Dr. Thomas Kadela , LCSW

Dr. Thomas Kadela, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), brings three decades of clinical experience to his therapeutic work. He combines years of direct assessment and treatment with roles in leadership, training, and academic instruction, offering a breadth of perspective shaped by work in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. Much of his career has included teaching at both graduate and undergraduate levels and contributing to professional literature through journal publications.

He currently works full time with the Department of Veterans Affairs and serves as a United States Army National Guard Behavioral Health Officer, and he has previously specialized in services for children and families. He has held senior administrative and program roles such as Chief Clinical Officer of National Programs, State Director, Chief Administrative Officer, Training Director, and Supervisor of Specialty Programs. He also identifies as a United States Army combat veteran and reports board certification in his discipline.

Clinically, he offers a holistic approach that balances body, mind, and spirit and is trained in a range of evidence-based methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy variations for depression, insomnia, chronic pain, and trauma-focused approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy. He also uses social skills training, anger management, solution-focused brief therapy, and problem solving techniques. He accepts a limited number of online clients to maintain an individualized, collaborative working relationship.

Evidence-Informed Approaches for Online Care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify their values and take meaningful action even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. It is often useful for stress, anxiety, and navigating life transitions by building psychological flexibility.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to problems like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. It typically includes practical strategies and between-session exercises to promote lasting change.

Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes the client's perspective and strengths, creating a collaborative environment where the therapist listens, reflects, and supports the client's own problem-solving and growth. This approach can be helpful for relationship challenges, self-esteem, and life adjustments.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Thomas Kadela works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adapting techniques from different models as appropriate.

Online therapy with licensed professionals offers practical flexibility - sessions can occur by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - making it easier to fit care into busy schedules, maintain consistency, and access treatment from home or other convenient locations.