Dr. Godfrey Ddungu

I am Dr. Godfrey Ddungu, PhD, LCPC, ACS, ASDCS, NCC, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and clinical supervisor in Maryland, a nationally approved clinical supervisor, and a professor of clinical rehabilitation and clinical mental health counseling. My professional experience includes counseling, teaching, clinical supervision, and supporting emerging mental health professionals.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, relationship concerns, academic pressure, major life transitions, or feelings of being stuck or disconnected. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that honors each client’s identity, background, strengths, and lived experiences.

My therapeutic style is warm, genuine, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, respected, and supported. I will meet you where you are, recognize your progress, and gently challenge you when you are ready to move toward healing and growth.

I use an integrative, individualized approach based on your needs and goals. My work incorporates systems theory, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, client-centered therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, multicultural counseling, and motivational interviewing. Together, we can build insight, strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and help you move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Beginning therapy does not have to feel overwhelming. It can be a safe and encouraging space to gain clarity, process difficult experiences, reconnect with yourself, and create meaningful change. I value open and respectful communication and seek to build a therapeutic relationship grounded in compassion, curiosity, reflection, trust, and mutual respect.

My approach is person-centered, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based approaches to help you gain insight, build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.

In our first session, you can expect a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can begin sharing what brought you to therapy at a pace that feels comfortable. We will discuss your concerns, goals, and what you hope to gain from the therapeutic process. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how we may work together.

My goal is to begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in authenticity, hope, and mutual respect. Life can be difficult and may affect your sense of self-worth, hope, connection, and ability to experience joy. You do not need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy. Together, we will identify practical next steps and begin creating a path toward a more genuine, purposeful, happy, and passionate life.