Grief counselors and therapists in Danvers, MA

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in medical and interdisciplinary settings. In addition, I have also worked as a chaplain in hospital and nursing home settings. I hold a M.A. in Pastoral Theology from Boston College and a MSW from Salem State University. I provide the care my clients deserve, treating them with dignity, compassion, and respect.

I am an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I have over six years of experience treating individuals and groups with struggles such as depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance use disorders, and relationship issues.

I work with clients who are ready to try something different — or who've tried talk therapy before and felt like something was still stuck.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating concerns, and emotional regulation. I'm trained in EMDR, which is particularly effective for trauma and PTSD — it helps process difficult memories in a way that doesn't require you to re-live every detail out loud. For clients who connect better through creativity than conversation, I also offer art therapy as part of our work together.

I work with adolescents and adults across Western Massachusetts via telehealth, with some of the most flexible scheduling in the area — mornings, evenings, and weekends available.

Finding a provider can be challenging, overwhelming, and at times embarrassing. I have been in treatment for over 20 years, which prompted me to want to support other people like me. I am proficient in DBT as these skills have saved my life.

I am a woman in recovery, have been in psychiatric units, have a child with another woman, and attempted to end my life. I am healing everyday and you are part of that process.

I have worked with a variety of populations. I am passionate about working with other mental health professionals struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am honored to work with first responders (fire fighters, police, paramedics, doctors, etc). You are not alone. I understand the complex dynamics associated with seeking help.

As a social worker, I want my clients to know that I approach our work together with empathy, respect, and without judgment. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to work collaboratively with you to build on your strengths and help you reach your goals. I have a particular focus in working with Neurodiverse people and college age. I am here to listen, support, and advocate alongside you as we navigate challenges together.

I cannot move mountains for you, but I can help you climb. Facing fears, healing from loss, finding meaning and joy - these are the inevitable tasks of life. Therapy may be your first step or your last resort. Often people avoid it all together because they believe their pain is too great, worry they will be judged or that their situation is too complicated. Some people believe they should solve problems on their own or only with family and friends. However, while family and friends may want the best for us, they often come with opinions or past hurts. Sometimes it helps to have a safe space outside your daily experience.

You know what you want to accomplish, but getting started or staying on track can feel harder than it should. Whether you're managing ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, or feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns, I'm here to help you understand what's getting in the way and build strategies that work in your everyday life. I work with adults 18+ and provide a supportive, affirming space where you can gain insight, strengthen your confidence, and make meaningful, lasting changes.

I’m Alison (Ali) Pugh, a Clinical Social Worker, USAF veteran, and mom of two. I help adults who are juggling work, family, caregiving, or major life changes that feel heavier than they look on the surface. If you’re feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, you’re in the right place. My style is calm, collaborative, and steady. There’s no pressure to have the perfect words.

I believe therapy works best when it feels both safe and grounded in real understanding. My background in neurobiology research and medical social work shapes how I see healing — as something that involves your brain, your body, your relationships, and your story. I specialize in grief, medical trauma, caregiving stress, chronic illness, ADHD, and attachment wounds. I also work closely with clinicians and first responders, people who are often the helpers in everyone else’s lives.