Megan L. Kaufman, MSSA, LISW
My name is Megan Kaufman, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Ohio University and my Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University. I have experience counseling adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing a variety of mental health and life concerns, including anxiety, grief and loss, chronic illness, caregiver stress, relationship changes, and difficult life transitions. I have a particular interest in helping individuals navigate the emotional challenges that accompany serious illness, anticipated loss, and changes in their own health or the health of someone they love.
My approach to therapy is thoughtful, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I believe that understanding where our struggles come from can be an important part of making meaningful changes. Together, we may explore how past experiences, relationships, family dynamics, and the world around us influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I often take a slower, reflective approach to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves while also building practical skills for managing everyday challenges.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients recognize and change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. I also utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients manage difficult emotions, tolerate distress, improve communication, and navigate challenging relationships. My goal is to balance opportunities for self-exploration with practical strategies that can help clients feel more confident and capable in their daily lives.
I have a strong interest in grief and loss counseling, including supporting individuals experiencing anticipatory grief, or the emotional distress that can occur when someone is facing the possibility of losing a loved one. I also work with individuals navigating serious illness, cancer-related concerns, end-of-life issues, and the emotional challenges of caring for someone with a chronic or life-limiting condition. Drawing from both my professional experience and personal experience with cancer, I understand that illness and loss can affect far more than physical health. They can also influence relationships, identity, independence, and one's sense of security about the future.
I enjoy working with adults and older adults who are navigating changes in their health, relationships, family roles, or stage of life. This may include adjusting to retirement, coping with grief, managing anxiety about health concerns, experiencing changes in independence, or navigating the emotional impact of chronic pain and medical conditions. I also work with individuals experiencing divorce, relationship changes, parenting stress, and other significant adjustments.
In addition to these areas, I work with adolescents and adults experiencing ADHD, social anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, trauma-related concerns, and substance use concerns. I provide affirming counseling for LGBTQ+ clients and individuals exploring concerns related to identity, relationships, and self-acceptance. I also have experience working with clients experiencing complex emotional and behavioral patterns, helping them better understand themselves and develop healthier ways of responding to difficult situations.
Spirituality can be an important source of strength for some individuals, and I can incorporate Christian-focused counseling when requested by the client.
Above all, I value developing genuine, trusting relationships with my clients. I strive to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable exploring difficult emotions, understanding longstanding patterns, and moving toward greater clarity and emotional well-being at your own pace.
On a personal level, I find great fulfillment in forming meaningful connections with clients and walking alongside them as they work toward greater clarity, stability, and emotional well-being.