Tessa McArdle

LSW

honest. tending. devoted. deliberate. lively

she/her

Hey there! I'm Tessa, a Licensed Social Worker and psychotherapist, and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Picture me as your ally in the journey toward justice and healing!

My path started at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice, where I cultivated a passion for curiosity, compassion, and imagining bold changes. Now, I bring these qualities to Transitional Characters, where I'm all in on embodying them fully.

To me, mental health isn't just about individual well-being; it's about reclaiming our true selves, a cornerstone of building a fairer society. I firmly believe that delving into our inner worlds and healing our wounds together is revolutionary, paving the way for healthier communities and a more equitable world.

My journey began in 2016, working closely with youth and families across various school settings. Whether it's elementary schoolers or college students, I've found my calling in supporting young folks. I draw from a toolbox filled with diverse approaches like psychodynamic practices, play therapy techniques, and skill-based interventions, always through a trauma-informed lens and with an eye on systemic change.

But therapy isn't just about the techniques—it's about genuine connection and collaboration. I'm all about setting goals together, sharing knowledge, and fostering deep bonds that extend beyond the therapy room.

I'm not afraid to be vulnerable because I see it as a source of strength. And as I continue to learn and grow, I'm diving into Liberation Psychology, eager to expand my horizons alongside my community.

When I'm not empowering others, you can find me nurturing my own well-being, surrounded by friends and loved ones, rearranging furniture, tending to my plant babies, playing fetch with my dog, cuddling with my cat, and stealing away to the mountains or beaches whenever I can.