As a therapist and social psychologist who works primarily with the LGBQT+ community and individuals in non-traditional marriages/relationships, I approach my work with a deep commitment to non-judgment and openness, creating a space where you can freely discuss anything holding you back from living your best life. My therapeutic approach is a blend of Reality Therapy, Carl Rogers' person-centered counseling, Adlerian Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing me to tailor my methods to meet the diverse needs of my clients.
I take Virginia Satir's wisdom to heart: "The most basic human need is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them." This philosophy guides my practice, ensuring I listen with empathy and genuine understanding. By doing so, I strive to offer support that is not only effective but also deeply compassionate. My LGBTQ novel, LOUD MESSY PERFECT was released this summer.
Specialties
Life Transition
Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development describe how people grow and change throughout their lives. Each stage involves a challenge or conflict that must be resolved to develop a healthy personality. For example, babies learn to trust or mistrust their caregivers in infancy while they explore their identity in adolescence. As people age, they face other challenges, like establishing meaningful relationships and reflecting on their lives. Successfully managing these challenges leads to accomplishment and well-being, while failure can result in difficulties later.
LGBTQ+
Vivienne Cass' Gay Identity Module is a framework designed to help understand individuals' stages in recognizing and accepting their sexual orientation. It outlines a process that starts with a person becoming aware of their same-sex attraction and struggling with it, then moving through a phase of accepting and integrating their identity, and finally reaching a stage of positive self-identity and pride in their sexuality. The model emphasizes that this journey is unique for each person and can involve various emotional and social challenges.
Peer Relationships
Social Identity Theory, developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner, explains how people form their self-concept and attitudes based on their membership in social groups. According to this theory, individuals categorize themselves and others into groups, such as race, religion, or profession. This categorization influences how they perceive themselves and interact with others. People tend to favor their group, the ingroup, and view members of other groups, or outgroups, less favorably. This favoritism helps boost self-esteem and fosters a sense of belonging and identity. Social Identity Theory highlights how group membership shapes personal identity and social dynamics.
Additional areas of focus: Attachment issues, Avoidant personality, Communication problems, Control issues, Forgiveness, Gender dysphoria, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Men's issues, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Narcissism, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Polyamory / non-monogamous relationships, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexual dysfunction, Sexuality, Social anxiety and phobia, Workplace issues
GA LPC LPC014977
OR LPC C9770
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Thomas Helton. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Dr. Helton has been a fantastic therapist for me. Such a great listener, very empathetic. He sends such good feedback and prompts for reflection after the session. Overall I feel like he just gets it. Also just approachable and personable, hence puts me at ease and is a joy to talk to. Especially good for any of us LGBTQ+'ers.
Written on Nov 26, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, addictions, lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, sleeping disorders, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
The being able to listen to me helped me out in so many ways. Bringing light to things I didn’t even realize hit me hard. But I am so appreciative of Dr. Helton for the understanding and support on my journey.
Written on Nov 25, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 2 weeks on issues concerning trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, parenting issues, and coping with life changes
I have had two sessions so far and I feel like I connect with Dr. Helton. The style of therapy is conversational and not aggressive. I am very appreciative of Better Help and how easy it is to have access to quality mental health help!
Written on Nov 25, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 3 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, grief, sleeping disorders, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, and adhd
Dr. Helton is an extraordinary therapist. He is very kind and caring. I feel like I've come along ways with his guidance and expertise. I always looking forward to our sessions. Overall, what a spectacular therapist.
Written on Oct 15, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 3 months on issues concerning addictions
thomas helton is an extremely good listener, and relates to even specific situations you’ve encountered. there’s no doubt he has tons of life lessons to explore and navigate into conversation, plus he is a super good dude
Written on Aug 05, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues
Already a much better experience than the therapy sessions I was receiving from my provider. I trust him!
Written on Jul 31, 2025 after therapy with Thomas for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related issues