Richard "Rick" Dawson

Richard “Rick” Dawson returned to clinical practice in January 2023 at the age of 70 after having retired just before the pandemic. Motivated by a long-standing passion for counseling and a recognition of growing demand for therapeutic services, he resumed work as a therapist licensed in Oregon - OR LCSW L11379, which denotes his status as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He brings 33 years of professional experience to his practice.

Before entering the helping professions, he spent his 20s and 30s working as a musician. His counseling career began in 1992, when he was 39, while he was completing his counseling degree. During that period he worked in the inpatient psychiatric department of a general hospital in Nevada.

After graduating, he continued at that hospital for about 15 years as an inpatient therapist, providing individual, family, and group therapy. In 2004 he launched a private practice while still employed at the hospital. Around 2009 he moved to work in a stand-alone psychiatric hospital, followed by time in a community mental health clinic and in hospice care.

He spent the final 10 years of his professional life before retirement practicing as an outpatient therapist in private practice within a family medical clinic in suburban Portland, Oregon. Over the course of his career he has worked with men and women of all ages on issues including depression, stress and anxiety, addictions, relationship challenges, and coping with grief and loss.

His approach emphasizes an open, nonjudgmental therapeutic partnership where thoughts and feelings can be shared safely. He focuses on problem-solving collaboratively with clients to help them move toward a more rewarding and fulfilling life. He recognizes that taking the first step toward change takes courage, and he is available to support clients through that process.