Heather Rhodes
Approach to Therapy
I would describe my therapy style as relational and supportive. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor for growth– finding someone you can trust and speak to openly without judgment can be a scary thing! I am a firm believer in self-compassion, and I believe that accepting ourselves (flaws and all) with kindness is the first step to making any change.
A few principles that guide my work as a therapist– You, the client, are the expert in your life, and I’m here to help you uncover what is keeping you stuck in patterns leading to dissatisfaction and frustration. Oftentimes, we know what is best for us, but because of blocking beliefs or emotions, we aren’t able to act in our best interests.
I like to let the client lead the session by focusing on the issues that are most prevalent for them, while also examining how these issues may be impacted by larger treatment goals (anxious thinking, confidence, communication, etc.). I can also provide a more directive approach to therapy for clients who prefer a more structured, therapist-led style.
While I am comfortable working with a wide variety of therapeutic issues, I have received specialized training in trauma, including being trained in EMDR, and in Gottman couples counseling.
Contact Information:
heather@dogwoodtherapyatx.com
(512) 522-3072
About Heather
A native Texan, I was born and raised in a small town outside of Beaumont where I eventually went on to receive my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Lamar University. After moving to Austin, the place I’ve called home for 10 years, I began working as a secondary teacher and school counselor. Having experienced many of life’s mental and emotional challenges from an early age, I developed a passion for fostering mental and emotional well-being. Starting in 2020, I began my journey into providing clinical mental health counseling in the private practice setting and have enjoyed growing my group practice.
When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time outdoors exploring my favorite spots around Austin and central Texas. My hobbies include biking, reading, horseback riding, and of course, spending time with friends, family, and two dogs.