- CBT approaches
- DBT skills
- Mindfulness work
About Richard
Richard "Rick" Dawson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - LCSW practicing in Oregon with 33 years of experience. He lists stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, grief, depression, family concerns, trauma and abuse, and social anxiety and phobia among the issues he works with.
Rick returned to clinical practice after a period of retirement because he wanted to meet rising demand for help. He began his counseling career in 1992 after several years working as a musician. Early work included inpatient psychiatric care where he ran individual, family, and group sessions while completing his degree.
Over the years he has practiced in a variety of settings. His background includes inpatient psychiatric departments, a stand-alone psychiatric hospital, community mental health, hospice care, and private practice beginning in 2004. He spent the last decade working as an outpatient therapist in a family medical clinic in suburban Portland, Oregon.
Rick uses practical tools in sessions to address problems such as panic attacks, loneliness, guilt and shame, sleep problems, anger, and coping with life changes. He lists Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy among the approaches he draws on.
In session he focuses on problem-solving alongside the person he is working with. He aims to create an environment where thoughts and feelings can be talked about without judgment. The first meeting typically looks at immediate concerns and possible steps to try next.
He speaks English and practices under an Oregon LCSW credential. Prospective clients should use the site's matching flow to schedule a first appointment and confirm current session options before booking.
How therapeutic approaches work in online sessions
CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and testing small behavior changes to reduce symptoms like panic attacks or social anxiety. It uses clear steps and homework to try between sessions.DBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, teaches skills for managing strong emotions, improving relationships, and tolerating distress. Skills practice and simple exercises can be worked on during and between sessions.
Mindfulness Therapy encourages brief attention practices and awareness of thoughts and sensations to reduce reactivity and improve sleep and mood. These practices are often short and practical enough to fit into daily routines.
Choosing which approach to use is a collaborative process. The therapist will review your concerns, goals, and preferences and then suggest techniques to try. You and the therapist adjust the plan together based on what helps.
Confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered. Online work can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Many people find remote sessions help maintain continuity of care while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
33+ years
Listed in
Oregon
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he address?
He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, grief, depression, trauma and related concerns including social anxiety and phobia.
What is his style or approach in sessions?
He uses practical, problem-solving work and draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy as relevant.
How much experience does he have?
He has 33 years of professional experience, including inpatient and outpatient settings, group and individual work, and long-term private practice.
What credential does he hold and where does he practice?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - LCSW practicing in Oregon.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are costs handled?
Costs vary by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time; confirm fees during the booking process.
How do I begin a first session?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session through the platform.