Deborah Richardson, LCSW
Experienced LCSW for trauma and families
- Trauma and abuse care
- Family and relationship work
- Mindfulness and ACT
About Deborah Richardson
Deborah Richardson, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), is often called "Deb" by those who know her. From an early age she noticed that people trusted her with their stories, and that early experience helped shape a lifelong career in therapy. She initially pursued work in social services administration but discovered her aptitude and joy in direct clinical work after covering for a full-time therapist, a shift that set the course for forty-plus years of practice.
Her training includes a teaching degree followed by a master of social work from The University of Tennessee. Over the decades she has worked across a wide range of settings - inpatient and outpatient care, nursing homes, group homes, and correctional facilities - and she spent fifteen years in forensic psychiatry in addition to twenty-four years in private practice. That variety of experience informs a flexible, client-centered approach that draws on many therapeutic methods as needed.
Outside of clinical details, her life has been full and textured: two marriages, two daughters, many pets, and countless professional relationships. She has navigated loss and change personally and professionally, and those experiences contribute to a practical empathy she brings to sessions. Her ten-pound Shih Tzu, Amanda-Grace - known as Gracie - was once an office pet therapist and remains a cheerful presence during remote sessions, responding to familiar voices and lightening the atmosphere.
In practice she favors approaches that fit each individual, using techniques from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral methods, dialectical behavior therapy, attachment-based work, emotionally-focused therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and more. She values clear, down-to-earth communication over jargon, and prioritizes remembering small personal details and honoring each person's unique path. Her aim is to help people identify and mend what is in their way - whether filling potholes, building bridges, or repairing a broken heart - and to leave therapy feeling more capable and true to themselves. She invites those ready to begin to explore their next steps with steadiness and compassion.
Her training includes a teaching degree followed by a master of social work from The University of Tennessee. Over the decades she has worked across a wide range of settings - inpatient and outpatient care, nursing homes, group homes, and correctional facilities - and she spent fifteen years in forensic psychiatry in addition to twenty-four years in private practice. That variety of experience informs a flexible, client-centered approach that draws on many therapeutic methods as needed.
Outside of clinical details, her life has been full and textured: two marriages, two daughters, many pets, and countless professional relationships. She has navigated loss and change personally and professionally, and those experiences contribute to a practical empathy she brings to sessions. Her ten-pound Shih Tzu, Amanda-Grace - known as Gracie - was once an office pet therapist and remains a cheerful presence during remote sessions, responding to familiar voices and lightening the atmosphere.
In practice she favors approaches that fit each individual, using techniques from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral methods, dialectical behavior therapy, attachment-based work, emotionally-focused therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and more. She values clear, down-to-earth communication over jargon, and prioritizes remembering small personal details and honoring each person's unique path. Her aim is to help people identify and mend what is in their way - whether filling potholes, building bridges, or repairing a broken heart - and to leave therapy feeling more capable and true to themselves. She invites those ready to begin to explore their next steps with steadiness and compassion.
Areas of Expertise
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeBlended family issuesCommitment issuesCommunication problemsDependent personalityFamily problemsHospice and end-of-life counselingImpulsivityMen's issuesVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPhobiasPost-traumatic stressSocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesYoung adult issues
Therapeutic Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Attachment-Based Therapy Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Gottman Method Mindfulness Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Deborah Richardson have?
Deborah Richardson has 45 years of professional experience in social work and clinical practice.
Is Deborah Richardson a licensed therapist?
Yes, she holds these credentials: LCSW. License details: TN LCSW 3405.
In which languages does Deborah Richardson provide therapy?
She provides therapy in English.
Where is Deborah Richardson located?
She is located in Tennessee.
How can I work with Deborah Richardson as my therapist?
You can work with Deborah Richardson through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Deborah Richardson work with international clients?
Yes, Deborah Richardson works with international clients.
How much does therapy with Deborah Richardson cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Could Remote Therapy Be a Good Fit?
Many people wonder whether working with a therapist remotely will actually help. For a wide range of everyday concerns - including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and life transitions - online therapy can offer outcomes comparable to traditional in-person work for many individuals.One of the most practical benefits is flexibility. Individuals can connect in the way that suits them best: video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. This range of options makes it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to maintain momentum between sessions.
Licensed professionals offer these remote services, and clients retain the option to change therapists if they are seeking a different match. For many people, remote work removes logistical barriers while preserving access to skilled therapeutic methods and ongoing support.
Ready to start therapy with Deborah Richardson?
Take the first step toward a better you.