Dominique Decoster , LICSW

Dominique Decoster is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who earned her Master of Social Work from Springfield College in 2005. During her graduate training she completed internships in a correctional facility and at a cancer center, experiences that provided exposure to both justice-involved populations and people coping with serious medical concerns.

After finishing her degree, she worked as a therapist in a clinic for three years, providing direct clinical services. For the last 15 years she has served as a social worker in a public defender's office, offering support and services to indigent individuals facing criminal charges. This role has focused on helping clients navigate legal challenges while addressing their social and emotional needs.

Her background combines clinical training and long-term public defender practice, bringing an understanding of the intersections between legal systems and mental health to her work. LICSW denotes Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, a credential that reflects advanced clinical training and the ability to provide independent therapeutic services.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Dominique Decoster uses client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as core approaches in her work. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where the therapist listens closely and supports the client in finding their own solutions; it is often helpful for building self-esteem, improving relationships, and processing difficult emotions. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a practical, goal-oriented method that helps people identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop new coping skills, and it is commonly used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns.

She also incorporates elements of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) when needed, which emphasizes skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and improved interpersonal effectiveness - useful for intense emotions and relationship challenges. Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process; Dominique works with each client to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts the plan over time based on progress and feedback.

Online therapy with Dominique is available through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for scheduling and greater accessibility for people with busy or complex lives. These options make it easier to maintain consistent care while fitting therapy into everyday routines, and they support ongoing collaboration between licensed professionals and clients regardless of location.