I work with adults who are feeling overwhelmed by relationship conflict, long-standing emotional patterns, or life transitions that have left them feeling stuck or exhausted. Many of my clients are navigating difficult dynamics with partners, family members, or adult children, and are carrying a lot more than they show on the outside. My approach is warm, genuine, and grounded. I believe therapy works best when clients feel understood as people - not problems to be fixed. I’m believe in developing a true partnership with my clients. I’m engaged, thoughtful, and deeply invested in helping you make sense of what you’ve been through and how it’s still affecting you today. I work especially well with adults who want more than surface-level coping skills and are open to exploring deeper patterns, including childhood experiences, relationship trauma, and the emotional impact of chronic stress. Therapy with me is a collaborative process focused on insight, healing, and practical change.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, my priority is helping you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. We’ll spend time getting to know what brought you to therapy and what’s been weighing on you, while also covering some important background information. I approach this conversation gently and collaboratively, not like an interrogation or checklist. My goal is to truly understand your situation, what you’re hoping for, and what you need from therapy right now. Many clients leave the first session feeling relieved to finally talk openly and have someone help them make sense of what they’re experiencing.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What sets my approach apart is the balance between warmth and clinical depth. I’m not a distant or overly clinical therapist, but I also don’t shy away from exploring deeper patterns when it’s helpful. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in evidence-based approaches, while remaining relational and human. I focus on helping clients understand why certain patterns developed, not just how to cope with them, so change feels more sustainable and authentic.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am best positioned to work with adults who are navigating relationship conflict, emotional stress, or life transitions and want to better understand themselves and their patterns. This includes individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship abuse, or long-standing family dynamics. My ideal clients are open to reflection, curious about how past experiences influence the present, and looking for more than just quick coping strategies. I provide a calm, respectful space for honest conversation and growth.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
In my practice, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) methods to empower clients in cultivating psychological flexibility and living a more values-driven life. By guiding individuals to accept inner experiences, including thoughts, emotions, and sensations, without unnecessary struggle, we work together to develop mindfulness skills and build resilience. Through experiential exercises and values clarification, clients learn to identify their core values and take committed action towards meaningful goals, even in the presence of discomfort or adversity.
Trauma-Focused CBT
As a psychotherapist, I employ trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) as a primary approach in my practice. TF-CBT is a specialized form of CBT designed to help individuals who have experienced trauma. I work collaboratively with clients to establish safety, explore and process traumatic memories, challenge maladaptive beliefs, and develop effective coping skills. By focusing on the connections between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, TF-CBT helps clients understand and manage their reactions to trauma, ultimately promoting healing and resilience. My goal is to provide a supportive and empowering environment where clients can work through their trauma and regain a sense of control and well-being.
3 ratings with written reviews
April 26, 2025
Dawn may not know how much she means to me, but I suspect she does. She is invested in me, in my challenges, attentively listens and deeply considers my feelings, actions, and thoughts. She always has a metaphor and a solution to move ahead with. I can't express the depth of gratitude and admiration I have for her professionalism, warmth, and care. She's changed my life and I am so grateful to have connected with her.
April 26, 2025
Dawn is a great therapist. She teaches me more about myself than I know about myself. She has opened my eyes to learning skills to help make life easier for me to handle. If you are looking for a therapist who cares about you as a person without judgment, Dawn is the right fit!
April 19, 2025
Dawn is so supportive, uplifting, and gives me positive energy to move forward.😊