Therapists in Texas

HI! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and am daily excited to work with my clients. It truly is the best position I can dream of! I can help you see the path in front of you. I specialize in helping my clients feel wanted without judgement. Together we can work on finding your goals achievable even when you think it is impossible. Let us embark on a journey that will leave you feeling content and satisfied. You are not alone and your emotions are valid. My goal is to help you navigate through the struggles or just to be a listening ear. Let us work together to help you anchor your life with hope and strength. I encourage you to reach out to see if we are the best fit.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Texas with 7 years of experience. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to love and relate to one another in a more healthy and secure way based on a deeper understanding of each other’s experience and application of new skills. My clients seek me out when they've been experiencing relational distress and are unable to improve it on their own. You might consider me if you've tolerated your situation for years and the thought of continuing is so painful that you're on the brink of ending or cutting off the relationship unless things change.

Hello! My name is Alicia Solomon, and I am a counseling and behavioral therapist that specializes in marriage and family therapy. I currently provide virtual online therapy which is a convenient way to reach individuals throughout Texas. My goal is to empower each individual that I work with to become the best version of themselves. I look forward to working with you as you start your journey to success! I provide individual therapy sessions. I have a passion for working with couples and families. I also provide behavioral therapy to modify addictive, problematic behaviors. I offer parent training for behavioral modification in children. I believe that the path to success first starts in one’s mind. “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. . .” -Proverbs 23:7. I like to help my clients “think” on a higher frequency which leads to a higher quality of life. I look forward to working with you so go ahead and get started today!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who looks to work with conflictual couples and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I employ varied approaches depending on what might be most helpful for the benefit of our therapeutic alliance. I provide a very casual, conversational setting but will be directive to those who ask it of me.

I have personal life experience and healed through drama & trauma that life brings. I live a robust fulfilling life due attending therapy myself and utiliizing the techniques and assignments provided me. I have been practicing 10 + years assisting others as a Licensed Professional Counselor to achieve those goals in their life. In my practice, I offer counseling services specializing in TRAUMA (PTSD), ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, STRESS, Adjustment to life changes, Communication issues, MOOD DISORDERS, etc. I offer local, in person counseling, as well as telehealth services. I embrace everyone in a nonjudgmental manner. I know sometimes we just need help finding our way. I would be honored to walk with you in your journey providing you support and evidenced based techniques. Upon request, Christian, Faith Based, and Spiritual Secular counseling is available. Thank you for considering allowing me the opportunity to earn your trust in a safe nonjudgmental professional relationship.

Hi there, I'm Tavia! I’m not a blank slated-type of therapist. I offer a safe place to share your thoughts, struggles, even successes. I truly believe that empowered people can face any challenge that comes their way. Supporting those that are willing to face their fears and connect the dots over various life experiences, provides for great therapeutic work to be done for any client! Don't give up on your goals nor your needs. Let's create a plan to shift from where you are to where you desire to be. I want to help my clients grow and walk away from therapy feeling that they have transformed!

My name is Tim Johnston and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I worked years in a community mental health setting and now private practice. My specialties are anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, mens issues, and grief and loss. I provide different research based strategies which include cognitive behavioral therapies, psychodynamic, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Christian counseling is also offered. These are the different 'roadmaps' that will help us get you to a place of healing, freedom, and peace of mind.

Welcome! I'm Jamie Salas LPC I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

I am a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor who is committed to improving mental health outcomes for individuals, couples, and families. I have provided services and evidence-based treatment interventions for mental health, behavioral, and substance abuse concerns across all age groups and within various organizations. I understand that life can be challenging, and knowing and understanding how to navigate the difficult times in our lives can seem overwhelming and may look different for each of us.

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. I have been practicing for over 10 years. I offer services for adolescents, adults, and seniors. I am passionate about helping others on their journey of personal growth and healing. My mission is to provide clients with a compassionate and warm atmosphere that allows them to feel heard and supported as they discover their inner harmony.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas. Through the use of humor, genuineness, and empathy, I work to build a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to share their daily experiences. To meet my clients where they are, I encourage open and honest communication in the counseling relationship. Working together, a focus is placed on the client and exploring their values, emotions, and relationships to identify areas where changes are needed to create more positive outcomes.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Texas A&M-Kingsville and have been practicing for 12 years. I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. I have more than 10 years of working with children who have experienced trauma and grief. I have also worked with parents a lot of children who have a special need. My training in depression and anxiety seems to help benefit most clients in many ways. My daily pray is that I say what I need to say, to whom I need to say it, when I need to say it in the most helpful way.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPCS) based in Texas. I have a Doctorate in Counselor Education from Sam Houston State University and have been practicing for about 15 years. In my practice, I prefer to use different interventions to help in the process of healing while focusing on individual choice. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.

