Debra Sime Kilgariff
Choosing the right therapist can be challenging as it's essential to find someone who is both professionally qualified and with whom you feel comfortable sharing your personal story. I firmly believe that meaningful progress in counseling greatly depends on the connection between a client and therapist. While my website offers an overview of my background and practice, it can't fully capture my personal approach. For that reason, I encourage you to reach out to me directly so that we can discuss any questions you may have and explore how we can work together to meet your goals.
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(215) 794-2248 / (908) 403-7799
My Education / Experience
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I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well as a registered telehealth provider in Florida. I'm also a National Board Certified Counselor and have over 25 years of experience working with a variety of people in short and long term treatment. Since graduate school, I have had additional training in the areas of anxiety, depression, couples and family work, children and adolescents, grief, addictions, and more.
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My Theoretical Orientation
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I believe that treatment should be tailored to meet the specific and unique needs of each individual, couple and family. That being said, my approach involves some core philosophies. I typically work from an empirically based cognitive-behavioral perspective, which involves exploring the intricate connections between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to provide valuable feedback and practical suggestions to help you become more productive as you work toward your goals. By incorporating elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and strength-based approaches, I aim to empower you to discover your resilience and ability to navigate challenges. Additionally, I integrate principles from family systems, interpersonal, and relational frameworks as I recognize the significant impact of our personal history, experiences, and relationships on our well-being and I will support you in building healthy and fulfilling connections with others.​​
My Philosophy
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The people who seek my services are often competent individuals who are encountering difficulties as a result of current life challenges. Some are experiencing stress related to career, academic, personal, or family transitions. Others may be struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, poor self-esteem, or conflicts in important relationships. While their skills may have served them well in the past, they have reached a point where they are feeling "stuck". "Stuck" doesn't imply weakness or incompetence. In fact, asking for assistance involves great courage as it means that you are ready to take action and make the changes necessary to improve your life.
Certainly, change in itself can be difficult and might feel overwhelming at times but counseling with an objective, experienced professional can help to build skills, strength, perseverance, and success. My role as a therapist is to impart knowledge and offer strategies to assist you in overcoming the obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals.
My relationship with clients is always one of mutual respect, open communication, and genuine empathy and I am committed to providing support and guidance in a warm, safe, comfortable environment. Our work together will always be collaborative. Jointly, we will develop a plan that enables you to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity.
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You don't have to "do this" alone. I'm here to help.
