About
Don's Bio
Therapy is a second career for me, having previously spent about 25 years as a director of local newscasts in Austin. I had my own struggles in midlife and emerged with a strong desire to learn to help people heal. Accompanied by plenty of anxiety, I left my cozy job and returned to graduate school at the University of Texas to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Work. I could never have done it without the support of my amazing partner, a social worker herself. I like to say I married into the profession.
During my training, I worked with older adults and gained valuable experience in a hospital setting. Since graduation, I have worked as a social worker in a Trauma 1 Emergency Department where I have developed expertise in trauma, crisis intervention, serious illness, end-of-life care, grief and loss, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation difficulties.
When I learned ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), everything fell into place and I saw clearly how I wanted to progress as a therapist.
Outside of work, I am an animal lover and I’m also a bit of a nerd who enjoys sci-fi, gaming, and philosophy, with a particular interest in existentialism (we can have some really deep conversations if that's your thing).
Services
Therapeutic Approach
Therapeutic Approach
Therapeutic Approach
As a social worker, my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in my profession's core values, especially the dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships and social justice. I believe that these principles are essential in fostering a supportive and healing therapeutic environment.
The model I use in therapy is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which encourages clients to take meaningful actions aligned with their values, even in the face of challenges. I also draw from attachment theory which helps us understand how our early caregiver relationships serve as a sort of template for our current relationships.
Client Populations
Therapeutic Approach
Therapeutic Approach
My work in a large trauma 1 emergency department has equipped me to effectively support first responders and clients who have experienced physical and psychological trauma, including domestic violence, violent crime, sexual assault and life-threatening accidents. I approach each client with a trauma-informed perspective, ensuring that their unique needs are met with empathy and understanding.
I am committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals. I am dedicated to serving all populations and am committed to cultural competence and sensitivity, further, I consider myself an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. My practice is focused exclusively on working with adults.