- CBT methods
- DBT skills
- Client-centered care
About Darlene
Darlene Dezso is an Alabama-licensed clinical social worker (LICSW) with 35 years of professional experience. She works with people facing stress, anxiety, grief, trauma and past abuse, and struggles with self-esteem and depression. She also helps clients dealing with relationship strain, compassion fatigue, and life transitions.
In session she listens closely and focuses on what each person brings. Conversations are practical and grounded. She uses straightforward talk and problem-solving to address day-to-day challenges and distressing memories.
Darlene blends several well-known approaches to fit what a client needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thoughts and test new behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers skills for managing intense emotions and improving self-control. Client-Centered techniques keep the conversation rooted in the client’s perspective.
She often addresses family of origin issues, codependency, communication problems, and feelings of emptiness. She has experience with first responder and veteran concerns, hospice and end-of-life counseling, and coping after natural or human-caused disasters. Seasonal Affective Disorder and prejudice-related stress are also part of her work.
Darlene frames therapy as a series of clear steps rather than vague promises. She helps people set small goals, learn concrete skills, and track progress over time. This practical focus aims to make everyday situations easier to handle.
How her approaches guide online work
Client-Centered Therapy centers the conversation on what the client notices and values, letting the person set priorities and pace while the therapist reflects and clarifies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on spotting unhelpful thoughts and testing small behavior changes to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches specific skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and better interpersonal interactions.Finding the right approach is part of the work. Darlene will help identify which methods fit your needs and goals, and she and the client will adjust the plan together as progress is made. Decisions about techniques are collaborative and based on what helps in day-to-day life.
Session formats are not listed in this profile, so confirm current online options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when time is tight, and reduce travel time. They also let people meet with a licensed professional from different locations within the same region. Ask about the available session types when you schedule to find what fits your routine.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
35+ years
Listed in
Alabama
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does she address?
She works with stress, anxiety, grief, trauma and past abuse, self-esteem concerns, depression, and related issues such as codependency and communication problems.
What is her therapeutic style?
The approach is practical and listening-based. Sessions focus on clear steps, skill building, and talking through current struggles.
How much experience does she have?
She has 35 years of professional experience, mainly in private practice.
What credential and location are listed?
She is an AL LICSW, practicing in Alabama.
Which languages are supported and can international clients join?
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are offered?
Session formats are not specified here; please confirm current session options before booking.
How are sessions priced?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin if I want to work together?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.