Johnathon Nocera, MA
Training: John earned a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Nazareth University and a Master’s degree in Philosophy from Duquesne University before pursuing doctoral training in clinical psychology. His background in philosophy continues to inform his interests in existential psychology and psychoanalysis, particularly how values, relationships, life experiences, identity, and meaning shape psychological well-being. He is currently a doctoral candidate in the PsyD program at Roberts Wesleyan University and completed his doctoral practicum at Westside Psychological Services, providing psychotherapy and comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to entering psychology, John volunteered with families at Hospice, worked with at-risk youth at St. Joseph’s Villa, and served in the United States Marine Corps, attained the rank of Sergeant, and served a tour in Iraq.
Clinical Expertise: John’s clinical interests include Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and personality and interpersonal difficulties. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic approaches, and mindfulness-based strategies according to each client’s needs and experiences. At GVP, he is receiving specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and related concerns and has a strong interest in working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Diversity and Inclusion: John believes each person brings their own experiences, identities, values, and perspectives to therapy. He views clients as experts on their lived experience and believes good therapy begins with understanding people as they understand themselves. His priority is to provide a welcoming, respectful environment for people of all backgrounds while approaching individual differences with openness, curiosity, and cultural humility.
Approach to Treatment: John approaches therapy with warmth, empathy, and respect for people working through anxiety, intrusive thoughts, trauma, and difficult life experiences. With his focus currently rooted in ERP treatment, he also believes in the integration of CBT, psychodynamic approaches, and mindfulness-based strategies, and helping clients develop practical ways of responding to distress while gaining a better understanding of themselves and working toward their own sense of well-being. His goal is to provide a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where clients can achieve greater freedom, meaning, and authentic engagement in their lives.
Ages: John works with clients of all ages.