I believe that people come to therapy for many reasons but their overall goal is to improve upon their lives and themselves.There is nothing more satisfying to me than helping my clients foster a better understanding of themselves and their relationships in order to achieve a happier, more successful and productive life. I integrate Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to find the best combination to elicit change and personal growth in my clients.

I practice with the belief that therapy can be a rich and vital exploration into understanding the deepest parts of our selves: the parts we cherish as well as the parts we want to change. We all have unconscious patterns that can get in the way of living the life we want to lead. These patterns can manifest as anxiety, depression, phobias, physical illness or pain, addiction, even rage. These symptoms can affect relationships, work, self esteem, creativity, and sexuality. Change is possible when these patterns can be expressed and understood in an open, and accepting space.

I have been providing therapeutic services for over twenty five years working with clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings where I have provided crisis intervention, counseling and support in areas of acute, chronic, terminal medical illnesses or trauma circumstances, as well as, people experiencing depression, anxiety, addictions and other mental health concerns.

I help people of all ages to achieve optimal mental health through professional guidance, support and encouragement. I strongly believe that people have the ability to find their own strength in the healing and growing process. My job is to assist people in finding this strength, and then utilizing it to find resolutions.

***Currently scheduling new clients*** I think therapy should be a safe place where you can go to be completely genuine and someone meets you right where you are and helps you take the next step towards being a better version of yourself. Whether you want to feel less anxious, less depressed, more optimistic or less burdened by past experiences, it’s an honor for me to be a person you trust to help you through that process.

Are you frustrated with feeling worthless or invisible? Resentful about taking care of others? Need someone to take care of YOU? I specialize in helping women resolve the issues that directly affect them -- body image, feelings, the past, relationships, and children. I believe that the connection we make will help you find solutions that fit for you, become more open and accepting of yourself, and develop a greater capacity for intimacy. You will find a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which you feel validated as you learn to express your emotions and examine your thoughts.

Whether you just need someone to talk to, are going through a rough transition, wanting to make some changes, having trouble in your relationships, or suffering from past abuse, I can help. Through therapy, you can gain insight into your self and overcome obstacles that interfere with your personal growth. Therapy can be a wonderful experience, like no other. If you've been thinking about talking to someone, now might be the right time.

*ONLINE THERAPY AVAILABLE* "My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." ~Maya Angelou As women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?

"There are far better things ahead than those we leave behind." C.S Lewis. If you are ready for your life to be different and you would like some help getting it there I would welcome the opportunity to go through that process with you. In the 14 years I have been in my profession I have worked in a variety of settings with adults, adolescents and children and have enjoyed every part of it equally. Each therapeutic relationship is different. I appreciate and value each dynamic with recognition of the unique opportunities they bring.

Part of "being in the solution" when times are difficult is what you are doing right now: looking for answers and the support to find them. Everyone is challenged by life events. The path to self-awareness and personal growth is not an easy one. I accompany my clients as they discover their potential and deal with the barriers that prevent them from reaching it. My approach is holistic, meaning that I pay attention to all aspects of a person's experience including their physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual well being.

My favorite quote is from The Little Prince, "the eyes are blind. One must look with the heart." Often in the midst of our pain and struggle we react to circumstances with little or no thought. We allow ourselves to be directed by the world instead of identifying what we need and know in our heart. To identify what we need, know what our heart wants, and have a plan to follow is what therapy is all about. We must work through the pain to identify these things; accept that we deserve them, and develop a plan to achieve them.

With over 20 years successful experience in assisting clients in developing and building their long-term skills for coping and problem solving, I believe that my practice can help you find your way to the life goals you desire. My approach to counseling is interactive with my clients, based on the concept that understanding and coming to terms with one's emotions is essential to effective problem solving and personal growth. I strive to provide a comfortable, supportive and non-judgmental environment for clients to effectively deal with life's issues and enrich their lives.

***EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE*** Relationships are complicated, especially the relationships that are most important to us. Many of us feel the need for connection, security, and love. However, sometimes we end up hurt and alone. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression, or grief, among other things. I firmly believe that relationships, empathy, and humor are the most powerful tools for helping clients experience lasting change. My most significant reward as a professional helper is watching my clients go from despair to possibility.

Hello, my name is Dr. Stephen Fortson and I specialize in treating couples, families, and individuals with professional clinical counseling services. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor for 24 years. I am also an associate professor and chair of the Department of Human Services at Wright State University where I oversee the counselor preparation program. If you are in need of personalized couples, family or individual counseling, please contact me.

Since 1997 I have provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults facing a variety of emotional challenges, as well as couples and families experiencing relationship and communication struggles. We are presented with many challenges across our life span, which provide opportunities for insight and personal growth. I am dedicated to helping my clients face life's obstacles with the strength and motivation to master them and move forward becoming more fulfilled and balanced individuals in the process.

Emotional stressors sometimes become overwhelming. If you feel depressed ,sad, scared, angry or stuck individually or in relationship it's time to call. having someone to talk with can be healing, validating and encouraging. I can help you in identifying what is causing the distress . In addition to validating your perceptions I will help you find your personal strength to open new options for wellness. Knowing that you need help is the first step. Making an appointment is the second one. I do not promote religious beliefs though I welcome your spiritual journey. I treat you as a whole person.

Are you ready to experience hopeful-assurance from a confident identity? No matter how discouraged you are or how much you feel beaten down by life, you can overcome. You don’t have to live with insecurity, anxiety, or a constant sense of panic. You can discover who you are and become empowered to pursue your purpose. I provide insight-oriented talk therapy to help you grow in awareness, understanding, and acceptance of who God made you to be. I’ll help you confront emotional wounds and false beliefs that rob you of the joy of living. You can experience peace in the present and hope for the future even when life has been harsh.

I firmly believe that life presents us with opportunities to learn more about ourselves, even during some of our more difficult times. Each of us has the power within ourselves to make positive changes in our lives. I work hard in providing emotional support and tools to my clients to help them cope with whatever life presents to them."

“…maybe it’s about the wonderful things that may happen if you break the ropes that are holding you.” (Mary Oliver) Are you ready to break free of what’s holding you and allow your true self to emerge? I address the whole person - mind, body, spirit – drawing on your strengths and adding to your skills repertoire. With a background in psychology as well as counseling to address issues such as anxiety and depression, I bring my additional training and experience with grief/loss, life transitions, and spirituality – each enhancing the other.

*Currently Not accepting New Clients* I am a skilled clinician/supervisor with more than 20 years of ongoing training/therapeutic experiences. I believe positive change is ALWAYS possible with a mindful, solution-focused, trauma informed and action oriented approach, which will encompass your strengths and values. I will provide you a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where I am confident we can partner together to problem solve, decrease suffering, create positive change, and enhance the quality of your life. I am passionate about SELF care, breaking cycles, creating healthy boundaries, and overall personal well being.