Meet Deborah
Throughout my career, I have been guided by a deep commitment to social justice and helping people navigate some of life's most complex and difficult circumstances. I believe meaningful change begins when people feel emotionally safe enough to face life's challenges with honesty and compassion. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they heal, discover their strengths, and move toward the lives they want to create.
WHO I WORK WITH
I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, including:
Children and adolescents
Adults
Couples and families
Individuals healing from experiences of sexual harm
Individuals seeking treatment after engaging in sexually harmful behaviors
Over the course of my career, I have worked with individuals and families facing a broad range of emotional, behavioral, relational, and legal challenges. My experience includes serving as a Guardian ad Litem and working extensively with court-involved and court-ordered clients. These experiences have given me a unique appreciation for the intersection of mental health, family dynamics, accountability, and the legal system.
I understand that reaching out for therapy can feel difficult, and I strive to create an environment where clients feel respected, accepted, and free to explore even the most challenging parts of their lives without judgment.
No matter where someone is in life, I appreciate the opportunity to understand their unique story and help them move toward the goals that matter most to them.
AREAS OF FOCUS
Anxiety • Depression • ADHD • Stress Management • Emotional Regulation • Life Transitions • Relationship Challenges • Trauma Recovery • Family & Interpersonal Conflict
Every client brings a unique story and set of strengths. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment to each person's goals, helping clients develop practical skills, gain new perspectives, and build on the resilience they already possess.
EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
I earned my Master of Social Work degree and have pursued additional specialized training in:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy Certification (DBTC)
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) – certification eligible
I remain committed to continuing education so I can provide evidence-based care that meets the unique needs of the individuals and families I serve.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
Outside the therapy office, you'll usually find me in my garden. I enjoy growing fruits and vegetables, tending flowers, and spending time outdoors. Gardening reminds me that growth takes patience, care, and time—much like the therapeutic process itself.
My adult children have built lives of their own, and although they live far enough away to keep busy, every visit together is something I truly treasure.
If you're ready to begin, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
I believe therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to provide compassion, perspective, encouragement, and practical tools while working together to understand what is keeping you stuck. Whether you are navigating anxiety, repairing relationships, processing trauma, or working toward personal growth, I strive to help you build confidence and move toward lasting change.
I also recognize that many people come to therapy because of circumstances beyond their control—family conflict, court involvement, traumatic experiences, or major life transitions. My goal is to help clients move beyond simply managing these situations and toward building lives that reflect their values, strengths, and hopes for the future.
WHO I ENJOY WORKING WITH
Children (6+)
Teens
Adults
Couples
Families
HOW WE CAN MEET
In Person
Telehealth
SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST
Autism
Trauma
Emotional Regulation
MSW, LICSW, DBTC
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Contact
Email: wellnessca@groupworkswellness.com
Phone: 218-366-2636
© 2025. All rights reserved.
Fax: 218-524-3935
Address: 1003 Hollinger St, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Crisis support available 24/7: call or text 988
Office Hours
Stay Connected
Get occasional updates and wellness resources.
In-person and telehealth appointments with flexible scheduling available.
