Denise Dugan

(she/her)

LMFT, 10 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

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)

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

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.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

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.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

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.

Specialties

Top specialties

Other specialties

Grief

I identify as

Black / African American

Christian

Serves ages

Licensed in

Accepts

Location

Virtual

My 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.

, 73 ratings

11 ratings with written reviews

May 19, 2026

Her compassion is very genuine.

Verified client, age 35-44
Review shared after session 1 with Denise

March 19, 2026

My first session with Denise was great. She was warm, intelligent and thoughtful... and she immediately clocked core issues I struggle with. I'm looking forward to working with her.

Verified client, age 35-44
Review shared after session 1 with Denise

January 28, 2026

Denise has a person-centered approach and great understanding of whole person care. She allows me to lead the session and discussion offering practical solutions or advice along the way. Each session builds off previous ones, and she reminds me of past concerns that I have overcome to empower me in new seasons of life.

Verified client, age 35-44
Review shared after session 20 with Denise