 47 Comments

Parenting is often portrayed as one of life’s greatest joys, filled with giggles, bedtime stories, and proud moments at school plays. Social media, commercials, and parenting blogs make it seem like a never-ending highlight reel of laughter and love. While those...

The Real Reason First Responders Need Mental Health Support Too

by WPA Counseling | August 18, 2021 | Blogs | 32 Comments

First responders regularly face deeply traumatic situations. Whether serving as a police officer, firefighter, or emergency medical technician, the demands of the job are intense. These professionals must work long hours, make rapid decisions under pressure, and often...

Connect with a Care Team Member

Our care team is standing by ready to connect. We believe the healing process begins here. It’s not easy to reach out for help so our care team meets you with warmth and understanding…helping you connect at your pace and based on your needs.

Select a Counselor and Location

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Connect with a Counselor

The care team will schedule an appointment for you either in person at one of our locations or online…depending on what works best for you. At your first appointment, your counselor will get to know your needs and desires for your healing journey and establish a plan to help.

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Begin Your Healing Journey

After a plan is put in place, your counselor will guide you through the process of healing at your pace. We believe the counseling relationship is a partnership. You are the expert on your life and your counselor is the expert on the process. Together we can cart a journey to peace and wellness.