Alexandria Dunn

My name is Alexandria Dunn and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most important factor and determines the depth of work that will be done in therapy. Our relationship will be built through unconditional positive regard and thought-provoking feedback. My personality type is ENFP (Myers Briggs, look it up!), I use humor where appropriate and my top personal values are open-mindedness and radical acceptance.

My approach

We will spend as much time as needed to build trust and comfortability in therapy. Once the therapeutic bond is sturdy, I am known for utilizing our rapport to challenge you in all the right ways for optimal growth. If and when you are prepared for deeper level work, I often use a psychodynamic approach to look back at your lived experiences and make connections to the here and now - addressing each issue with appropriate therapeutic interventions (DBT, CBT, Trauma Work, Recovery Support, Solution Focused, Processing, etc.). It is not uncommon for me to ask permission to appropriately self-disclose if it appears to be a benefit to you.

My focus

I specialize in addictions, trauma, codependency, family issues, chronic suicidality, adolescents-adults (12+), personality disorders and mood disruption.

My communication style

I am an open communicator and never leave you guessing about the feedback I have offered you. I do believe self-disclosure is the pathway to great communication and will utilize this to form an authentic connection. I am always gauging the conversation through active listening for tone, inflection, speech and physical cues. Sometimes sharing my observations with you is beneficial for your awareness.

My journey to mental healthcare

It was through gaining my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, at Indiana University, that gave me language and understanding about my own traumas and the need for healing - creating a passion for helping others along their journey. I utilized my undergrad years to throw myself into any and every opportunity offered in the field. I worked as a Crisis Counselor in the 2012 tornadoes that declared a natural disaster for a part of my state, volunteered with my local domestic violence agency, worked with the veteran population at my local VFW, implemented programming called "The Incredible Years" for children and families and served children with Autism as a Registered Behavior Technician. Upon completion of my Psychology degree, I enrolled in the Indiana University School of Social Work and gained new experiences with at risk children in a school setting and worked as the Program Therapist at a residential addiction treatment facility for adult men and women. Once I graduated with my Master's in Social Work in 2018, I began working to obtain my clinical licensure through supervision and study. In 2022, I was passed my exam with 30 additional points than required and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Since then, I have worked as a clinical supervisor at a foster care placement agency and dived into program development to create a fully functioning mental health intensive outpatient program for ages 12-18.

My goals for you

Goals are always created with the client. In order for you to accomplish anything you must have buy in. Goals will always be personal and can be adjusted as progress is made.

My first session with you

My clients typically experience ease and peacefulness upon entering into session. In my sessions I hold space for all of you and allow you to explore all facets of yourself and your experiences. Previous clients have stated that working with me is unlike other therapeutic experiences they have had.