Terri L. Gonzales, Ph.D., LPC-S

214-702-6572
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My love for working with children and families began during my high school years when I spent a few summers assisting the summer school teachers with kindergarten and first-grade students. I truly enjoyed getting to know each of the children and their families and being a part of their growth and development.

This passion for helping grew further in my experiences during my undergraduate program and led me to the field of counseling. I find the spirit and wonder of childhood to be a precious time for each of us and I want to help as many children as I can enjoy this time fully. In both my professional and personal life, I value building deep relationships and getting to know people of all ages. These relationships are the foundation of my view of counseling and I strongly believe through the relationship, all people can reach a place of healing and growth.

I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Criminal Justice, from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2005. Following, I earned a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of North Texas, where I specialized in Play therapy. I earned my Ph.D. from the University of North Texas. I have had the privilege of working side by side with many of the most respected therapists in counseling in this nationally ranked program.

I work with people of all ages, including children, who come from many backgrounds. My approach to counseling is very laid-back with a great emphasis on building a strong and genuine therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and accepting environment. I believe this approach helps my clients feel more comfortable sharing their life experiences with me. I approach each client as a unique individual, capable of growth and change, and therefore, follow the lead and pace of my clients. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be a collaborative one, and together, we can move from a place of hurting to a place of healing.

Areas of Specialization

I have had extensive training in play therapy, a safe, and developmentally appropriate approach to working with children who may experience:

• Behavioral problems
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief
• Divorce
• Social/Peer Issues
• Adoption
• Sibling relationships
• Social/Peer Issues
• School/Academic issues
• Sexual/physical abuse
• Trauma
• Developmental delays
• Aggression
• Abandonment

Besides working with children and adolescents, I have an incredible passion for working with families and adults.  My experience and training have allowed me to work with people struggling with:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicide/Suicidal Ideation
• Grief
• Relational/Social Issues
• Abuse
• Trauma
• Fears/Phobias
• Life Transitions

Taking the first steps toward getting help for you or your child can seem frightening. It is important to remember that you are not alone and that I will meet your concerns with understanding, kindness, and respect for your privacy. I will be happy to speak with you about any of your concerns and discuss ways I can help you. Initial phone consultations and other initial types of inquiries are free and always welcome.

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