Derek Hawkins , LCSW

Derek Hawkins, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), is licensed in New York and brings 23 years of clinical experience to his work. He focuses on helping people navigate addictions, recover from trauma and abuse, cope with grief and loss, and adjust to significant life changes. His practice emphasizes practical support for those facing the complex emotional and behavioral challenges that accompany substance use, traumatic events, and major transitions.

He approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and he adapts conversations and treatment plans to reflect individual needs and goals. Derek aims to create a partnership in which clients feel heard and supported as they take the often-difficult first steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. He provides steady, patient guidance while tailoring interventions to match each client’s circumstances and pace.

Evidence-Based Care for Addiction, Trauma, and Grief - Online

Derek Hawkins uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to the concerns most commonly seen in his practice. One focus is structured, skills-oriented work that helps people develop healthier coping strategies for addiction and for managing cravings, triggers, and day-to-day stressors. This approach emphasizes practical tools and step-by-step plans to support recovery and behavioral change.

He also offers trauma-focused work that helps clients process painful experiences and the emotional impacts of abuse and loss. These methods concentrate on gradually making sense of difficult memories, building emotional regulation, and restoring a sense of safety and stability after traumatic events.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Derek collaborates with each person to identify which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. He works alongside clients and licensed professionals to adjust strategies as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Derek is available through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to fit consistent care into daily life, continue work during transitions, and maintain regular contact with a therapist from locations within his service area.