Meet Chenglu

Chenglu Ding, M.S.Ed., M.Phil.Ed.

"You don’t have to hold it all together alone—this is where your feelings matter, healing begins, and where you find the way back to yourself."

I deeply believe that every person holds the capacity to heal. Our brains are wired for growth and change, which means we can form new and healthier pathways even after painful experiences. I am passionate about helping clients uncover and understand the deeper roots of their distress— not just manage symptoms—so we can move toward lasting change and self-awareness.  

In individual therapy, I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process past experiences that affect their sense of self, relationships, and emotional well-being. We will explore unhelpful thought patterns, address negative self-talk, and build tools to regulate emotions and navigate life with more compassion.  

In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to help partners move beyond recurring conflicts, communicate more effectively, and rebuild connection. I create a supportive and balanced space where each person feels heard, and safe to express themselves. I will help you listen without defensiveness, express needs more clearly, and respond with empathy.  

As a first generation Asian immigrant, my own experience navigating cultural and familial expectations, intergenerational trauma, and shifting identities is what led me to become a therapist. As someone who has walked this path, I understand how challenging and vulnerable it can be to untangle your experiences. I bring both clinical expertise and personal insight into the therapy room to create a warm, culturally responsive space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported. 

Who I work with: 

I work with individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, trauma, anxiety,  depression, life transitions, low self-esteem, stress, and cross-cultural identity issues. In our work together, we will build on your strengths and cultivate the insight and resilience you need to move forward.  

TAKE YOUR FIRST STEP TOWARDS CHANGE

You can make an appointment with me by using our online portal at any time or by emailing info@abetterlifetherapy.com. Our team will be happy to support you in finding an appointment time that works for you!

I provide both in-person and online appointments at our Center City, Philadelphia office. I can also provide online therapy to people living in New Jersey


My rate per 50-minute session is $140

Check your insurance

I work with Mentaya, a platform that helps clients get money back on out-of-network therapy sessions. If you have out-of-network benefits, Mentaya will file claims and handle the insurance paperwork to make sure you get reimbursed. They charge a 5% fee per claim and you can use the tool below to check your insurance benefits.

 

Languages spoken:

English

Chinese

Mandarin

I work with..

Adult Individuals

Children

Families

Couples

Specializations:

Depression

Anxiety

Trauma

Life Transitions

Relationships

training & Education:

University of Pennsylvania

M.Phil.Ed. Professional Counseling

M.S.Ed. Counseling and Mental Health Services

Certifications:

Prepare/Enrich Premarital Counseling

Trained in…

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Level 1 Gottman Method Therapy Training

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Read more from Chenglu:

EMDR: A Powerful Tool for Healing Trauma

Feeling Powerless? Strategies for Managing Anxiety

For more information e-mail info@abetterlifetherapy.com.