Marsha Dickerson's Behavioral Health Counseling

My typical process for working with a client begins with conducting a comprehensive intake assessment to evaluate the client’s presenting concerns, current needs, psychosocial history, and treatment goals. Following the assessment, informed consent is obtained to proceed with treatment and establish a therapeutic alliance. Clients are then provided with all required legal and clinical documentation, including confidentiality, privacy practices, consent for treatment, and financial/payment policies, to ensure ethical and informed participation in services.

I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, specializing in Substance Use Disorders (SUD) as well as Disaster, Crisis, and Trauma Response. My academic foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Washington State University, with dual concentrations in Psychology and Sociology. Throughout my clinical career, I have dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate acute crisis, profound trauma, and the complex dynamics of chemical dependency.

Initial Intake/Assessment Session $120 Individual Therapy Session $130 Couples/Family Therapy Session $185 Telehealth/Online Therapy $100

My commitment to the field of mental health was sparked at the early age of nine, driven by a profound sense of justice and compassion. After witnessing countless families torn apart by the devastating cycles of alcohol and substance abuse in my community, I saw firsthand how poorly these individuals were treated by society. I felt a distinct, divine calling to intervene and reform how we support those in crisis. Today, that childhood vision has matured into a purposeful, faith-based counseling ministry. I integrate rigorous clinical modalities with biblical truths to offer holistic healing, ensuring every client is treated with the dignity, respect, and deep empathy they deserve.

I have experience working with adult clients ages 18 and older from diverse backgrounds and presenting with a wide range of mental health concerns. My clinical experience includes supporting individuals experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related symptoms, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, chronic stress, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and difficulties related to life transitions and coping skills. My therapeutic approach is integrative, evidence-based, and client-centered, incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) interventions to support emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, distress tolerance, behavioral change, and values-based living. Treatment approaches are individualized to meet each client’s unique clinical presentation, treatment goals, and level of functioning while fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

A recent scientific development I found particularly fascinating involved new research from Stanford Medicine exploring the relationship between the immune system and mental health disorders. Researchers discovered that neutrophils—the most common type of white blood cell in the human body—are capable of producing a protein that was previously unknown to scientists. This unexpected finding contributes to a growing body of evidence suggesting that schizophrenia, traditionally viewed primarily as a neurological disorder, may also be influenced by immune and systemic biological processes occurring throughout the body. I find this research especially compelling because it highlights the increasing integration of neuroscience, immunology, and mental health treatment. Discoveries such as these may lead to a deeper understanding of schizophrenia and could eventually support the development of more targeted and effective treatment approaches for individuals living with severe mental health conditions.

When seeking to hire a mental health professional, I would encourage clients to look for a provider whose clinical approach, areas of expertise, and therapeutic style align with their individual needs and treatment goals. It is important to consider the clinician’s experience working with specific concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, or life transitions, as well as their use of evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I would also recommend selecting a clinician who prioritizes creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in the treatment process. Establishing a strong therapeutic alliance is one of the most significant factors contributing to positive clinical outcomes. Additionally, clients should ensure the provider is appropriately licensed, maintains ethical and professional standards, and communicates clearly regarding confidentiality, treatment expectations, scheduling, and financial policies.

Before speaking with a mental health clinician, potential clients may benefit from reflecting on the specific concerns, symptoms, or life challenges they are currently experiencing and how these issues are impacting their daily functioning, relationships, emotional well-being, or overall quality of life. It can also be helpful to consider what they hope to gain from therapy, such as improving coping skills, managing anxiety or depression, processing trauma, enhancing emotional regulation, strengthening relationships, or navigating significant life transitions. Clients may also want to think about their preferences regarding a clinician’s therapeutic approach, communication style, and level of structure within sessions. Considering factors such as scheduling availability, financial considerations, insurance coverage, and readiness to engage in the therapeutic process can also support a more productive initial consultation. Additionally, potential clients should feel prepared to ask questions about the clinician’s experience, areas of specialization, treatment modalities utilized, confidentiality practices, and expectations for treatment participation and progress. Thoughtful consideration of these factors can help clients identify a clinician who is clinically appropriate and well-aligned with their therapeutic needs and goals.