I practice Person-Centered Counseling, also called Humanistic Counseling, which was created by Dr. Carl Rogers. Within this framework, I use a client-directed approach, meaning I follow your lead in what we are discussing and what the direction of therapy will be. 

While everybody is different, my overall goal for each client is self-actualization. This is when you are able to take full advantage of your capabilities and strengths so as to be able to live the most meaningful life you can.  

My goal as a counselor is to provide a warm, empathic space and relationship in which you can feel comfortable in exploring your psychological and emotional life. I believe that the most powerful and lasting healing happens within such a relationship. At Lesley University I was trained in the concept of “self-as-instrument,” in which the counselor uses their genuine self to develop a relationship with the client that facilitates positive change and moves toward self-actualization. 

There are many important characteristics of this relationship that need to be present for this change to happen. The most important is that I hold you in unconditional positive regard and provide empathic understanding of your internal world. I don’t judge, or give advice, or direction. Rather, I strive to accept whatever you present and work to understand your frame of reference so that you can have space to reflect on your own view of yourself.

In this type of relationship it is of great importance that both the therapist and the client have an accurate perception of the other. Of course, this is something that needs to be developed and maintained as therapy progresses, and maintained as you grow and change. From this perspective, the first few sessions we have will largely focus on relationship building. As we learn about each other therapy will take on a different direction, but maintaining the relationship will always be a focus. 

As the counselor, this type of relationship demands that I always strive to be congruent, which means that I am being genuine, I am involved in the process and draw upon my own experiences to facilitate the relationship. This involves appropriate use therapist self-disclosure.

While we engage in this process, there will likely be times when we explore things that are painful or uncomfortable to discuss. As a result, there might be some emotional and/or psychological regression during these times. Perhaps the feeling that “therapy is making me feel worse” will arise. This is a normal part of the therapeutic growth process and, when and if it happens, it will be something that we discuss and move through. 

As part of my work, I also often employ meditation during sessions. We can use this as a way to manage symptoms or to gain deeper insight into our lives. However, the use of meditation, or any contemplative technique, is at the discretion of you, the client. 

When working with substance using clients, here I also follow the client’s lead, except when there is harmful behavior occurring which needs addressing for safety reasons. During the course of our work in this area we may engage Harm Reduction concepts or Abstinence Based models, and this can change over the course of our therapy. 

Whatever course we take, we will examine your relationship to the substance. We will explore questions such as:  What role is it playing in your life? Are you using it to enhance things? To cope with something? Both? Has your use gotten out of control?  

With Family Coaching, the focus is on the community of the family system and how each member is functioning inside it. Discovering what role each individual plays in the family, and how that affects the family system, is the springboard for change. We will also consistently be looking at how each member of the family is, or isn’t, taking care of themselves. 

If we use the CRAFT model, an additional focus will be on how do we act as a both individuals and community so as to mitigate the radiating negative effects of a loved one’s mental health and/or substance abuse issues, as well as how do we stay attached to that loved in a way that facilitates their safety and change. The CRAFT model is explained in greater detail here, but we are basically looking at how we can alter the community of the family to work better for all. 

With all this said, the main focus will still always be based on our relationship with each other, which will always be evolving and growing. Healing happens within these relationships. I look forward to working with you.

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Trauma

• Substance Abuse

• Dual Diagnosis

• Spiritual Issues & Disturbances

• Gambling Disorders

• Community Integration

• Family Coaching & Training

• Case Management

• Meditation Training

• Person Centered Counseling

• Harm Reduction

• Abstinence Based

• Motivational Interviewing

• Spiritual Counseling

• C.R.A.F.T. (Community Reinforcement and Family Training)

• CBT / DBT

• Contemplative Practices

• Dream Analysis

Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

M.A. In Counseling Psychology, May 2014

Advisor:  Jared D. Kass, Ph.D.

Focus on Humanistic Counseling, Holistics and Spirituality

GPA:  3.9

University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA

B.A. in Journalism, Jan 1999

Minors in History, Film

Private Practice, Arlington, MA 

Psychotherapist, 2016 - Present

Working with individual clients, conducted clinical and diagnostic intake assessments and formulated collaborative treatment plans. Facilitated psychotherapy sessions from a Humanistic theoretical orientation while implementing other appropriate therapeutic interventions as needed. Client progress was regularly  monitored and consultation with collaterals and referrals were made to outside providers as necessary. Kept detailed records and participated in individual and group supervision as well as continuing education.

