Thomas Hunt Psychotherapy

My journey into psychotherapy wasn't a straight path. Prior to becoming a therapist, I immersed myself in the world of entertainment. Acting on stage, in television, and film, as well as behind the scenes in production, were all part of my early career. Those experiences, of course, led to the usual "everyman" jobs - from waiting tables to tending bar - which, in retrospect, gave me invaluable insights into the human experience.

In 2008, my life took a turn, leading me to the recovery industry. I spent two fulfilling years working as an office manager and substance abuse counselor at Frank's House, a residential treatment center in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. This experience solidified my commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of addiction and gave me a deeper understanding of the transformative power of healing. In 2010, I earned my certification as a Drug & Alcohol Counselor from Los Angeles City College's Human Services program, further equipping myself with the knowledge and skills to support those struggling with substance use disorders.

My next chapter unfolded at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, where I served in various capacities - volunteer, intern, and employee - under the Center's Mental Health Services department. This seven-year journey was deeply enriching. As the Outreach Specialist for the Center's Addiction Recovery Services, I engaged in outreach efforts across LA County and on social media. I had the privilege of working with individual and group clients as an addictions counselor and co-facilitating weekly addiction education and relapse prevention groups for the Center's Intensive Outpatient Program. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was leading harm reduction groups for the Centor's youth annex, The Youth Center On Highland, providing support and guidance to homeless LGBTQ youth. My time at the Center culminated in my role as an MFT trainee, where I completed my clinical internship in 2016.

Empowered by my experiences and training, I opened my private practice in May 2019. My commitment to serving diverse communities led me to work at CAST Centers in West Hollywood from 2020 to 2021 during the peak of the pandemic and to join the Antioch University Counseling Center's School-Based Program, where I provided support to high school-aged teens. I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles in 2016 and in May 2022, fulfilled my dream of becoming a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

My Approach to Therapy

Recognizing that individuals often find themselves entrenched in patterns that no longer serve them, I strive to create a space where we can explore those patterns collaboratively. Whether the patterns are related to relationships, careers, or internal narratives, I aim to empower individuals to identify them and, through our work together, shift towards healthier and more fulfilling ways of relating to themselves and the world around them.

My therapeutic approach draws from a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, narrative, family systems, and attachment theories. I believe understanding unconscious processes, formative events, and early attachments is crucial to unlocking personal growth. I also recognize the profound impact of societal norms and expectations, particularly for individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.

I acknowledge that growing up queer within a largely heteronormative society presents unique challenges and often shapes our current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to create a safe and affirming space that respects and validates your experiences.

A key aspect of my work is helping individuals rewrite their self-stories. Often, we cling to negative narratives about ourselves, even if they are no longer serving us. Together, we can challenge these limiting beliefs and cultivate a more compassionate and empowering inner dialogue.

Rather than providing quick fixes or directives, my approach emphasizes collaboration and exploration. We will work together to uncover patterns, identify obstacles, and develop strategies for creating positive and lasting change. My role is to guide you, provide support, and empower you to find the answers that feel right for you.

Services Offered

I offer a comprehensive range of services to individuals and couples, with a particular focus on the following:

• Gay Men's Issues: I specialize in working with gay men, addressing a variety of concerns such as substance abuse and addiction, HIV/AIDS, sexuality and relationships, and the unique challenges of aging within the LGBTQ community.
• LGBTQ Issues: I provide a safe and affirming space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore issues related to coming out, navigating homophobia, and finding empowerment within a heteronormative culture.
• Addiction and Recovery: I offer support across the spectrum of addiction and recovery, from contemplation to harm reduction and abstinence-based models.
• Gender Identity and Expression: I work with individuals exploring or affirming their gender identity and expression, including non-binary and intersex identities. I am dedicated to helping people live authentically and confidently.
• Mental Health Support: I address a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other diagnoses.
• Life Transitions and Stress Management: I provide support during life transitions, such as job changes, relationship shifts, or grief and loss. I also offer guidance and tools for managing stress, anger, and other emotional challenges.

• Relationship Counseling:

I work with couples to improve communication, resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, and strengthen their bond.