Dawn Vinson, LPC Associate #91680 Supervised by Jennifer Mariah Tailleur, LPC Supervisor #66631
Hello!
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in school counseling from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. I am currently an LPC Associate, #91680, as well as working toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist through UNT under the supervision of Jennifer Mariah Tailleur, LPC Supervisor #66631.
I have worked with children my entire life, starting in afterschool care as a teenager. Shortly after starting my own family, I was employed as a preschool teacher in Round Rock,Texas, working with 3 and 4 year olds. Then I began substituting in Fort Worth ISD and Birdville ISD at the elementary level when my family moved back to this area. I decided from there to obtain my teaching certificate in early education, Kindergarten through 6th grade. In teaching Kindergarten and 1st Grade for the past ten years, I found my true passion centered around the relationships built with my students and their families. I learned early on the benefits for creating a safe space to allow children to learn and grow at their own pace. Teaching students from different backgrounds gave me valuable experience in the issues younger ones face such as anxiety, ADHD, emotional disorders, as well as many other common challenges associated with this age group, especially from the fallout still occurring due to the Pandemic. In addition, I have consulted with parents often on ways that they can support their children when dealing with these types of struggles.
The challenges facing children and teens today are exceptional, as well as navigating parenting in a world bound with pressures from every area of life. Families, more than ever, struggle to stay steady, stay grounded, and stay consistent, while raising little humans to succeed in our society. As a therapist, former teacher and parent of five myself, I realize all too well what the issues are and how children and families can be supported through counseling. Building relationships through play therapy, narrative therapy, as well as with families is the key to success in my practice.
I have always enjoyed working with children and their families throughout my career. I have found that kids can achieve anything they set out to do when they believe in themselves. It is a complete joy to watch those lights come on! Play Therapy is a great place to facilitate this sense of self-esteem and autonomy even in the youngest of clients. When working with adolescents and teens, I apply the same person-centered principles, while placing priority on building relationships with my clients.
My background includes children of all ages and with over 10 years experience in the education field, I can provide support in many areas of challenge related to academics and behavior support at school such as great deal of knowledge and experience with Special Education, ARD meetings, as well as 504 Accommodations. I bring this knowledge to families and offer support in navigating these areas when communicating with school staff.
Whether it is in the playroom or sitting on a comfy sofa engaging in narrative therapy, I enjoy the connection I get to make with my clients and their families. These relationships are integral to the therapeutic process and positively impact each part of the journey. I look forward to meeting with you and working with your family!
I look forward to bringing my experience and knowledge of children into the playroom to see where this journey takes us!
What Makes Us Different?
- Grounded and honest therapy
- Find your inner peace
- Express yourself in a safe environment
- Thrive in a collaborative environment