Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates

Margaret Klinger, LPC, MS

Psychotherapist
Pawcatuck Office
Speaks English

Margaret Klinger is a licensed professional counselor with decades of experience supporting individuals and families in outpatient and intensive settings. She holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Education and Sociology from Mount Saint Joseph College and Salve Regina University.

Margaret has served in various clinical roles across Connecticut, including Lawrence & Memorial Hospital, Select Behavioral Health, and Sound Community Services. Her extensive experience includes providing individual, family, couples, and adolescent counseling, along with group therapy for patients with co-occurring disorders and complex diagnostic profiles. She was instrumental in developing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) programming at Lawrence & Memorial and co-led DBT skills training groups for over a decade.

Her approach draws from multiple evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and insight-oriented interventions. Margaret fosters a supportive and goal-oriented environment where patients are encouraged to build insight, process challenges, and move toward lasting change.

Her clinical focus includes depression, anxiety, trauma-related concerns, mood disorders, relationship challenges, and adjustment issues. She brings warmth, structure, and practical strategies to her work with individuals navigating life transitions or mental health challenges.

Education

MS, Counseling Psychology, Southern Connecticut State University
BA, Education and Sociology, Mount Saint Joseph College / Salve Regina University

Licensure

Licensed in Connecticut

Special Certifications and Training

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Motivational Interviewing
CBT and Client-Centered Therapy
Group Counseling and Trauma-Informed Practice

Specialties

Depression and Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Mood and Adjustment Disorders
Relationship Issues
Adolescent and Family Therapy

See What Our Patients Are Saying

See how patients have experienced great care and positive results with us through their personal stories and feedback.
Dolly

“I have been seeing Dr. Awwa for almost 10 years. He is kind, compassionate and listens. I have seen him at all three offices and have never encountered any difficulty with any staff members.”
– D (Patient)

Foxy

“I have always been treated with dignity and respect @ CBH. I’m always warmly welcomed by name & treated very well. Dr. Awwa has been such an important influence in my life! Thanks to him I am in such a good place today.”
– F (Patient)

Tina

“I absolutely love Dr Awwa. I have been going to him for a long time. He knows what works for me and I am completely open and honest with him!”
– T (Patient)

Mark

“I’ve been a patient of Dr. Awwa for years. He has helped me through many changes and struggles. The staff is professional, friendly and accommodating!”
– M (Patient)

Carla

“The absolute best mental health place in CT. Dr. Awwa is great!”

– C (Patient)
Donna

“Dr Awwa is a blessing to me and my family. He has patiently seen us through some rough times. I have needed his help in some difficult situations and He was right there backing me up and doing everything to help. He has my upmost respect and trust. You can sense his love in helping people to get better.”
– D (Patient)

Elizabeth

“I have fought depression, anxiety, and PTSD for many years. I had settled for just okay, until CT Behavioral Health. I have been a client for around 1 1/2 years and have found myself healthier and happier then I have been in years. My therapist is awesome and knowledgeable and we have come a long way. She also returns calls promptly which keeps you grounded. The staff treats you with both respect and kindness. Dr. Awwa, the psychiatrist, is amazing. He can get so much done and really knows his patients.”
– E (Patient)

Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates

Connecticut’s Leading Psychiatric Practice

At Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA), there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. We tailor our care plans to fit each person’s unique needs. Our providers include psychiatrists, physician assistants, psychiatric nurse practitioners and licensed therapists who are ready to support you. CBHA offers both in-person and telehealth appointments, so you can get the care you need in the format that serves you best. We also accept most insurance plans allowing you to get the most from your personalized care plan.

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