In-person and Telehealth visits available.
In-person and Telehealth visits available.

About Philosophical and Cognitive Therapy

PACT / About

The PACT Promise

We are dedicated to serving as a guiding light for our clients, leading you past the obstacles that have obscured your path to self-realization. We support you in cultivating a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you, finding meaning in life, and developing resilience to navigate life's challenges with clarity and purpose.

Our Mission

Our mission is to guide you toward deeper self-understanding and fulfillment. Whether you're addressing specific challenges or seeking to enrich your perspective, we work with you to cultivate self-awareness and develop philosophies of living that support your emotional health and overall well-being.

Our Approach

Our approach centers on fostering an authentic, supportive therapeutic relationship, where you can explore and address life’s challenges. We focus on helping you develop effective positions toward both controllable and uncontrollable aspects of life that reflect your personal values.

Our Philosophy

We believe that genuine well-being goes beyond merely alleviating symptoms. It involves self-discovery and deep insight into yourself, life, and the world around you. We affirm that the human spirit remains indomitable even in adversity and that each challenge offers an opportunity to evolve into the person you aspire to be.

Our Values

Connect

A meaningful connection forms the heart of our work. We listen with openness, honoring your unique experiences and concerns with curiosity and acceptance. As culturally responsive therapists, we welcome clients of every gender, race, and identity, fostering an inclusive and supportive space for all.

Collaborate

We’re more than just a listening ear. We'll work actively and collaboratively with you, challenging you to reach the life you strive for. Together, we explore patterns in your life from fresh perspectives, helping you gain the clarity and insight needed to move forward.

Grow

With deeper self-awareness, a broadened outlook, and meaningful ways of engaging with life, you can experience a greater sense of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. Our aim is for the insights gained through our work to resonate and guide you long after our sessions conclude.

“Our greatest freedom is the freedom to choose our attitude." ― Victor Frankl

Meet Our Therapists

Julia Baum, LMHC, LPCC

Founder-Owner and Licensed Therapist

Julia Baum specializes in helping adults navigate emotional challenges through personalized therapy and counseling. With a unique blend of cognitive and philosophical approaches, Julia draws on her training in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) and studies in Stoicism and Existentialism to foster personal growth and self-understanding.

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Emily Hughes, LCAT, ATR-BC

Licensed Therapist

Emily Hughes is a Licensed and Board Certified Creative Arts Therapist with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Blending creative arts therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness, Emily provides a personalized therapeutic experience tailored to each of her client’s needs.

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John Viterito, LPC

Practice Consultant
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Hayley Whitehair

Client Care Coordinator
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Kaylee Svoboda

Client Care Coordinator
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What Our Clients Say

“When I started therapy, I really couldn’t imagine being where I am now—and yet here I am. I didn’t know what to expect, but I’m so glad I came for help. I have a lot more time for myself now because I’m not making things harder than they need to be anymore. I was working way too much before and there was no balance, but I couldn’t figure out another way to get things done. I’m taking so much better care of myself and all of my relationships—at work, with my girlfriend, my friends, and my family. I’m getting closer with friends that I’ve kept at arm’s length for years. I’m not afraid of what anyone thinks of me anymore. Things in life won’t ever be perfect, but I’ve learned how to handle problems in a way that actually makes me excited about the future and all of its possibilities.”

RECENT CLIENT 20’s, Brooklyn, NY

Schedule Phone Consultation with PACT Today

PACT is licensed in New York and California, serving clients virtually in NYC, Brooklyn, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and beyond, and in person at our San Diego office. Begin your journey towards greater self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Schedule Your Phone Consultation