Derek Hawkins, LCSW

Derek Hawkins is a licensed clinical social worker who helps people dealing with addiction, trauma and abuse, grief, and major life changes. He works with clients who need practical support and steady guidance as they move through difficult moments. Derek practices in New York and speaks English.

With 23 years of experience as an LCSW - licensed clinical social worker - Derek draws on a straightforward, respectful style. He focuses on tailoring conversations and plans to each person's situation. He aims to listen carefully, reduce overwhelm, and set small, doable goals.

Derek also brings experience with adoption and foster care concerns, drug and alcohol addiction, family problems, prejudice and discrimination, seasonal affective disorder, and traumatic brain injury. He explains options plainly and helps people find steps they can try between sessions.

Sessions emphasize collaboration and real-world problem solving. Derek will work with clients to build coping skills, manage strong emotions, and plan changes at a manageable pace. He avoids jargon and keeps discussions focused on what matters most to the client.

Starting therapy is presented as a process. Derek supports people through early uncertainty and helps track progress over time. He asks about goals, adapts methods to client needs, and keeps the work practical and grounded.

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Derek uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical change. One common approach helps people identify unhelpful patterns and develop new coping skills for cravings, strong emotions, or painful memories. This approach is useful for addiction, trauma responses, and managing grief.

Another approach emphasizes short-term problem solving and planning. It breaks larger problems into small steps and builds routines that make daily life more manageable. This can help with life changes, seasonal affective symptoms, and challenges after a traumatic brain injury.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Derek will discuss goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t worked in the past, then suggest techniques to try. The plan can be adjusted over time based on how things are progressing.

Confirm the current session options before booking, as formats were not specified in the biography. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and let people meet with a licensed professional from a different location. It also allows for shorter check-ins when that better fits the day and for sticking with a consistent plan while life changes unfold.