Kelsey Counihan
Kelsey Counihan, MSW, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Pennsylvania. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, PA Chapter and is a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist. Kelsey offers individual counseling and specializes in grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, and relationship stress in adults. She also works with couples to improve communication, strengthen their connection, and navigate challenges such as infidelity. Kelsey utilizes a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused approaches, and Family/Marital Therapy, including the Gottman Method.
Kelsey understands that starting therapy can feel intimidating, and her counseling philosophy is designed to help clients feel comfortable exploring difficult issues while creating practical strategies to manage life’s challenges. She provides a compassionate, supportive space where clients can gain insight, build coping tools, and feel more steady and confident. Counseling with Kelsey begins with a thorough biopsychosocial assessment to ensure that each client’s needs are fully addressed.
Education & Experience
Since beginning her career in social work in 2017, Kelsey has supported individuals, couples, and families in navigating complex life situations. She discovered her passion for helping others while volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, religious organizations, and other community programs as a teenager, which inspired her to pursue social work. She earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Slippery Rock University and her master’s degree in social work from California University of Pennsylvania. After graduation, she earned her LSW and became a licensed social worker.
Over the course of her career, Kelsey has worked with clients ranging from age 2 to 102. She began with an internship at a community counseling center, working with adults and children, and then served as a therapeutic support specialist for children and families. During her graduate internship, she worked with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
After earning her master’s degree, Kelsey transitioned to hospital social work, where she worked with clients facing anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, grief, end-of-life issues, substance abuse, domestic abuse, and homelessness. She provided emotional support to patients and families during critical life moments and continued to strengthen her mental health expertise during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping clients navigate unprecedented psychosocial challenges.
Hobbies & Interests
Kelsey believes overall wellness is supported by exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management. Outside of work, she enjoys engaging in Pure Barre, hiking, and traveling. She has explored Europe and enjoys experiencing new cultures and destinations. Kelsey also loves spending time with her dog, friends, and family. She enjoys visiting craft shows and botanic gardens, exploring creative projects, and spending time in nature, all of which help her relax and recharge.
How to Get Started
Kelsey provides in-person therapy at our South Hills location. You can reach us at 412-322-2129 or email us at info@counselingwellnesspgh.com to get started. Or contact us here.