Dionne Fontenelle

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialized expertise in mental health and substance use assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. I have extensive experience conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, diagnostic evaluations, and level-of-care determinations using DSM-5 and ASAM criteria. My clinical approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, utilizing standardized screening tools, risk assessments, and detailed clinical documentation to support accurate diagnoses and individualized treatment recommendations for diverse populations.

In addition to my work in behavioral health, I bring more than 17 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, which has strengthened my skills in assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. My professional experience spans substance abuse treatment centers, behavioral health organizations, and educational settings, where I have supported children, adolescents, and adults with complex emotional, behavioral, and communication needs. I am EMDR trained and committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that fosters healing, resilience, and long-term wellness.

I work collaboratively with clients to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, honest, and goal-oriented. My approach is both compassionate and straightforward, helping clients feel safe enough to explore difficult experiences while also encouraging accountability and meaningful change. I focus on helping clients gain insight into patterns, develop practical coping strategies, and achieve tangible progress in their daily lives.

My clinical work specializes in mental health and substance use disorders, including co-occurring conditions, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and behavioral concerns. I utilize evidence-based approaches tailored to each client’s needs, drawing from trauma-informed care, CBT-based interventions, solution-focused techniques, and EMDR-informed practices. I also have extensive experience conducting comprehensive assessments, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment planning, which allows me to develop individualized care approaches that address the whole person.

With my background as both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Speech-Language Pathologist, I bring a strong understanding of communication, emotional functioning, family systems, and interdisciplinary care. I work with adolescents and adults to help them build resilience, improve relationships, process trauma, and move toward healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Clients can expect the first session to be welcoming, supportive, and focused on getting to know them as a whole person. I take time to understand what brings them to therapy, their current challenges, personal history, strengths, and goals for treatment. My approach is conversational and collaborative, allowing clients to share at a pace that feels comfortable while also helping guide the discussion in a meaningful and productive way.

During the first session, I gather information about emotional, behavioral, relationship, or substance use concerns and begin identifying patterns that may be impacting overall well-being. Clients can also expect honest feedback, thoughtful questions, and a space where they feel heard without judgment. Together, we will begin discussing goals and developing a plan tailored to their specific needs. My goal is for clients to leave the session feeling supported, understood, and hopeful about the therapeutic process.