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David Affolter

Therapist profile

David Affolter

Ohio

Compassionate counselor for life transitions

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  • Men's wellbeing focus
  • Practical goal setting
  • Values-based work

About David

David Affolter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with 27 years helping people work through stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, and men's issues. He began his career after service in the Air Force and many years as a high school teacher and coach. Those roles shaped how he listens and supports people who feel stuck or overwhelmed.

He describes counseling as a partnership that gives new perspectives and practical steps. Sessions focus on understanding how life has caused pain and on discovering ways to move forward. He aims to help people build new habits and new ways of living that match their goals.

His background includes a graduate degree in Community Counseling from The University of Akron earned in 1994, followed by clinical practice in Ohio and Florida. Over nearly three decades he has worked with many concerns including trauma, grief, relationship and intimacy-related issues, parenting challenges, career transitions, and process or sex addictions.

David draws on several approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and client-centered methods. He uses these to offer clear tools, listening, and guidance rather than only theory.

People who choose him can expect straightforward conversation, practical suggestions, and steady encouragement. He often helps clients clarify values, set small goals, and rebuild confidence as they work toward meaningful change.

How his approaches translate to online work

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters to them and take guided action toward those values, even when emotions are difficult. It can be useful for anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replacing them with more effective patterns; it is often used for anxiety, depression, panic, and mood concerns. Client-Centered Therapy centers on listening, empathy, and creating a space where people can explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. He will talk with each person about their goals and preferences, then suggest approaches that fit. The plan can change over time as needs shift, and he emphasizes collaboration and practical steps rather than one fixed method.

If you are considering online sessions, confirm the current session options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins during a workday break, and reduce travel time. It also lets a therapist use exercises, worksheets, and skill-building in ways that match your routine. Ask about session formats when you start so arrangements match your needs and daily life.

Areas of expertise

Also works with

AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional focus areas

AbandonmentCommunication problemsControl issuesEmptinessForgivenessGuilt and shameLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Sex addictionSexual assault and abuseSocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issues

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Motivational InterviewingNarrative TherapySolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused Therapy

Experience

27+ years

Credentials

Florida, Ohio

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does he address?

He works with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, addictions, relationship and intimacy-related issues, grief, parenting, career changes, ADHD, and other listed concerns.

What is his therapeutic style like?

He practices in a collaborative, down-to-earth way that mixes listening with concrete tools. Sessions focus on new perspectives, values, and practical steps toward change.

How long has he practiced?

He has 27 years of experience, including time as a teacher and coach before earning his counseling degree and moving into clinical work.

What credentials and location information are provided?

He holds LMHC and LPCC credentials with practice ties to Ohio and also holds licensure in Florida as noted.

Which languages are available for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can international clients work with him?

He is not accepting international clients at this time.

How does pricing work?

Cost varies by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I get started with sessions?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

David AffolterContinue with David