Barbara Dern

My communication style

I communicate with a balance of deep warmth, active collaboration, and gentle honesty. My goal is to create a nurturing, nonjudgmental space where you feel entirely safe to express your thoughts and emotions. You can expect me to be a steady, attentive listener who honors your story while working alongside you.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey began with a passion for human connection, earning my MS in Counseling at Northwest Nazarene University. Over 20 years in behavioral health and residential care, I’ve seen the transformative power of therapy. My personal journey navigating neurodiversity and family life further deepens my empathy and dedication to your growth.

My goals for you

We reach your goals by designing customized plans that respect your capacity. Rather than focusing on heavy homework, I believe the most transformative insights unfold naturally right within our sessions. We will target the roots of your challenges and build consistent, steady habits that foster self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Our first session

Our first session is a gentle, low-pressure space to get to know one another. We will explore what brings you to therapy, look at where you feel the most stuck, and define what peace and harmony look like for you. You will leave our first hour feeling truly heard, validated, and equipped with a clear, collaborative roadmap forward.

I identify as...

• Female
• Caucasian or White
• Christian