Hey there! Are you feeling a little overwhelmed lately? You’re not alone. Maybe you’ve been juggling a million things, second-guessing yourself, or trying to keep everyone else happy while quietly burning out. If that sounds familiar, I see you and I’d love to help. I work with millennials, professionals and creatives who are ready to stop running on autopilot and start feeling more connected, calm, and confident in their own skin. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, going through a big life transition, struggling with boundaries, or just feeling “off,” we’ll work together to make sense of it and create space for something new. In our sessions, you can expect compassion, curiosity, and maybe even a little humor when it fits. I use an integrative approach rooted in evidence-based practices like CBT, but I also bring creativity and flexibility into the process because therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are you. This is your space to breathe, reflect, and grow. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to show up and we’ll take it from there, together.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas with 25 years experience in elementary education including 8 years as a School Counselor. During my career I have had many hours of training in Trauma Informed Care and how the brain is affected by traumatic events. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and addiction. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Therapy is a journey and every journey begins with a single step!

Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Master's from Lamar University in Beaumont Texas. I have been practicing for less than 5 years. I am a practical, and down-to-earth individual. As a clinician, I help families, young adults, couples, and individuals by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is compassionate and client-centered, focusing on their unique needs and goals.

I am a second career social worker, who graduated with my MSW in 2014 and my Ph.D. in 2019, both from the University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work. I am originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, but have lived in the Houston area for 30+ years. I decided to become a social worker because of my personal experiences raising a child with behavioral health issues and experiencing profound loss following the sudden death of my husband. My goals were to help others the way my own family had been helped, but I also hoped to improve the experiences of others with similar lived experiences but less positive outcomes. In addition to my private practice, I am an adjunct professor at the University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work, and I frequently consult with immigration lawyers about the ways in which mental health issues may impact the path to asylum or citizenship. I practice with a trauma-informed style and am always conscious of the ways in which trauma impacts the lives and experiences of individuals in all walks of life. I have experience working with people who live with ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, and mood disorders generally. My goal is to support my clients in achieving their own goals for a happier and healthier life.

My name is Joseph Grote and I have been a counselor in the school setting with students ages 5-18 years of age. I have been a counselor at the elementary setting for 10 years and as a High School Counselor for 4 years. I have also worked as a college and career counselor for 5 years. I have counseled people with anxiety problems, peer relationships, parenting issues, and working with students with disabilities. I also am very knowledgeable in career counseling, degree planning, and transitioning from high school to college and college to careers.

I have been a trauma trained therapist that has worked with teens and families for over 20 years in schools, hospitals and private practice settings. I work to help my clients with reprocessing trauma, coping and finding healthier behaviors that change their lives. I empower my clients and walk the journey of life alongside them. I create safety in the therapy space.

Hi, I'm Heather! I have been a licensed mental health specialist for a few years now, but I have been doing counseling in hospital and end of life setting for more than ten years. I spent my first career as a chaplain, where I enjoyed working with people from all and no religious background tap into their innate strength in times of crisis. I am committed to helping people with a background of religious trauma and am a committed ally in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. As a therapist I believe I can help you on your path of self discovery and growing in the strengths you already have. I am all about self care and believe that therapy can be an essential component of everyone's self care repertoire.

I am a licensed therapist in Texas with many years of experience supporting individuals through challenges such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, low motivation, self-esteem and confidence concerns, and career difficulties. My goal is to create a collaborative and compassionate space where we can explore what’s not working and help you restore balance in your life. I take a whole-person approach—addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit—while integrating mindfulness, coping strategies, and self-awareness to help you build a stronger, more trusting relationship with yourself. Whether you’re navigating feelings of overwhelm, relationship challenges, or ongoing cycles of anxiety and depression, I’m here to walk alongside you. I understand that seeking therapy can feel intimidating, but taking this step is a powerful act of courage and self-care. You deserve a safe, supportive space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I will meet you with empathy, respect, and evidence-based techniques to help you move past the barriers and patterns that may be holding you back. I look forward to working together and supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Hello! Welcome. In short, I am a bilingual, military Veteran, and former School Counselor. My former education and experiences are certainly varied, but have helped me to appreciate a varied clientele, and be open-minded, and thus prepared me to help others. I love different cultures. I work primarily with adults, couples, and older adolescents, 14-19. You'll find me to be empowering, and understanding.

