I’m Dr. Terry Matz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience serving military Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. As both a former Army Behavioral Health Officer and seasoned civilian therapist, I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, and life transitions using evidence-based therapies like CBT and supportive approaches. I aim to provide a compassionate, culturally competent space where healing, growth, and resilience are possible.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In the first therapy session, clients can expect to discuss their reasons for seeking therapy, share relevant personal history and current concerns, and establish rapport as we begin to work together. I may ask questions to gather information, assess needs, and discuss goals and expectations for therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a behavioral health provider are empathy, active listening, and deep respect for each client’s unique journey. I bring strong clinical skills, cultural competence—especially with military and Veteran populations—and a nonjudgmental, supportive presence to every session. I empower clients by honoring self-determination, maintaining healthy boundaries, and adapting my approach to meet their individual needs. With a lifelong commitment to continued learning, I strive to provide the highest quality care grounded in compassion, skill, and trust.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and former Army Behavioral Health Officer with over 20 years of experience serving Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, and co-occurring conditions like depression and substance use, with a deep understanding of military culture and the unique challenges of service life. I also support high-stress professionals and leaders through transitions, burnout, and performance-related stress.
About Terry Matz
Specializes in
Serves ages
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Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Supportive
Sometimes, we need a safe space to be heard, validated, and encouraged. Supportive therapy provides that foundation. I offer a nonjudgmental, understanding environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, strengthen your resilience, and receive the steady guidance needed to move forward—especially during stress, loss, or transition.
Motivational Interviewing
Throughout my clinical career with the Veteran's Administration, DoD, and private practice, I have used Motivational Interviewing as my approach to developing a clinical relationship and encouraging change. As a clinician using motivational interviewing (MI), I employ empathetic listening, ask open-ended questions, and express empathy to explore ambivalence and enhance motivation for change. I intend to elicit client goals, highlight discrepancies, use reflective listening, and collaboratively develop change plans, fostering intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy for behavior change.
Strength-Based
Throughout my clinical career with the Veteran's Administration, DoD, and private practice, I have used Strengths-Based Therapy to focus on clients' strengths, resources, and abilities. I assess strengths, validate accomplishments, and explore positive qualities. I collaborate with clients to set goals that leverage strengths, build resilience, and foster empowerment. This approach emphasizes clients' capacities for growth and self-determination in therapy.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
This approach is all about building on your strengths and successes. We’ll focus on what’s working in your life, identify your goals, and create small, manageable steps to get there. It’s an excellent option for clients looking for a brief, empowering approach that highlights their ability to create positive change.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is the foundation of my clinical work. It helps you understand how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. Together, we’ll identify unhelpful patterns, develop practical coping skills, and work on meaningful goals to improve your daily feelings and function. CBT is structured, collaborative, and focused on making measurable progress—with techniques like skill-building, homework, and, when appropriate, exposure strategies to help reduce anxiety and fear.