Finding Purpose Through Advocacy and Mental Health: The Story of LCSW Andrew Chiodo

How One Therapist’s Journey Was Shaped by Identity, Advocacy, and Resilience

What happens when personal experiences shape not just who you are, but what you do? For Andrew Chiodo, LCSW, the journey to becoming a licensed clinical social worker and therapist wasn’t just about choosing a career—it was about turning lived experiences into a lifelong mission to help others.

Growing up in a traditional Italian-American neighborhood in Brooklyn, Andrew knew from an early age that he was different. Navigating his identity in a tight-knit, old-school community meant learning to adapt while figuring out who he truly was. Later, during the AIDS crisis, he found himself on the frontlines—supporting friends, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and stepping into a role that would eventually lead him to a career in mental health and social work.

In this episode of No Wrong Choices, Andrew shares the challenges and pivotal moments that shaped his path, from his early years in Brooklyn to building a thriving private practice in New York City.

Growing Up in Brooklyn: Navigating Identity in a Traditional World

Brooklyn in the 1970s and early ’80s was a place of strong traditions, tight communities, and deep-rooted expectations. For Andrew, growing up in an Italian Catholic household meant structure, faith, and family. But it also meant that certain topics—including identity and sexuality—weren’t openly discussed.

Andrew recalls learning to compartmentalize his life, adapting to his surroundings while searching for places where he could be himself. It was a time of both self-discovery and quiet resilience—a skill that would later become essential in his career as a therapist.

The AIDS Crisis: A Defining Moment in Advocacy

As Andrew moved into young adulthood, he found himself immersed in New York City’s thriving LGBTQ+ scene—a place of freedom, exploration, and community. But that world changed quickly when the AIDS crisis hit.

Andrew shares how he and many others had to step up and support their friends, often acting as caregivers, advocates, and even social workers—long before they held official titles. He became deeply involved in AIDS activism, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and community support, witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of the epidemic while also recognizing the power of resilience and collective action.

This period in his life would lay the groundwork for his eventual transition into social work and mental health advocacy.

From Activism to Therapy: A Career Built on Purpose

Realizing that his natural instinct to help others could become a career, Andrew pursued a degree in social work at Hunter College. His education—and the real-world experience he had gained through advocacy—helped him step into roles in hospitals, psychiatric programs, and community mental health initiatives.

Over time, he developed a passion for working with individuals facing mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and trauma. He built expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy, eventually leading him to open his own private practice in New York City.

His early experiences in activism and advocacy never left him—they shaped the way he approaches therapy, emphasizing compassion, resilience, and the power of human connection.

Key Takeaways from Andrew Chiodo’s Career Journey

Andrew’s story is not just about his personal journey—it’s about the lessons he’s learned along the way that can apply to anyone considering a career in mental health or advocacy.

1. Your Struggles Can Shape Your Purpose

Andrew’s early experiences navigating his identity and witnessing the AIDS crisis helped him develop empathy, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose—qualities that define his work as a therapist today.

2. Advocacy and Activism Can Lead to Career Opportunities

Before officially becoming a social worker, Andrew was already advocating for those in need. His story is a reminder that grassroots efforts, activism, and real-world experience can be stepping stones to a meaningful career.

3. Therapy is a Collaboration

One of Andrew’s biggest insights as a therapist is that patients and therapists work together—therapy is not about "fixing" someone but about helping people develop the tools to heal and grow.

4. Mental Health Work Requires Self-Care

For those entering social work, therapy, or advocacy, Andrew stresses the importance of setting boundaries, managing emotional burnout, and seeking support when needed.

5. The Path to Success is Not Always Linear

Andrew’s journey was shaped by life experiences, unexpected challenges, and moments of deep reflection. His story is a reminder that career paths are rarely straight lines—but they can lead to incredible, meaningful work.

Listen to the Full Episode

Andrew Chiodo’s career journey is a powerful example of how personal experiences can lead to a life of impact. Whether you’re interested in mental health, social work, LGBTQ+ advocacy, or simply an inspiring story of resilience, this episode is packed with insights.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

Final Thoughts

Andrew’s story reminds us that struggles don’t define us—what we do with them does. His journey from a young advocate in Brooklyn to a respected therapist in New York City is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of helping others.

What challenges in your own life have shaped your path? Let us know in the comments or connect with us on social media!