Dean Altenhofen, LPC

Dean Altenhofen is an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) based in Louisiana with 20 years of clinical experience. He focuses on relationship concerns, depression, coping with life changes, trauma and abuse, and LGBT issues. He aims to create a calm, respectful space where people can talk through what matters most to them.

He approaches therapy believing each person knows their story best. He listens for strengths and patterns and helps people try small, practical steps that may lead to change. Sessions are straightforward and goal-oriented, with attention to thinking patterns, present-moment awareness, and workable solutions.

Many people come for help after a breakup, an episode of infidelity, or when commitment and communication problems feel overwhelming. He also works with issues like abandonment, family of origin concerns, blended family transitions, and the emotional impact of chronic illness or pain. Substance use and co-occurring problems are addressed with direct, problem-solving focus.

His work draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help people notice unhelpful thoughts, build coping skills, and test small changes between sessions. Sessions emphasize clear goals and practical tools rather than long theoretical discussions.

Dean invites prospective clients to consider what they want to change and what feels possible right now. He offers steady, respectful support as people experiment with new ways of relating and managing strong emotions.

How CBT, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Work Online

Dean uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice unhelpful thinking and test new ways of responding. CBT often focuses on practical exercises and homework that can be reviewed during sessions to track progress.

Mindfulness Therapy in his practice teaches ways to pay attention to the present moment and to observe feelings without immediate reaction. This approach can reduce rumination and help people respond more calmly in stressful situations.

Solution-Focused Therapy centers on small, achievable steps toward clear goals. It asks what is already working and builds on those strengths to create forward motion rather than rehashing problems endlessly.

Finding the right approach is a team effort. He will work collaboratively to match methods to a person’s needs, goals, and preferences, and adjust plans as progress unfolds.

Confirm the available session formats before booking, as specific online options are not listed here. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into busy days, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and remove travel time so sessions can fit into lunch breaks or evenings. Talk with the therapist about what will best fit your schedule and day-to-day life.