Nelsery De Leon, LMFT is founder and clinical supervisor at Growth Journey; an independent mental health treatment center providing therapy services virtually (across Pennsylvania) and in-person sessions in Philadelphia. As a bilingual (Spanish and English) 1st generation immigrant (born in the Dominican Republic) who identifies as Afro-Latina, Nelsery is known for bringing compassion, vibrancy, and enthusiasm into her therapy practice, supporting marginalized populations (including 1st generation immigrants/their parents, ethnic/racial minorities, and adult survivors of relational and/or immigration-related traumas). Nelsery brings a wealth of knowledge from her experience treating couples, families, and individual adults in the minority community. ...

The guiding philosophy at The Growth Journey is rooted in understanding that we, as human beings, all matter. We all laugh, we all cry. We all lose people we love, and experience losses. No matter what country or political context, on a deep and fundamental level, we all share desires to experience joy, to better understand ourselves, and to feel a sense of belonging within our families and communities. The Growth Journey aims to support your unique path to lasting wellness and self-awareness; to empower your achievement of lasting healing, harmonious relationships and personal success as you take action to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma- letting go of any parts of your past experiences that no longer serve you.

Achieving forgiveness towards those who trespassed against you is not for their benefit- it’s for your own peace. Re-establishing connection with estranged family members, learning skills to becoming better parents, and learning how to show up more authentically in all areas of life (without forgetting where you came from) is not only possible, it’s very much within reach. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. If you’re ready to look inward with the help of a caring professional who will send you back to your ancestors, we look forward to supporting you as you embark on your own Growth Journey.

Nelsery earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Temple University, and then completed her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, graduating from La Salle University. After her graduate coursework and subsequent licensure as an LMFT, Nelsery founded The Growth Journey, where she currently provides inclusive/culturally-sensitive therapy services to underserved minority populations, while providing clinical supervision to the up-and-coming generation of pre-licensed psychology professionals.

Meet Nelendy De Leon, LPC and Spanish-Speaking clinician at Growth Journey. As a 1st generation immigrant from the Dominican Republic, Nelendy is a seasoned mental health professional with a wealth of experience supporting undocumented immigrants navigate challenges and overcome fears that commonly arise during life transitions. Nelendy is passionate about supporting her patients’ adjustment and growth throughout the process of orienting themselves to the point where they feel most alive. As mother of two young children, Nelendy has simultaneously achieved lasting balance in her personal life, as well as success in her career, having learned the skills necessary to balance responsibilities of both work and motherhood, and she is passionate about helping new mothers and individuals to do the same. ...

Nelendy’s clinical style is warm and nurturing while maintaining a great deal of energy and motivation. During therapy together, Nelendy meets you exactly where you are, and will attentively support your success as you do the work to achieve your goals.

Nelendy earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in NY, before earning her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, with a concentration in Forensics, from Rosemont College in PA. Nelendy then went on to earn licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and continues to follow her passion for supporting the success of new mothers and immigrants in her clinical work at Growth Journey.

Meet Christina Holiday, one of our clinical staff at Growth Journey Therapy. Christina is both bilingual (Spanish and English) and has a wealth of knowledge, having developed a well-rounded skill set for providing supportive services during her prior professional experience working as a school counselor. She soon became a seasoned professional, assisting parents and students to address common difficulties among school-aged youth, helping students facing challenges (including experiences of intense anxiety, depression), and supporting students who are struggling to navigate transitional periods in their lives such as college admission. ...

Christina’s passion and enthusiasm for supporting lasting balance and well-being amongst marginalized youth and the BIPOC community, combined with a warm clinical style, creates a safe and culturally affirming therapeutic environment to support her patients while they learn to show up in their lives more authentically, continuously supporting patient efforts at every step of you and your loved one’s journey towards lasting healing. Christina is also an experienced facilitator of therapy groups, well-versed in crisis intervention, and her compassionate and no-nonsense communication style lends to rapid development of powerful therapeutic alliances with teens, rendering her an effective liaison between youth patients and their families.

By skillfully mediating family communication, she effectively facilitates increased understanding between teens and parents, which is especially valuable during transitional periods in family life. Her aim is to support personal autonomy, empowering her patients to trust themselves; because she knows that only you know what is right for you.

Christina earned her bachelor’s degree in international relations and Spanish Studies, with a minor in Women’s Studies from The University of Delaware. Next, she went on to complete her graduate coursework, earning a master’s degree in School and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania, in 2022. Currently, Christina is currently working towards licensure, completing clinical hours under the supervision of Nelsery De Leon, LMFT. Whether you are a teen, adult, new mother, or parent to a school-aged child seeking expert guidance through life’s challenges, Christina brings a wealth of expertise to her role, offering personalized and effective counseling, supporting you and your family on your journey towards healing and self-discovery.

Personal growth transcends the mind, encompassing both body and spirit. In my role, I’m committed to guiding you on your path to healing and self-discovery. By crafting a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, I’ll walk beside you, offering enthusiastic support as you pursue your goals and embrace meaningful transformations. Within a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment, you’re invited to explore every facet of your identity, allowing for profound relief and deeper self-understanding. My journey as a queer Latinx woman has enriched my understanding of how cultural influences and personal experiences intricately shape our sense of self. This insight, combined with my warm, approachable clinical approach, has fostered a special connection with the LGBT community, particularly with LGBT teenagers. These young individuals navigate the complexities of adolescence and sexual orientation, seeking to define their identities in an accepting and supportive space. ...

