26 Years of Faith, Healing, and Hope: A Conversation with David, Founder of the Family Counseling Center of Middle Tennessee
For over 26 years, the Family Counseling Center of Middle Tennessee has been a beacon of hope, healing, and restoration for individuals, couples, and families across our community. Guided by Christian faith and professional counseling expertise, the center was born from a vision to serve those in need with compassion, dignity, and Christ-centered care.
In this first-ever blog post, we sit down with David, the founder and executive director, to hear the story behind the center—how it began, the challenges he faced, the milestones along the way, and the vision that continues to guide it today.
Early Calling & Education
Q: How did your journey in Christian counseling begin?
David: I began at Samford College, studying music ministry with a minor in psychology. I always wanted to do something to help people. In my first church placement, the preacher quit. The new pastor focused solely on preaching, so no one was really pastoring. I stepped into the role and realized I loved it.
“God was blessing in a lot of ways, bringing people to me… I found that He was working through me to help others.”
That experience inspired me to further my education at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, focusing on adult education and counseling. At the time, Christian counseling was still in its infancy, and I wanted to be part of developing it.
Growing up as an only child, adopted by wonderful parents, I was instilled with a love for ministry and serving others. My dad was deeply involved in helping the community, and from a young age, I saw how much you gain when you give of yourself to help others. That philosophy has guided me throughout my career and continues to guide the Family Counseling Center today.
Founding the Family Counseling Center
Q: What led you to create the Family Counseling Center?
David: After graduating, I was contacted by First Baptist Church in Manchester, Tennessee, to work with the music program and develop a counseling program. Balancing the two was a challenge—some days I worked 12 to 15 hours—but God blessed the work, and people began seeking help. Later, I was asked to help develop a counseling ministry at First United Methodist Church, which grew beyond my expectations.
However, in 1999, the program was discontinued, and I suddenly found myself without that safety net. I had been hesitant to start a standalone ministry, but God provided. Out of the blue, I received a check for $1,167.51—the leftover from my mother’s prepaid burial expenses—which became the seed funding for the Family Counseling Center. From that moment, a vision became reality.
We started small: just me, a secretary who was an answering machine, and my wife helping with bookkeeping. Yet, even in those humble beginnings, God brought people together who believed in the mission. Within six months, we needed additional staff and office space, and the ministry continued to grow.
Growth & Milestones
Q: How did the center grow over the years?
David: Over the next 24 years, we expanded in every direction. We added satellite offices in Shelbyville, Winchester, and McMinnville, grew our team to six counselors and several interns, and developed programs to serve the broader community.
In 2010, we took over Contact Lifeline, the area’s first Christian-based 24-hour prayer line, which was at risk of shutting down. We rebranded it as Access Hope, expanding it to full 24/7 service and connecting people directly with licensed counselors via three-way calls. We also provide reassurance calls for the homebound—free services supported by donations from churches and groups across North Tennessee.
In November 2024, we moved into a brand-new location—a former chiropractic office. The owner retired and made the space available to us, even acting as the bank to help us purchase it. Today, we have counseling rooms and activity spaces we never imagined, allowing us to continue expanding programs such as the Batterers’ Prevention Program and services for first responders, as well as growing our telehealth offerings.
Counseling Philosophy & Approach
Q: How do you approach counseling and building your team?
David: My approach to counseling is like a “tool shed.” Every person is different, so we don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions. We listen, affirm, and help clients develop the tools they need to navigate their challenges. Some may use scripture, some may use other techniques—the key is to tailor the support to the individual.
When building a team, the first priority is faith in action. Counselors should be believers, compassionate, and driven by a desire to serve, not just make money. I look for people who can think on their feet, see needs, and help others grow without needing constant oversight. Our staff are ministers as well as clinicians, serving the whole person in mind, body, and spirit.
Encouragement for Those Hesitant About Counseling
Q: What would you say to someone hesitant to start counseling?
David: Many people are hesitant because they don’t know what to expect or have misconceptions about therapy. Counseling isn’t about being told what to do—it’s a safe space to talk, process, and develop personalized tools for your life. I tell people:
“You’re in my tool shed—you just don’t see all the tools yet.”
Most importantly, there’s hope. You’re not alone. Whether someone is struggling with anger, loss, addiction, or just feeling disconnected, counseling gives them the space and support to find their way forward. We want everyone to know that at the Family Counseling Center, there is someone who cares and will help you navigate your challenges.
Vision for the Future
Q: What’s your vision for the center?
David: We’re looking ahead in several ways. We want to expand children’s services to address abuse and neglect, broaden our court system programs, provide addiction counseling—especially for sexual addiction—and offer intensive support for couples. Our first responder program will continue to grow across more counties, and we hope to integrate medical support for our clients, providing holistic care that combines counseling with health services. The goal is always to meet people where they are and give them the tools to thrive.
Reflections & Gratitude
Q: Looking back over 26 years, what are you most grateful for?
David: I’m most grateful for the people who came alongside us—the board, volunteers, staff, and donors. God has provided every person we needed, from accountants and lawyers to supporters who helped sustain the ministry financially. Without them, none of this would have been possible. Their faith and dedication have shaped not only the center but also my personal growth and spiritual journey.
Message to the Community
Q: Any message for the community?
David: Please don’t give up when facing problems—there are answers. At the Family Counseling Center, we come alongside you, not to control or judge, but to listen, support, and work together to find solutions. There is hope. That’s why we’re here. Reach out and try us once—you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.
“Everyone has worth and value… it doesn’t matter their color, background, or income—Christ died for all, and we serve all.”