Dawn DemerlyTherapist
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My name is Dawn Demerly, LMSW, and I’m a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people navigate life’s hardest moments. I work with adults and older teens facing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and major life transitions. My goal is to create a space where you can exhale, feel truly understood, and start finding your footing again. I believe growth begins with feeling safe, seen, and supported — and that’s where our work together starts.
Treatment Philosophy & Focus
My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based care. I’m certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and often draw from its focus on mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance to help clients manage overwhelming emotions. For trauma treatment, I integrate Prolonged Exposure (PE) to support safe, structured processing of painful memories. I also blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic talk therapy to help uncover patterns, build insight, and create lasting change. Together, we’ll develop practical tools and deeper understanding to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Education & Experience
I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Michigan State University and am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan. With years of experience in both community mental health and private practice settings, I’ve supported individuals through a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. My background includes work in crisis intervention, trauma recovery, and addiction treatment, as well as therapy for anxiety, depression, and adjustment concerns. These experiences have reinforced my belief that healing happens through connection, trust, and genuine understanding.
Specializations
Addiction & Recovery
Adjustment Concerns
Anxiety & Depression
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Crisis Intervention
Dual Diagnosis (Mental Health & Substance Use)
Emotional Regulation
Life Transitions
Stress & Burnout
Trauma & PTSD