Sessions are ALWAYS very helpful. Gives me insight on problems and helps to address problems and find solutions.

A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Desiree

See what other clients say
geometry-shapes iconStress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety
Online in Pennsylvania
21 years in practice
Ages served: 18-65+
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Accepted insurance & self-pay

Desiree accepts 45 insurers
Aetna
Anthem
Cigna | Evernorth
Cigna | Evernorth - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network
Ambetter Health | Commercial
AmeriHealth Administrators
AmeriHealth Medicare Advantage
AmeriHealth Pennsylvania
Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)
Carelon
Carelon | Medicare Advantage
Clover Health Medicare Advantage
Compsych
Devoted Health | Medicare Advantage
First Health Network
Geisinger Health Plan
Geisinger Health Plan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)
HealthSpring | Medicare Advantage
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Pennsylvania | Exchange
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Pennsylvania | Medicare Advantage
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Pennsylvania | PPO - HMO
Humana Medicare Advantage
Independence Administrators
Independence Blue Cross | BCBS
Independence Blue Exchange
JP Farley Corporation
Keystone 65 Medicare Advantage
Keystone Health Plan East HMO (CHIP)
Keystone Health Plan East HMO | POS
Martins Point (US Family Health Plans)
Medicare PA
Multi Plan PHCS
Optum Serve
Oscar Health
Personal Choice 65 Medicare
Personal Choice PPO | EPO
Quest Behavioral Health
Railroad Medicare
Tricare East | Out of Network Provider
UMR
United Healthcare | Optum
United Healthcare | Optum - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
United Healthcare | Optum Medicare Advantage
Uprise EAP
Wellcare by Allwell | Pennsylvania Health and Wellness
SELF-PAY COSTS
Out-of-pocket session costs for clients who don’t have insurance or aren’t covered by their insurance for mental health services.
$220
first session
$180
subsequent sessions
About Provider

About Desiree

Desiree Ross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience. Desiree has collaborated with clients from diverse cultures and of all ages seeking support for issues such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, loss, health concerns, stress, oppression, identity, and navigating life transitions. Additionally, she is seasoned in the treatment of adults with PTSD, unresolved trauma, grief, and emotional attachment concerns.

Desiree earned her Master’s degree from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College and her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fordham University-New York City. She had the privilege of performing with a renowned ballet company as a classically trained dancer prior to providing talk therapy. Her experiences with people through the creative arts interwoven with her understanding of healing through supportive, guided, and committed connectedness have enabled her to work successfully with people of varying backgrounds.

Therapy outcome is very much the result of the unique rapport between client and therapist. To that end, Desiree is attentive, non-judgmental, person-centered, and culturally responsive in her approach. She is LGBTQIA+-affirming and uses an anti-oppressive lens in her practice. She looks forward to meeting with you for an appointment.

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Desiree Ross's profile image

"As a health provider and social justice advocate, my work is informed by providing a safe space for healing."

What clients say

What clients say

These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.

Sessions are ALWAYS very helpful. Gives me insight on problems and helps to address problems and find solutions.

A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Desiree

Communication via text is great. Set up is easy and Desiree is amazing! Unless therapist assigns the pre anxiety survey, maybe stop sending it. Not a big deal though.

A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Desiree

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Get to know Desiree

Why did you decide to become a counselor?

Early in my life I made the decision to provide therapy. I was a ten-year-old in the client chair working with a culturally competent, empathic clinical social worker who inspired me to help others. I very much valued our professional relationship and understood the benefits of our connection. I knew then I would pursue a career in social work. The experience with my childhood therapist activated my proclivity toward psychology, human development, and behavior. I subsequently immersed myself in clinical psychology books because I found them interesting and knew without a doubt my life's work would include helping other people feel better. I am profoundly grateful for this journey!


What types of clients do you work with best?

I work best with clients who offer space allowing me to meet them where they are at. Together we create a path forward addressing their therapy needs and goals.


What type of clients are you most excited to work with?

I am most excited to work with people who are seeking growth, life enrichment, and/or resolution through the therapeutic relationship.


What's one thing you wish all clients knew?

Sometimes misunderstandings, missed opportunities, or inaccuracies happen within the therapeutic relationship. It is during these times when the benefits of trauma informed recovery work (e.g., rupture and repair) can also happen. Once a client is comfortable with the therapeutic dynamic because the bond is secure, rupture and repair might be life shifting. At the very least, it will alter the expectations a client may have regarding relationships and move them toward more adaptive ones.


Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?

Thriveworks Counseling offers me the autonomy to do what I do well. Thriveworks' mission aligns with my values. I take pride in and enjoy partnering with organizations that help their communities and are ethical in their practices.


What inspires you?

I find inspiration in many places. The freedom of expression of people, through the musical and performing arts as well as people who work toward living more enriched, empowered lives inspire greatly.


What can clients expect in their first session with you?

During our first therapy session you can expect my unconditional positive regard, attentiveness, and openness to answering questions. We will address the concerns you may have about therapy.


What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?

In addition to developing a respectful rapport and working alliance, establishing treatment goals will be a comprehensive first session.


What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?

I want clients to know that I've seen the positive outcomes of therapy. I believe in the power of therapy. I am deeply committed to the work and each unique therapeutic relationship I feel privileged to care for.


What do you do for fun/on your time off?

I enjoy music, reading, nature, travel, and connecting with people.


What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?

Hopeful.


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Other areas of focus

SpecialitiesStress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+
ApproachesPsychoanalytic, Person-Centered Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment-Based, Relational, Narrative, Motivational Interviewing, Jungian, Feminist, Humanistic / Rogerian
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Education and training

Years in practice
21 years
Graduating institute
Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
Graduating degree
Master of Social Work (MSW)
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Additional details

Languages spoken by this provider
English
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NPI number1457421737
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State of practicePA
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License numberCW016207
Practice location

Practice information

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Desiree Ross

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)she/her