Debbie Kruppa
Hi, I’m Debbie, owner of Alongside You Counseling Services. I’m glad you’re here. In my more than 30 years as a social worker, I’ve learned how much it matters to feel heard, respected, and supported. I know reaching out can feel like a big step, and you don’t need to have everything figured out before we begin. My hope is to offer a welcoming space where you can simply be yourself without fear of judgment. I look forward to getting to know you—your story, your struggles, and what you hope will change. Together, we’ll work at your pace to find a path forward that feels right for you, because you don’t have to go through this alone.
First session
Your first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and for you to share what brought you to counseling. I’ll listen, ask questions, and learn about your concerns, your strengths, and what you hope will change. You don’t need to prepare a speech or share everything at once—there’s room to take your time. We’ll also talk about how counseling works, confidentiality, and any questions you may have. Together, we’ll begin identifying what matters most to you and a starting point for our work. My hope is that you leave feeling heard, understood, and respected, more comfortable with the counseling process, and reassured that you don’t have to walk alone.
Strengths
I bring more than 30 years of social work experience, a compassionate heart, and a down-to-earth approach to our sessions. I listen without judgment and take time to understand what matters most to you. I’ll help you recognize your strengths, explore what’s getting in your way, and find practical ways to move forward. You can count on warmth, honesty, and encouragement as we work together at your pace. My goal is for you to feel comfortable being yourself and supported as you work toward meaningful change—because you don’t have to walk alone.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who may be used to being there for everyone else but now needs support of their own. They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or uncertain as they navigate relationship challenges, loss, or changes in their life. Sometimes, they simply know that something doesn’t feel right and need a place to talk openly without feeling judged. I welcome people who want to feel more like themselves, better understand their emotions, and find ways to move forward. You don’t need to have the right words or know where to begin. We’ll start where you are, recognize the strengths you already have, and work together at your pace. At Alongside You Counseling Services, you don’t have to walk alone.
Treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) helps clients make room for difficult thoughts and feelings without letting them control their choices. In treatment, you help clients: Notice thoughts without automatically believing them. Stay present and allow uncomfortable feelings. Identify what matters most to them. Take small actions that reflect those values. For example, someone with anxiety might practice noticing their fear of rejection while still reaching out to a friend because connection matters to them.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors affect one another. For example, thinking “I always mess things up” might leave you feeling discouraged and avoiding challenges. CBT helps you examine that thought and develop a more balanced one: “I make mistakes, but I also do many things well.” In counseling, we work together to identify unhelpful patterns, practice coping skills, and take practical steps toward your goals.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
explain dbt DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) helps people manage intense emotions, cope with stress, and build healthier relationships. It balances accepting yourself as you are with working toward change. DBT teaches four main skills: Mindfulness: Notice thoughts and feelings without judging them. Distress tolerance: Get through difficult moments without making things worse. Emotion regulation: Understand emotions and respond more effectively. Interpersonal effectiveness: Communicate needs, set boundaries, and handle conflict.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- OhioLicense I.0005679-SUPV