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Award-winning mental health care that's more than a practice, it's a promise!

Non-profit organization

Established 1974

Over 97% of clients report being satisfied with their care at GOC

90% say they are VERY satisfied!

Serving Bucks, Montgomery, Philadelphia counties

and beyond...

Mission Statement

To provide compassionate, accessible mental health care that empowers people to transform life’s challenges into opportunities for growth.

 

Vision Statement

A community where every person can access affirming mental health care, build resilience, and thrive with dignity.

Values

The core values of Growth Opportunity Center:

🌿 Compassion & Care
We meet every person with warmth, curiosity, and respect. Our space is judgment‑free, trauma‑informed, and grounded in the belief that trust is built through consistent, compassionate connection. You are valued here, and you are understood.

🌈 Holistic Understanding
We honor the full complexity of each individual—their biology, psychology, lived experiences, identities, and environments. Our approach adapts to your unique needs, recognizing that healing happens when the whole person is seen and affirmed.

Commitment to Quality
We hold ourselves to a high standard of clinical excellence. Through ongoing training, reflective practice, and client feedback, we continually strengthen the care we provide and the systems that support it.

🔑 Access for All
We believe mental health care should be accessible, affordable, and responsive. Our work is rooted in reducing barriers so individuals and families across our diverse communities can receive the support they deserve.

💪 Empowerment & Resilience
We see every person as capable of growth. Our role is to help you access your strengths, build resilience, and move toward a life that feels more grounded, connected, and possible.

🤝 Professional Integrity
We maintain clear boundaries, uphold ethical practice, and prioritize the therapeutic alliance. Professionalism is not just a standard—it’s a foundation for safety, trust, and meaningful progress.

🔬 Growth & Innovation
We embrace learning, technology, and emerging research to advance mental health, prevention, education, and wellness. Our commitment to development ensures that our care evolves with the needs of our community.

Who We Are

An independent, non-profit organization, Growth Opportunity Center is comprised of talented staff who are dedicated to empowering each person to flourish and thrive. We value mental health as a vital part of one's overall health, wellbeing, and satisfaction with life. At GOC, we take pride in promoting dignity and respect in every aspect of care, being aware that it can be difficult to reach out for help.

We never stop growing, either!

Our History

Growth Opportunity Center was established in 1974 as a grass-roots community outreach effort to better serve the mental health needs of the community of Huntingdon Valley and surrounding areas. Inspired by the vision and leadership of Dr. Kenneth Barber, GOC originated at the site of Gloria Dei Church and has since evolved into the counseling center it is today. Dr. Barber and many others have contributed to GOC's growth and development through the years.

The mission of GOC evolved from the belief in the fundamental importance and possibility of "growth", combined with the view of turning challenges into "opportunities" rather than problems. While no longer affiliated with Gloria Dei, GOC still embodies the principle of service to others and maintains the core value of recognizing the potential for change and "growth" in every individual.

Rooted in the Communities We Serve

We proudly serve individuals and families across Bucks County, Montgomery County, Northeast Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia and southeast PA regions.

Our Team

To ensure you receive the best care, our experienced team of professionals is at the helm.

Leadership

Administrative Staff

Board of Directors

  • Abigail Akande, PhD

    Board Member

  • Kenneth Barber, PhD

    Founder, Board Treasurer

  • Cherie Brummans

    Board Member

  • TJ Bulter

    Board Member

  • Elizabeth Gasiewski, PhD

    Board Secretary

  • Jade Logan, PhD

    Board Member

  • Lloyd Morgan

    Board Member

  • Judy Newman, PhD

    Board Member

  • Rajiv Tandon

    Board President

Search Our Providers

We’ve built a diverse, highly trained clinical team with expertise across specialties and age groups. Our Intake team will work closely with you to match you with the provider who aligns with your goals and preferences.

View our Providers

Annual Report

Coming Soon!

Download Report

Accessibility