This week on the blog…

This week we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Hawkins, LPC. Kelly is a valued member of our team who specializes in helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma processing. We’re so thankful for the work Kelly does with her clients! If you’re interested in booking with Kelly, click the button at the bottom of her interview. 

Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?

I attended Texas A&M University and got a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a minor in Psychology. After A&M, I attended Dallas Theological Seminary and got a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling; I am from College Station, TX.

What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?

I am most passionate about working with people with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I love this Eleanor Roosevelt quote “It is not fair to ask of others what you are not willing to do yourself.” I have seen the benefit of counseling firsthand in my own life, as well as my clients. It is one of my greatest honors to be able to walk with people through all of life’s highs and lows.

If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?

I already have another job that I love! I am a mom to my two babies (ages 3 and 1).

What do you feel the biggest struggle facing your clients is?

The world feels heavy these days. You don’t have to look far or hard to see or hear of all of the brokenness and pain - in our city, our country, and our world. Technology and social media gives us access to so much, but also overwhelms our brain and gives ammunition for toxic and negative thoughts. Many people are still feeling the effects of COVID. “We don’t have to do it all alone. We were never meant to”. -Brene Brown

Who in your life do you most look up to? Why?

My parents. They both have been through traumatic experiences - my dad was a widower at age 43 and my mother went through a hard divorce. They both struggled in the midst of their grief, but I am a product of their healing. In the midst of suffering and darkness, sometimes we need to be reminded there is light and hope coming.

What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?

No one thinks of you as much as you think of you. 

What would you say to someone who is considering starting therapy, but doesn’t know if it’s worth the time or money?

We all want to find value in what we prioritize with our time and money. Therapy is an investment —  an investment in yourself! The effects of therapy can be felt/seen by  everyone around you, even generations. One of the greatest indicators of success in counseling is the connection you have with your therapist, so use the free phone consultation and find the right fit for you!

Are you a dog person or a cat person? 

Dog! I have two black labs and would love to get a therapy dog someday!

Do pineapples belong on pizza? 

Absolutely!

What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall? 

Bin 303!

What do you like to do in your free time?

Read a good book, watch a show, and hang out with my family.

What’s your favorite time of year?

Fall

Tell us a little about your family.

I have been married to my husband Cody for almost 10 years. We currently have two children - one girl and one boy!

What is your favorite place to visit? 

We lived in Virginia for 3 years and we love to go back to visit every year. Bonus points if it is Fall right after the leaves change!

If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why? 

This is so random, but I am currently obsessed with King Henry VIII, so probably Anne Boleyn! 

Are you more introverted, extroverted, or a mixture of both? 

I’ve been told that I am an outgoing introvert.