Pierre Hooten

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I have extensive experience using CBT to help clients identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns that fuel anxiety, depression, and trauma responses. My approach is collaborative and practical. We work together to break overwhelming situations into smaller parts, build coping skills, and test new behaviors that create meaningful change. I often combine CBT with somatic tools when clients experience strong physical symptoms of anxiety or trauma.

Psychodynamic

I use psychodynamic therapy to explore how past experiences, unconscious patterns, and early relationships affect current struggles. This helps clients gain deeper insight into repeating themes in their lives, especially around identity, self-worth, and relationships. I apply it gently and at a comfortable pace, particularly with LGBTQ+ clients who are processing complex trauma or minority stress.

Brainspotting

Brainspotting is one of my main trauma-focused tools. I am trained in this somatic method that uses specific eye positions to help access and process trauma stored in the brain and body. I use it to help clients release stuck emotional and physical tension from trauma, anxiety, and nervous system dysregulation. It works especially well for LGBTQ+ clients dealing with minority stress or complex trauma when regular talk therapy is not enough.

Somatic

I specialize in somatic approaches to help clients release trauma and regulate their nervous system. I am trained in Brainspotting, which uses specific eye positions to access and process trauma stored in the brain and body. I also use EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques), which involves tapping on acupressure points to reduce anxiety and emotional distress. I teach clients how to use these tools both in session and on their own. These methods are especially helpful for LGBTQ+ clients dealing with trauma, minority stress, and anxiety when traditional talk therapy alone is not enough.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

Person-centered therapy is the foundation of my work. I focus on creating a warm, non-judgmental, and affirming space where clients feel truly heard and accepted. I believe clients know themselves best, so I emphasize empathy, acceptance, and authenticity. This is especially important for LGBTQ+ individuals who may have faced rejection or invalidation in the past.