Daniel Somma
INTERN | DO, PGY-3
He/Him/His
“Not until we are lost do we begin to find ourselves.” — Henry David Thoreau
I chose this quote because feeling lost is often the first step toward finding something different. People often reach a point where they know something isn’t working, but can’t seem to figure out how to change it. They might feel stuck, unsure where to start, or frustrated living in the same patterns that feel difficult to change. Thoughts like “Why do I have these intense emotions” or “Why can’t I change this, I’m doing the best I can” might come up. If you’re reading this, some part of you probably wants things to be different. Getting to this point matters.
Therapy can be a space where things start to make sense, and at the same time it can be uncomfortable or even intimidating. As a physician in psychiatry residency, I’ve had the opportunity to help patients and families through some of the most overwhelming, confusing, and uncertain times of their lives. I know how important it is to have someone who will work hard to listen, understand, meet you where you’re at, and move at your pace.
I find meaning in working with all kinds of people. I especially enjoy working with those carrying more than one thing at once, whether that’s overlapping diagnoses, chronic illness, or just a complicated picture that hasn’t fully made sense yet. While I won’t be prescribing medications here, my training means I’m thinking about both the mind and body.
My path here started with my own therapist, who introduced me to mindfulness and meditation years before I ever learned about DBT formally. While I’ve seen DBT make a real difference for the people I’ve worked with, learning about the skills has shaped my life too.
When I think about what I want for my clients, I find myself asking a question. What do YOU want? I work hard to help you develop flexibility and freedom to move in the direction you want in life. You’ve already come this far through your wisdom and strengths. You’re the expert in yourself. Let’s build on that, while addressing the things that are getting in the way.
In my free time, I enjoy playing guitar, weightlifting, listening to stand-up comedy, and meditating. I also love surfing the Jersey Shore or hiking through the trails in North Jersey. I play pickleball with friends and am always looking for a new restaurant to try in Philadelphia. Lately I’ve also been trying to keep my houseplants happy, especially my nerve plants, which is easier said than done!
Ages: 13+
Location: Voorhees & Online Counseling in New Jersey
Specialties: DBT
Experience: Depression, Self-Harm, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Chronic Medical Conditions, Addiction
Clients: Individuals