About Me
A Glimpse into My Journey
Hello, I'm Dr. Stokes, the founder and director of Lifeway Counseling Center. Allow me to share more about who I am and the dedication I bring to the counseling process. In the field of counseling and marriage & family therapy, I bring a wealth of experience and credentials to Lifeway Counseling Center. My goal is to provide a supportive and enriching environment for individuals and couples seeking positive change.
Academic Background
I hold a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Tech University, along with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and a B.S. in Human Development Family Studies from Texas Tech University. My academic journey has prepared me to guide individuals and families toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Licenses and Certifications
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Additionally, I am honored to be a Board Approved Supervisor for both licenses. My commitment to fostering healthy relationships extends to being trained in the PREP (Preventative and Relationship Enhancement Program) model. I am an active member of the Christian Counselors of Texas, The Texas Counseling Association and The Texas Association for Marriage & Family Therapists. I am also a Certified Financial Wellness Coach.
Research and Publications
I've had the privilege of publishing in reputable journals such as the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, the Journal of Divorce and Remarriage, and Contemporary Family Therapy: An International Journal. Additionally, I co-authored two book chapters with my wife, Dr. Marilyn Massey-Stokes.
Board and Administrative Roles
From 2011 to 2018, I proudly served on the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists. During my tenure, I chaired the Rules Committee, contributed to the Ethics Committee, and held the position of Vice-Chair of the Board. Before relocating to the Metroplex, I served as the Administrator of a 28-bed in-patient drug and alcohol treatment facility in West Texas.
Personal Touch
Beyond my professional background, while I will always be a Red Raider at heart, I am a passionate supporter of the Boise State Broncos - "Go Broncos!" If you're curious about my sports allegiance, feel free to ask – just be ready for a detailed response! Outside of work, you'll often find me with a backpack, exploring and hiking in the great outdoors.