I am Cameron, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Texas, passionately committed to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. With extensive training in various therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I bring a diverse and effective set of tools to my practice. This allows me to provide tailored, compassionate support to each client.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Dallas, Texas, with a Master's degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. Since 2019, I have been in private practice, helping clients navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. Before opening my practice, I gained extensive experience working in mental health within hospital settings, where I developed a strong foundation in providing compassionate and evidence-based care.

I am a LCSW in Texas. I received my Masters in Social Work from Texas State University. I have worked with adults with intellectual disabilities, mental health disorders and with individuals with chronic illness. I help patients overcome anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts. I understand how difficult living with mental health and chronic illness can be and I want to help you discover the best version of you.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas, with a Master's degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Over the past three years, I have been dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges related to depression and anxiety, guiding them toward becoming the best versions of themselves. In addition to being an LPC, I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), allowing me to provide specialized support for individuals facing substance-related concerns. My approach is goal oriented, emphasizing the development of healthy coping skills to assist clients in regulating emotions, managing daily life stressors, and recognizing the physical symptoms associated with emotional distress. Through personalized strategies and evidence-based techniques, I strive to empower individuals to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and achieve lasting emotional well-being.

Treat others the way you want to be treated is the motto I live by. I want to be treated kindly, I want to be heard and I want to feel I matter. This is how I will treat you, without strings or hesitation. I have a story just as you do. I have been lucky to choose a career that has enabled me to know when I need to talk to someone, enabled me to learn and use coping skills that work and has also enabled me to see the beauty through the broken pieces. Growing up I was a nosey child, I always wanted to know the "why", I still do! This personality trait led me on a path where I have been able to meet people from all walks of life, people who seemingly burned every bridge walked over, people with no hope as well as people who just were going through a rough patch. All these individuals have helped me become the person and the therapist I am today. I am truly excited to hear people’s story, restore faith and be the constant in people’s lives. Give me a chance to hear your story, you are not alone!

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and a Level-3 trained Gottman Method Couples Therapist. For 10+ years, I’ve guided individuals and couples to process interpersonal challenges to improve communication and connection. I also help couples and individuals process developmental trauma(s) that negatively affect their ability to maintain healthy relationships with themselves and others.

Life can be hard; you don't have to navigate it alone. I believe in creating a nonjudgmental environment where all clients can feel safe. I am open to working with all individuals. My passion for helping others has been evident throughout the last 20 years of working with children and families. Through my experiences I have learned how to interact with a diverse group of people, which has increased my ability to relate to others. I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they navigate changes and growth. I would be honored in working together with you in creating a journey of joy, peace, and healing.

Hi and welcome. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Masters in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University and have been in practice for about 6 years. I have worked in diverse settings with populations to include teens and adults. I prioritize the individual's needs, values, and goals. Utilizing evidence-based techniques and interventions tailored to each client's unique circumstances can help facilitate growth, healing, and positive change.

Hello! My name is Ungria Castillo and I look forward to working together and supporting you as we talk through what brings you here. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas My hope is to create a space where you feel heard and seen and where you can openly share your about yourself. I understand how overwhelming certain emotions or situations can be or how discouraging it can be to feel stuck. After I get to know more about what brings you to counseling and about you, we will be exploring what your priorities are and creating a plan that focuses on the goals that you would want to accomplish. I hope to aid you in thinking on solutions from a different perspective and providing you with additional skills and tools that fit your personality and address what you share with me. My education and knowledge are in modalities that help you access different resources, highlight personal strengths and address those big feelings that are getting in the way of feeling fulfilled or living out your purpose. I am happy to come alongside you as you take this important step. You have already overcome so much and I am so glad you are here. This can be the beginning of writing a great new chapter of your life.

