Gary Russell

Gary Russell, LPC Associate, LCDC

Supervisor: Dr. Roxy Riefkohl

My Mission: I believe the singular reason we all exist is simply to love and support others. The more aligned with that core purpose that we can live, the happier and more joy-filled our life will be.

I further believe that unprocessed emotions from past traumas drive compulsive, self-defeating behaviors that tend to impede our personal fulfillment.

I hope to help people heal from past traumas, resolve distressing emotions, and connect with their true purpose, and ultimately experience genuine peace, joy, and happiness in their lives.

My Focus: I primarily focus on men’s issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, addictions, parenting, divorce trauma and recovery, emotional abuse, and authentic masculinity. I also work with women, couples, and adolescents.

My Experience: I am a student at Houston Baptist University working towards a Master of Arts degree in Counseling. I expect to graduate in December 2019. I anticipate becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas shortly thereafter.

I am a practicum intern working under the supervision of Dr Roxy Riefkohl-Siegrist, LPC-S. I have several years of experience in various mentoring and spiritual and emotional leadership roles with various organizations including (but not limited to) The Mankind Project, That Man Is You men’s spiritual leadership program, and Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center.

My Technique: My theoretical approach includes principles of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychoanalytic Therapy, and Choice Theory / Reality Therapy --- all with a strong foundation in self-compassion, mindfulness, and spiritual connection.

I believe that integration of these approaches provides an opportunity to create a specific treatment plan for the individual in need. My primary goal is to work collaboratively with the client to help him/her achieve mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual health.

About Me: I am originally from the New Orleans area and have lived most of my adult life in Houston. After a nearly 30-year engineering, finance, and public communications career in the energy industry, I developed a passion for helping others achieve their own personal fulfillment.

I cherish time with my 6-year-old son, especially building Legos and playing sports. I also enjoy swimming, biking, and running and connecting with friends.