My name is Dorothy Aguwa, a clinical social worker licensed to practice in the State of Michigan for over 34 years with clinical experience across various settings, including structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, private practice, and case management. I completed my master’s degree in social work at Wayne State University in 1989 in Detroit, Michigan. My approach emphasizes the mutual development of goals for therapy and the provision of ongoing evaluation of the therapeutic approach through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Task-Centered Person-centered therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I am committed to an approach that emphasizes a more integrative, dynamic, and holistic approach to mental health. My approach to therapy will assist you in learning general skills like self-awareness, active listening, and communication skills as well as specific mindfulness and behavior change skills.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

The goal of an initial therapy session with me will be to get to know you, for you to get to know me, and for the process of rapport-building to begin. While it can often be nerve-wracking to sit down with someone new, it's an important step in the process toward mental well-being. I will ask you questions that would assist in identifying your presenting problems, stressors/triggers, and established treatment goals.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Clients should expect a therapeutic environment that is compassionate, empathetic, safe, and holistic. I believe attentiveness and active listening are my greatest strengths as a provider. These two attributes guide me to assist clients in achieving self-actualization by empowering them to chart the course of their recovery through advocacy, education, collaborative effort, respect, and counseling to improve the mental health, quality of life, and overall well-being of individuals and families.

About Dorothy Aguwa