Rate John Dlugosz

About me:

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 25 years of experience working with children, youth, couples, families, individuals, and veterans helping them address and overcome mental health challenges and the difficulties that life puts in our path. I am also a Christian, husband, father, and veteran. I hold Doctoral Degrees in Education, Religious Sciences & Counseling, a Master's of Social Work, and a Bachelor's in Psychology. I enjoy and look forward to bringing practical experience, education, insight and wisdom into the therapeutic relationship in order to help the people I work with overcome challenges and grow in healthy ways.

In our first session together, here's what you can expect:

The key to a successful therapeutic relationship and positive outcome is building a good relationship. This starts with getting to know each other and building trust. You can expect me to put 100% of my focus and effort into listening to you and understanding what you have to say about yourself and what you are experiencing. After a brief introduction, I will ask you open ended questions and be eager to answer any questions you may have.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions:

I believe my greatest strength as a therapist is helping others to find their strengths, identify the root cause/s of their challenges, and ultimately overcome the challenges and situations they are experiencing to grow into the person they want to become.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve:

I love working with people who are looking for change and or answers in all areas of their life. If you are feeling there is no hope, feeling lost in who you are, what you are doing, or overwhelmed with challenges life has put in your path, we can work together to get you to a better place. If you desire a way forward from the challenges and circumstances you are experiencing, I look forward to working with you!

What I specialize in:

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

My preferred approach to using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is Client centered, holistic, and integrates the utilization of a strengths-based and trauma informed perspectives. When I am working with my Clients, I seek to integrate one or more of the following therapeutic tools: cognitive restructuring and or reframing, guided discovery, positive psychology, positive mindset building, journaling and or thought recording, relaxation techniques, goal setting, activity scheduling, behavior activation and or modification. In addition, a special emphasis is placed on developing a holistic comprehensive self-care routine for all Clients and providing education to Clients as to why self-care is critically important and foundational to personal growth and successful therapeutic outcomes. In my experience, CBT is an evidence-based approach that is effective for a multitude of presenting issues, including anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, phobias and more. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that empowers Clients to take an active role in their healing and or growth process. The collaborative nature of CBT fosters a strong therapeutic relationship where the therapist acts as a guide and coach through the process of Client centered and therapeutic change.

Christian Counseling

Christian counseling seeks to integrate the wisdom, principles and evidence-based therapeutic practices with both the teachings and principles found in the Bible and Christian faith. This means looking at mental health challenges through a Biblical and Christ centered worldview and understanding how faith can be a source of healing and a foundational corner stone of strength for my clients. My approach to Christian Counseling integrates evidence-based practices, psychotherapy, psycho-educational components, positive psychology and a strong emphasis on building a healthy therapeutic alliance. My clinical experience had demonstrated that scripture and the Client's personal faith, is a strength and serves as a foundation for achieving positive therapeutic results, achieving personal goals, and resolving life's most difficult challenges.

Family Therapy

My approach to family therapy is a highly personal and culturally informed family systems approach. This approach from my experience is necessary in that each family member is an individual and their challenges and presenting issues must be met in order to address the greater family challenges and issues. My comprehensive approach to family therapy may involve one or more of the following techniques: psychoeducation, conflict resolution, behavioral modification, supportive family therapy, brief solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and group specific work such modeling, role play, and communication skills etc.

Positive Psychology

The use of positive psychology is critical and necessary for treating mental health challenges and fostering personal growth. Integrating positive psychology into all aspects of practice is incredibly powerful and life changing for Clients. Positive psychology is the most significant and powerful tool for client's to fundamentally change into the person they want to become. In my experience, positive psychology paired with cognitive behavioral therapy has been the most effective way to help the people I am honored and grateful to work with change the way they think about and experience the challenges life puts in their path.

Couples Counseling

As a therapist specializing in couples therapy, I bring extensive experience in helping partners navigate challenges, strengthen their connection, and foster healthier relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I guide couples through the issues such as communication break downs, trust concerns, intimacy struggles, and conflict resolution. I focus on using evidence-based approaches such as Gottman based communication skills and principles, positive psychology, psychodynamic modalities (exploring and defining the root of feelings) and many more that are tailored to each person individually in the relationship to foster and or rebuild emotional bonds, enhance mutual understanding, build emotional intelligence and create lasting positive change. I've successfully supported couples in deepening their intimacy and resolving their conflicts, tailoring each session to their unique needs and goals. Whether you're seeking to rekindle your spark or address specific challenges, I am here to provide a safe and supportive space to help you, and your relationship grow and thrive!