About THE ENCOURAGEMENT CENTER
The Encouragement Center at Burning Bush Worship Center is committed to offering compassionate support and guidance to individuals, couples, and organizations facing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, anger, substance recovery, and relationship difficulties. With our holistic approach, rooted in empathy and understanding, we empower individuals to begin their journey towards healing, resilience, and personal growth. Our goal is to foster a supportive community where everyone feels recognized, validated, and equipped to pursue emotional well-being and fulfillment.
We listen, act, and transform.
What should clients know?
Even the encourager needs encouragement sometimes. All of our psychotherapists, counselors, coaches, and consultants are Expert People Developer (EPD) credentialed. The Encouragement Counseling Center’s origins can be traced to Michael T. Hester. Michael is the founder and our current clinical director. He is a United States Army and Georgia National Guard veteran; a servant-leader with over 35 years of experience in the helping field. As a graduate of the Adler-Dreikurs Institute, Bowie State University, Washington Bible College, Prince George’s Community College, and the Academy of Health Sciences, he earned numerous professional validating credentials. In addition to being a psychotherapist, Michael is a nurse, educator, and disabled military veteran. Michael completed the Air Assault School at the home of the 101st Airborne Division. He served honorably during peacetime and periods of war while assigned to the 86th Evacuation Hospital, Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
What's your approach to therapy and coaching?
Our team is energetic, interactive, and solution-focused. We support and encourage you during your personal growth journey with compassion and understanding. Although we specialize in Adlerian therapeutic techniques, complementary methodologies are integrated to offer a highly personalized and holistic approach to therapy.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions?
We will help you explore the following six domains.
History
Environment
Social
Theology
Economics
Relationships
You will learn how they may have shaped and potentially influenced your personal choices and perspectives; with kindness and truth, you will receive practical feedback that addresses your presenting concerns.
Focus Areas
Our team’s primary area of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress, and anger management; occupation and workplace issues, adjustment and alcohol and substance abuse disorders; military lifestyle challenges, and family concerns.
Michael T. Hester, LPC, LCDC, LVN, NCC, CCS, SAPR VA, D-SAACP Level I