Debbie Kirkwood

Hi, my name is Debbie Kirkwood, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor. Having been in the mental health field, I have worked with many people of every age group and from various backgrounds and cultures. My approach to therapy depends on the presenting issue and the client's motivation for change. Each person is different and responds to different approaches. I believe in meeting the client where they are and not where I want them to be.

My approach

My primary therapeutic approaches when providing therapy are Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused. I also use homework assignments and various strategies to reinforce what's discussed in the sessions.

My focus

The majority of my clients are dealing with the following issues: job stress, relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and everyday life stressors.

My communication style

My clients admire me because I am committed to helping them, and sometimes that includes using humor to ease the process and to help facilitate an element of trust between us. I am not one of those therapists who will sit back and nod and grunt but will use my skills to challenge you to be your best self.

My journey to mental healthcare

During my 21 years of military service, working with people from all walks of life and navigating through the trials and tribulations of sailors for the majority of that time led me into the field of psychology. The transition was logical and effortless. It's true what they say, "if you love your work, you will never work another day." That's because helping others is something that I love to do. In this journey, I have worked with many people of every age group and from various backgrounds and cultures. I believe that everyone has the potential to be happy and healthy, and it gives me great pleasure to be a part of the process.

My goals for you

I believe it is very important to discuss goals for therapy in the first session. It's important to have directions and to know that you are making progress. Setting goals and revisiting those throughout the therapeutic relationship.

My first session with you

In the initial session, the client should expect some information gathering and a brief description of the presenting problem. Additionally, it is an opportunity for the client to get to know me and assess whether or not we are a fit. It's important that the client feels comfortable with me and confident that we can work well together to reach their goals and objectives for therapy.