Vanessa Dunham, LCSW

she/her/hers

Welcome! I’m so glad that you’re here. Whether you are new to therapy or are returning to it, I know that taking the step to begin therapy can be challenging. I commend you on your courage and commitment to yourself to take this step. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for increasing support, increasing insight into ourselves and for fostering personal growth. It is my goal to provide a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space for you to receive support in this journey. 

I believe we all have unique strengths and the potential for growth. Sometimes when challenges in our lives cause distress it can be hard for us to see our strengths and sometimes we can feel stuck. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help clients identify their strengths, ways to overcome challenges and to build strategies that will foster a sense of increased peace and more meaningful living. In our work together we will explore if there are any patterns that are holding you back from your personal goals and we will work together to find new tools and skills that work best for you. 

Using an integrative approach, I draw from different evidence-based modalities I have trained in, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness techniques. I am culturally sensitive and LGBTQIA+ affirming. I often work with people experiencing chronic illness, cancer, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and caregiver stress. 

A little bit about me: I’m originally from the Midwest, but Texas has been my home since 1998. I was moved to become a social worker after my own personal experience with cancer as a teenager. I earned my Bachelor of Social work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and then became licensed as a social worker in 2007 to begin my first career in the field working at a not-for-profit agency supporting individuals affected by cancer. After 3 years of working in the field, I went back to school to earn my Master of Science in Social Work degree at the University of Texas at Arlington. During that time, I completed a counseling internship at the University’s counseling center at the School of Social Work that provided counseling services to the community. After receiving my Master’s degree, I have worked in settings including outpatient cancer centers, a primary care clinic and counseling agencies. During my free time, I enjoy baking, taking walks with my husband and our dog, reading and playing board games with friends. 

If you’d like to speak with me to learn more or to talk about how we might work together, please call (512)201-4501 x 326 or fill out our appointment request form.