Our Team

Explore our directory of diverse clinical professionals.

Elijah Thompson, LCSW

Elijah Thompson, LCSW

Co-Founder, Director of Operations

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Elijah Thompson, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, specializing in trauma-informed, relational therapy for child, adolescent, and adult clients. A graduate of New York University, Elijah’s professional focus area extends to the intersection of public health, social welfare, and policy. Elijah has extensive leadership and administrative experience guiding colleagues, employees, and stakeholders alike to coordinate the delivery of clinical services in key areas of need, in a variety of settings. Through heightened awareness of social, cultural, and professional dynamics, Elijah seeks to foster a safe and productive environment, nurturing growth through collaboration.

Jennifer Vasquez, PhD, LCSW-S

Jennifer Vasquez, PhD, LCSW-S

Co-Founder, Clinical Director

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Jennifer Vasquez holds a PhD in Social Work, is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor (LCSW-S), NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) Therapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), EMDR Certified Therapist and CIT, ISP Practitioner, International Association of Yoga Therapy (IAYT-C) Certified Yoga Therapist, and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-500) with a specialization in trauma. Dr. Vasquez serves as Chair of the NASW-TX Women’s Rights Committee, is an NASW member, and member of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR), Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute (SETI), US Association of Body Psychotherapists (USABP), and the Texas Society for Clinical Social Work. She brings over 15 years of practice experience in the fields of interpersonal violence, addiction, and healthcare into her work with clients and supervisees, using a relational cultural approach and strengths perspective. Dr. Vasquez is an Assistant Professor at Texas State University School of Social Work, where her research focuses on yoga therapy, trauma, and addiction. View Dr. Vasquez's intro video on our Youtube Channel at https://youtu.be/aZh-D7eVR-s?feature=shared

Chantal Pierre, LMSW

Chantal Pierre, LMSW

Clinical Associate I

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Chantal (she/he/they) is a licensed social worker and contemplative psychotherapist practicing in Texas with considerable experience in crisis intervention, peace and social justice, disability rights, advocacy and working with vulnerable populations. Chantal has won numerous awards for commitment to volunteer service and is a two-time AmeriCorps alumnus, having served with both NCCC (the National Civilian Community Corps) and VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America). As a certified trauma professional they have worked extensively with persons who have experienced physical, emotional and/or sexual trauma. Chantal is trained in multiple modalities of trauma-focused therapy and works to integrate trauma theory, mindfulness, and somatic psychology. Areas of focus include long-term triggers of stress, including traumatic events, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression and other issues related to relationships, and communication. Treatment areas of expertise and training include anger management, boundaries, codependency, forms of abuse (physical, emotional/psychological and sexual), harm reduction, complex trauma and LGTBQIA2S+ issues. Chantal's work is inspired by the tremendous transformation and healing they experienced through meditation, therapy, mind-body approaches and integrative healing practices. In session they take an approach informed by integrating perspectives from neuroscience, trauma research and psychotherapy, as well as meditation and breathwork practices. Chantal is also a music enthusiast, avid meditator, wannabe foodie and outdoor enthusiast. View Chantal's intro video on our Youtube Channel at https://youtu.be/wO9ALM8k-6A?feature=shared

Ali Cooper, LMSW

Ali Cooper, LMSW

Clinical Associate I

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Ali Cooper is a Licensed Master Social Worker. A graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington & Texas State University, Ali works with clients to address a variety of issues including but not limited to trauma and PTSD, secondary trauma in helping professionals, grief, depression, substance use, anxiety, and stress. Ali has an extensive background in providing crisis intervention services and mental health support to youth, adults, and helping professionals. She approaches the therapeutic relationship through a trauma focused lens, often utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution Focused Theory, and mindfulness. Ali is a member of the National Association of Social Workers –Texas Chapter, and has served as an ongoing volunteer for almost 3 years. She has robust experience in leading clinicians and mental health providers; supporting clients, co-workers, and staff alike. In addition to the work she loves to do with her clients, Ali has been involved in initiatives to address access to basic needs for Texans as well as improving gaps in the child welfare system. She continually advocates for access to suicide prevention services and effective self-care practices. View Ali's intro video on our YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/4NTgBqHlb1g?feature=shared

