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Milan S., Editor/Contributor

Milan approaches counseling from an existential and reality therapy perspective, focusing on personal responsibility and embracing life's challenges authentically. In the future, Milan aims to work as a college counselor in university settings, offering support to students dealing with academic stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, and transition challenges. Additionally, Milan is interested in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse, providing compassionate care and resources within the academic community.

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Riley S.

Why do they call him dt?

If you asked David Tonkowich, he’d tell you:

He loves his initials, which also stand for something deeper - determined transformation.

That phrase captures both who he is and what he helps others achieve.

David - dt - is no stranger to transformation. A former musician turned business leader, he redefined his life through the healing power of purpose. After earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, he followed a deeper calling into the world of mental health counseling, a calling sparked by the devastating loss of his uncle and lifelong mentor to suicide. That life-altering moment led him to pursue and complete his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Molloy University.

There, his commitment to excellence was recognized with induction into Chi Sigma Iota, the prestigious international honor society for professional counselors and counseling students, a distinction awarded to those who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and a deep dedication to the field of mental health. He also earned the distinguished National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential from the National Board for Certified Counselors, reflecting his rigorous academic preparation, ethical practice, and professional competence.

Now, as a limited permit holder under supervision, dt brings his diverse life experience, academic foundation, and deep empathy to support others navigating their own path to growth.

His counseling style is motivational, grounded, and integrative. He draws from a range of evidence-based modalities, including Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Experiential, and Solution-Focused Therapy, tailoring his approach to meet each client exactly where they are. Rooted in a multicultural framework, he is committed to creating safe, affirming spaces where clients of all identities feel seen, heard, and respected. He works with children, adults, couples, families, groups, and businesses, supporting clients through challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and the ongoing work of self-discovery and personal growth.

Inspired by the timeless wisdom of Fred Rogers, dt holds this quote close to heart:

“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

In his work, dt strives to be one of those helpers, walking alongside his clients with compassion, challenge, and encouragement.

A lifelong fan of Harry Potter and Star Wars, dt often reminds clients:

“This isn’t Hogwarts. There’s no magic wand in therapy. But if you’re willing to do the work, the force within you has the power to transform everything.”

Transformation, he believes, isn’t about spells or shortcuts; it’s about showing up, digging deep, and having the courage to face yourself. With insight, effort, and a trusted guide by your side, healing isn’t just possible, it’s inevitable.

Above all, dt’s mission is to help you turn your pain into purpose, discover your strength, and rise into the life you’re meant to live.

David Tonkowich, Contributor

Paul Wilson

Contributor

Paul Wilson is a counselor at a private practice, where he integrates a cognitive-behavioral and existential framework to support clients navigating trauma and complex clinical presentations. He has experience in a variety of settings, including geriatric care, crisis intervention, residential treatment, and K–12 schools. His current work explores integrative trauma frameworks rooted in cognitive restructuring, narrative reframing, and existential meaning-making. In addition to his clinical work, he has contributed to mental health research and enjoys writing at the intersection of theory and practice.