Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Wendy
Wendy Watkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 15 years of experience and a strong background in higher education, advocating for students from diverse backgrounds and needs. She is passionate about helping others reach their highest potential and specializes in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and those navigating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief, and major life transitions.
Wendy earned her Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Moravian University. She utilizes a client-led, individualized approach and integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and psychoanalytic insight to support her clients’ unique therapeutic journeys.
Wendy is deeply committed to helping clients navigate life’s emotional challenges. She fosters a warm, empathic space where clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered. She aims to help individuals clarify their needs, overcome barriers, and achieve meaningful personal growth.

"I understand that life is difficult, and I provide a safe space for individuals of all backgrounds to work through their life experience and reach their personal goals."
Get to know Wendy
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I decided to become a clinical counselor because I wanted to help people on a deeper level and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. I wanted to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for people to explore their thoughts and feelings and to improve their quality of life. I believe it helps us breakout of our internal thoughts and can provide a fresh perspective to begin healing and achieve goals.
What types of clients do you work with best?
The clients I work with the best are clients are teenagers, adults, couples and families with a variety of goals and diagnosis.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I'm excited to work with clients that are excited to make a change in their life and reach their fullest potential.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
One thing I wish all clients knew is that everyone has struggles no matter what it looks like on the outside. We all share the same emotions, love, anger, joy, disappointment, pain, pleasure and no matter what that there is hope.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to work at Thriveworks for their high level of support and understanding for their clients and their staff. Providing a safe space and easy access for people seeking counseling.
What inspires you?
Life inspires me. People inspires me. Finding joy and peace in the little things everyday.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
In the first sessions, clients can expect a warm and understanding welcome. I am there for them and have their best interest as the goal.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
In a first session, I like to accomplish the regular housekeeping of what counseling usually entails for a client. I think the two most important things for a client to know in the first session is what to expect when they come into the session and to feel comfortable. I will work on getting to know more about the client as a person, what brought them into counseling and what they would like to get out of sessions.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I think clients should know that I may challenge them and give them "homework" in order for them to reach their goals. I am a big believe in the benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe in knowing a client's history to better understand their thought processes and perspective. But most importantly, I am there to help them on their path to their goals.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
Family is the most important and when I am not spending time with them or my little Shih Tzu, Minnie. I enjoy working in my garden and anything that goes along with nature. I am a certified Master Gardener through Penn State. I love dancing and I do a variety of styles. I'm currently learning Argentine Tango. I also paint, enjoy reading and traveling.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
I think the one thing that defines me is that I like to explore life and all it has to offer. I like to experience new and positive things and that there is a lesson in every experience.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 15 years
- Graduating institute
- Moravian University
- Graduating degree
- Master's in Clinical Counseling
