20 Years in the Trenches. No Fluff. Just Results. "I’m not your typical therapist, and I’m okay with that. I wear my history on my sleeves and my philosophy in my name: Rugged + Regulated. For the last 20 years, my career has been defined by working where the work is hardest. From years of navigating the complexities of the foster care system to training organizations on how to handle trauma without breaking, I’ve learned one universal truth: You cannot think your way out of a problem you behaved your way into I am a Texas-based therapist who believes in self-sufficiency. I don't want you to be in therapy forever. I want to give you the DBT and ACT tools you need to regulate your own nervous system, set your own goals, and build a future that looks the way you want it to look. If you’re looking for a safe space to be exactly who you are—tattoos, metal music, motorcycle gear, and all—you’ve found it. Let's get to work."
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
We aren’t here to aimlessly wander through your past; we’re here to map out your future. In our first 50 minutes, you’ll get a listening ear that actually hears what’s being said, but you’ll also get accountability from the jump. We will identify the specific fires you’re trying to put out and start building your toolkit immediately. You won't just leave feeling "heard"—you’ll leave with concrete coping skills and a clear directive on how to start regulating your own nervous system. Come as you are, but come ready to do the work.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
"I don’t just offer a 'safe space'; I offer a high-accountability environment backed by 20 years of experience in the trenches of the foster care system and organizational trauma training. My approach is practical, directive, and rooted in the reality that talk is cheap—action is what regulates a nervous system. By integrating hard-hitting CBT and DBT strategies, I cut through the noise of mood fluctuations and life transitions to provide you with a clear, tactical roadmap. We aren’t here to just process your history; we are here to build the inner grit and regulatory skills necessary to change your future."
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
"My ideal client doesn’t want a passive listener; they want a partner in the work. You are someone who realizes that 'thinking' about change hasn't worked, and you’re ready to start 'doing' it. Whether you’re navigating high-stress transitions or managing a dysregulated system, you come to the table ready for honest feedback and hard work. I’m here for the person who is tired of the fluff and ready to build a life defined by grit and self-sufficiency.".
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a practical and logical framework for creating lasting change. This approach is grounded in the understanding that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are deeply interconnected. Together, we work to identify and deconstruct unhelpful thought patterns that may be keeping you stuck. By using a highly structured and goal-oriented process, I help you develop a robust toolkit of coping mechanisms—such as cognitive reframing, mindfulness-based grounding, and behavioral activation—that you can apply immediately to your daily life. My goal is to empower you with the logic to understand your internal experiences and the tangible skills to navigate them with confidence.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
"I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop essential skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and increasing overall well-being. My approach focuses on balancing acceptance and change to create meaningful and lasting positive outcomes."
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
In my practice, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a foundational approach to support clients in navigating life's challenges. A core principle I emphasize is learning to live life on life's terms. This concept encourages individuals to accept their experiences, including difficult emotions and thoughts, without trying to avoid or control them. Through ACT, clients develop psychological flexibility, allowing them to engage with the present moment fully and commit to actions aligned with their values. This approach fosters resilience and empowers clients to lead meaningful lives, even amidst adversity.
10 ratings with written reviews
November 24, 2025
Shay is absolutely wonderful. He has helped me a lot so far with self worth and techniques to live my best authentic life. I recommend Shay to anyone struggling with self image issues.
November 14, 2025
Shay is authentic and challenging. He isn’t afraid to challenge you to think about things in a different way. He is positive and warm. I think he is a good therapist.
October 10, 2025
The steps that I have been able to take as a person would not be able without guidance from a strong male figure. He challenges the reason why you think the way you think ,and the way you act. His many years of experience is undoubtably the reason he is able to untangle your thoughts in a way that makes sense to you. He’s been fantastic so far in every way a therapist needs to be ,and I’m excited for many more months of healing.