Recognizing the need for help is an important first step. In fact, rather than acknowledging a weakness, it is a sign of strength. I want to help you to build on that strength to achieve success in the areas you are struggling with. Specializing in relationship dynamics, I invite individuals, couples, and families to improve communication, resolve conflict, and build skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and more. Christian counseling, men's issues, and family roles are additional areas of special focus I provide. I believe in personal responsibility, the reality of options at your disposal, and your ability to make decisions that are good for you with clarity. Ownership results in liberty. I would be working with you to help things make more sense and see a path forward.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience in hospitals, college counseling centers, adoption agencies, and elder care evironments. For the past 4 years, I’ve been additionally working in private practice, where I support adults in navigating life’s challenges. I work to be discerning in our sessions. I listen not only to your words but also to the underlying feelings and patterns, bringing attention to what might be overlooked so we can explore it together. My goal is to understand your lived experience and help you discover new perspectives, tools, and possibilities for change. Please note: -While I have extensive experience supporting adults with ADD/ADHD/autism, I do not provide formal diagnoses or prescribe medication. -I do not provide Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters, as this is outside my clinical scope of practice.

Hello, there! I'm Tonya Are you struggling with feelings of inadequacy, difficulty with making everyday decisions, or a loss rather it be a person, career, marriage or a traumatic event? Clarity – We all want it – it’s a fundamental human need and together we can work towards gaining perspective and balance. I desire to create a safe, non-judgmental, and inviting space for clarity, hope and healing. For the last twenty-plus years, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults in community mental health settings as a social worker. I am passionate about helping individuals and together, we can identify what's not working, find clarity, and a sense of hope and get you back to balance!

Hello, I'm Amber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving adults ages 18 and beyond in Vermont and Texas. I am currently based in Dallas, TX, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. With a focus on strength-based approaches, I believe in harnessing your innate resilience and capabilities to navigate life's challenges. Outside of therapy, you'll often find me indulging in my top three hobbies: traveling, exploring the great outdoors, and diving into captivating books. These interests not only fuel my personal growth but also enrich my therapeutic practice, providing a diverse perspective that resonates with my clients. In our sessions together, you can expect a warm and collaborative environment where your unique strengths and experiences are valued. Through empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions, we'll work together to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and positive coping skills. My goal is to help you unlock your full potential and lead a more meaningful and authentic life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Master's degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and have been licensed since 2011. I help people to be the best versions of themselves and to enjoy life more regardless of their stage in life; just starting out, midlife and beyond. The most important piece to know about me is that I meet the client where they are and offer an objective perspective throughout our time together.

Greetings!!! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Texas and Louisiana. I graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a Master's in General Counseling & Guidance. My interest in mental health began when I took a college psychology course in high school. I later worked as a Human Resources Coordinator at a mental health agency and decided I wanted to help people who experience mental health matters. I currently work with adults on managing Anxiety, Anger Management, Family Issues, ADD, ADHD, ODD, Career, and Academic. I am empathetic and provide a safe, welcoming environment for clients to discuss goals and concerns.

Hi, I’m Sarah Escobar, LPC. I’m a compassionate and experienced counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. My approach blends proven clinical techniques with real-life wisdom and practical problem-solving, so clients not only feel supported but also empowered to create meaningful change. I specialize in helping people recognize and challenge unhelpful patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding them back. Together, we work on building healthier ways to cope, communicate, and move forward—so you can experience more peace, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of fulfillment. Whether you’re facing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or major life transitions, my goal is to meet you where you are and guide you toward the life you truly want. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, while also being thoughtful and solution-focused. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing, growth, and lasting change.

Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker located in Chicago, Illinois. I work with people who desire a better understanding of who they are, who their authentic self is and then integrating the authentic self with their identity structure. I also work with those making life transition(s) and require a caring and listening ear to help guide them through the process. I provide individual, couples and family counseling.

Finding joy in times of high stress and uncertainty can be a challenge. As your counselor, I plan to encourage you to find your inner joy and peace. I have worked in the community mental health field for the last 10 years as I enjoy the challenge of helping others grow and better themselves.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my master's degree at Prairie View A&M University in 2011. I have been practicing therapy/counseling since 2016. I spend time understanding in a deep and connected way how you are experiencing your life. With support and non-judgmental curiosity, I will look below the surface. I may examine family of origin dynamics, core beliefs you hold about yourself and where you may have learned them, values you have and how your choices do or do not support them, and when and how you limit yourself or get in your own way.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have been working with families and children for over two decades as a teacher, a school counselor, and in private practice. I am here to help with the healing process and support emotions that arise through life’s many transitions. Rest assured that when working with me, you will be met with understanding, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach.

