Debbie Mankita

LCSW, 15 years of experience
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New to Grow

VirtualAvailable

Hi, I’m a licensed therapist who believes change happens when you feel truly seen and understood. I bring warmth, curiosity, and thoughtful honesty into the room, creating a space where you can slow down and untangle what’s been weighing on you. I work with adults who may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, stuck or navigating major life changes. Together, we make sense of patterns, build self-trust, and take steady, realistic steps toward a life that feels more aligned and fulfilling.

Get to know me

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

Our first session is about understanding you. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, what feels most urgent, and what you hope will feel different in your life. You don’t need to have everything figured out. We’ll will have a conversation setting clear, realistic goals. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what’s going on and at least one small, actionable step you can take right away. We’ll also make sure the fit feels right. Therapy works best when you feel comfortable and understood.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths is creating a space where you feel safe enough to be fully honest, even about the things that feel uncomfortable or hard to say out loud. I don’t shy away from the “elephant in the room,” but I approach those moments with care and respect. I may ask thoughtful, sometimes challenging questions, not to push you, but to help you gain clarity and move closer to your goals. Clients often tell me they feel both supported and gently stretched in our work together.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with adults navigating anxiety, substance use, or questions around identity and belonging, including those within the LGBTQ+ community. Some are feeling overwhelmed by racing thoughts or panic. Others are trying to change patterns with alcohol or other substances. Some are exploring who they are in a world that hasn’t always felt safe or affirming. My clients don’t need to have clarity yet. What matters most is a willingness to show up, be honest, and work toward change. Even small steps can bring meaningful progress.

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Location
Virtual
My treatment methods

Motivational Interviewing

I use Motivational Interviewing to support clients in working through the mixed feelings that can come up around change. Together, we make space for what feels hard, clarify what you truly want, and identify next steps that feel meaningful and doable.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I use CBT to help clients notice how their thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. Using tools like journaling and tracking exercises, we explore patterns and find small, practical ways to make changes that stick.

Gender-affirming therapy

I provide gender-affirming therapy where clients can discuss their identity in a space that feels safe, supportive, and judgment-free. I center each person’s lived experience and help them navigate self-discovery, relationships, and any social challenges at their own pace.

Strength-Based

I use a strengths-based approach to help clients recognize the resilience, insight, and skills they already have. Together, we build on what’s working and use those strengths as a foundation for growth and change.

New to Grow
This provider hasn’t received any written reviews yet. We started collecting written reviews January 1, 2025.