Hi, I’m Thomas “Stacy” Helton. With over 20 years of experience as a social worker, I’ve recently transitioned to providing counseling services, drawing on my deep commitment to supporting and empowering others. A proud Ringgold High School graduate from the class of 1986, I’ve always been dedicated to serving my community. Now, I’m excited to expand my reach virtually across Georgia, offering compassionate and expert support to anyone in need.
During our initial session, my primary goal will be to ensure you feel comfortable and safe in a confidential environment. This first meeting is all about setting the stage for our work together: we'll explore the goals you've set for yourself and identify your strengths, including those qualities others might recognize in you that you might not be fully aware of. This foundational step is crucial for building a collaborative and effective therapeutic relationship.
I approach my work with a deep commitment to non-judgment and openness, creating a space where you can freely discuss anything holding you back from living your best life. My therapeutic approach is a blend of Reality Therapy, Carl Rogers' person-centered counseling, Adlerian Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing me to tailor my methods to meet the diverse needs of my clients. I take Virginia Satir's wisdom to heart: "The most basic human need is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them." This philosophy guides my practice, ensuring I listen with empathy and genuine understanding. By doing so, I strive to offer support that is not only effective but also deeply compassionate.
Reality therapy, developed by Dr. William Glasser, focuses on helping individuals take control of their lives by addressing their current behaviors and choices rather than delving into past experiences. This approach encourages people to identify what they want, assess how their current actions align with their goals, and make practical changes to improve their situation. By emphasizing personal responsibility and active problem-solving, reality therapy empowers individuals to make effective decisions, enhance their relationships, and achieve greater life satisfaction. It benefits those motivated to make positive changes and prefer a straightforward, action-oriented approach.
Rogerian Person-Centered Therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, is a counseling approach that emphasizes understanding and empathizing with clients. The main benefit of this therapy is that it creates a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals feel valued and heard. Focusing on the client’s perspective and providing unconditional positive regard helps clients build self-esteem and gain insight into their own feelings and behaviors. This supportive environment encourages personal growth and helps clients develop a stronger sense of self and confidence in their ability to handle life’s challenges.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach for improving mental health by helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It teaches practical skills to manage stress, anxiety, and depression by breaking down complex problems into manageable parts and developing coping strategies. CBT empowers individuals to challenge unhelpful thoughts, engage in more positive behaviors, and build healthier ways of thinking and reacting to life's challenges. This therapy is structured and goal-oriented, making it a practical option for lasting improvements in mental well-being.
Adlerian therapy, developed by Alfred Adler, offers several benefits for individuals seeking personal growth and improved mental health. It focuses on helping people understand and overcome feelings of inferiority and encourages them to develop a sense of belonging and purpose. Adlerian therapy promotes self-awareness and personal responsibility by exploring one's early life experiences and understanding their influence on current behaviors. This approach fosters positive change by emphasizing goal setting, social interest, and the importance of contributing to the community, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.