Dorothy Baker , LCSW, LICSW

Dorothy Baker is a licensed social worker who helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and life changes. She works with clients on anger, relationship struggles, addiction concerns, and issues with sleep or eating. She also supports people facing caregiver strain, midlife transitions, and questions about life purpose. Dorothy holds a Master of Social Work and brings 21 years of clinical experience to her practice.

Her work begins by learning where a person is right now and why they reached out. She and the client set realistic goals together. Then they decide on an approach that fits those goals and the person’s style.

Dorothy draws on several practical methods. She uses cognitive behavioral ideas to notice and change unhelpful thinking and behavior. She applies Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help people clarify values and take meaningful action. She also uses client-centered listening and motivational strategies when people need support to make changes.

Sessions are straightforward and focused on small steps that build over time. She aims to make therapy understandable and doable for people juggling busy lives. Dorothy works from Missouri, and sessions are offered in English.

People can expect a calm, direct companion in the work of change. Her background in teaching and management informs her clear explanations and problem-solving focus. Therapy with her is collaborative and practical, centered on what the client wants to accomplish.

How practical therapy methods translate to online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and take small steps toward those values. It is often helpful for anxiety, depression, and when someone feels stuck in life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing them with real-life actions to change patterns that cause distress. It can help with mood, sleep, and problem behaviors. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and understanding the person’s experience so goals emerge from their own priorities rather than a set plan.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Dorothy collaborates with each person to pick methods that match their goals, needs, and preferences. She will try options and adjust them based on what helps the client make steady progress.

Online sessions can be scheduled as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. Video is useful for a fuller conversation and shared exercises. Phone calls are a good option when bandwidth is limited or when someone prefers not to be on camera. Live chat or text messaging can support brief check-ins, daily coaching, or step-by-step planning between longer sessions. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and continue steady work toward goals.