MWI, Boston, MA

Mediator, 2021 - Present 

Mediators manage the process of Alternative Dispute Resolution sessions for parties in conflict, facilitating under the core concepts of informed consent, confidentiality, voluntariness, neutrality and self-determination. Providing a neutral space for those in disagreement to discuss their differences efficiently, the Mediator uses summarization and reflective listening to uncover the interests behind the parties’ positions with the goal of coming to an agreement that is mutually beneficial and that all parties are satisfied with.

Gosnold, Inc, Falmouth, MA

Clinical Outreach Specialist, 2023

Working under the direction of the  Clinical Outreach Director, the goal of this role was to increase knowledge of current and future Gosnold programs to facilities across the region, as well as to create contacts and manage subsequent referrals from these contacted facilities. This role also involved providing staff trainings and educational opportunities, as well as facilitating informational sessions at outside facilities. 

Gosnold, Inc, Falmouth, MA

Massachusetts Impaired Driver Program Facilitator, 2023 - 2024

Facilitation of online educational groups for first offender court ordered OUI clients is the main function of this role. The MID program participants are provided with a structured group where they receive educational material to help them identify and understand alcohol abuse issues and drinking-and–driving behaviors. While the major focus of these programs is on alcohol, other substances of abuse are also discussed, as well as distracted driving concepts. The program provides 40 hours of services conducted over 16 weeks and includes an assessment and required participation in self-help and victim-impact community meetings. This program is for individuals convicted for the first time for drunk driving and who choose this option as an alternative to losing their license or possible incarceration. This position also involved reviewing program progress and compliance with members and updating Probation Officers of such.

Ellenhorn, Arlington, MA

P.A.C.T. Clinician / I.D.D.T. Coordinator, 2016 - 2021

As a clinician for the P.A.C.T. Program (Program for Assertive Community Treatment), provided psychosocial rehab services on an individual, group and family basis in the community.  Meeting clients with persistent struggles with mental health and addiction in their homes, at their places of work and/or at various other locations, the clinician worked to foster healing, client-centered relationships with the goal of facilitating deeper community connections for their clients. Additionally, the P.A.C.T. clinician was the leader of the multidisciplinary team working with their assigned primary clients, which involved creating and integrating a series of comprehensive assessments into an individualized treatment plan as well as organizing appropriate services. This role also involved working on other clients’ multidisciplinary teams, as well as participating in daily rounds and 24/7 on-call support and crisis intervention rotation. As the I.D.D.T. Coordinator (Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment), the clinician managed and coordinated care plans for all dual-diagnosis clients, as well as worked with the admissions team to discuss the concept of I.D.D.T. with prospective clients and their families. Additionally, the clinician created and gave clinical presentations and educational sessions regarding I.D.D.T. work both internally and externally.

Ellenhorn, Arlington, MA

Q.U.E.S.T. Director, 2021

Directing the Q.U.E.S.T. Program (Quality Unique Experiential Supportive Treatment) involved the planning and facilitation of therapeutic-based recreational outings and excursions for psychosocial rehab clients. Clients engaged in a multitude of various activities, such as visiting museums, going on hikes, learning to do farm work, visiting amusement centers, utilizing rock climbing gyms, attending sporting events, and many others, with the dual goals of introducing clients to the local area as well as keeping them mentally and physically active. The Director was also responsible for knowing which activities were developmentally appropriate for clients, for keeping safety in mind while out in the community and for reporting client behavior, progress and assessment of their engagement to the treatment team.

P.H.P Clinician, 2015 - 2016

MetroWest Medical Center - Leonard Morse Hospital, Natick, MA

Working in a P.H.P. (Partial Hospitalization Program), the clinician facilitated therapeutic groups, case management and provided case management for a dually-diagnosed population. Clinician was responsible for record keeping and also conducted clinical intakes and biopsychosocial assessments, formulated treatment plans and managed utilization reviews for assigned clients. Clinician participated regularly in individual and group supervision. 

Community Substance Abuse Center, Chelsea, MA

Counselor, 2014 - 2015

Counselor facilitated individual and group psychotherapy for clients in a M.A.T. Program (Medication Assisted Treatment) setting. Counselor was responsible for record keeping and also conducted intake assessments and formulated treatment plans for assigned clients. Clinician participated regularly in individual and group supervision. 

Arbour Counseling, Norwell, MA

P.H.P & S.O.A.P. Clinician, 2012 - 2014

Working in a P.H.P. (Partial Hospitalization Program) and S.O.A.P. (Structured Outpatient Addiction Program), the clinician facilitated therapeutic groups, case management and provided case management for a dually-diagnosed population. Clinician also conducted clinical intakes and biopsychosocial assessments, formulated treatment plans and managed utilization reviews for assigned clients. Clinician was responsible for record keeping and participated regularly in individual and group supervision. 

