Derek Petersen

I’m a dedicated mental health professional with over 10 years of experience in the helping professions, driven by a deep passion for supporting people in creating meaningful, lasting change. I specialize in treating anxiety and related disorders through specialized modalities such as Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) as well as grief and loss, depression, and relationship and attachment issues.

I also have extensive experience working in addiction and behavioral health, supporting individuals through recovery with compassion, structure, and practical tools for sustainable progress. I also work with anxiety disorders and phobias, helping clients better understand their patterns and gradually overcome avoidance so they can live more freely.

A core part of my work focuses on self-confidence and self-image. I help clients challenge negative self-beliefs, strengthen their sense of identity, and develop a more balanced and compassionate relationship with themselves.

My approach is collaborative, nonjudgmental, and tailored to each individual’s goals. I believe therapy should feel both supportive and empowering—giving you the skills, insight, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges long after our work together ends.

In our first session, you can expect a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we begin getting to know you and what brings you to therapy. We’ll talk about your current concerns, any relevant history, and what you’re hoping to get out of our work together. It's important to note that there’s absolutely no pressure to share everything at once—this is your space, and we’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you!

Together, we’ll start identifying goals and what meaningful progress would look like for you. You can also expect to leave with a clearer understanding of how I work, and space to ask any questions about the therapy process.

Above all, my focus in our first session together is building connection and creating a foundation of trust, so you feel supported, understood, and empowered moving forward.