The Philosophy of Partnership

In a world that often demands perfection and minimizes emotional struggle, I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is entirely different. My philosophy is rooted in the conviction that healing begins when you feel safe, seen, heard, and truly understood.

Effective therapy is not about being passive or being told what to do. It is an active, collaborative partnership. I don't see my role as an expert dictating instructions; I see myself as a seasoned guide who helps you navigate complex emotional terrain, empowering you to discover and trust your own deep well of strength and intuition. We work together to uncover the patterns holding you back and establish the foundation for genuine, lasting change. We move at your pace, always.

Our Integrated Approach: Tailored for Your Unique Story

The complexities of human experience cannot be addressed with a single, rigid model. That is why Pirtle Counseling utilizes an integrated, evidence-based approach consisting of several powerful therapeutic frameworks. This customized method ensures that our work together is not generic, but meticulously tailored to your unique life story, specific challenges, and personal goals.

Foundational Modalities We Employ

Our integrated framework is built on clinical excellence and proven effectiveness:

1. Person-Centered Therapy (PCT): The foundation of all our work. PCT, pioneered by Carl Rogers, emphasizes the therapist's core attitudes of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence (genuineness). This ensures you always receive care in a non-judgmental environment. This framework is essential for establishing the safety and trust needed for deep healing. We believe the client is the ultimate expert on their own experience.

2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This focuses on the interconnectedness of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We identify and challenge cognitive distortions (unhelpful thinking patterns) that contribute to anxiety and depression. CBT provides the clarity and practical tools necessary to manage immediate symptoms and gain mastery over your emotional responses in daily life.

3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Frameworks: While often utilized for intensive treatment, we integrate DBT skills to address crucial areas like emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills are invaluable for clients who struggle with intense mood fluctuations or chronic relationship instability, moving them toward greater forward movement in managing crisis and stress.

4. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): As a key component of our trauma recovery services, CPT is a highly structured, evidence-based treatment for PTSD. CPT helps clients gain healing by focusing specifically on challenging and modifying unhelpful beliefs about the trauma, the self, and the world. This focused work is vital for integrating painful memories and reclaiming personal agency.

Tangible Outcomes: What We Help You Achieve

By blending these powerful modalities with genuine human connection, our work together is designed to help you:

• Gain clarity on challenging thoughts and intense emotions.

• Develop practical coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and everyday life.

• Heal from past experiences and release limiting beliefs that restrict your future.

• Build stronger, more authentic relationships based on effective communication and boundaries.

• Cultivate greater self-awareness and radical self-compassion, replacing the inner critic with an inner advocate.

A Little More About Me and Practicing What I Preach

I am Oklahoma-born and raised. My path to becoming a therapist was neither direct nor traditional, but every turn has profoundly shaped my ability to connect with and understand the complexities of my clients’ lives.

From Service to Social Work: My Winding Path

After graduating from high school, I answered the call to service and joined the US Air Force. I served for nine formative years, during which I was deployed overseas in South Korea, Kuwait, and an undisclosed location. This experience instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, resilience, and the value of clear communication—traits that serve as bedrock for my clinical practice today.

However, after honorably discharging, I experienced the often-difficult transition into civilian life firsthand. The structure was gone, the purpose felt diffused, and finding a new bearing was challenging. After working at several different jobs, I recognized the need for renewed direction and decided to pursue higher education.

My academic journey was a process of vocational discovery, beginning with studies in phlebotomy and computer information systems, and leading to an associate’s degree in general studies. I then pursued bachelor's degrees in criminal justice and forensic science. It was while pursuing these degrees that I landed a crucial role: a drug court case manager. This is where I fell profoundly in love with the helping career. Witnessing the struggles and subsequent triumphs of individuals navigating the justice system and recovery solidified my decision. My education took a sharp, intentional turn toward dedicated, clinical practice.

I applied for and was accepted into the highly regarded Master’s Degree Social Work program at the University of Oklahoma. This clinical training provided the ethical and theoretical framework to integrate my diverse life experiences into a unified, professional practice. After graduating, I gained invaluable experience working in community mental health as well as in residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation/treatment, which further broadened my understanding of complex mental health and addiction issues.

The Social Work Difference: Holistic Healing

My foundation as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) reflects a commitment to a holistic, ecological perspective. This means I don't just see a set of symptoms; I see you as a complete individual whose well-being is deeply interconnected with your past experiences, your family, your community, and your environment. This perspective allows us to develop treatment plans that are comprehensive and sustainable.

Finding Balance: Practicing Self-Care

While my professional life is dedicated to guiding others toward balance and emotional health, I strongly believe in practicing what I preach. Maintaining my own well-being is essential to showing up fully for my clients, offering a grounded and present partnership.

Outside of my practice, my life is filled with the simple joys that keep me grounded. You might find me diving deep into a good suspense book, escaping into a classic movie I’ve seen countless times, horseback riding with my wife, or embracing the challenge of a new woodworking project—all activities that demand focus and provide a necessary contrast to the intense emotional work of therapy.

My family life is full and joyful, and includes spending time with my diverse collection of animals, which are a constant source of unconditional love and amusement. This extended family includes dogs, cats, horses, goats, and yes, even a monkey. This vibrant home life constantly reinforces the value of connection, patience, and living fully in the present moment—principles I bring into every therapeutic relationship.

My background, both professional and personal, shapes my capacity to sit with you, acknowledge your pain, and wholeheartedly believe in your ability to find Clarity, Healing, and Forward Movement.

My Professional Commitment and Credentials

Commitment to Ethical Excellence and Continuous Learning

I am deeply committed to providing care that is both highly effective and grounded in the highest standards of professional ethics. My commitment to you extends beyond the therapy room; it encompasses continuous professional development.

The field of mental health is constantly evolving. I prioritize continuous education, clinical supervision, and specialized training to ensure that Pirtle Counseling always provides care that is informed by the latest neuroscience, evidence-based practices, and clinical research. This dedication ensures you are receiving the most modern and effective support available for your specific needs.

Professional Qualifications

• LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker): [Your License Number, OK] (The LCSW designation indicates advanced clinical training, supervision, and rigorous state examination.)

• Graduate Education: University of Oklahoma, 2022 (Master of Social Work)

• Specialized Training:

  • Level 1 Team CBT Therapist: Trained in the highly structured, measurement-based model of CBT developed by Dr. David Burns, emphasizing rapid change and empathy.

  • Making Sense of Your Worth Facilitator: Specialized training focused on building self-esteem, challenging core shame, and fostering genuine self-acceptance.

  • [Any other key certifications or specialized training]

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal and important decision. I encourage you to take this opportunity to invest in yourself. Your journey toward a more fulfilling life starts with a single step—reaching out.

We are here to partner with you every step of the way.

Book Your First Step Toward Clarity, Healing, and Forward Movement