Jasmine Davis

Jasmine Davis

MSW Intern

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Jasmine Davis is a first-year foundation Master of Social Work student at the University of Texas at Arlington and is an intern at Inspired Practice. She is a graduate of Wayland Baptist University where she obtained an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology. She specializes in working with children and families. In addition, she is an advocate for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation of those impacted by the criminal justice system. She has conducted research on parental incarceration and how it affects children’s wellbeing in their adulthood. Her therapeutic approach uses a combination of solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and partners with clients to help them reach their goals and develop their full potential using a client-centered, humanistic approach. Jasmine enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring new restaurants, and going to parks with her fur baby during free time. Jasmine’s experiences and passion for service to others has led her to pursue a career in social work as a therapist. Education: University of Texas at Arlington (Currently Enrolled in MSW Program) Wayland Baptist University (BS in Justice Administration-Law Enforcement, Psychology)

Jessica Butler, LMSW

Jessica Butler, LMSW

Clinical Associate I

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Jessica Butler is a Licensed Master Social Worker practicing in the Houston, Texas area. Born and raised in Rockford, Illinois Jessica moved to Houston Texas in 2015 and graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Houston in 2017. Since beginning her Social Work profession, Jessica has worked with clients to address issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, school issues, parenting, and trauma. Jessica has a background in providing cognitive behavioral, solution focused brief therapy, client centered, and integrative therapy; as well as motivational interviewing with individuals, adolescents, couples, and groups. Jessica’s approach to therapy is one in which she believes the patient is the expert and in the driver’s seat at all times, she is simply the GPS. Working with Jessica, you will feel empowered to make choices that will better your life and also give you a place to ultimately be your authentic self whether you consider yourself to be a Lion or a Lamb.

Aarian Tipton, LMSW

Aarian Tipton, LMSW

Clinical Associate I

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Aarian Tipton is a Licensed Masters Social Worker, currently in supervision to obtain her clinical licensure. She graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology from Georgia Southern University in 2014 and received her Masters in Social Work from Wichita State University in 2019. Aarian specializes in working with adolescents and adults addressing issues such as trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, and life transitions. She utilizes many therapeutic approaches such as: trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, and somatic experiencing. Because there is no one way to help clients reach their goals, oftentimes a combination of approaches is necessary. She believes clients are the experts of their lives and the social worker's purpose is to aid in the healing, growth, and confidence building process. In her 5+ years as a social worker Aarian has worked in the hospital, school, and the nonprofit settings. This has aided in her diverse expertise and ability to work with various demographics. Her style is direct and authentic; and her goal is to create a judgement-free safe space for clients. Aarian provides virtual therapy and looks forward to connecting to jumpstart your healing journey.

Anthony Smith

Anthony Smith

MSW Intern

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Anthony Smith is a second-year advanced Master of Social Work student at the University of Texas. Anthony completed his undergraduate degree at Colorado Christian University where he obtained a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. Additionally, Anthony has served in the United States Air Force for 17 years where he has specialized in treating and working with other Active Duty members and veterans as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Anthony uses an array of therapeutic approaches in conducting trauma-informed and person-centered care to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. Aside from practicing therapy, Anthony enjoys spending time with his family, volunteering, as well as exploring new places and opportunities. Anthony's passion for service and helping others has led him to pursue a career in Social Work.

Fabian Rodriguez

Fabian Rodriguez

MSW Intern

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Fabian Rodriguez is currently a Master of Social Work student at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he is completing his final semester advanced placement internship at Inspired Practice LLC. He also holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. With experience working with adults, adolescents, young children, and refugee populations, Fabian is a dedicated advocate for the Latino and LGBTQ+ communities. In his therapeutic practice, he employs stress and coping techniques, including creative problem-solving, journal writing, and humor therapy, to help clients navigate daily challenges. Outside of his professional endeavors, Fabian enjoys video games, anime, spending time with loved ones, and traveling to visit theme parks. His passion for creating positive change in people's lives has been the driving force behind his journey to becoming a social worker.

