Gifted adults often have unique ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world.
These differences can make it hard to connect with others or to find support that truly understands their needs.
Finding a therapist who specializes in gifted adults can help individuals manage challenges and unlock their potential.
In Pittsburgh, there are therapists qualified to support gifted adults with issues related to identity, relationships, or personal growth.
This article explores how professional guidance can make a difference and what to consider when choosing the right therapist.
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1) Jessica Gurley, LCSW – specializes in therapy for gifted adults and families, online sessions available.
Jessica Gurley, LCSW, offers therapy in Pittsburgh for adults and families who may be gifted.
She provides support for a range of emotional needs and life challenges.
Online sessions are available, making it simple for clients to get help from home.
Her practice welcomes those seeking understanding for unique gifted experiences.
Learn more about Jessica Gurley, LCSW and find additional details on her professional profile.
2) Dr. Nancy Lardo, PhD – offers expert recommendations and local counseling in Pittsburgh.
Dr. Nancy Lardo, PhD, is a licensed psychologist based in Pittsburgh.
She provides counseling for a range of needs and is known for her clear recommendations.
Her office is located at 1201 S Braddock Ave. She offers a variety of therapy approaches and works with adults, including those who are gifted.
Clients can contact her directly and often receive a response within a day.
Dr. Nancy Lardo – The Center For Counseling Arts | Center for Counseling Arts | Nancy P Lardo, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
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4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
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Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.
✓ Over 35K licensed professionals
✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
3) Sue Mahony, PhD – provides coaching and therapy tailored to gifted adults’ unique challenges.
Sue Mahony, PhD, is experienced in supporting gifted adults. She understands the specific challenges and needs that come with giftedness.
Sue specializes in helping clients who may feel misunderstood by traditional therapists.
Her approach is direct and informed by years working with gifted individuals.
To learn more about Sue’s services, visit her about page or the section on therapy for gifted adults.
4) TheraThrive – counseling services focused on gifted and twice-exceptional individuals of all ages.
TheraThrive provides counseling and assessment for gifted and twice-exceptional people, including children, teens, and adults.
Their therapists understand the needs of neurodivergent clients and offer both in-person and online support.
Services include individual therapy, social groups, and family counseling.
TheraThrive’s team specializes in helping those with high intensity, sensitivity, or unique ways of thinking.
Learn more at TheraThrive’s counseling for gifted and twice-exceptional clients and TheraThrive main site.
5) Paula Kauffman Oberly, LPC – ADHD coaching and autism counseling for gifted adults.
Paula Kauffman Oberly, LPC, focuses on ADHD coaching and counseling for adults who are gifted or neurodivergent.
Her practice offers support for people with autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
She accepts clients both in-person and through virtual sessions.
Paula is experienced in working with teens and adults starting at age 14.
Learn more by visiting her practice website and profile on Psychology Today.
6) South Hills Counseling – personalized mental health support for gifted adults at various life stages.
South Hills Counseling offers mental health care designed for different life stages and needs.
Their therapists use evidence-based approaches for people dealing with emotional or cognitive difficulties.
Gifted adults can find support for life transitions, personal growth, and mental health concerns.
The team provides individual therapy with personalized plans.
Services are available at multiple convenient locations in the Pittsburgh area. To learn more, visit South Hills Counseling’s official website and browse their counseling profile.
7) East End Therapists – therapy for anxiety, trauma, and identity issues common in gifted adults
East End Therapists in Pittsburgh offers support for adults who face anxiety, trauma, and identity issues.
Their team works with clients who experience challenges that are often seen in gifted people, such as intense emotions and feeling misunderstood.
Therapists use evidence-based methods like CBT and mindfulness to help with stress and self-understanding.
Learn more about their services at East End Therapists and their team approach.
8) Lori L. Cangilla, PhD – individualized support addressing gifted adults’ identity and sensitivity.
Lori L. Cangilla, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in Pittsburgh who works with gifted, creative, and highly sensitive adults.
She developed the Singularly Sensitive approach, which is designed to help clients better understand their identity and sensitivity.
Dr. Cangilla uses creative, holistic, and mindful strategies to support her clients.
She encourages gifted adults to embrace their strengths and unique perspectives.
Learn more at the Singularly Sensitive™ website and the APA Psychologist Locator page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gifted adults in Pittsburgh can find resources tailored to their emotional and mental health needs.
Professional therapists offer support, specialized counseling, coaching, and guidance specifically for gifted and twice-exceptional individuals.
What qualifications should I look for in a therapist specializing in gifted adults?
Seek therapists who have training and experience in working with gifted and neurodiverse populations, such as licensed clinical social workers, psychologists, or counselors.
Many, like Dr. Nancy Lardo, PhD, and Jessica Gurley, LCSW, have specific backgrounds in supporting gifted adults or families.
Look for professionals who mention expertise in creativity, intensity, or neurodivergence, and consider checking for advanced certifications or ongoing education in these fields.
How can therapy help address the unique challenges faced by gifted adults?
Therapy can support gifted adults with issues such as perfectionism, social difficulties, overthinking, and heightened emotional sensitivity.
It also helps with anxiety, imposter syndrome, and feeling misunderstood.
Through counseling, gifted adults learn skills to manage stress, build healthier relationships, and better understand their strengths and sensitivities.
Where can I find therapists with experience in treating gifted adults in the Pittsburgh area?
Several professionals in Pittsburgh have experience working with gifted clients. Jessica Gurley, LCSW, and Dr. Nancy Lardo, PhD, both serve adults and offer online or in-person options.
TheraThrive and Paula Kauffman Oberly, LPC, also serve gifted and twice-exceptional adults, focusing on ADHD and autism counseling.
Dr. Sue Mahony, PhD, provides coaching and therapy for highly gifted individuals.
Local directories, like those found on The Center for Counseling Arts site, can help in finding experienced therapists.
Are there any support groups for gifted adults in Pittsburgh facilitated by professional therapists?
Therapist-led support groups for gifted adults are available in some practices and community centers. These groups provide a shared space to discuss life challenges, social experiences, and emotions unique to gifted adults.
Therapists such as those at TheraThrive or Dr. Nancy Lardo’s center sometimes coordinate or facilitate such groups. Availability may vary, so contacting local providers directly can help.
What therapeutic approaches are most effective for the emotional and mental well-being of gifted adults?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and strength-based therapy are commonly used with gifted adults.
Sessions often focus on self-understanding, emotional regulation, self-acceptance, and building connections.
Therapists may also use coaching techniques to address personal and professional growth goals, especially for highly driven or creative clients.
Many insurance plans in Pittsburgh cover therapy for common concerns like anxiety, depression, or stress. These often overlap with issues faced by gifted adults.
The diagnosis, not the giftedness, determines coverage.
To navigate this, contact the therapist’s office to ask about accepted insurance and billing options. Also ask what diagnoses are covered by your plan.
Practices run by professionals like Jessica Gurley or Dr. Nancy Lardo often help patients check insurance details before starting therapy.
