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Owner | Therapist

Todd Garlington, M.S., LPC-Associate, LCDC

Supervised by Courtney Messina MA, LPC-S, LCDC

As a therapist in long-term recovery myself, I know transformation is possible—because I’ve lived it. After overcoming addiction, surviving a near-fatal accident, and rebuilding my life in Parker County, I returned to school at 60 to become the clinician I needed when I was struggling.

Who I Help:

  • First Responders & Veterans (PTSD, moral injury)
  • Teens & Adults (12+) with trauma, addiction, or mood disorders
  • Fellow Helpers (therapists, nurses, caregivers facing burnout)

Why Clients Choose Me:

  • 16 years inpatient hospital experience (10,000+ hours with complex cases)
  • Lived expertise in recovery, trauma, and rural mental health access
  • Research-backed eclectic approach (CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care)

My Therapeutic Approach

My practice is built on a humanistic, collaborative framework that honors your unique strengths and life experiences. Together, we’ll begin by compassionately unpacking the root causes of your challenges in a judgment-free space. From there, we’ll co-create practical, actionable steps tailored to your goals—whether that’s reducing panic attacks at work, healing from past trauma, or improving relationships.

I draw from evidence-based techniques customized to your needs, including:

  • Ego State Work to address trauma and inner conflict
  • Motivational Interviewing to navigate addiction and behavioral change
  • Sports Psychology principles to help athletes overcome mental blocks

Whether you’re a veteran adjusting to civilian life, a parent managing stress, or someone navigating recovery, my approach adapts to your story—not the other way around.

Credentials & Training

My story in mental healthcare began right here in Parker County, where I earned my Associate of Science degree from Weatherford College. This local foundation instilled in me a deep understanding of our community's needs.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (# 95345) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (# 12483) in Texas, supervised by Courtney Messina LPC-S, LCDC. My education continued with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University and a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science with a minor in Addiction Studies from the University of North Texas, complemented by certifications in clinical supervision and specialized training for veterans and first responders, and affiliations with APA, TAAP, NAADAC, and NAMI.

A Little More About Me

Beyond my professional life, I value time with my wife, children, and grandchildren in our Parker County home, where I enjoy simple pleasures like yard work and exploring local spots. My personal journey through addiction and recovery, combined with my clinical expertise, allows me to connect deeply with clients, offering genuine understanding and a belief in the possibility of healing and growth for everyone I serve.

Therapy Associates of Parker County

ready to begin healing?

Book a free consultation today!

Frequently asked questions!

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Many therapists list similar specialties. What's a key difference in how you approach individual therapy?
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If someone is hesitant about starting therapy, what would you say to ease their concerns about working with you?
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What's one thing you often emphasize with individuals in therapy that you've found particularly impactful for lasting change?