Zev M. Kramer, LSW, MPH, is a gay, trauma-informed psychotherapist and parent whose work is deeply shaped by his Jewish identity and long-standing involvement in LGBTQ+ equality and community organizing in Philadelphia. As a clinician rooted in community care, Zev provides affirming, culturally responsive mental health support to LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating trauma, identity development, and the emotional impact of discrimination. His practice centers dignity, resilience, and the belief that healing is strengthened through connection—to self, to community, and to the histories that shape us.
Zev specializes in LGBTQIA+ mental health, trauma, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. He has extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ adults, youth, trans and nonbinary clients, individuals navigating coming out processes, people facing family rejection, and clients living with HIV. His work is grounded in advanced training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF CBT), the neurobiology of attachment, and gaslighting recovery, which he integrates with a warm, collaborative, strengths-based approach. As a Philadelphia LGBTQ therapist, he is committed to providing care that is both clinically rigorous and deeply affirming.
In addition to his clinical practice, Zev is actively engaged in LGBTQ+ community support and advocacy. He has served as a peer counselor at the William Way LGBT Community Center, volunteered with AIDS Thrift, and participated in OPEN (Out Professional Engagement Network). These roles keep him closely connected to the lived experiences of queer and trans communities in Philadelphia and inform his commitment to equity, access, and culturally competent care.
Zev is also regularly invited to speak to organizations across Philadelphia—particularly those serving historically marginalized communities—on how to use trauma-informed therapeutic techniques to stay grounded, emotionally regulated, and empowered in the face of bigotry. His workshops focus on helping individuals recognize internalized oppression, understand the psychological impact of discrimination, and develop practical skills to remain strong in the moment without shutting down or backing down. These trainings blend clinical expertise with community wisdom, offering tools for resilience, boundary setting, and self-advocacy.
As a Jewish clinician, Zev brings a nuanced understanding of intergenerational trauma, antisemitism, and the intersection of Jewish and LGBTQIA+ identities. He works with clients who have experienced religious trauma, cultural marginalization, or identity based stress, approaching these experiences with compassion, cultural humility, and a deep respect for the complexity of identity. His work is informed by the belief that naming and understanding oppression is a powerful step toward healing.
Zev’s therapeutic style is warm, grounded, and community rooted. He strives to create a space where clients can show up fully as themselves, explore the intersections of their identities, and build emotional resilience. Whether supporting someone through trauma, navigating a major life transition, or seeking deeper self understanding, Zev meets each client with authenticity, curiosity, and a commitment to collaborative healing. His goal is to help LGBTQIA+ individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to live with clarity, strength, and self compassion.