Denise Dugan
Life often brings us questions—the "whys" behind our anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles. We try to make sense of the senseless, but the answers remain elusive. My practice, WhysCounselor, acknowledges the "whys" that bring you to therapy while guiding you to discover your deeper, motivating "why"—your reason for seeking change. Here’s the truth: while we may never answer every "why," we absolutely can change how those unanswered questions have affected you. You might think that if others would change, or if your difficult feelings would just disappear, things would be better. But there is one thing you can change that will fundamentally improve everything: the way you see yourself. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues who are motivated and ready to do the work. My focus is on helping you manage symptoms and find practical tools for daily life. Make meaningful changes in your behaviors to reflect the person you want to be. Heal the most neglected relationship in your life: the one with yourself. Our work together will be about building a healthy relationship with yourself first. I am trained in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
My practice, WhysCounselor, acknowledges the "whys" that bring you to therapy while guiding you to discover your deeper, motivating "why"—your reason for seeking change.
First session
In our first session, we'll focus on getting to know each other and establishing a safe, confidential space built on trust. We'll start by discussing what has brought you to therapy. This includes taking time to understand you not just as someone with a problem, but as a whole person—your history, strengths, and what your life looks like right now. You will be asked about the specific challenges you're facing and, most importantly, how you want your life to look once therapy is complete. We'll start sketching out a vision for the changes you want to see.
Strengths
What truly sets my practice apart is my unwavering belief in my clients. I approach every session with genuine curiosity and a deep commitment to listening without judgment. My greatest strength is seeing the potential in others, often before they see it themselves. I find immense fulfillment in witnessing people grow, evolve, and learn to better care for themselves, and I will be your most dedicated partner in that journey.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are people who are tired of being stuck and are ready to move forward. You’ve put in significant personal effort, trying to solve your problems, but are frustrated by repeating the same patterns of behavior. Though you may not have all the answers, you are strongly motivated to engage in the process of self-discovery and change. If you are willing to be honest with yourself and invest in your own growth and healing, you are exactly who I'm here to support.
Treatment methods
Compassion-Focused
CFT encourages clients to focus on, understand and feel compassion for themselves during negative thought processes, and focus on nurturing compassion within themselves. I help my clients to develop a more compassionate, encouraging ‘inner voice’ while developing the changes they want to make in their lives.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 127910