Bio

Hi, I’m Brinda Dungan, a counselor-in-training and passionate advocate for individuals navigating life’s transitions and challenges. With a background in education, disability services, and rehabilitation, I bring over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in both clinical and community-based settings.

I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling at Auburn University, where I’m deepening my skills in mental health counseling, vocational support, and trauma-informed care. My work is guided by values of empathy, cultural humility, and empowerment. I have a special interest in supporting individuals with brain injuries, chronic health conditions, and disabilities, and I’m a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS).

As a counselor-in-training, I’m committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and collaborative space for clients. Whether you’re navigating grief, adjusting to disability, exploring your identity, or simply seeking support, I’m here to walk alongside you with respect and compassion.

Professional interests:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and neurological recovery
• Chronic illness coping (including diabetes and long-term conditions)
• Disability adjustment and identity rebuilding
• Mental health recovery and resilience
• Trauma-informed and neuroscience-informed counseling
• Vocational and life-role transitions

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SERVICES

Counseling & Support Services

Services are individualized to the client’s needs and may include emotional support, coping skill development, adjustment counseling, and collaborative goal setting. Common areas of focus include:

Individual Counseling Support

• Anxiety, stress, overwhelm
• Depression, grief, life transitions
• Emotional regulation and coping strategies
• Confidence and identity rebuilding

Rehabilitation & Disability-Related Counseling

• Adjustment to disability or chronic illness
• Coping with medical trauma and life disruption
• Brain injury support (TBI-informed perspective)
• Support for independence, routines, and life skills

Recovery-Oriented Counseling Support

• Building stability and structure
• Boundaries and healthy relationships
• Relapse prevention planning (supportive counseling model)
• Family and recovery system support

Resource Navigation Support (when appropriate)

• Community resources and support systems
• Disability-related services and benefits education
• Goal planning for stability and independence

If you are unsure whether your concerns fit, you are welcome to reach out and ask.

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SPECIALTIES / POPULATIONS

Areas of Focus

I am especially passionate about supporting:

• Adults managing disability, injury, or chronic illness
• Individuals adjusting to life after neurological events (TBI/SCI)
• Clients navigating work-life stress, burnout, and identity changes
• People rebuilding after trauma, loss, or disrupted life plans
• Individuals in recovery and those impacted by substance use in the family system

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APPROACH

My Counseling Style

My approach is:

• Trauma-informed (prioritizing safety, empowerment, and collaboration)
• Strength-based (building on what’s already working)
• Skills-focused (practical tools for real life)
• Neuroscience-informed (understanding stress, recovery, and regulation)

Depending on your needs, counseling may incorporate elements of:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Psychoeducation and coping skills training
• Goal planning and values-based support

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FAQ

Are you currently licensed?
I am a counselor-in-training completing supervised clinical internship requirements. Any counseling services are provided under supervision and in compliance with applicable ethical and professional standards.

Do you take insurance?
Insurance and payment options vary by setting. Please reach out to discuss current availability and options.

What can I expect in the first session?
We will discuss your goals, what brings you in, and what support would be most helpful. The first session is a chance to establish comfort, direction, and next steps.