Therapy That Moves You Forward
Counseling for Adults and Adolescents Who Are Done Pretending They’re Fine
In-Person in Wexford, PA (Greater Pittsburgh) Telehealth Across PennsylvaniaThey Keep Saying “But You Have So Much Going for You!”
From the outside, Megan* has it all: the job, the apartment, the boyfriend, the savings. People think she’s got it figured out.
From the inside, however, she hasn’t felt like herself in three years.
She’s stopped telling people how she actually feels. The last few times she tried, the response was “but you have so much going for you,” or “have you tried being more grateful?”
Now, when people ask, she just says she’s fine.
“What if I’m not the problem?
What if the script I’ve followed just doesn’t fit?”
His Act Worked Too Well
It’s a Friday night in the North Hills and Alex* is scrolling. Not watching anything. Not texting anyone back.
He’s 26. He’s been a different version of himself for every group of people he’s ever met. Social chameleon. Just blending in. Never actually being his relaxed self.
The performance worked a little too well. Alex doesn’t remember what he used to do for fun, for passion, just because he wanted to.
“I want to do what I like to do, but I have no clue what that is.”
Full of Potential
Tyler* has been told his whole life he has potential. When he hears that word, he wants to put his fist through something.
He has trauma in his history he hasn’t talked about with anyone, ever. He’s been to therapy twice. The second time, the therapist tried to teach him a breathing exercise and he never went back.
“I’m not doing what I’m supposed to be doing. I’m failing myself. I’m failing everyone else.”
Something is Wrong with His Son
It’s a Thursday after school. Jared* is in the kitchen. He hears his son, Ethan, walk in the front door. Ethan goes straight upstairs to his room. Not even a mumbled “hey.” Same as every day this week.
Ethan is 15. He used to get straight A’s and ride bikes with his friends until dark. Now his grades are sliding, and Jared can’t remember the last time Ethan made plans with anyone.
The school counselor uses words like “defiance” and “disrespect.” Jared doesn’t think that’s what this is. He thinks his kid is in pain and doesn’t have any idea how to say so.
*The above names and stories are fictionalized composites of real clients I’ve supported.
Something is Missing.
And You Know It.
Different people. Different situations. Same core challenge.
When something essential goes missing – real connection, some actual say over your own life, the freedom to be yourself, genuine fun – distress shows up in whatever form it can.
Anxiety. Anger. Numbness.
Performing. Shutting down.
Those are signs of a
key need that isn’t getting met.
Most therapy treats the symptoms.
I help you identify which need is going unmet – and then support you to decide what to do about it.
Hi, I’m Jacob.
I’m a counselor in Wexford, PA, and the founder of Wildwood Therapy Collective. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional overwhelm, relationship difficulties, stress, and major life transitions.
My approach to therapy is conversational, collaborative, and genuine. I believe people heal best when they feel safe enough to be honest without fear of judgment. Therapy should feel human – not cold, clinical, or one-sided.
A large part of what motivates my work comes from both personal and professional experiences, including being a father of three boys and seeing how much people need spaces where they can slow down, reconnect, and feel supported.
My background in experiential learning and outdoor leadership continues to shape how I approach counseling. I am also continuing training as a Forest Therapy Guide because I believe healing and personal growth do not always happen sitting in an office under fluorescent lights.
Where They Are Now
Megan is in her apartment on a Friday night. She knows what makes her feel like herself now, and she’s doing more of it. When people ask how she is, the words “I’m fine” are correct. She feels good about her decisions and has a better outlook for her future.
Alex shows up as his authentic self more frequently now. He’s made some new friends and reconnected with some old ones. He’s working a new job that actually fits him, and he’s stopped apologizing for the path he took to get there.
Tyler is still figuring out the career part. He’s got an apprenticeship he didn’t have a year ago, and a girlfriend he can actually talk to about his trauma. He still has bad days, but he comes back from them faster now.
Jared and Ethan are much closer. Ethan’s grades are back up, and he’s seeing his friends again. When something’s wrong, Jared usually finds out straight from Ethan now.
This Is Where Change Starts
You already know something needs to change. That’s why you’re here.
The next step is a free consultation. I’ll learn about what’s happening, and you’ll have the chance to ask any questions you have. We’ll figure out what’s actually going on and whether I’m the right person to help.
What’s stopping you?
11676 Perry Highway, Building #2, Suite 2205
Wexford, PA 15090
Request Your Free Consultation
Fifteen minutes, no cost. In-person in Wexford or by secure video anywhere in Pennsylvania.