Debra Kearse-Thomas , LCSW

Debra Kearse-Thomas is a licensed clinical social worker in New York. She uses practical, evidence-based methods to help people reduce stress and manage anxiety. Debra focuses on boosting self-esteem and building self-love for long-term change.

She has 12 years of experience supporting people who struggle with anger, low motivation, and confidence. Sessions are conversational and goal-oriented. Debra adapts the plan to fit each person's life and priorities.

Her approach centers on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which looks at how thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. She helps clients identify unhelpful thinking patterns and practice different ways of coping. This work is aimed at small, steady improvements people can notice week to week.

Debra emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and compassion in sessions. She uses straightforward language and practical exercises rather than jargon. Clients can expect clear steps and simple tools to try between meetings.

People who come for help often want better self-esteem, to manage anger, or to feel less overwhelmed by daily stress. Debra supports those goals with focused sessions and realistic tasks. She invites clients to move at a pace that feels manageable while working toward more confidence and calm.

Using CBT and online sessions to build confidence

Debra primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a hands-on approach that helps people see how their thoughts affect feelings and behavior. CBT breaks problems into small parts and teaches practical skills to challenge unhelpful thoughts and try new actions. It is often used for stress, anxiety, anger, and self-esteem work.

The best approach is decided together. She will talk with clients about goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful. That conversation guides which techniques are used and how sessions are structured, so therapy fits the person's needs.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video works well for a full session with visual cues. Phone sessions can be easier when a quieter spot is available or bandwidth is limited. Live chat and text messaging suit brief check-ins, quick skill practice, or when typing feels more comfortable. These options make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life and to keep working on goals between in-depth meetings.