UNIVERSITY SERVICE

President, 2013 - 2014

Student Association of the Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences

Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

After working with faculty and other students in the creation of this new student governing body within the Graduate School of Arts and Social Science, was elected its initial President. Duties of the office included holding regular meetings with the student body, and the subsequent planning and implementation of agreed upon events and initiatives. The role also involved meeting with university leadership to advocate for graduate student body needs. 

Certifications

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Massachusetts, Aug 2016 - Dec 2021

Licensed Mental Health Counselors (L.M.H.C.)are certified by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals. Approval is based on applicants providing satisfactory evidence to the Board regarding the completion of the educational and clinical field experience requirements listed in 262 CMR 2.04 through 2.06. The L.M.H.C. provides mental health interventions, including counseling, psychotherapy, for individuals, groups and/or families. 

Spiritual Emergence Coach

Integrative Mental Health University, 2019 - 2021

Spiritual Emergence Coaches (S.E.C.) are trained by I.M.H.U. (Integrative Mental Health University) to support those challenged by intense spiritually transformative experiences. The Spiritual Emergence Coach facilitates the key process of integration of these experiences for individuals by offering appropriate support and tools, such as mediation, yoga, etc., with the goal of positive transformation, increased peace, well-being, happiness and life satisfaction. 

ASSOCIATIONS

New England Center for Existential Therapists

The New England Center for Existential Therapists (N.E.C.E.T.) was established to encourage the exploration of phenomenological and existential perspectives and their application to the work of therapists, philosophers, artists, and other students of the human condition. The group meets quarterly and features in which a speaker presents a topic, and two subsequent discussants share prepared responses before a period of facilitated group discussion.  

Integrative Mental Health University

Integrative Mental Health University (I.M.H.U.) contributes to improving mental healthcare through education and certifications for providers. I.M.H.U. believes that spirituality has a profound impact on mental health and that care needs to cover body, mind and spirit, as well as community. They emphasize building more knowledge and skills regarding the spiritual aspects of mental health treatment.

Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association 

The Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association (Ma.M.H.C.A.) is the professional association of Licensed Mental Health Counselors (L.M.H.C.) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Ma.M.H.C.A. works for the advancement of the mental health counseling profession by promoting licensure, education, legislation and public policy for both professionals and consumers. 

Artificial Intelligence and the Psyche, Oct 2026

Cannabis-Related Psychosis: Trauma, Risk, and Response, Oct 2026

Addressing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Substance Abuse Treatment, Mar 2026

Substance Abuse and Family Systems, Mar 2026

Clinical Management of Depressive Symptoms in the Context of Substance Use, Mar 2026

Telehealth for the Treatment of Serious Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders, Mar 2026

MA Technical Assistance Center for Problem Gambling Treatment:

• Sports Betting from the Front Line: Treating Sports Betting in Clinical Practice, Dec 2025

• The Intersection of Money & Mind: Financial Literacy Part II, Nov 2025

• Introduction to Sports Betting, Nov 2025

• Lunch n' Learn with Rob Minnick from One Day at a Time Gambling Awareness, Nov 2025

• The Mind + Body Connection in Gambling Treatment, Aug 2025

• Problem Gambling Conference, Jun 2025

• Gambling Disorder Treatment in Practice, Apr 2025

• Ask an Expert:

  • Module 1: Screening & Assessment, Nov 2025

  • Module 2:  Identifying High-Risk Gambling and Engaging in Treatment, Nov 2025

Altered States 2025:  The Tufts and Suffolk Psychedelic Research Conference, Nov 2025:

• Discovering Control and Controlling Substances: Making Mushrooms Work as Psychiatric Drugs

• Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Ethical Praxis in Indigenous Plant Medicine Research

• Ketamine, Psychedelics, and Psychotherapy: Do psychedelics open therapeutic possibilities beyond classical methods?

