Last edited 09/30/2021

Debra Killackey
Accepting New Clients

Get To Know Me
What do you think is the biggest barrier today for people seeking care?
Debra believes that the greatest barrier today for individuals seeking care is time and multiple commitments which contributes to self neglect and increased stress, decreased self care amount individuals and their family unit.
What was your path to becoming a therapist? What inspired you to choose this profession?
Debra is a local Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing psychotherapy and case management services in SWFL for the last 15 years. Debra is a native Floridian and began her educational journey at Edison State Community College in 1997. After earning an AA degree she transferred to Florida Gulf Coast University in 1999 to study Social Work. Debra graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor’s of Human Services. At this time, Debra provided Counseling and Education for Adolescents’ in the foster care system primarily related to achieving independence as well as successful life skills. Debra continued her education at Florida Gulf Coast University where she earned a Master’s of Social Work degree in 2006.
Debra has been working with chronically ill, terminally ill clients of various ages and their families for the last 15 years. Debra has engaged with various populations while addressing the needs of clients including the home environment, long term care for the elderly and disabled, special needs children and children diagnosed with a terminal illness.
What is your style/approach to therapy?
Debra’s emphasis and commitment lies with the adjustment of clients to major life changes while providing innovative interventions designed to manage anxiety, grief, depression, and coping with these life adjustments. Debra’s background and education allows her to connect with an individual and their family as a whole. She uses an eclectic, person centered, strength perspective approach to alleviating distress. Debra believes in the strength of client choices, champions her client’s to focus on matters within their control while encouraging growth, directing their desired outcomes and discovering their own path. She often uses humor and unconditional positive regard to build a supportive, trusting relationship with clients.
Specialties
Specializes in
AnxietyAging related concernsCaregiver stress & supportChronic illnessChronic pain
General Expertise
DepressionWork StressRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefSocial AnxietyCommunication issuesFamily issuesFertility IssuesSleep & insomnia issuesLife coachingLife transitionsMood disordersSchizophreniaSpirituality & religion based issuesStep-family/Blended Family IssuesStressTraumaVeterans' issuesWeight loss & managementWomen's issues
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyFamily Systems TherapyPerson-Centered TherapyNarrative TherapyTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingMindfulness-Based Cognitive TherapySolution-Focused Brief TherapyCoachingRational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)The Gottman Method
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual TherapyCouples Counseling
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)Adolescents (13-17)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureFlorida, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, SW9555
Training/CertificationsACHP-SW, TFCBT
Education
MSW, Social Work, Florida Gulf Coast University
Work HistoryDebra is a local Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing psychotherapy and case management services in SWFL for the last 15 years. Debra graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor’s of Human Services. At this time, Debra provided Counseling and Education for Adolescents’ in the foster care system primarily related to achieving independence as well as successful life skills. Debra continued her education at Florida Gulf Coast University where she earned a Master’s of Social Work degree in 2006. During this time Debra completed clinical hours with persons incarcerated in the local county jail and providing mental health counseling.
Debra has been working with chronically ill, terminally ill clients of various ages and their families for the last 15 years. Debra has engaged with various populations while addressing the needs of clients including the home environment, long term care for the elderly and disabled, special needs children and children diagnosed with a terminal illness. Currently, Debra is focusing on individual and couples counseling in her local community.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Debra Killackey, LCSW, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Debra Killackey accepting new clients?
Yes, Debra Killackey is accepting new clients.
Does Debra Killackey accept insurance?
No, Debra Killackey does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Debra Killackey offer?
Debra Killackey offers therapy for couples and individuals.
Does Debra Killackey offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Florida can book Debra Killackey for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Debra Killackey offer online therapy?
Yes, Debra Killackey offers online therapy to people in Florida.
How quickly can I see Debra Killackey?
Debra Killackey typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Debra Killackey speak?
Debra Killackey conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Debra Killackey online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Debra Killackey online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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