Author: John Hawkins Jr., M.S., L.M.H.C., M.C.A.P.

When Something Good Feels Uncomfortable

Posted on September 23, 2026, updated on September 23, 2026 by John Hawkins Jr., M.S., L.M.H.C., M.C.A.P.

Someone tells you that you look great, and before they finish the sentence you are pointing out the stain on your shirt. Your boss praises your work in a meeting, and you bring up the part that went wrong. A friend says she is proud of you, and you change the subject. Most people call… Read More

How To Tell If Your Therapy Is Working

Posted on September 17, 2026, updated on September 17, 2026 by John Hawkins Jr., M.S., L.M.H.C., M.C.A.P.

Some people sit in therapy for years without ever asking whether it is doing anything. Others quit good therapy right before it was about to get somewhere. Both are expensive mistakes, and they are hard to tell apart when you are the one sitting there. Here is how I would sort it out. Start With… Read More

The Part Of You That Doesn’t Know The Past Is Over

Posted on September 11, 2026, updated on September 17, 2026 by John Hawkins Jr., M.S., L.M.H.C., M.C.A.P.

If feeling something all the way through is what heals it, a reasonable question follows. Why can you not simply go home and do that yourself? Because a part of you is working very hard to prevent it, and that part is good at its job. The Ways We Protect Ourselves From Feeling In my… Read More

What An Experiential Therapy Session Actually Looks Like

Posted on August 31, 2026, updated on August 31, 2026 by John Hawkins Jr., M.S., L.M.H.C., M.C.A.P.

Something clients say to me fairly often, usually somewhere in the first month, is a version of this: I have been to therapy before, but it was never like this. I have spent several articles now telling you that talking about your problems will only take you so far, and that lasting change comes through… Read More

Toni Taylor

14:22 21 Dec 25

Bissan is amazing! She has really been a blessing to not only myself but my son as well. She’s so easy to talk to and makes you feel seen. She is truly helping with my self growth.

Mike Taylor

20:19 15 Dec 25

Meeting with Bissan wasn’t my idea to be honest, but I’m extremely glad and grateful to have been shown her by my parents. I’d be lying if I said I think therapy is fake and that this didn’t help. Cause it did and overall i am extremely grateful that I began talking to her, my life flipped in a good way. I began going out more, I grew confidence in stuff and overall just all of the dread I had for awhile kind of just vanished slowly as I kept seeing her. This is the most effective counseling i’ve ever been to, and this isn’t my first. She truly helps.

El Dja

18:35 20 Oct 25

Meeting Dr Bissan was a blessing to my life! And it was so random, I was looking for help but didn’t know where! I found her and I will never regret this day! I would really love to see her every single day till I’m totally healed! She’s good with what she’s doing! She’s perfect! Thank you! Looking forward to see her again!

Amanda Haber

18:48 30 Aug 25

Bissan has been such a gift in my life. From the moment I met her, I felt seen, understood, and truly cared for. She has a way of listening that makes you feel safe to be completely honest, while also gently guiding you toward healing and growth. Her kindness and compassion come through in every session, and she never makes you feel rushed or judged. I’ve gained so much clarity and peace since working with her, and I can honestly say she’s helped me through some of my hardest moments. I’m deeply grateful for her and would recommend her to anyone looking for not just a counselor, but a true source of support.

Brenda Amin

16:04 12 Aug 25

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (And I’d give more if I could!)I cannot say enough good things about this counseling center. From the very first interaction, the team has been incredibly helpful, compassionate, and thoroughly professional. They create a safe, welcoming environment where you truly feel heard and supported.Every session is handled with care, empathy, and expertise, and it's clear that the counselors are deeply committed to helping their clients grow and heal. Whether you're going through a tough time or just need guidance, this is exactly the kind of place you want by your side.Highly recommend to anyone looking for real support from people who genuinely care.Thank you for all that you do!

Hawkins Counseling Center – Therapist