Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Desiree
Desiree Paddack is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10 years of experience. She provides individual, family, and group counseling to address concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, conflict resolution, marital conflict, and so much more. She has worked with clients from all backgrounds from ages 5 to 68. Using active listening and a tailored approach to treatment, Desiree commits herself to helping others reach their goals.
Desiree received her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University. Depending on a client’s needs, abilities, and concerns, she uses approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, attachment-based therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian counseling.
Do you feel like something is missing in your life? Has it crossed your mind that things need to change? Do you simply need to feel seen or have your voice heard? Desiree is ready to explore with you. Reach out to her today!

"As a mother, wife, and therapist with over a decade of experience, I understand that life can be an overwhelming journey that can be better processed together. I aim to create a safe place for exploration, self-evaluation, and healing."
Get to know Desiree
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I believe that being a therapist is my calling. Helping join people in their healing journey is a significant purpose for my life. I believe we all have purpose, and this happens to be part of mine to leave a positive impact on the world. My family inspired me to see people, join people, and help people live to their best potential. We all have a story and mine is meant to mix with others for good.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with those who are excited to really dig deep and do the work necessary to change their lives forever.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am most excited to work with people who will hope in the process and then work through it. There may be adjustments along the way, but ultimately, the clients who put in the work will see the results!
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
Therapy does not have to be intimidating at all, but those feelings are valid. The therapeutic relationship is a big part of the process and worth finding the right fit as well.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
Thriveworks gives their therapists the space to focus on the therapeutic work and not have to put as much energy in the other parts of the work, which translates to more focused and individualized care for each client.
What inspires you?
I am most inspired by the “light bulb” or “ah-ha” moments of my clients. My clients teach me how to be a better human too!
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
The first session is different than the others that follow it. It is a bit more formal but it also is a space that we get a lot of helpful information that will inform steps moving forward. It is the time that a therapist gets a snapshot of things but also a great time for clients to get to know and evaluate if the therapist is the right fit for them and their journey as well.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
The first session is a great framework of information gathering like history building and goal intentions/desires, but I also want to start building our therapeutic relationship from day one. I understand trust and respect need to be earned but most of all I hope to provide safety and a place people feel seen and heard so they can evaluate what is the best course of action for them to move forward in their own journey.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I can only work within the framework that a client gives me; thus, honesty is not only the best policy but what grounds us in reality. I am all about collaboration and open communication. As much as I hope clients are open to feedback, I am as well in regard to how treatment is working for them. We can adjust as needed, but I only know a change needs to be done when there is open and honest communication. I am a therapist who believes that a lot of therapeutic work happens between sessions, so I usually encourage some type of homework to help people get the most out of our time together. Finally, therapy works best when the client puts in the work. A client be paired with the best therapist in the world, but if the client is not ready or willing to do the work, it will not work. The work may be hard and possibly hurt, but hopefully will be worth it and won't last forever!
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I like to strive for overall health in my life. So, I enjoy fitness. I am for any movement that keeps you inspired to move your body. Thus, I am currently enjoying Zumba classes, body boot camp classes, and going on runs. I really enjoy spending time with my family and just making great memories together. I love to expose my son to new or fun experiences as well.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
My faith and purposes define me. I believe that I should strive to be the best me as a Christian, wife, mother, therapist and person. I hope my legacy on this earth is a good one and that I did good for the world around me.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 10 years
- Graduating institute
- Liberty University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
