Dane Ward
Dane is currently not accepting new clients.
Expertise & Specialties:
Supporting youth and families in emotional and behavioral needs in school, including 504 and IEP plans.
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Trauma and PTSD
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Anxiety disorders
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Depression
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ADHD
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Anger management
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Behavioral and emotional dysregulation
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Family dynamics
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Safety and stabilization services
Therapy Approaches & Training:
My therapeutic approach is grounded in:
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Trauma-informed care
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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ARC (Attachment, Regulation, Competency) model for trauma integration with youth.
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The Incredible Years Parenting program certification- Parent skills and supporting parents with challenging youth behaviors
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Collaborative Problem Solving
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Strength-based practices
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Client-centered therapy
Meet Dane:
I believe that creating an open, trusting, and non-judgmental environment allows clients to share their stories, gain new perspectives, and increase awareness to make desired life changes. I view clients as the experts on their own lives and work collaboratively with them to find what is best for each individual, supporting the changes they strive toward.
I work with adults, children and families navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. My experience spans various settings, including group homes, crisis shelters, schools, community organizations, nonprofits, and private practice agencies. I am committed to supporting clients through their unique journeys toward healing and self-discovery.
I utilize strength-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed practices to help clients make progress toward their goals. By fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship, I aim to empower clients to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful change.
Clinical Background:
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of clinical experience as a psychotherapist. I began my career with a focus on children, youth and family therapy. Over the years I have spent significant time developing and mastering psychotherapy skills working with adults as well. I use both cognitive and somatic or body based models for comprehensive treatment. I enjoy diversifying my work and meeting with youth and adults. I continue to spend significant time and energy to further develop my knowledge, skills and ability in the field of psychotherapy. I am committed to ongoing professional development to provide the highest quality care.
Additional professional experience includes working in diverse settings such as group homes, crisis shelters, schools, community organizations, nonprofits, and private practice agencies. I am trained in EMDR.
What to Expect in Therapy:
Clients can expect a supportive and empathetic environment where their experiences are honored. I encourage open dialogue and collaboration, tailoring the therapeutic process to each individual's needs and goals. Together, we will work to bring clarity, inner peace, and a sense of wholeness, moving toward lasting change and self-understanding.
At this time, I am not accepting new clients. If you're interested in learning more about our team at Connections
First, I invite you to contact us at (503) 427-1952 or email hello@connectionsfirst.org. We’ll be glad to help you find a clinician who’s the right fit for your journey.