Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Sydney
Sydney Vaughn is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with over 3 years of experience supporting individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in working with children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, behavioral challenges, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sydney has extensive experience working with neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum.
Sydney earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Temple University. Her clinical training includes crisis intervention and inpatient psychiatric care, equipping her to respond with empathy and insight in high-stress environments. Sydney’s approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in compassion.
Sydney creates a calm, affirming space where clients feel heard and supported. She guides individuals to reconnect with their inner voice and navigate life’s challenges at their own pace. Whether you’re managing anxiety, trauma, or self-doubt, Sydney helps you exhale, heal, and move forward with confidence.

"As a woman of color and a counselor, I understand the courage it takes to ask for support in a world that often misunderstands or overlooks our experiences."
Get to know Sydney
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I became a counselor because I’ve always been drawn to understanding people beyond the surface—what shapes them, what wounds them, and what helps them heal. Working with children on the autism spectrum early in my career opened my heart to how much we all need to feel seen and supported in our unique ways. I witnessed how behavior often masks deeper emotional needs, and I knew I wanted to be the person who could help unpack and address those needs with care. My passion grew from there—especially in supporting individuals who feel misunderstood, silenced, or emotionally overwhelmed. Counseling allows me to create a space where people can reconnect with their truth and their voice, and that’s a privilege I don’t take lightly
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with children, adolescents and adults
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I’m most excited to work with adolescents, because it’s such a pivotal time of discovery, identity formation, and emotional growth. It’s a stage where you're beginning to step into who you are, but that also comes with confusion, pressure, and exploration. I’m passionate about helping teens navigate the uncertainty, while also empowering them to connect with who they are—and who they want to become. Being a steady, supportive presence during that process is something I find incredibly meaningful.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish all clients knew that healing doesn’t mean having it all figured out—it means allowing yourself to grow at your own pace, without shame. You are not broken; you are becoming.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
hose Thriveworks because it values accessible, client-centered care and supports clinicians in doing what they do best—showing up fully for their clients. I was drawn to the collaborative, compassionate environment and the opportunity to reach diverse communities in need of healing.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the resilience and strength people show even in their most vulnerable moments. Having worked closely with children on the autism spectrum and adults facing anxiety, trauma, and identity challenges, I’ve seen firsthand how healing begins when someone feels truly seen and accepted. That quiet courage to keep going, to explore who you are despite confusion or pain—that’s what fuels my passion to be a counselor and hold space for transformation.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
In the first session, clients can expect a safe, welcoming space where we’ll get to know each other and begin building trust. I’ll listen closely to your story, concerns, and goals—without judgment or rush. We’ll talk about what brought you to therapy, explore what you hope to achieve, and start thinking together about how I can best support you. It’s also a time for you to ask any questions about the process and for us to discuss what feels most comfortable for you moving forward.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
In the first session, my goal is to create a foundation of trust and safety where the client feels heard and understood. I want to gather a clear picture of their current challenges, strengths, and what they hope to achieve through therapy. Together, we’ll start identifying immediate concerns and set initial goals that feel meaningful and manageable. It’s important that the client leaves feeling supported and hopeful about the journey ahead.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
Clients should know that I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and affirming space where their unique story and experiences are valued. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each person’s needs. I’m here to support you at your own pace, honoring your truth and goals throughout the healing process.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy poetry, music, working out, and practicing reiki and playing instruments.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One thing that defines me is grounded adaptability.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 3 years
- Graduating institute
- Temple University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Education in Counseling Psychology
