Skip to main content
Headway
Headshot of Denise Dawson, LCSW

Dr. Denise Dawson

Therapist
12 years of experience
  • Virtual
  • Anxiety, Depression
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

I am a licensed therapist and university research professor. I've been fortunate to work with a diverse range of people throughout my career. Working on social work and public health research projects helped me realize I enjoy working with patients who struggle with mental health and chronic disease diagnoses. I obtained my Master's in Social Work from East Carolina University in 2011 and began practicing psychotherapy. I offer online therapy for clients across the US and internationally. Taking the first step isn't easy—but since you're here, take the next one and schedule an appointment. You'll be glad you did!

My approach to therapy

I take a personable, practical approach to therapy, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and brief solution-focused techniques. I focus on helping clients develop tangible strategies and resources they can use both in and out of sessions. My goal is to make therapy actionable and results-oriented while creating a supportive, understanding space where clients feel heard and valued.

What you can expect from me

Clients can expect to leave sessions with clear, practical tools to manage challenges like depression, anxiety, caregiver burden, chronic health issues, and career stress. Beyond coping strategies, clients gain a deeper understanding of their patterns, actionable steps for change, and the encouragement to prioritize their own well-being. Ultimately, they take away a sense of empowerment and guidance to support their ongoing self-care and personal growth.

About me

  • I identify as
    Black or African descent, Woman
  • My style is
    Warm, Empowering, Solution Oriented

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    12 years of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at East Carolina University, PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) at University of North Carolina, Greensboro
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia), LISW-CP (Licensed independent social worker–clinical practice) (South Carolina)
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania - Virtual National Network, Kaiser Permanente of the Mid Atlantic

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Depression
  • More specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Bipolar disorder, Stress management, Cultural & ethnic issues, Grief or loss, Women's issues, Chronic conditions
  • Therapy methods
    Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Seniors, Adults
  • Languages
    English