Deborah Utterback

Welcome! I'm glad to have you here. I'm Debbie Utterback, a dual-licensed professional. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S) and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL), I specialize in Counseling with Equines, offering transformative experiences for my clients. I have been a social worker since 2010 and therapist for a decade. I became a supervisor in 2022 to support new clinicians develop their individual approach and grow well-rounded practices, while maintaining strong ethical standards. I partner with Equest, where I facilitate sessions grounded in Experiential Therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. As a mental health therapist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) during these individual or family sessions. We believe in the authentic connection between humans and horses, guiding us toward a healthier existence. Through personalized approaches, I empower clients on their journey to healing and self-discovery. Powerful life changes can occur in the office or in the pasture. As a supervisor, I strive to give you a wealth of knowledge as you work towards your LCSW licensure. My professional background spans school-based services, community mental health with in-home care, family therapy with children involved in probation and foster care reunification programs, hospital social work, and service on a mental health crisis response team for first responders. This breadth of experience allows me to offer a well-rounded perspective on private practice that integrates diverse therapeutic modalities. Our work together remains firmly grounded in core ethical principles, clinical integrity, and a deep respect for individualized approaches to treatment. *If you were an established client previously, please reach out and I will happily discuss options for continuity of care. *Those interested in Counseling with Equines at Equest, please note, our sessions do not involve riding. Equest is not in network with insurance. Grants help Equest provide mental health treatment at no cost to Veterans.