Dr. Steven Dawson

Dr. Steve Dawson earned his Master of Social Work from New York University and his doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. He is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Daemen University and has previously taught at NYU and Rutgers University.

Steve brings a compassionate, relational, and collaborative approach to therapy, creating a safe and welcoming space where individuals can explore their experiences, reconnect with their authentic selves, and find meaning, healing, and peace amid life's challenges.

As the co-founder of Move Me Brightly, a group therapy practice, Steve also works alongside a team of talented, compassionate therapists who share his commitment to providing exceptional, individualized care. Together, they strive to make quality mental health services accessible and help each person find the therapist and approach that best meets their needs.

My approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins when we feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. I integrate psychodynamic, attachment-based, and evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT, IFS, and trauma-informed care, to help clients better understand themselves, recognize patterns, and develop new ways of navigating life's challenges. My work focuses on trauma, substance use, co-occurring mental health concerns, relationships, and personal growth. I believe therapy should be a space for curiosity, self-discovery, and healing rather than judgment.

As a clinical supervisor and co-founder of Move Me Brightly, I also mentor a team of compassionate therapists with specialized interests in couples and family therapy, eating disorders, perinatal and postpartum mental health, adolescent mental health, chronic illness and disability, veterans and military families, and complex mental health conditions. Together, we are committed to helping individuals find the right therapeutic relationship and receive care that honors their unique experiences, identities, and goals.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin building a relationship grounded in trust, safety, and understanding. We'll explore what brings you to therapy, what you've been experiencing, and what you hope to gain from our work together. My approach is conversational, collaborative, and free of judgment. There is no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with, and we'll move at a pace that feels right for you.

I also believe that finding the right therapist is essential to meaningful healing. If I'm not the best fit for your needs or my availability is limited, I can connect you with one of the wonderful therapists at our group practice, Move Me Brightly. Our team offers a variety of specialties, flexible scheduling, and affordable options, including sliding-scale and pro bono therapy services for individuals experiencing financial hardship. My priority is making sure you feel supported and connected to the care that's right for you, whether that's with me or another member of our team.