Dorothea Appling (Intern Therapist)

Hello, I am Dorothea (pronouns -she/her). I am currently an intern at the Center for Growth. I will be interning here from November 25, 2025, to September 14, 2026. I am gaining my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling at the University of Phoenix. During my time in school, I have also obtained my certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

I have over ten years of experience providing support to individuals as a case manager for individuals with substance use, co-occurring disorders, severe mental health, trauma, and life’s many challenges. Throughout my career, I have worked alongside different mental health settings, including outpatient programs, residential treatment, community-based support services, and inpatient hospitalizations.

I encourage personal growth and the development of healthier coping strategies. My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered therapy, meaning that I believe every client holds the inner capacity to create change and deserves a space where they feel heard, respected, and understood. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment that honors your story and meets you where you are. My role is not to tell you who to be, but to walk alongside you as you explore your strengths, overcome obstacles, and work toward the goals that matter most to you.

Some Clinical Interests, but not limited to:

• Alternative Sexual Lifestyles
• Anger
• Anxiety/Panic attacks
• Bipolar
• Grief &Loss
• Infidelity/Cheating
• Depression
• Discernment Counseling
• Gender Identity
• Learning Disabilities
• LGBTQIA
• Life Transitions
• Low Self-Esteem

When working with me, you can expect compassion, patience, and collaboration. I will tailor each session to fit your unique needs, drawing on evidence-based practices while allowing room for flexibility and creativity in the healing process. Whether we are addressing substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions, my goal is to empower you with practical tools, insight, and confidence to navigate challenges with resilience.

My commitment to supporting you with empathy and respect during your journey. Together, we will focus on your personal growth, your values, and your vision for a more fulfilling future. My therapeutic work is grounded in a person-centered approach, which emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. I believe that each individual has the innate capacity for growth, healing, and self-understanding when supported in the right environment.

As an intern, I bring a strong foundation in mental health theory and a commitment to cultural sensitivity and ethical practice. I work under licensed supervision and am passionate about supporting individuals navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity development, and relationship challenges.

My goal is to meet clients where they are and walk alongside them as they gain clarity, confidence, and resilience. In our work together, you can expect warmth, compassion, and a focus on what truly matters to you. I am passionate about helping others and love to see the change that some believe is too difficult to achieve.

In building a relationship of trust and understanding, we will navigate the process positively and engagingly. We will deal with difficult topics during our session. However, you will see some use of humor and mindfulness to ground ourselves.

Additionally, building skills through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Psychosis CBT-P, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT).