Welcome
I'm glad you are here.
Darla Barnes, Ed.D., LPC Associate, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (Texas) Supervised by Portia Gordon, Ph.D., LPC-S, RPT-S, ICST
Â
I didn't become a therapist because I have all the answers. I became one because I believe no one should have to face life's hardest seasons I've spent my career walking beside people during some of life's most difficult seasons.
Â
After more than 20 years serving students, families, and individuals through education and counseling, I've learned something simple:
Healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and accepted.
Â
My goal is to provide a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, breathe, and begin creating meaningful change.
Why I Became a Counselor
Throughout my career as an educator and leader, I had the privilege of helping people navigate academic, personal, and life challenges. Over time, I realized my greatest passion wasn't solving problems—it was helping people discover their own strength and resilience. Becoming a counselor allowed me to continue that work in a more personal and meaningful way.



What Working Together Looks Like
A Safe Place to Begin-You'll be met with warmth, understanding, and respect from the very first session.
​
Therapy at Your Pace-We'll move at a pace that feels right for you. Healing isn't rushed.
​
Evidence-Based Care-Together we'll use proven approaches that fit your goals, personality, and life.
Discover a gentle partnership focused on helping you rediscover your strength. Within this calm space, we navigate your transition together, ensuring every step feels safe and manageable.

Evidence-Based. Compassion-Focused.
I believe therapy should be both grounded in research and deeply human.
Together we'll use approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Therapy to help you understand patterns, develop practical coping skills, and move toward the life you want.
Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique goals because no two people—and no two healing journeys—are exactly alike.
​
When you're ready, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.
Practice Details & Care Approach
I am dedicated to providing a welcoming, inclusive space for healing and growth. Here is a brief overview of how I work and who I serve.
- Flexible virtual appointments designed to fit your schedule.
- Virtual appointments available throughout TexasEvidence-based care tailored to you
- Proudly LGBTQ+ affirming
- Supporting individual adults, teens, and couples
Ready to Take the First Step?
You don't have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply feeling overwhelmed, I'm here to help. Schedule your free consultation today.