Derek Petersen

With a master’s degree from St. Bonaventure University and a bachelor’s in psychology from Bloomsburg University, Derek combines academic excellence with extensive hands-on experience to create meaningful, client-centered outcomes.

Throughout his career, he has successfully supported individuals with mental health challenges, particularly focusing on anxiety disorders such as OCD and PTSD using evidence-based practices like ERP and CBT. Derek is committed to building authentic therapeutic alliances and fostering lasting personal growth and healing in his clients. In previous counseling positions, Derek not only provided counseling services to a wide range of clients but also led innovative group therapy programs, including psychoeducational and therapeutic gaming groups. His work extended into intake coordination, where he ensured clients were matched with the right clinicians for their needs, and outreach, strengthening community relationships to promote mental health awareness.

An advocate for ongoing learning and professional development, Derek has participated in advanced clinical training, conducted diagnostic assessments, and upheld the highest standards in client care and confidentiality. His commitment to helping others doesn’t stop with therapy; he has also contributed to organizational quality and compliance in past roles, emphasizing his detail-oriented and structured approach to improving systems that impact client care.

A proud member of Chi Sigma Iota's Phi Rho Chapter, Derek embodies a spirit of excellence and innovation in mental health counseling. Whether through individual therapy, workshops, or community outreach, Derek strives to create a safe and insightful space where clients can work toward their goals with confidence.