Gary Gabbard

(Licensed, Professional, Counselor, Supervisor)

About Me

I finished my Master in Counseling degree in 1997. I opened my own practice, Passionately Ever after Counseling, in 1999 in Collin County, Texas. As I grew my practice I did contract work with major outplacement firms, an alcohol treatment center and a methadone clinic. In my private practice, I have worked with individual adults, couples and teenagers and/or their families. In addition, I have supervised many counseling interns.

Through my own individual counseling and training, I have mastered the art of helping clients identify, respect and honor their free child, viewed as the soul and essence of who they really are. Allowing that "spirit" or "energy" to inspire their life and choices will transform their life into an exciting and passionate adventure. It is this "free spirit" in me that led to the genesis of Passionately Ever After Counseling.

Specialties

  • Stress, Anxiety
  • Relationship issues
  • Self esteem
  • Career difficulties
  • Depression
Also experienced in:
Addictions , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , Coaching , Blended Family Issues , Codependency , Dissociation , Read more...

Clinical approaches:
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

Years of Experience: 21

Services Offered


  • Messaging

  • Live Chat

  • Phone

  • Video

Licensing

LPC #15189 (Expires: 2022-12-31)

Reviews

Written by A.L. on Jul 21, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 11 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, self esteem, anger management, and coping with life changes

Gary is great! It’s been a year and I feel like our sessions have helped me a lot with my mental health.

Written by C.H. on Jul 13, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 4 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, grief, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue

I'm still early in the process working with Gary Gabbard, LPC-S, but I find him to be really empathetic and supportive. I can easily envision continuing to see Gary long term. He's a great choice, and I highly recommend him.

Written by U.G. on Jul 13, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 months on issues concerning depression, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue

Gary is attentive and invested. So happy to have found him.

Written by J.O. on Jun 28, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and career difficulties

Gary is beyond professional. He tries to understand every facet of you. I highly recommend it. I like that he leaves you with a lot to interpret.

Written by R.U. on Jun 28, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, and coaching

He listens to me and offer constructive feedback and celebrates the small wins with me also offers advise in how to better do things

Written by E.M. on Jun 23, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, and self esteem

I’ve only had 3 sessions with Gary but my quality of life is already so much better. I still have a very long way to go but I feel hopeful for the first time in a very long time and it is primarily because of the tools Gary has given me in our sessions. I was very nervous about going into therapy, but Gary was wonderful and attentive to my reservations and created a space in which I felt safe, seen, and cared for. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone!!!

Written by J.A. on Jun 02, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, and bipolar disorder

Gary was great. Helped me see things as they really are. Helped me make clear decisions.

Written by B.R. on May 15, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, and coaching

Gary seemed immediately on my side from session one. Comes off as responsible and extremely positive. It is obvious you are you talking someone who wants to help with Gary.

Written by M.I. on May 10, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks

He is very understanding and wise

Written by K.E. on May 06, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 4 months on issues concerning depression, grief, self esteem, anger management, and compassion fatigue

Mr. Gabbard has helped me in so many ways. Even if the session is just me talking to get things off my chest. It is nice to have his help in my tough times.

Written by C.A. on Apr 29, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and coping with life changes

I have only had one session with Gary so far, but I honestly feel like we connected and he was very interactive in the session, which I really appreciate. I felt like he really listened and didn’t judge me. I have told my entire family about my first session with him, and I would honestly recommend him to anyone!

Written by R.O. on Apr 25, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, and family conflicts

Understanding

Written by D.A. on Apr 24, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks

My counselor Gary Gabbard is a great counselor it's nice being able to talk to somebody that I can relate to on different levels. getting advice from somebody that is a little bit older than myself and has experience in marriage is extremely helpful and in just a short amount of time has given me tools to aid me in bettering myself thank you better help

Written by M.A. on Apr 17, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks

I have been through several therapists but nobody compares to Gary. He lets you come to him bout things and respectful backs off if your not ready to talk bout something. Honestly, he is so gentle and easy to talk to. I recommend him by far to anyone. He has helped already in just 1 month and my family and friends notice as well. I am alot happier and have moved past traumatic experiences that I never thought I would have the pleasure of no longer affect my life so negatively.
Thank you Gary!!

Written by J.E. on Apr 13, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and coping with life changes

Dr. Gabbard has been helping me so much. I appreciate all his guidance and support.

Written by J.U. on Apr 09, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and anger management

I feel like I can be truthful with him and trust what he tells me. He provides great resources and insight

Written by W.I. on Apr 05, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 4 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, family conflicts, and grief

Dr. Gary Gabbard is a wonderful, thoughtful person who listens and understands other people’s problems or concerns. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend him as the primary doctor for people who need BetterHelp.

Written by J.A. on Mar 19, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 9 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, and compassion fatigue

Gary is wonderful!! He never blows me off and respects me. He is not pushy, but rather encouraging. He is loving and kind and caring and always open to sharing God and the scriptures. My world is upside down and I cant imagine facing this without Gary's support and prayers.

Written by J.I. on Mar 18, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues

Gary's support and words of encouragement are perfect. Thank you! jim, in texas

Written by S.T. on Mar 08, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 5 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, career difficulties, and coaching

Gary has been a huge help for me this year. I have had many changes in my personal life goals and professional life goals. Gary listens to me and provides great suggestions on how to move forward and what things I can do naturally to keep my stress levels down.

Written by J.E. on Mar 03, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, and anger management

I have been working with Gary for about 5 months and am so thankful for where I am today. Gary has been supportive, consistent, and empowering. Looking forward to continuing my work with him to achieve my goals.

Written by T.H. on Feb 23, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 8 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, and coping with life changes

He’s helped me a lot by listening to me and actually making me open up.

