At a glance
- Credentials
- LMHC, LPC
- License
- LPC, Virginia / 0701004762; LMHC, Florida / MH17918
- NPI
- 1003179441
- Experience
- 18 years
- Languages
- English
- Location
- Florida
Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.
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- Motivational approach
- Goal oriented
- Empathic listener
About Dorothy
Dorothy Charest is a licensed counselor practicing in Florida with 18 years of experience. She holds the Licensed Mental Health Counselor credential and the Licensed Professional Counselor credential and has spent nearly two decades working with people facing depression, anxiety, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors.
She uses straightforward, person-focused care. Sessions prioritize listening first and then working toward goals that matter to each person. Dorothy adapts methods based on what the person wants and what seems to help in the moment.
Her approach draws on Motivational Interviewing to help people resolve ambivalence and find their own reasons to change. She also uses Client-Centered techniques to keep conversations grounded in empathy and respect. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is part of her toolkit for changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns.
Clients come for many concerns, including stress, addiction issues, obsessive or compulsive behaviors, trauma and abuse, grief, relationship and intimacy matters, parenting strain, and career stress. She also addresses process addictions and sexual assault recovery.
Dorothy aims for practical, manageable steps rather than heavy theory. She encourages questions and makes treatment decisions together with each person. People who want a direct, goal-oriented counselor who listens first may find this approach helpful.
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How motivational and practical approaches work online
Motivational Interviewing helps people find their own reasons to change by exploring ambivalence and strengths. It focuses on gentle questions and reflective listening to move a person toward clearer goals. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes being heard and understood; the therapist follows the person's lead and offers empathy to help them feel seen. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions and uses straightforward exercises to change patterns that cause distress.
Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Dorothy will work with each person to decide which methods fit their needs, goals, and personal style. Together they can try different tools and adjust the plan based on what helps most.
Confirm current session options before booking, as formats are not specified here. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives - sessions can be scheduled around work, school, or parenting responsibilities and may reduce travel time. Some formats allow shorter check-ins or audio-only meetings when that suits a person's day. Ask about session structure and timing when you complete the matching questionnaire so arrangements line up with your routine. -
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
LGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoachingCompassion fatigueAdditional focus areas
Obsessions, compulsions, and OCDPersonality disordersPhobiasProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Sex addictionSexual assault and abuseTherapeutic approaches
Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingSolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused TherapyInternal Family SystemsExperience
18+ years
Listed in
Virginia, Florida
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Dorothy commonly address?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, relationship strain, parenting stress, bipolar concerns, and compassion fatigue among other areas.
How would you describe her therapeutic style?
Her style is person-focused and practical. She listens first, then uses goal-oriented techniques to help people make changes that fit their lives.
What is her professional background?
She has 18 years of experience working with individuals affected by mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance-related concerns, and sexually compulsive behaviors.
Which credentials and location are listed?
She holds the LMHC and LPC credentials and practices in Florida.
In what languages can sessions be conducted?
Sessions are offered in English.
Are international clients accepted?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are fees and payments handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability, and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What do I do to begin therapy?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.
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Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers