Debby Downing
My name is Debby Downing and I have over 17 years of experience working with adolescents and their families. My approach to therapy is individualized to each person and their unique struggles. I currently work part time for a community organization as part of the adoption team. I have worked as a trauma therapist, have done grief work, have worked with families experiencing crisis, have worked with addictions, self-esteem issues, women's issues and mental health struggles. The scope of my practice as a younger practitioner was youth and is shifting to working with adults. I have worked for a residential dual diagnosis facility for adolescents, a large public school and now at a non-profit working as part of the adoption team. As a clinician it is imperative that the client feel valued and validated.
First session
During the first session it is essential to get to know some of your background, development, family history in addition to what brought you to therapy. The first session is typically not therapy, it would be more information gathering and getting a sense of where you are coming from.
Strengths
My approach comes from many years of experience. My greatest strength is my ability to connect with clients and allow them to feel heard and validated.
Ideal clients
I am looking to work with individuals who are motivated to set goals and work on themselves. My role as a therapist is to help people work through their issues and develop skills to be healthier and happier in their lives. My perspective after almost 20 years as a therapist is non-judgmental and open.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Using CBT is helpful to allow clients to examine their behaviors and patterns and examine how making thoughtful changes and elicit a healthier way to live. It is practical and empowering.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Understanding a family system is integral to understand the perspective of clients. A systems approach provides a framework to help a client look at patterns and examine where they can make positive change.
Attachment-based
A lot of my experience is with families going through the adoption process and we work with them on comprehending attachment issues.
Trauma-Informed Care
Several years of my practice involved working with victims of violence. Understanding how trauma impacts functioning is essential in working with those you have experienced it.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- OhioLicense I.2204033