An interview with Patrick Dove

Immediately I notice Patrick’s calm demeanor and southern gentlemanly manners as we sit down for our interview.  He’s instantly likeable and relatable.  He comes off as a very grateful, humble, but also capable, gentle person.  

Patrick comes to LWPC with a background and expertise in community mental health, and specifically in the areas of substance issues.  He is particularly passionate about working with men, whether teens or older adults, and men’s-related issues.  As the only full-time clinician at the new branch in the Winchester area, however, he does work as a generalist and sees anyone in the area reaching out for services. 

When asked about his experiences with the LWPC, he says “oh it’s been awesome, put that on the record for sure”.  “My experience with Crystal and Life Works is the word ‘support””, he readily offers up without hesitation.  He describes his enthusiasm and excitement for the opportunity to open up the clinical office in Winchester, and to develop and grow in ways that will really help support his clients.  “I feel very grateful and fortunate to have this opportunity” he declares. 

Speaking of his approach to therapy, Patrick comments “I think [most important] is the person-centered therapy approach and treating everybody with respect”.  He shares that in addition to person-centered therapy approaches, he incorporates CBT and ACT modalities, as well as working to support clients to increase their psychological flexibility, connect with their values and align their behavior with those values, as well as practicing acceptance in their lives. 

Patrick shares that he always wanted to do one of three things: be a pro basketball player, work with wildlife, or be a therapist.  He makes me laugh as he frankly shares that as a five foot six white guy, pro-basketball really wasn’t an option after high school, so the therapist option won out.  He still loves to be outdoors, and maybe there will be a way in the future to incorporate wildlife into his therapeutic practice.  

As we wrap up our interview, Patrick humbly shares that “helping other people has made me grow” and recognizes that it’s critical to continue to heal and grow yourself, because that’s what truly allows you to help other people do the same thing.  He witnesses his clients experience true transformation when they’re able to have someone who’s been there to walk with them through their challenges, and he seeks to be the person that can do that for them. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Patrick as a clinician, please don’t hesitate to reach out.  And if you’re interested in professional opportunities at LWPC, we’re expanding and hiring more clinicians, we’d love to hear from you!

(Interview and writeup by Megan Conrad Anaya)

Patrick's Full Bio