John DeCarlis , LISW, LSCSW

John DeCarlis is a seasoned clinical social worker whose practice blends direct, approachable interaction with practical skill-building. He works collaboratively to tailor conversations and treatment plans to each person's unique needs, emphasizing strengths rather than stigmatizing labels. His style integrates acceptance and commitment principles with cognitive behavioral and solution-focused techniques to help clients commit to actions that enrich their lives while accepting what is outside their control.

He has specialized experience addressing depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, relationship concerns, trauma, and workplace and career issues. As a retired Army officer and a former therapist to post-deployment military personnel, he brings particular understanding to working with veterans and service-related challenges. Across concerns large and small, he centers the client's own resources and the partnership between client and therapist as the engine of change.

He holds a master’s degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 22 years. His credentials include LISW and LSCSW - designations that reflect advanced clinical training in social work. He welcomes the opportunity to hear a person’s story, develop practical skills, and pursue solutions that lead to a richer, more meaningful life.

Therapeutic approaches for online care

John DeCarlis uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy alongside Attachment-Based Therapy to guide online work. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people accept difficult inner experiences while committing to actions that reflect their values - it is often helpful for anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical skills to identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be useful for depression, panic, and mood-related concerns. Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early and current relationship patterns influence emotions and intimacy, supporting work on relationship, family, and attachment issues.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. He works collaboratively with each person to identify which methods align with their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds. Clients and therapist together determine the best fit.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to increase flexibility and access. These options allow scheduling that fits work, family, or mobility needs and make it easier to maintain continuity of care across changing circumstances, while still engaging with licensed professionals and therapists in meaningful clinical work.