David Affolter , LMHC, LPCC

David Affolter combines a lifetime of service and teaching with decades of clinical experience to support people through major life changes. After serving in the Air Force, he pursued a path that felt meaningful and became a high school teacher and coach for nearly twenty years, where he discovered a deep satisfaction in helping young people overcome obstacles and grow. Students often sought him out for a listening ear and guidance, and those early years shaped his approach to working with adults later in life.

When his own children reached adulthood, he transitioned into counseling, earning a graduate degree in Community Counseling from The University of Akron in 1994. He holds professional licenses as an LPCC in Ohio and an LMHC in Florida - LPCC stands for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and LMHC stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor - and has accumulated 27 years of clinical experience helping people navigate stress, trauma, relationship struggles, addictions, career shifts, grief, and questions of identity and purpose.

David emphasizes practical information and new perspectives to help people decide where they want to go and how to get there. He has witnessed many clients move from feeling stuck or wounded to building new ways of living that align with their values and goals. Based in Ohio, he offers a collaborative, compassionate approach aimed at helping individuals find renewed meaning, improved relationships, and clearer direction for the next chapter of life.

Therapeutic approaches for online healing and growth

David Affolter draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people address persistent thoughts, painful emotions, and behaviors that interfere with meaningful living. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) emphasizes clarifying personal values and taking committed action toward them while learning to accept difficult internal experiences - it often helps with stress, depression, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, which can reduce symptoms of anxiety, panic, and mood disorders and support problem solving.

Finding the right approach is part of the work itself. David takes a collaborative stance, exploring a client’s needs, goals, and preferences and tailoring techniques from these therapies so they fit the individual. He partners with clients to test what helps and adjust direction over time.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility - clients can connect by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging depending on what works best for their schedule and comfort. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care around work, family, and other commitments while working with licensed professionals toward clearer goals and improved daily functioning.