Dr. Deborea Pugh

I am a compassionate and experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals and families in achieving emotional wellness and improved quality of life. I aim to create a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and build meaningful change.

I work with a diverse range of clients across the lifespan, including veterans and active military members, children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I have particular expertise in supporting individuals with disabilities and elderly populations, providing thoughtful, individualized care that addresses their unique emotional, behavioral, and psychosocial needs.

My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, and caregiver-related stress. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care to develop treatment plans tailored to each client’s strengths, goals, and lived experiences.

I am committed to a holistic, client-centered approach that promotes dignity, independence, and resilience. She collaborates with clients, families, and support systems to foster growth, strengthen coping skills, and enhance overall well-being.

I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am licensed to practice as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices in mental health care.

Outside of professional work, my values balance self-care, reflecting my belief that wellness is essential to a fulfilling life. I provide a safe space to understand challenges, build coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and individualized. I believe each person brings unique experiences, strengths, and challenges to therapy, so I tailor treatment to meet the client’s specific needs and goals.

I use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and other therapeutic techniques as appropriate. I help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing practical coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and other life challenges.

I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I work alongside clients to identify patterns that may be holding them back, build on their existing strengths, and develop realistic strategies that promote healing, personal growth, and lasting change.

During your first session, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free environment where we begin getting to know one another. We will discuss what brought you to therapy, the concerns or challenges you are currently experiencing, and what you hope to accomplish through counseling.

I will ask questions about your current situation, your background, relationships, strengths, and any factors that may be affecting your emotional well-being. We will also begin identifying goals for therapy and discussing strategies that may be helpful moving forward.

You do not have to have everything figured out before your first appointment. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we will work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My goal is for you to leave your first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the work ahead. The most important thing is that you are here.