• Healing the Internal and External Landscape

• Neural Mechanisms driving MDMA-Assisted Therapy Response

• Teaching on the Neuroscience of Psychedelic Experiences

• Preliminary findings from community-based, ethnographic investigation of safety among US-based psychedelic churches communities

Ellenhorn True North Conference, Oct 2025:

• Honoring the Dignity of Risk How Autonomy Drives Growth and Healing in Clinical Care

• And Then: Dignity of Risk

• Dignified Care for People with Cancer through Tibetan Mind-Body-Spirit Practice

• Centering Dignity The Transformational Power of Harm Reduction Therapy

• From Lived Experience to Lasting Change Designing for Patient Dignity

Reflections In Recovery: What Adoptees Can Teach Us, Jul 2025

Human Connection in Mediation, Jun 2025

2025 Veterans Mental Health Training Initiative Conference, May 2025:

• Voices of Veterans Panel 1: Peer Support on Critical Issues: Discussions on Veteran Suicide Intervention,  Addiction Recovery, Homelessness and PTSD/TBI

• Voices of Veterans Panel 2: Moral Injury and Cognitive Dissonance: Navigating Policy Change and Current Events

• Voices of Veterans Panel 3:  The Creative Mind in Service: Creativity in Support of Community Building and Post Traumatic Growth

• Voices of Veterans Panel 4: Bridging the Gap Between Clinicians and Veteran Patients: Self-Reflection, Boundaries, Effective Support Across Belief Systems, and Dispelling Biases

• Voices of Veterans Panel 5: Supporting Veteran Children and Dependents: Trends, Challenges, and Ways to Build Resilience

• Voices of Veterans Panel 6: Vets are Not a Monolith: Diversity of Beliefs and Experience in Service

Withdrawal and Post-Withdrawal Syndrome: Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Management Strategies, May 2025

Contingency Management, May 2025

Substance Misuse Prevention Programs and Policies, May 2025

Maintaining Fidelity To Assertive Community Treatment, May 2025

ACA Code of Ethics 2014, May 2025

Burnout and Wellness in Social Workers, Psychologists and Counselors, May 2025

Mindfulness Interventions In Clinical Practice, May 2025

Introduction to Practicing Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, Apr 2025 

Medication for Addiction Treatment, Apr 2025

To Zip or Not Zip One’s Lips, Therapist Self-Disclosure: Ethical and Clinical Considerations, Mar 2025

Record Keeping in Psychotherapy and Counseling:  Ethical, Legal and Clinical Issues, Mar 2025

Integrating DBT and the 12 Steps in the Treatment of Substance Use, Mar 2025

Ethical Record Keeping:  Best Practice Forms and Templates for Mental Health Clinicians, Mar 2025

Treasure Of Ordinary Psychotherapy Series:

• The Art of Holding, Mar 2025

• The Process and Challenge of Containing, Apr 2025

• Being Let In:  The Gentle Art of Inviting, Inquiring and Influencing, Apr 2025

Reducing Harm in Pregnant Persons with Substance Use, Mar 2025

Mediation Refresher Training, Feb 2025

Positive Ethics for Mental Health Professionals: A Proactive Approach, self study workbook, Jan 2025

Mediation Refresher Training, Jan 2025

Dual Relationships: Ethical and Clinical Aspects of Dual Relationships in Psychotherapy, Dec 2024

Ethics and Boundary Issues, Nov 2024

Ethical and Legal Issues in Substance Abuse Treatment, Nov 2024

Mediation Training, Sept 2021

Ethics in Counseling: Staying on Track, Jun 2021

Ethics: Nine Ethical Values of Master Therapists, Jun 2021

Ethics and Risk Management in Counseling, Jun 2021

Forty Hour Mediation Training, Sep 2021

Spirituality and Mental Health Counseling, Jul 2021

NECET:  Political (Dis)Embodiment:  The Joining Effects of Technology and Liberalism, Apr 2021

Shifting the Mental Health Paradigm: Exploring the Relationship Between Psychiatric Well-Being and the Biosphere, Feb 2021

Intermediate Motivational Interviewing, Feb 2021

Basic Motivational Interviewing, Feb 2021

Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, Sep 2019

Mentalization Training, Apr 2018

The Soul of Recovery: Maintaining Integrity Through Spiritual Practices, Sep 2018

IPSRT Training, Aug 2019

Community Reinforcement and Family Training, Mar 2018

“Community Reinforcement and Family Training (C.R.A.F.T.), Ellenhorn, speaker and organizer. Various dates from 2018 - 2021.

“Integrative Dual Diagnosis Treatment (I.D.D.T.) Concepts,” Ellenhorn, speaker and organizer. Various dates from 2016 - 2021.

Dionisio, D. “Hillman Dream Analysis,” Elephant Journal, March 1, 2022.

Bragdon, E., Dionisio, D. “Interview with Mental Health for You,” Online Interview, February 19, 2019.

Dionisio, D. “C.R.A.F.T.: A Compassion-Based Approach to Family Addiction Treatment,” Ellenhorn.com, April 19, 2018.

Dionisio, D. “Yoga, Life and Me,” Ellenhorn.com, March 20, 2017.