Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Forney, TX

I have over twenty years of experience supporting individuals through life's challenges. I earned my Bachelors and Masters degrees in Psychology, Biology, and Counseling at Texas Southern University. I have worked across multiple platforms to include disability and mental health services, social work, case management, crisis intervention, parent advocacy, and oversight of residential treatment facilities. I provide compassionate, strengths-based counseling tailored to fit each client's unique needs. It is my belief that circumstances do not determine your destination. I am committed to helping individuals build resilience, healing, and lasting change.

You’re a sensitive, empathic, and motivated woman. Lately, you feel lost and numb, and wonder if you will ever feel better. You thought you were ok, but past experiences have reappeared. Anxiety and sadness have crept in. No one can tell because you hold it all together. Faking a smile, scrolling, avoiding, or withdrawing isn’t helping anymore. You’re exhausted, and you’ve shut down. You want to feel confident, less shame and self-doubt, and no longer feel the past is in control.

I’m Derrick Martinez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping men, teen boys, and couples build stronger connections, confidence, and clarity in their lives. I know how difficult it can feel to carry the weight of expectations, whether it’s navigating identity, balancing relationships, or facing challenges with communication and intimacy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself and explore what matters most.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, where I specialized in integrated mental health and substance use. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked in schools, universities, community mental health agencies, and federally qualified health centers, supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults from diverse backgrounds.

I specialize in helping men and teen boys develop emotional insight, self-esteem, and purpose, and I work closely with couples to strengthen intimacy, improve communication, and rebuild trust. Currently, I am advancing my training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy to deepen my work with relationships.

I’m passionate about helping people who often feel misunderstood or overlooked — especially those navigating substance use and mental health challenges. Over the years, I’ve seen how stigma can prevent people from seeking help, and I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients can feel comfortable being themselves.