Jess Cotton

"Only when we have returned afresh to our suffering and know it in our bones will it ever promise to leave us alone." - Alain de Botton

I concentrate in working with adults who are experiencing distress from past traumatic experiences, compulsive behaviors, intrusive thoughts, or obsessive/looping thought patterns. I also often work with clients navigating dating, healing from church hurt or abuse, the pre-marital season, perfectionism, concerns with sexual performance and pleasure, and those good ole' stressful life transitions.

I believe that many of our day-to-day discomforts and views on life stem from early childhood experiences that shape our understanding of self. In therapy, we can bravely explore these difficult memories and emotions together as we uncover the natural tools your brain has to help you grow, empower you to redefine and rewrite hard experiences, and ultimately, guide you to newfound purpose and refreshed hope. You are not defined by your past, and there is freedom. You are strong enough to embrace the discomfort that facing these things can bring, and you won't be doing it alone. 

My approach to psychotherapy is collaborative. I aim to create a space that holds both care and challenge as we will work together for you to experience the change you want to see. I draw from a variety of clinical approaches, theories, and techniques including: Adlerian, inner-child work, IFS, ERP (exposure therapy), ACT, attachment styles, motivational interviewing, as well as identity defining and exploration. I’m trained in incorporating somatic techniques, expressive-arts techniques, as well as sex therapy techniques. As a Christian, I also offer incorporation of spiritual disciplines and Biblical integration throughout your therapeutic journey if desired.

For fun outside of work, I enjoy creating new things through painting and cooking. It's not rare to find me sitting outside channeling my inner gecko, soaking in the sun for sensory seeking. I've been known to frequent a two-stepping dance hall with my husband. We also enjoy reading, visiting the mountains and being in God’s creation, playing chess, and exploring new restaurants together. 

Jess has her Master's degree from SMU and is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Mental Health Service Provider (temp) under the supervision of Sarah Bearss, LPC-MHSP.