Wendy Dodd
“Life is hard in the best of circumstances, and if there's one thing we know about life it's that things don't always go as planned. Some would have you belief that by struggling you are the exception, but I am a firm believer that most of what we experience we are not alone in. Not struggling is the exception, and is rare. Finally taking the step and talking to someone is the first step in showing yourself you're not alone.”
Professional Credentials:
Licensed Master Social Worker
Why I Became a Therapist
This quote inspired me, “There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” ― Desmond Tutu
Expertise:
Anxiety Treatment
I’m deeply passionate about working with anxiety because I believe it’s something we all experience at some point in our lives. Anxiety, while challenging, can also be beneficial when understood and managed effectively. I know the world can be a tough place to navigate, and I’m committed to validating the real concerns that people bring to therapy. I believe that when we feel truly heard and supported, we’re better equipped to manage our anxiety and find a sense of balance in our lives.
Depression Treatment
I’m passionate about helping those struggling with depression because I don’t believe anyone should have to feel alone, yet depression often makes you feel exactly that way. I’ve seen how both anxiety and depression can respond well to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is what I’m trained in. Through CBT, I work with clients to uncover practical strategies that can make a real difference. There are so many tools available that can empower people to help themselves, but these tools aren’t always shared. I’m dedicated to making sure everyone I work with knows about them so they can start to feel more in control of their lives.
Evaluations
I genuinely love the process of mental health evaluation—it's just how my brain works. To me, it's like putting together a complex puzzle, where each piece brings us closer to understanding the whole picture. I see evaluations as more than just a clinical task; they’re an opportunity to introduce individuals to compassionate care and help them glimpse the hope that comes with continuing their treatment journey. Evaluations often provide clear next steps, and I believe that having a plan, a path forward, can be incredibly comforting. It’s empowering for people to know they can take action, and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
First Responders
Having spent 13 years working with children, I consider myself a former first responder, and I know firsthand how toxic workplaces can be. In those environments, self-care is often downplayed, while being a workaholic is glorified. I believe that for those who dedicate their lives to serving others, it’s essential that someone walks alongside them, ensuring they receive the care they need to keep going. Dark places need light, and I’m committed to helping bring that light into the lives of first responders. They deserve the same level of support and care that they tirelessly provide to others.
Assertive Communication
One of my favorite quotes is, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place,” and I truly believe it. So much of life’s difficulties can be traced back to misunderstandings or miscommunications. That’s why I’m passionate about helping people improve their communication skills. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have for navigating challenges. We communicate all day, every day, and the better we get at it, the better our relationships and situations become. By fostering assertive communication, I aim to help others express themselves clearly and confidently, leading to more positive outcomes in every area of life.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) services offer a unique and effective approach to trauma processing, setting it apart from traditional therapy methods. By facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories through guided eye movements, EMDR helps individuals confront and integrate their experiences in a safe environment. This approach often leads to faster healing and a deeper understanding of one’s emotions, empowering clients to move beyond their trauma. I believe that this innovative therapy can transform lives, providing not just relief, but also a pathway to resilience and growth.