In this compassionate, judgment-free zone, you’re encouraged to discover and celebrate the most genuine version of yourself. We’ll engage in a collaborative partnership, grounded in trust, transparency, and respect, to identify your strengths and devise practical strategies to meet the challenges you face. Embracing your true self becomes an empowering journey of self-acceptance and growth.

My academic path began with a psychology degree from Temple University, where I discovered the significant impact of bilingualism on human development. Before pursuing graduate studies, my role as an admissions counselor in a dual-diagnosis inpatient care facility provided me with invaluable insights into the struggles associated with addiction. This experience deepened my understanding of addiction’s hold on individuals and their families, the interplay of genetic factors, and the complexities of concurrent mental health issues. It highlighted the relentless dedication required to overcome addiction.

I am currently advancing my education with a master’s degree in Community and Trauma Counseling at Thomas Jefferson University. My aim is to become a licensed counselor, continuing to offer empathetic, trauma-informed therapy to those seeking support and willing to embark on a journey of healing.

Karla is a Chilean immigrant, a committed advocate for marginalized communities, and a passionate mental health professional. Drawing from her extensive experience supporting individuals facing systemic inequities—such as people who use drugs, the unhoused, women, incarcerated individuals, and immigrants—Karla understands the deep emotional and psychological challenges that come with being part of a marginalized group.

Her educational background is rich and diverse, with training in social science, public policy, and public health, along with her current engagement in harm reduction research. She is also training as a Lacanian psychoanalyst at the Lacan School of Psychoanalysis and pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health at Thomas Jefferson University, focusing on community trauma and healing. Her work integrates a deep respect for the individual’s unique mental health journey, emphasizing that true healing is personal, transformative, and ongoing. ...

In her clinical practice, Karla brings an orientation that underscores the significance of language, desire, and subjectivity in shaping the therapeutic process. She recognizes that each person’s journey is unique and that their story and experience—especially in the face of trauma and displacement—deserve to be heard and respected. Through her therapeutic approach, Karla helps clients confront the unconscious structures that influence their emotional and psychological life, fostering lasting change that empowers them to live more fulfilling, authentic lives, connected with your desires.

Karla’s work is deeply rooted in the belief that mental health is a journey, not a destination. She is passionate about creating a safe, culturally responsive space where Latino immigrants, particularly those impacted by trauma and systemic oppression, can explore their inner lives and experiences. By honoring each person’s path and supporting their ongoing growth, Karla believes clients can experience profound shifts that lead to lasting healing, resilience, and the ability to live rich, meaningful lives.

Karla’s approach to mental health care is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to social justice. She is driven to break down barriers to mental health care for Latino immigrants and marginalized populations, working toward a more inclusive and trauma-informed space for healing and transformation.

Eliana brings over a decade of experience in administrative coordination, client services, and psychometric support, making her an invaluable first point of contact for Growth Journey Therapy. With a background in clinical psychology and psychometrics, Eliana combines strong organizational skills with a compassionate and client-centered approach. She is fluent in both Spanish and English and excels in helping clients feel heard and supported from the moment they reach out.

As Intake Coordinator, Eliana supports new and existing clients through the intake and scheduling process, ensures documentation and billing are handled smoothly, and collaborates closely with the clinical team to ensure care is accessible and responsive. Eliana’s warmth, attention to detail, and ability to communicate effectively across cultures help create a welcoming and professional experience for every client.

Vivian is a Chilean-American M.S. student in Community and Trauma Counseling at Thomas Jefferson University. With a background in law, public advocacy, and creative healing, she brings a rich interdisciplinary perspective to her clinical work. Vivian is fluent in Spanish and deeply committed to providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive care to Latinx and underserved communities. ...

Her previous experience includes representing survivors of domestic violence as a public interest attorney, designing arts-based therapeutic spaces for older adults, and co-leading women’s circles grounded in collective healing. She also co-founded and led Eden Village Camp, where she helped build a nationally recognized culture of kindness, developed staff training in reflective listening, and established robust mental health support systems.

Vivian views therapy as a collaborative and creative process rooted in safety, curiosity, and care. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals navigating identity, grief, and life transitions. Her approach weaves together relational depth, somatic awareness, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for connection, healing, and growth.

Gina is a Jordanian–Palestinian M.S. candidate in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Chestnut Hill College. Fluent in English and Arabic, she brings a strong multicultural lens and deep sense of cultural humility to her clinical work. Her background includes experience in a psychiatric clinic in Jordan, as well as trauma-informed volunteer work in Philadelphia with survivors of domestic violence and individuals navigating homelessness. She is also engaged in community advocacy and research grounded in empowerment and healing for marginalized populations. ...

Gina approaches therapy as a space where clients don’t need to have it all figured out. She meets people with warmth, respect, and deep listening—creating a collaborative environment where healing can unfold at a safe and empowering pace. She draws from trauma-informed care, body-based practices, and culturally responsive frameworks, always tailoring her work to honor each client’s identity, values, and story. Her calm presence and gentle curiosity help clients feel grounded, even in times of uncertainty or grief.

Her lived experience across three countries—Jordan, Spain, and the U.S.—informs her strong commitment to justice, inclusion, and mental health accessibility. Gina believes that every person deserves to feel seen, supported, and capable of meaningful change. She is especially passionate about working with clients from immigrant, refugee, and global-majority backgrounds, and is committed to offering therapy that supports connection, relief, and long-term growth.