CBT Therapist Directory

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Deborah Sterling, LCSW

Licensed clinical social worker focused on families and youth
  • Child welfare experience
  • Supportive CBT approach
  • Family and individual care

About Deborah Sterling

Deborah Sterling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in California. She holds a Master of Social Work from California State University, San Bernardino with an emphasis on child welfare, and brings long-standing experience working with children and families involved in the foster care system. Her background includes clinical work with teens and adults, offering therapeutic support across developmental stages and life transitions.

Deborah practices supportive therapy that is influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), blending talk-based methods with practical tools to address thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. She uses a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to the needs of each person, and applies her training to areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, child development, adolescent concerns, family therapy, and individual therapy.

With a foundation in child welfare and foster care services, Deborah brings a strong understanding of family dynamics and developmental needs. As an LCSW - a licensed clinical social worker who has completed graduate training and state licensure to provide clinical social work services - she focuses on helping clients navigate stressors, build coping skills, and work toward clearer goals in therapy.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Also Specializes In

LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue

Additional Focus Areas

Adoption and foster careDivorce and separationFamily problemsPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsSelf-love

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Deborah Sterling have?

Deborah Sterling has 3 years of experience.

Is Deborah Sterling a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the credential LCSW, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. License details are CA LCSW 60078.

In which languages does Deborah Sterling provide therapy?

Deborah Sterling provides therapy in English.

Where is Deborah Sterling located?

Deborah Sterling is located in California.

How can I work with Deborah Sterling as my therapist?

Therapy with Deborah Sterling is available through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Deborah Sterling work with international clients?

Deborah Sterling does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Deborah Sterling cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Approaches That Guide Online Care



Deborah Sterling draws from Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to guide her online practice. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on creating a respectful, nonjudgmental space where the therapist follows the client’s lead and supports personal insight and self-directed growth; it is helpful for building self-esteem and navigating relationship or identity concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical strategies to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, and it is often effective for managing anxiety, depression, and stress-related challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Deborah works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their goals, preferences, and needs, and she adapts techniques over time as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers flexibility in how and when care happens. Video calls allow face-to-face connection, phone sessions can fit busy schedules, and live chat or text-based messaging provide ongoing support between sessions. These options make it easier to access consistent therapy while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

Ready to start therapy with Deborah Sterling?

Take the first step toward a better you.