C. Vanessa Dennis

As the founder and clinical director of The Dennis Counseling Group, my hope is to bring quality mental health services to individuals in a relaxed accessible setting. I find so often that clients are intimidated by large, impersonal agencies where they feel more like a number than a person. Long waiting lists and high turnover leave clients without services, or receiving services from several different clinicians often resulting in little to no improvement. In this practice, our goal is to deliver superior, professional mental health services to help the client reach their goals as quickly and seamlessly as possible.

Education

I received my bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Miami University in 1994. I then went on to Wright State University for my Master of Science in Community Mental Health Counseling, graduating in 1997. I received my Professional Counselors license (PC) in 1997, and my license to practice independently and supervise student interns (PCC-S) in 2001. Because mental health and substance abuse disorders so often occur together, I received my certification to treat substance abuse and dependence issues (CCDCI) in 2001, and my license (LCDCIII) in 2008.

Experience

In 1997 I began practicing in community mental health in Middletown, Ohio beginning as a general clinician focusing on children. While there, I was able to become involved in the domestic violence treatment groups and took over the position of Director of Domestic Violence Services in 1999. In 2003, I decided to start a family and took a part time position with the Abuse and Rape Crisis Shelter of Warren County facilitating groups for their Batterer’s Intervention Program. In 2009 with my children a little older, I returned to community mental health in Middletown as a supervising therapist, assisting students entering the field. In 2011 I branched out on my own and began my own practice.

Theoretical Orientation

As a clinician and person, I believe that our behavior is based on our thoughts and feelings. I practice from a mostly Cognitive Behavioral orientation, incorporating our thoughts, feelings, motivations, beliefs and behaviors into a therapeutic intervention that helps the client see what change is necessary for them to improve their quality of life. Though it is not necessary, I also work from a faith-based orientation allowing the client to explore their spirituality and utilize it as a tool for their growth and development.

Honors/Awards

Alpha Lambda Delta

Phi Eta Sigma Psi Chi

Chi Sigma Iota

Kappa Delta Pi

You can reach Vanessa at vdennis@denniscounseling.com