Dana Phillips

I believe the human connection is one of life’s most powerful gifts. Meaningful relationships can propel people to do great things and be the best version of themselves, which is why I approach every counseling relationship with the utmost respect and a humble heart knowing how brave people are to allow me into their innermost thoughts and feelings. My twelve years of diverse experience in the counseling field has taught me that establishing trust, non-judgment, and open dialogue is essential to best outcomes when working in the counseling relationship. My graduate work was completed at The College of New Jersey, a CACREP accredited counseling program, with a focus in school counseling and substance use prevention, education, intervention, and referrals. My twelve years of field and professional experience include working with children and families in the school counseling setting in areas of concern such as academic, social, emotional counseling, and crisis intervention. Common counseling topics that surface for youth and families are emotional health concerns (i.e., anxiety, depression, anger management, etc.), loss and grief, self-esteem and self-image, relationship and dating issues, family conflict, substance use and abuse, college and career planning, time management and organization, post traumatic stress, and perfectionism, to name a few. My educational background, national and state certifications (National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Student Assistance Coordinator, and Masters in School Counseling), and professional experience have allowed me the opportunity to also work with clients of diverse backgrounds in a private practice setting and through contracted work within my state’s Children’s System of Care. I intentionally work within a client-centered philosophy that encourages a variety of theoretical and practical therapeutic approaches to counseling as I genuinely believe there is “no one way” to approach every client, situation, or session. Theoretical practices that frequently guide my work with clients include Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic and Systems Theory. I have also found that displaying genuine concern and regard for the well being of those whom I work with is the most effective way to ensure positive outcomes. I would love to work with clients whose commitment toward emotional growth and health compliment my dedication and enthusiasm to support and encourage them during their personal journey.