Alex Cawley, LICSW

Prior to obtaining my MSW, I attended WSU in Pullman and obtained my BA in Criminal Justice. I later attended EWU in Vancouver to obtain my MSW with a focus in Child Welfare. My internship was at DCYF in Vancouver where I had a focus in trauma and attachment. After receiving my MSW in 2015, I started working for DCYF in Vancouver as a child and family welfare social worker. There I worked to reunify children in foster care with their biological families. I also worked as a child protective services social worker and an adoptions social worker until 2019. In June of 2019 I transitioned to working at Catholic Community Services as a therapist. As a therapist, I worked with children and families to work towards their goals as well as crisis intervention services. I worked mostly with teens and their families utilizing CBT, DBT, general coping skills and I worked within a solution focused approach. In 2021, I transitioned to supervising other therapists, care coordinators and peers. My main practice focus has been individuals and couples. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse population that ranges from children to adults, individuals, families and couples. 

Currently, my couples work has included creation and implementation of couples workshops, communication work groups and one-on-one couples therapy. I utilize the Gottman method and principles as well as other coping and communication strategies. My approach is to meet you where you are at and work to rebuild trust, repair communication and establish the foundation of a healthy relationship for you and your partner. I focus on finding solutions. 

The main focus of my work has been couples work, increasing awareness, Gottman, coping skills, CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing. My approach starts with getting to know you and your needs. I believe the first step to change is understanding and awareness. I work to develop a safe and secure relationship with each patient. I create an individual approach with each patient that is specific and manageable so that we can create great, sustainable outcomes. 

I work with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, teen issues, family issues, couples and marital issues, trauma, substance use, self-harm, stress management, stage of life changes and so on. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the State of Washington and am a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Outside of my practice, I enjoy working on and racing cars, traveling and exploring the outdoors. Watching and playing sports, socializing with friends and family. I enjoy being as active as possible.