John Burkin, LCPC, LPCC

John Burkin brings 17 years of experience in community mental health, where he began by supporting people living with severe psychiatric illnesses. Over time he learned to meet each person where they were, applying patience and different strategies to help those recovering from substance use and co-occurring bipolar or mood disorders. Much of his work has involved addressing anxiety and intrusive, obsessive thoughts, and those clinical encounters shaped his understanding of what tends to be helpful for clients.

He emphasizes an honest, straightforward therapy relationship and creates a welcoming space for new and returning clients. Early in intake he makes clear that scheduling a first session does not mean a client has committed to him long term, and he invites people to challenge or end the relationship if the fit is not right. He often uses a bit of humor to ease difficult conversations while remaining direct - he avoids prolonged venting and asks clients to engage in the work of feeling better. Clients who find success with him are typically present-focused, open to Mindfulness, and motivated to heal.

He works with individual adults ages 18 and older on issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, depression, mood swings, questions of sexual orientation and coming out, relationship challenges, and related concerns. Helping clients set and pursue goals that matter to them is a primary focus, and his practice is informed by Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He holds LCPC and LPCC counseling licenses, which are professional credentials for clinical counselors.