DeAndrea Peterson, LPC

DeAndrea Peterson draws on a guiding philosophy inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. - if you cannot fly, then run; if you cannot run, then walk; if you cannot walk, then crawl - but always keep moving forward. She brings an approachable, outgoing style to her work and believes that meaningful change happens through steady effort and practical steps. She does not rely on one-size-fits-all solutions and instead tailors interventions to each person’s unique story, offering clear, straightforward strategies grounded in real-world experience.

Peterson earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Juvenile Delinquency and a minor in Sociology from Alabama State University, then completed a Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology with a focus in Clinical Mental Health at Troy University. She holds the LPC credential - Licensed Professional Counselor - which indicates formal licensure to provide counseling services in Alabama.

With 14 years of experience working with youth and families in residential programs, non-traditional educational settings, and outpatient counseling, she has helped clients address stress, anxiety, relationship and family concerns, parenting challenges, trauma and abuse, addictions, depression, ADHD, and a range of intimacy and life-stage issues. She emphasizes client strengths and collaboration, supporting people as they pursue more fulfilling, resilient lives and practical progress toward their goals.

Therapeutic approaches and online counseling

DeAndrea frequently draws on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in her work. Client-centered therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental stance that helps clients explore their own values and goals while the therapist provides empathy and support. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thought patterns and developing practical strategies to change thinking and behavior - it is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be helpful for intense emotions, relationship difficulties, and coping with trauma-related reactions.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and DeAndrea works collaboratively with each person to identify which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors techniques over time so therapy remains relevant and effective for each client.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility for people with busy schedules or limited local options. DeAndrea provides sessions by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing clients to choose the format that fits their life while maintaining continuity of care and regular progress toward their goals.