Written by R.H. on Feb 21, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 3 months

Gary is very concerned about my well being. And always listens to what I have to say

Written by T.R. on Jan 30, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, and self esteem

Gary is an easy person in which to confide. I trust in his council. Thanks Gary!

Written by P.E. on Jan 19, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 1 month on issues concerning relationship issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, bipolar disorder, and adhd

Very good and clear explaination

Written by M.A. on Jan 09, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and career difficulties

I have enjoyed speaking with Gary. He got me right away and was very supportive and encouraging. Excited to continue to work with Gary.

Written by Y.E. on Jan 02, 2021 after counseling with Gary for 4 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, eating disorders, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue

Gary has always been a great listener. He’s helped me understand myself better as I walked into the path of self discovery. He listens, he asks the right questions and he has an amazing sense of humor. Thank you!!!

Written by T.E. on Dec 31, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, grief, sleeping disorders, coping with life changes, and adhd

Mr. Gabbard was very helpful, kind , flexible and patient! I was hesitant to use the online service, but after much research i gave it a chance. i am so happy to have this support and outlet during this stressful year. i am looking forward to our sessions and my personal progress.

Written by K.E. on Dec 26, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, and anger management

Gary is wonderful

Written by B.R. on Nov 22, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning sleeping disorders

Gary is professional and insightful. Would recommend him.

Written by E.M. on Nov 03, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, and self esteem

Gary has been so helpful. He keeps you accountable but used the wisdom of God to help guide you in the right path. Does not judge you by your last mistakes.

Written by A.Z. on Oct 28, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and grief

Great guy. Could not have asked for a better guy.

Written by A.L. on Oct 23, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, and coaching

I like that he is very straightforward in his responses and help

Written by C.A. on Oct 21, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and adhd

I feel like I’m in really good hands with Gary. He listens intently and questions me in a way that is helping me grow and face my problems with positivity. I’m grateful to have found him.

Written by B.E. on Oct 14, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, eating disorders, coaching, and compassion fatigue

Gary was such a great match for me right from the start. He listened, asked the right questions, and zeroed in on both my needs and how to communicate with me. Every week he brings fresh perspective and new insights which have helped me tremendously.

Written by J.O. on Oct 04, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, anger management, bipolar disorder, and adhd

Gary is awesome and understanding. He lets you be the raw, unfiltered you. He takes you as you are and supports you, and walks you through what your issues are and helps you find the core of why you feel a certain way.

Written by E.L. on Sep 30, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and relationship issues

It's like talking to a friend, who you know isn't gonna judge you, who supports you, who is knowledgeable about mental health and will jump in when you express self-doubt. I look forward to my sessions, they always make me feel a sense of relief afterwards, like despite everything things will turn out ok.

Written by J.O. on Sep 28, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 months on issues concerning relationship issues

Gary has been an excellent counselor and has shown me tools I can use to deal with various challenges. He truly cares about the people he is counseling and has reminded me that I have self worth. Also, as a Christian, he has shown me Biblical principles that apply to my situation. This is my first time doing virtual counseling and it has been a wonderful experience!

Written by B.E. on Sep 28, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning addictions, relationship issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes

Gary is smart and helpful. I really enjoy our time together and feel better afterwards. He helps me see things differently and offers other views I hadn’t considered thereby increasing my ability to cope instead of staying in my stuck thinking. It’s refreshing and helpful.

Written by R.U. on Sep 15, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, coaching, and ad

Gary has be patient and kind throughout this process. He’s given me space to do what I needed to do to feel comfortable in the space and has also pointed things out along the way, causing me to reflect and dig deeper.
I appreciate his comfortable and supportive approach. I also have really appreciated the diverse therapeutic tools that have been used and/or suggested to help me reach my goals.

Written by S.H. on Aug 11, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, compassion fatigue

Mr. Gabbard is helping me and that is all that matters—giving me new perspectives and tools to help me understand and navigate my issues. I’ve only had a few sessions with him, so I need more time; but I am pleased and grateful for his services.

Written by M.A. on Jul 29, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and adhd

Has good insight, and is a good listener

Written by B.R. on Jul 28, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, self esteem, and coaching

Gary is supportive and understanding, no judgement.

Written by T.E. on Jul 21, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, and anger management

So far ive only had a few sessions with Gary but i feel like he sees the bigger picture of what we discuss. Hes already given me a few things that help alot and im excited to see what future sessions hold. I'm just all around greatful that he takes the moment and digs a little deeper. It helps to have someone listen and actually give thoughtful responses. Very respectful and non judgemental. He's appreciated.

Written by J.O. on Jul 17, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks

A very good counselor and he has a lot of insight in the discussionS we have 1 to 10 scale this counselor is definitely a 10 thank you

Written by R.Y. on Jul 15, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, and trauma and abuse

Gary is a wonderdul counselor. He listens well, asks thought-provoking questions, and offers great tools and helpful exercises. He is compassionate, realistic, and encouraging. I recommended his services.

Written by A.L. on Jul 13, 2020 after counseling with Gary for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, anger management, and coping with life changes

I was not sure how much I would get out of counseling online but I have actually gotten more understanding and coping mechanisms from my online counseling that I have from counseling face-to-face. Being able to essentially text your counselor and what I would call “the sky is falling moments “ is really amazing. I texted Gary one time at like four in the morning, I had been up all night crying from some events and he got back to me at like 5:30 in the morning And made room for me in boomed morning that same day. I know that I have Had a series of traumatic events happened all within a few months span and I anticipate I will benefit greatly from some long-term counseling. Gary is Incredibly insightful and compassionate and understanding I look forward to my future self growth with his help.