Thinking outside of the box

Doctor Thomas Wood LCSW

Therapist, educator, supervisor, artist & coach

Enlightening perspectives for a brighter outlook

Sex & Relationship Therapy

As a trauma-informed sex and relationship therapist, I create a compassionate space for diverse individuals and couples to explore sexuality, build intimacy, and navigate relationship challenges.

Coaching

I offer coaching services that merge therapy and expertise to empower clients for fulfilling lives, tailored to individual needs for potent personal growth.

Supervision

As a therapy supervisor, I specialize in the art of the therapeutic process. I possess a comprehensive knowledge of various theories and techniques, enabling me to adeptly teach and guide supervisees in developing their unique therapeutic style.

Speaking

I leverage my voice as a speaker and educator to inspire change, bring awareness to mental, emotional, and sexual health issues. I work to challenge societal norms, promote empathy, and empower individuals to embrace authenticity and forge meaningful connections.

MY APPROACH TO THERAPY

As a creative and interactive therapist, I’m here to help you explore the kaleidoscope of your inner world, just like a color theorist explores the hues and tones of the rainbow.

Think of therapy as your palette, with you as the artist. Together, we’ll mix and blend the colors of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, creating a beautiful masterpiece of self-awareness and growth.

Just like an artist understands the complex interplay between different hues, therapy helps you understand the nuances and complexities of your own emotions and experiences. We’ll work together to identify patterns and themes, helping you create a cohesive and harmonious picture of your inner world.

We’ll explore different shades of your personality, uncovering hidden truths, talents and strengths – building upon them to create a more vibrant and fulfilling life.

Therapy can be a transformative experience that changes the way you see the world. You’ll develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of your own mind, and gain the tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.

So if you’re ready to start painting the picture of your life, let’s get to work exploring the full spectrum of your emotions and experiences together!

MY VALUES

While the bulk of my professional life centered around sex therapy in Philadelphia, I am also a sex educator, coach and supervisor for folks in many parts of the world.

When I sat down to think about what guides and focuses my work as a sex therapist & relationship specialist, I asked myself, “Thomas, what do you want the people who need you to know about you?”

Here are a few of those guiding lights in my personal and professional life: 

01

Authenticity

There is no authenticity without integrity. I strive every day to show up to my work and relationships as my whole self. It is not always graceful, perfect or easy but life has taught me many lesson about the cost of choosing safety over courage.

02

Compassion

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals.” In all areas, I try to find common ground in all of our shared humanity.

03

Artistry

Creativity and discovery can be transformative. I find people, life and social dynamics endlessly fascinating! Engaging in the process of re-imagination is a process of renewal that never ceases to delight and humble me. 

Appointments and questions

Do you have questions or want to work with me?

Call or text me at 302-521-0659 or use the “contact me” option below

where i shine

My focus areas

No therapist is right for every challenge or every person but if my focus areas overlap with your needs, we may be a good fit!

01.

Relationship Therapy

Relationship therapy is grounded in the understanding that at their core, relationships are about “relating.” This perspective can seem simple but the reasons why we stop relating to each other is anything but “simple”. Through exploring patterns of communication, emotional needs, and attachment styles, connection deepens, intimacy builds, and challenges are navigated in a more collaborative and supportive way.

Modalities I use for this work

Gottman Method

Relational Frame Theory

Relational Life Therapy

Internal Family Systems

Strategic Family Therapy

Narrative Therapy

Emotion Focused Therapy

IMAGO Therapy

Bowenian Therapy

02.

Sexual Dysfunctions

Sexual dysfunctions are challenges to the sexual response cycle that can impair a person’s ability to enjoy sexual activity. These can include problems with desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain, and can be caused by physical, psychological, or relationship factors. I provide a dynamic, supportive, and informative space to explore and address these issues, which can  improve sexual functioning, reduce shame and anxiety, and enhance sexual pleasure.

Modalities I use for this work

Systemic Sex Therapy

Sensate Focus

Psychoeducation

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Solution-Focused Therapy

Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy

Bowenian Sex Therapy

Sexual Schema Therapy

03.

Truama

I offer trauma-informed care in all that I do. It is not always easy to identify trauma because most people who carry trauma have been told they are exaggerating or being dramatic. Trauma can have a profound impact on our lives, shaping how we navigate relationships, cope with stress, and view ourselves and the world. Therapy can provide insight into how these experiences continue to affect the present and provide new skills and strategies to manage day-to-day stressors, seemingly out-of-control bodies, and important relationships more effectively.

Modalities I use Most

Polyvagal Therapy

Psychoeducation

Trauma-Informed Psychodynamic Therapy

Narrative Therapy

Brainspotting

Somatic Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

04.

Spiritual Abuse

Spiritual abuse is a form of emotional and psychological harm inflicted by individuals or institutions who misuse their power and authority within a religious or spiritual context. It can involve manipulation, coercion, or the use of fear and shame to control others’ beliefs and behaviors, causing lasting trauma and damage to a person’s sense of self and faith. I believe it is important to recognize and address spiritual abuse to begin healing, reunite with intuition and insight, and to prevent further harm.

Modalities I use Most

Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy

Psychoeducation

Trauma-Informed Psychodynamic Therapy

Narrative Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure Therapy

Somatic Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

05.

Sexual Diversity

The term sexual diversity encompasses a broad range of sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions that differ from the societal norms of heterosexuality and binary gender. This includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, queer, questioning, non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender identities, as well as other diverse expressions of sexuality and gender.  Individuals who experience erotic marginalization may struggle with internalized shame, fear, and stigma, which can hinder their ability to express themselves freely and openly. This can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and even depression or anxiety. I practice Affirmative Therapy which provides a supportive and validating space for individuals to explore their experiences, develop resilience and coping skills, and find ways to express their identity and sexuality more confidently and authentically.

Modalities I use Most

Affirming Psychotherapy

Psychoeducation

Trauma-Informed Psychodynamic Therapy

Narrative Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

06.

Men & Masculinity

Men are socialized to adhere to certain gender norms and expectations that can lead to a range of problems. These expectations often prioritize traits such as emotional suppression, dominance, and toughness, which can make it difficult for men to express vulnerability, seek help, or engage in healthy relationships. This can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and even mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, the pressure to conform to traditional notions of masculinity can contribute to harmful behaviors such as aggression, substance abuse, and compulsive sexual behavior. I understand that men face many pressures to maintain traditional gender roles and societal expectations.  Through process of therapy, men can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, challenge confining norms, and build more fulfilling and authentic lives.

Modalities I use Most

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

Psychoeducation

Trauma-Informed Psychodynamic Therapy

Narrative Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Somatic Therapy

When we are separated from others, or from ourselves, we suffer. It is normal to not know how to make strong or lasting connections but there is help and hope!
Dr. Wood LCSW
please send me a message

Locations & Contact Info

I respond quicker to email communication so please use the contact form available here or call/text if that is more comfortable for you.

my philadelphia office

2133 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19103

my chadds ford office

512 Kennett Pike, Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Office hours

Sunday-Wednesday from 10am-6pm

Contact

Phone: 302-521-0659
Email: dr.wood@philatherapy.com

Play Video

For in-person sessions, my Philadelphia office is located in the beautiful Logan Square section of town. Click the video for a quick tour of the neighborhood!