Dakota Thompson

Dakota Thompson

With a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults, Dakota is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. Her passion for helping others began early and has shaped her career in the human services field. Through diverse roles, including nannying, working at a children’s hospital, and contributing to pediatric mental health agencies, Dakota has honed her expertise in addressing the unique needs of young people and their families.

Her approach to counseling is grounded in a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By integrating a range of therapeutic techniques, she fosters personal growth and empowers her clients to improve their overall quality of life. Dakota views the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative partnership, where she serves as both an advocate and guide, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

Education:

Dakota earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, followed by a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Middle Tennessee State University. She is currently a National Certified Counselor, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to professional development and excellence in her field.

Style:

Dakota’s therapeutic style is largely influenced by Trauma Play Therapy and Adlerian Play Therapy, particularly when working with children. She also specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adolescents and adults, integrating additional modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to best serve her clients' needs.

Hobbies:

Outside of her professional work, Dakota values time spent outdoors with her dog, "Honey." Whether she is enjoying a day by the pool, walking through the neighborhood, or reading a book in the park, she finds the sun to be a vital component of her own self-care routine. Dakota also has a creative side, enjoying photography, writing, baking, and gardening. These activities not only bring her joy but also help her maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Specialties:

Dakota works with clients across a wide age range, from children (ages 4+) to adults (ages 65+). Her areas of specialty include trauma, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief, identity development, parenting support, and improving family dynamics. Dakota is particularly passionate about helping clients navigate the complexities of life and fostering positive, lasting change.
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