I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling, both earned from Texas A&M University. My professional journey extends over 26 years, during which I've been licensed by the State of Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Approved Supervisor (#14952). Life unfolds as a captivating narrative filled with twists and turns, offering each of us the opportunity to craft something truly beautiful. Yet, amidst this narrative, there are moments that leave us feeling fractured inside. Our fears can morph into daunting monsters, whispering doubts about our worthiness and happiness. We may find ourselves entangled in the past, grappling with depression, or ensnared by the uncertainties of the future, consumed by anxiety. However, the reality is that change can only be initiated in the present moment. Perhaps you're wrestling with feelings of isolation, abandonment, or simply a sense of directionlessness. I've traversed those landscapes myself. Within the fabric of life, relationships form the threads that bind us together - be it with family, friends, or colleagues. These bonds can flourish and empower, yet they can also strain and deplete us. Cultivating healthy boundaries within these relationships is paramount to nurturing a sense of respect, autonomy, and individual identity. Sometimes, our childhood experiences within dysfunctional family dynamics lead us to adopt maladaptive coping mechanisms as a means of survival. However, as we journey into adulthood and forge our own paths, these ingrained survival strategies can impede our ability to cultivate fulfilling adult relationships. Many of us lacked positive role models during our formative years, leaving us to navigate the complexities of life without a compass.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In their inaugural therapy session, clients can anticipate a warm and welcoming environment, where their comfort and confidentiality are paramount. Upon arrival, I typically engage in an initial icebreaker, designed to establish rapport and alleviate any apprehension. This may involve discussing practical matters such as scheduling, fees, and paperwork, as well as offering an opportunity for clients to express their expectations and concerns. Once settled, our conversation transitions to an exploration of the client's reasons for seeking therapy and their goals for our sessions. I encourage open dialogue and active participation, aiming to create a collaborative atmosphere where clients feel empowered to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Together, we delve into the client's personal history, identifying significant life events, relationships, and patterns of behavior that may be influencing their current struggles. Throughout the session, I employ a person-centered approach, tailoring my interventions to suit the unique needs and preferences of each individual. Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques, I work alongside clients to develop insight, cultivate self-awareness, and explore potential avenues for growth and healing. Moreover, I emphasize the importance of establishing a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental space, clients are encouraged to engage in self-reflection and introspection, paving the way for meaningful and transformative change. Ultimately, the first therapy session serves as a foundation upon which our therapeutic journey is built. It is a time for clients to voice their concerns, set intentions, and begin the process of self-discovery and self-improvement. As we embark on this collaborative journey together, I am committed to providing compassionate guidance and unwavering support every step of the way.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Relationships are all around us we are surrounded by family, friends, and coworkers. Having healthy boundaries in our relationships is fundamental to feeling respected, empowered, independent, and having our own identity. Sometimes as children growing up in dysfunctional family systems, we develop unhealthy coping skills to help us survive. As we mature into adults and start lives of our own, the survival skills we learned as children are no longer functional and can often be a hindrance to healthy adult relationships. For many of us, we may have even been hurt by the people in our lives that were supposed to protect us. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to talk about there relationships in your life and learn how to be more intentional in setting healthy boundaries. I want to

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

As a licensed professional counselor, I am uniquely positioned to provide support and guidance to a diverse range of clients, drawing upon my expertise and experience in addressing a multitude of psychological and emotional challenges. Additionally, I specialize in working with clients who have experienced abandonment, abuse, or trauma, offering a safe and nurturing space for healing and growth. Whether it's processing past experiences, developing coping mechanisms, or fostering resilience, I am committed to supporting survivors on their journey towards recovery and empowerment. Furthermore, I am skilled in assisting clients facing a wide array of challenges, including addiction and compulsions, anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, relationship issues, and more. My integrative approach to therapy combines evidence-based techniques with empathy and understanding, fostering a collaborative therapeutic alliance aimed at facilitating meaningful change and personal transformation. From individuals struggling with chronic illnesses or disabilities to those navigating issues related to identity, sexuality, or gender, I am dedicated to providing culturally sensitive and affirming counseling services that honor each client's unique experiences and perspectives. My goal is to empower clients to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, build resilience, and cultivate a greater sense of self-compassion and acceptance. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, your relationship, or your family, I am here to help you navigate life's challenges with compassion, expertise, and unwavering support. Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth, paving the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future.

About David Butler, LPC-Supervisor