Friendswood, TX 77546
Virtual & In-Person
Catherina Lawson-Dunlap
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Dance/Movement Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I believe healing happens best when clients feel seen, understood, and empowered — both in words and through the wisdom of the body.
My approach is integrative, person‑centered, and guided by a wrap‑around, trauma‑informed lens. I draw from solution‑focused practices, human development, and behavioral strategies while thoughtfully considering the social, cultural, and family systems that influence each client's experience. A core part of my work includes expressive arts and dance/movement therapy, which can help clients access emotions, build self‑awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I am especially passionate about helping individuals and families recognize patterns, understand the emotions beneath behaviors, and develop healthier ways to communicate and connect. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients can build resilience, strengthen relationships, and move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
My Approach to Therapy
My work is informed by a solution-focused and trauma-informed lens, integrating techniques such as behavioral analysis and modification alongside insights from early childhood and human development. My therapeutic toolkit includes expressive arts and dance/movement therapy, empowering clients to uncover underlying issues and gain deeper self-awareness.
During our first session, I check in on how you're feeling about coming to therapy and review any previous mental health experiences. We'll discuss your primary concerns, review practice policies, therapeutic expectations, and confidentiality — leaving time to go over scheduling so you feel fully prepared and at ease.
Education
Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Expressive Therapies
Specialization in Dance/Movement Therapy · Lesley University · Class of 2018
Bachelor's Degree in Dance
Texas Woman's University · 2010
Licenses & Certifications
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC #82628)
- Registered Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT #2467)
Professional Affiliations
- Member, American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA)
Specialties
- Family Issues & Panic Disorders
- Maternal Mental Health
- Anxiety, Depression & Stress Management
- ADD / ADHD & Developmental Disabilities
- Cultural & Ethnic Issues
- Grief or Loss
- Relationship Issues & Women's Issues
- Trauma & PTSD
- Physical Health Issues
- LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy
- Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention
- Domestic Violence / Relationship Abuse
- Parent/Child Conflict
Therapy Methods
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Strategic Family Therapy
- Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Art Therapy & Expressive Arts
- Dance / Movement Therapy
- Multidimensional Family Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-Focused CBT
Insurance Accepted
- Aetna
- Ascension
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Cigna
- Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey
- Independence Blue Cross
Virtual & in-person sessions available · Serving Houston, Pearland, League City & surrounding areas
Who I Work With
- Children
- Adolescents
- Adults
Catherina is committed to empowering her clients to navigate life's challenges, develop resilience, and cultivate fulfilling relationships through the transformative journey of movement and therapy.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Reach out today — Catherina is here to walk this journey with you.
Schedule a Session