Debbie Feehery, PhD, MIA, MSW
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
In-person at Alexandria, with telehealth across Virginia
Meet Debbie
Debbie brings warmth, empathy, and a global perspective to her work with adults, families, and children. She believes that people are the experts in their own lives and that every client carries a unique story that deserves to be understood on its own terms.
With a background spanning clinical social work and more than two decades of international humanitarian work, Debbie creates a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and work toward meaningful change.
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Debbie believes that each person’s experiences, challenges, and strengths are unique.
Rather than approaching therapy with assumptions about what a client needs, she works to understand each person’s story on its own terms and creates a space where clients can feel heard, respected, and supported.
Kindness, empathy, and a welcoming presence are central to her work.
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Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress, Marriage
Relationship Issues
Parenting
Trauma
Grief/Loss
Life transitions
Time Management
Career Issues
Anger
Adjustment to life issues
Children and Teens
Migration and Displacement
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Debbie’s clinical approach draws from evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy.
She also values the role creativity can play in healing and self-discovery. When appropriate for a client’s needs, Debbie may incorporate writing, photography, and other forms of creative self-expression into the therapeutic process.
Her approach is collaborative and culturally attuned, helping clients explore their experiences while identifying tools and perspectives that support their individual goals.
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Debbie holds a Master of Social Work (MSW), a Master of International Affairs (MIA), and a PhD in Comparative and International Education from Columbia University.
Before entering clinical practice, Debbie spent 20 years working in the international humanitarian sector with children, youth, and families affected by armed conflict, displacement, and other forms of adversity.
Her work focused on child protection, education, and psychosocial support, with a particular emphasis on supporting the well-being of women and girls.
Debbie is currently practicing as a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work while working toward her LCSW license.
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Debbie’s years of working alongside individuals and families navigating significant hardship have deeply shaped the perspective she brings to therapy.
She recognizes that culture, family, community, identity, and life experiences can all influence the way people understand themselves and the challenges they face.
Debbie is committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients have the space to do their own work, explore what matters to them, and move forward in ways that feel meaningful and authentic.
Ready to get started?
Our First Impressions Team can answer your questions, walk you through next steps, and help connect you with the Healthy Minds provider who may be the best fit for your needs.