Dr. Dawn Loshigian

I am a warm, compassionate person who loves to help people thrive. I started out as an ELA teacher in a secondary school, and from there, I picked up two master's degrees: One in clinical mental health and the other in education. I also worked as a school counselor in a secondary school for years. I went on to pursue post-graduate certificates in clinical mental health and school counseling. When I was accruing my hours as an LMHC, I worked in a long-term residential facility for those struggling with addiction. After this, I went on to pursue a doctorate in psychology and worked in a community mental health clinic that featured services for those with persistent and serious mental illness and offered crisis modalities. I am a licensed psychologist who has worked for as a professor of psychology and as a private practitioner, and I work especially well with adults (ages 18 and beyond). Although people seek me out for all kinds of things, I often work with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, work-related issues, and grief. Service is also a very important part of who I am as a person. When I am not working, I like to volunteer in my community (e.g., hospice care, rescue mission, NYBC).

I believe that it is important to provide a safe environment for people to grow. Although I am a CBT practitioner who actively engages with clients and teaches them fundamental principles that will help them understand themselves and their issues, I also have special training in faith-based approaches for those who want to share that part of themselves. For some clients, having a spiritual tradition may be helpful in managing mental health symptoms and stressors, creating opportunities for understanding their purpose, cultivating hope, and fostering a sense of community with other likeminded people who can provide meaningful connection and support. However, my clients always take the lead and set the pace here; there may be questions, doubt, disappointment, and shame. I have always been humbled by the opportunity to meet people where they are and help them heal.

My intake session is about 60 minutes and is comprehensive. I conduct a clinical interview and look for strengths, as well as areas of clinical impact in order to collaboratively design a treatment plan that meets my client's needs and goals. In session, I celebrate progress (no matter how small), and I will ask clients to apply concepts during the week. However, there is no judgment for those who choose not to or do not meet their performance standards. There will always be other ways to learn.