As a therapist with extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, perinatal/post natal mental health conditions, and work related mental health concerns for first responders. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional and mental health challenges. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, including adults, adolescents, and individuals from various cultural backgrounds. I focus on creating a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs, drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I believe in the power of collaboration, empowering my clients to take an active role in their healing process. Whether they are coping with the lingering effects of trauma, managing the daily challenges of anxiety, or working through the heavy emotions of depression, I work alongside my clients to develop practical strategies and long-term solutions that foster resilience and well-being. The impact of our work together is profound—clients often experience a renewed sense of hope, increased emotional stability, and the tools needed to lead more fulfilling lives. Many report improved relationships, greater self-awareness, and a stronger sense of control over their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. My goal is always to help individuals move forward with confidence, armed with a deeper understanding of themselves and the skills to manage life's challenges more effectively.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During your first appointment, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where we will take the time to get to know each other. This session is an opportunity for me to understand your unique concerns, background, and goals for therapy. We will discuss the challenges you're currently facing, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions, and explore how they are impacting your life. Together, we'll also review any relevant history and any prior treatment you've received. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship and ensure you feel heard, supported, and comfortable. By the end of the session, we will collaborate on a plan for moving forward in therapy, identifying specific goals and treatment strategies tailored to your needs.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a therapist, my unique strengths stem from a combination of specialized training, personal experience, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, perinatal and postnatal mental health conditions, and the specific stressors related to working as a first responder, particularly in law enforcement. Over the years, I have developed a holistic, compassionate approach to therapy that is rooted in evidence-based practices and a strong commitment to creating lasting change for my clients. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Having worked extensively with first responders, including law enforcement officers, I understand the emotional and psychological toll of this profession. The stressors related to trauma exposure, critical incidents, and the daily pressures of law enforcement can lead to significant mental health challenges, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My approach is informed by an understanding of these unique stressors, allowing me to offer tailored interventions that address both the personal and professional aspects of my clients’ lives. Through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused interventions, and mindfulness techniques, I help individuals manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore their sense of purpose and well-being. In addition to my work with first responders, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating perinatal and postnatal mental health challenges. This transition period can bring about a variety of emotional difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of overwhelm. I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to helping individuals during this critical time, empowering them to prioritize their mental health and find balance while adjusting to the demands of parenthood. I also offer guidance and strategies for managing stress and maintaining healthy relationships as they adjust to their new roles. Another strength I bring to therapy is my experience in developing and implementing programs that are still being utilized in schools throughout my community. Through these programs, I have been able to reach individuals early on, providing them with the tools and resources needed to manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and promote mental well-being. My work with local schools has allowed me to deepen my u
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support to overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or perinatal and postnatal mental health conditions. These individuals may be struggling to manage the emotional and psychological impact of life transitions, trauma, or significant life changes. Whether they are navigating the overwhelming feelings that can accompany new parenthood, facing the deep-rooted effects of past trauma, or battling the persistent weight of anxiety and depression, my goal is to assist them in finding hope, healing, and stability. I work best with clients who are ready to engage in the therapeutic process, even if they are unsure of the next steps or are feeling uncertain about seeking help. I understand that the journey to healing can be daunting, particularly when facing mental health challenges, and I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where they can explore their emotions, fears, and concerns at their own pace. My ideal client is open to working collaboratively to identify their strengths and resources, and is willing to explore new perspectives and coping strategies that can foster long-term healing and growth. Clients experiencing perinatal and postnatal mental health conditions often deal with unique pressures, from the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth to the emotional shifts that come with becoming a parent. I offer a specialized approach to these conditions, providing the support necessary to navigate the complex emotions associated with motherhood, including feelings of isolation, guilt, or the fear of not being "good enough." For those experiencing anxiety or depression during this period, I help clients regain a sense of balance, self-compassion, and empowerment, making it easier for them to embrace their new role and prioritize their mental health alongside their new responsibilities. For those coping with PTSD, I provide a safe, structured environment to process past trauma while promoting resilience and self-efficacy. I use evidence-based therapies like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to help individuals reframe negative thought patterns, heal from past wounds, and regain a sense of control and safety in their daily lives. In all cases, I emphasize the importance of setting realistic, achievable goals that align with the client’s values and desired outcomes. Together, we work on building coping strategies, enhancing emotional regulation, and increasing overa
About Dawn Wever
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Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I utilize CBT to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. In therapy, CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions, teaching clients to challenge unhelpful thoughts and replace them with more balanced, realistic ones. By addressing these cognitive distortions, CBT aims to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, helping clients develop healthier coping strategies and problem-solving skills.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I utilize DBT because it combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships. DBT focuses on teaching skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Through individual therapy and skills training, clients learn to accept their emotions while working towards positive change. This approach is particularly effective for individuals with borderline personality disorder, but is also used to treat a variety of emotional and behavioral issues.
Trauma-Focused CBT
TF-CBT is a specialized form of CBT designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. In therapy, TF-CBT helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to trauma, while also providing coping strategies to manage distressing emotions. The approach combines trauma-sensitive techniques with cognitive-behavioral interventions, allowing clients to reframe negative thoughts, reduce trauma-related symptoms, and build resilience. Through a safe, supportive environment, TF-CBT promotes healing and empowers clients to regain control over their lives.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
SFBT is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes finding practical solutions to current challenges rather than delving deeply into past issues. In therapy, it encourages clients to focus on their strengths, resources, and past successes to create actionable steps toward their goals. SFBT is typically short-term and goal-oriented, with therapists guiding clients to identify what is working in their lives and how to expand on those positive aspects. I use techniques like scaling questions, exception finding, and future-focused dialogue to help clients envision and move toward a desired outcome, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy.
Motivational Interviewing
MI is a client-centered therapeutic approach used to help individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about behavior change. In therapy, MI involves a collaborative, empathetic dialogue where the therapist listens actively and without judgment, guiding the client to express their own motivations for change. I use open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to enhance the client's intrinsic motivation and build confidence in their ability to make changes. MI is particularly effective in addressing behaviors such as addiction, health-related changes, or other areas where individuals may feel stuck or uncertain. The goal is to evoke the client's own reasons for change and strengthen their commitment to taking action.