Matthew Dugan, LPC
South Carolina LPC specializing in trauma and addictions
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Addiction and recovery
- LGBTQ+ affirming care
About Matthew Dugan
Matthew Dugan is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor with 23 years of experience working with people facing serious and persistent mental health challenges. He holds a master’s degree in counseling from Webster University (2004) and carries specialized certifications in addiction care, including national recognition as a Master Addiction Counselor and state certification as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. As an LPC he provides clinical counseling grounded in years of hands-on practice and training.
Across his career he has developed deep experience in crisis work, trauma-focused therapies, and evidence-informed approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based techniques, and solution-focused strategies. He regularly supports people coping with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use conditions, trauma-related concerns, and personality disorder presentations. He also brings expertise in couples and family issues, grief and loss, intimacy-related concerns, anger management, and career and life-transition challenges.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he is committed to assisting individuals with coming out, gender identity questions, and the specific stressors that can affect LGBTQ+ clients. Additional clinical focuses include abandonment issues, codependency, communication and commitment difficulties, domestic violence recovery, and co-occurring conditions where mental health and substance use intersect. His work emphasizes practical coping skills, trauma resolution, and building sustainable patterns that reduce distress over time.
Matthew approaches therapy with a focus on reducing suffering and helping each person construct a life they find meaningful. He combines person-centered care with targeted clinical methods to tailor treatment to each client’s goals and strengths, supporting recovery, resilience, and clearer paths forward.
Across his career he has developed deep experience in crisis work, trauma-focused therapies, and evidence-informed approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based techniques, and solution-focused strategies. He regularly supports people coping with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use conditions, trauma-related concerns, and personality disorder presentations. He also brings expertise in couples and family issues, grief and loss, intimacy-related concerns, anger management, and career and life-transition challenges.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he is committed to assisting individuals with coming out, gender identity questions, and the specific stressors that can affect LGBTQ+ clients. Additional clinical focuses include abandonment issues, codependency, communication and commitment difficulties, domestic violence recovery, and co-occurring conditions where mental health and substance use intersect. His work emphasizes practical coping skills, trauma resolution, and building sustainable patterns that reduce distress over time.
Matthew approaches therapy with a focus on reducing suffering and helping each person construct a life they find meaningful. He combines person-centered care with targeted clinical methods to tailor treatment to each client’s goals and strengths, supporting recovery, resilience, and clearer paths forward.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPhobiasPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPrejudice and discriminationSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSexual assault and abuseSexualitySmoking / vaping cessationSocial anxiety and phobiaYoung adult issues
Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Matthew Dugan have?
Matthew Dugan has 23 years of professional experience in behavioral healthcare and counseling.
Is Matthew Dugan a licensed therapist?
Yes. He holds the credential LPC, which stands for Licensed Professional Counselor. License details: SC LPC 5264.
In which languages does Matthew Dugan provide therapy?
Therapy is provided in English.
Where is Matthew Dugan located?
He is based in South Carolina.
How can I work with Matthew Dugan as my therapist?
You can work with Matthew Dugan through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Matthew Dugan work with international clients?
Matthew Dugan does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Matthew Dugan cost?
Costs can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Could Remote Therapy Be a Good Fit?
Many people wonder whether meeting with a therapist remotely can make a meaningful difference. For a wide range of common concerns - including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions - online therapy can be as beneficial as traditional in-person sessions for many clients.One of the clearest advantages is flexibility. Clients can connect in the way that works best for them - through video sessions, phone calls, live chat, or text-based messaging - which often makes it easier to maintain consistent care while balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Licensed professionals offer a variety of clinical approaches online, and clients have the option to change therapists if they seek a different therapeutic fit. For people seeking convenient, accessible support from qualified therapists, online therapy can be a practical and effective option.