Claudia Burns

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology (1971) and a master’s degree in Psychology (2005). I went back to school after many years during which I raised three sons and worked mostly at Baylor College of Medicine in the departments of Surgery and later Psychiatry. I attended school while working fulltime for three years to complete my master’s and had great support and encouragement from the Psychiatry department. During my practicum, I worked in the psychiatric ward of a county hospital which was an eye opening experience! We also worked with people in the Astrodome after Hurricane Katrina. During my internship, I worked with clients with eating disorders and gained an understanding of the great difficulties that they face.
For 15 years, I worked in neuropsychological testing which involved a thorough evaluation of the mental, cognitive, and emotional condition of the client. I spent most of a day with a client and developed insight into their emotional problems which included PTSD, depression, and anxiety due to a traumatic injury or experience and the necessity of adjusting to life changing events such as accidents or illnesses. I have also worked with clients who were attempting to get disability benefits for chronic illnesses and with clients with disabilities who were trying to return to work.
I have learned to meet diverse clients where they are, and I always find ways to connect and feel empathy for them in their struggles. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is integral to the success of any counseling experience. Humor is good too!
I have also experienced counseling myself, and I led an online Panic Disorder Support Group on AOL for six years before I went back to school. My treatment approach is focused on emotional support, education, helping you gain insight into yourself and others, and giving you the tools to help yourself. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic principles as well as other appropriate methods in order to help you meet your therapeutic goals. I am ready to help you with whatever you are experiencing and look forward to talking to you!