Destiny Proulx-Kier

Destiny Proulx-Kier

MSW Intern

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Destiny Proulx-Kier is a first-year foundation Master of Social Work student at the University of Texas at Arlington and chose Inspired Practice as her internship. She graduated from St. John Fisher University with a bachelors of science in Psychology. She specializes in working with children and those with disabilities. Destiny has spent many years working as a Behavior Technician for kids with Autism and as an advocate for children and young adults with disabilities. She has done research on the impact on family systems with a child that has a disability and the impact of play therapy on children and their well-being. . She has conducted research on parental incarceration and how it affects children’s wellbeing in their adulthood. Destiny specializes in play therapy as well as mindfulness. She enjoys focusing her research on the humanistic approach while keeping an open mind and educating herself on different approaches to keep adaptability. Since a young age Destiny has had many different experiences which have developed her love for helping others and passion to help change the world. Her education includes a B.S in psychology at St. John Fisher University (GPA 4.0) and MSW at University of Texas at Arlington.

Rashanda Belin

Rashanda Belin

MSW Intern

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Rashanda Belin is a first-year foundation Master of Social Work student at The University of Texas at Arlington, currently interning at Inspired Practice. Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, she has found her new home in Austin, Texas. Rashanda earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from Fisher College. With a dedication to empowering individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma, Rashanda approaches her work with empathy and a human-centered focus. She is committed to creating an inclusive, safe, judgment-free environment where clients can explore their unique strengths and find healing. Her experience also includes supporting individuals with eating disorders and working with families and children in underserved communities. Outside of her professional life, Rashanda enjoys spending quality time with her husband, two daughters, and their dog. She actively serves in her local church, loves immersing herself in a good book, and enjoys discovering all that Austin has to offer.

Jessica Dixon

Jessica Dixon

Clinical Associate I

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Jessica L. Dixon is a Licensed Master Level Social Worker, currently in supervision to obtain clinical licensure. She graduated with her Bachelors in Social work from the University of Houston Downtown in 2020 and received her Master's in Social Work from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2024. Jessica specializes in working with children and adolescents addressing issues such as trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome. She utilizes many therapeutic approaches such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness. Jessica has previously worked in the medical field, education, and nonprofit settings serving children and families. Jessica's experience has prepared her to have the ability to connect with her clients regardless of their background and needs. Jessica's dedication to supporting our most vulnerable populations and her commitment to seeing children up for success make her the ideal choice to serve your children and adolescents.

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Navigating Wellness with Dr. Jennifer Vasquez

Inspired Practice Clinical Director Dr. Jennifer Vasquez was recently interviewed about navigating wellness.

Travel Anxiety

Summer is here! This is often a time of rest, relaxation, and traveling for many! For those with anxiety, traveling can sometimes add an extra layer of stress.

March is self-harm awareness month

Inspired Practice Therapist Ali Cooper (ali@inspiredpractice.com) shares an article she wrote in recognition of self-harm awareness month.

Inspired Practice Therapist Chantal Pierre featured in Voyage San Antonio magazine

Inspired Practice Contemplative Therapist Chantal Pierre, LMSW featured in Voyage San Antonio magazine

Inspired Voices Podcast #1

Inspired Practice Clinical Director Dr. Jennifer Vasquez, LCSW-S and Operations Director Elijah Thompson, LMSW share their vision for Inspired Practice LLC, a group psychotherapy and yoga therapy practice serving clients across Texas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij8ZZ_gzIzA

Clinical Director Transforming Trauma Podcast interview

Listen to Clinical Director Dr. Jennifer Vasquez interview on the Transforming Trauma podcast.

Clinical Director Go Solo interview

Inspired Practice Clinical Director Dr. Jennifer Vasquez Subkit interview about being an entrepreneur.

Spirituality and Mental Health

According to the Pew Research Religious Landscape Study, upwards of 80% of Americans identify with a religious affiliation (70% Christian, 6%-10% Non-Christian Faiths). With a notable rise in representation observed between 2018-2020, it is apparent this recent increase marks an upward shift in belief amongst the population.

Mental Health and Addiction

According to current metrics, around 31.9 million Americans are active drug users, totaling to about 11.7% of the general population. If you include alcohol and tobacco, this number increases sharply to 165 million or 60.2%.

How to move forward and heal from traumatic events

Today, we are talking about moving forward and healing from traumatic events which have caused grief, pain and emotional disregulation.

Burnout and the workplace

How many of us have found ourselves emotionally warn down and exhausted day after day due to work?

The Psychology of Flow ✨

When you are at your best, physically, emotionally and psychologically, what does that feel like?
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