Hi, I’m DeAnna Dotson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a PhD in Human Services and seven years of experience helping adults gain clarity, regulate their emotions, and move through life with more confidence and control. My style is calm, structured, and deeply focused on understanding the root of what you are experiencing. I help clients slow down, make sense of their thoughts and feelings, and build practical skills that support emotional balance and healthier patterns. Therapy with me is a clear, grounding space where you can think, breathe, and grow without judgment.

Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychologist (LP) based in Texas. I received my Doctorate from the APA accredited California School Professional Psychology- Fresno. I and have been practicing clinical psychology over 20 years. I help adults struggling with career stress, relationship issues and mental health disorders become the best versions of themselves. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CT) and Brief Psychodynamic Therapy (BPT) in an eclectic fashion to address psychological issues.

Hello! And thank you for considering me to be your partner on your journey to wholeness and improvement. Congratulations on taking that pivotal first step to reach out for help. My name is Marisa Montes and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience in helping people who are at a crossroads and unsure of what their next steps will be. Many of those I have successfully worked with have gone through experiences that have marked them and left them reeling. In my practice, I use a variety of evidence based therapeutic techniques to equip clients to live life successfully and confront their challenges head on.

My person-centered counseling approach focuses on tailoring support to each individual’s unique needs. I believe effective counseling should be personalized, recognizing and valuing what makes each client different, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. This way, I can provide the most effective, compassionate guidance for their personal growth and healing. I am committed to helping others navigate life's challenges, whether it's trauma, grief, or everyday struggles. You can rely on me for empathetic, non-judgmental listening. My goal is to be a compassionate ally on your journey, supporting you toward self-discovery, healing, and building resilience. I'm here to help you grow and overcome obstacles with care.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 10 years of experience working with families, children, adolescents, and young adults—while focusing primarily on supporting women. I help clients navigate anxiety, career transitions, relationships, parenting, and I integrate Christian principles into sessions when desired. My approach is warm, respectful, and collaborative. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused techniques to meet your unique needs. If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing and growth, I'm here to support and empower you. My approach is practical, supportive, and personalized. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused methods to help you make meaningful progress. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your unique story, goals, and values. When you’re ready to take that next step, I’m here to support and empower you every step of the way. Let’s work together to move toward the life you deserve. Ready to get started?

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Texas. I received my master's in Social Work from Texas State University and am currently working on my Doctorate in Social Work at Simmons University. I have been practicing for a little over five years. I provide compassionate, client-centered therapy to individuals and couples navigating emotional challenges and life transitions. With extensive experience in healthcare social work and community-based case management, I understand the complexities of coping with major life changes and strive to create a supportive and holistic healing space for my clients. I am in network with several insurance companies and also accept cash pay. I believe that therapy should be accessible to all, therefore I also provide services on a sliding scale basis as needed.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. I received my master's degree from Louisiana State University. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, gaining extensive experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness. I have also come to understand the importance of guiding others through crises. I am here to help you realize your potential and achieve your goals, no matter how daunting they may seem.

Do you feel like you've lost your way, your purpose and identity, or just need to get back on track? Hello! My name is Erie, and I'd love to help you. Social workers typically have an interesting life story and personal experiences with tragedy that tug at our heartstrings. I am no different. At times, I wonder "how is it that I have survived these mountains and valleys?" Despite personal tragedy, loss, and despair, influential people have served as beacons of hope throughout the years in my life. Along with my re-creation of self through school, internships, and certifications, I have learned one basic human tenant that would be my guiding light through the most challenging of times: people need people. I realize that this sounds a bit rudimentary, but this is the cornerstone of social work and the secret to my success in beating the statistical odds that accompany a survivor of childhood abuse, drug addiction and alcoholism, military combat trauma, and the loss of a child. So, the question stands: why am I here and what do I want? I simply want to pay it forward as many have done for me. I would have never expected to be where I am or doing what I'm doing. I personally believe that there is hope and light in the most desperate, dark places and recesses of the human soul. For that reason, I bet on the underdog, society's undeserving, and those with whom all other plans have failed. I find that my reward and inner satisfaction comes with doing for others when all else has failed and all others have given up. For this reason, I will keep doing for others, because they are worth it.