About Andrew Benson, LCSW
Dad Therapist in California, Washington, and Connecticut
“Andrew has been instrumental in assisting me throughout this transformative journey of self improvement and relationship development.”
Qualifications
I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both California and Connecticut. My extensive background includes working with diverse individuals, equipping me with a rich toolkit of therapeutic modalities like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC).
“Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow.”
Beyond the Office
Behind my professional practice is a busy, rewarding life as a husband and a dad of two. If you walked into my home on any given day, you’d likely find me playing a game of checkers or a made-up game with my daughter, passing a ball with my toddler son, washing dishes, or exhaustedly debriefing with my wife on the beautiful chaos of raising our family.
I strive to live out the very balance and personal growth I guide my clients toward. That looks like soaking up the best of California’s Central Coast with my family—farmers' markets, beach afternoons, and live music—or enjoying quiet moments of hygge with a good non-fiction book or a podcast like Huberman Lab or 10% Happier.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to support others, and my experience navigating the daily rewards and real-world demands of family life deeply informs the grounded, empathetic approach I bring to my work.
Welcome! I’m Andrew Benson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I'm dedicated to providing compassionate virtual therapy for clients across California, Washington, and Connecticut. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and life's challenges. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, parenthood challenges, trauma, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your journey to healing and growth.
Schedule a Consultation or Session Today
My Therapeutic Approach: Healing Through Insight & Skills
I believe in a collaborative, client-centered approach. My role is to guide and empower you as you forge your unique path to a more fulfilling life. I integrate effective, evidence-based therapies, including:
Mindfulness and Compassion-Based Techniques: To help you be present, non-judgmental, and kinder to yourself.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): For building practical skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
My Philosophy
Choosing a therapist is a significant step, and finding the right fit is crucial for your healing journey. My approach is rooted in deep respect for your individuality. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel genuinely heard and understood, free from judgment.
My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship with you, one founded on honesty, integrity, and empathy. This means I show up as my authentic self, not a distant or overly formal professional. I believe that for you to feel comfortable being yourself, I need to be myself too. That might mean I use humor, even a "dad joke" or two, and yes, sometimes I might even swear. It's all part of fostering an environment where you can truly relax and engage in the therapeutic process.