Dara Charlton is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who brings 20 years of experience to work with adults facing stress, anxiety, depression, and self esteem concerns. She focuses on helping people who are coping with grief, relationship difficulties, addiction, and life transitions. Dara aims to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where people can begin to talk about what matters most to them.
Her style emphasizes depth and collaboration. Sessions are tailored to the individual rather than following a fixed script. She often combines practical skills coaching with opportunities to reflect on patterns that keep painful reactions in place.
Dara uses a mix of proven approaches, including client-centered methods, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior skills, emotionally-focused work, and mindfulness practices. Those tools support problems like sleeping issues, chronic stress, codependency, and body image concerns.
She also addresses a wide range of focused topics such as abandonment, attachment issues, blended family stress, caregiving burden, chronic illness and pain, and intimacy-related challenges. These areas are woven into treatment in straightforward ways, for example through communication practice and emotion regulation skills.
Dara practices in Oregon and works with adults seeking steady, compassionate guidance through change. Prospective clients are encouraged to start by describing what they hope to change, and Dara will help shape practical next steps.
Approaches that translate to online care
Client-centered work focuses on listening and responding to what the person says. It helps people feel heard and build motivation for change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a practical approach that looks at thoughts, behaviors, and how small changes can reduce anxiety and depression. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, offers clear skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improving communication in relationships.
Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t worked before. Together they will try strategies and adjust them over time so the therapy fits the person's life and needs.
Confirm the specific online session options before booking so you know which formats are offered. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and let people use practices like mindfulness between sessions. Licensed professionals can guide clients in applying skills from CBT, DBT, and client-centered work to everyday situations, helping progress continue between meetings.
AbandonmentAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesBDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureBlended family issuesBody imageCancerCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDivorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionEating and food-related issuesEmptinessFamily problemsFertility issuesFirst responder issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSHoardingHospice and end-of-life counselingImmigration issuesImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaTrichotillomaniaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues
Dara works with adults on issues like stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, relationship struggles, sleeping problems, and self esteem concerns.
What is her therapeutic style?
Her approach is collaborative and person-centered, blending practical skills with deeper exploration of patterns that get in the way of change.
How much experience does she have?
She has 20 years of experience as a licensed clinician working with adults through a broad range of emotional and life challenges.
Where is she based and what credential does she hold?
She is based in Oregon and holds the credential LCSW, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Can sessions be held in languages other than English?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does she work with international clients?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions paid for and what does cost look like?
Cost varies by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Use the continue button on this profile, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule a session based on the therapist's availability.
