Don Givens | Integrative Therapy & Spiritual Direction

About

A Collaborative Space for Healing

he/him

I view therapy as a collaborative space, co-created with each client. My role is to support your exploration, transformation, healing, and growth. I honor your right to self-determination while believing deeply in your innate capacity to heal.

As a Buddhist chaplain and meditation teacher, I bring a contemplative presence to our work together. I have particular experience with religious trauma, spiritual exploration (including non-traditional paths), attachment wounds, trauma, and addiction recovery.

Before transitioning into counseling, I built a career in technology, founding and operating an IT consulting business in Nashville. This professional background brings a practical perspective to my work, along with ample practice in patience and equanimity.

Outside of work, I can be found paddling my 16-foot sea kayak (somewhat unusual in Nashville), cooking, spending time with my lovely bride, or walking my dog, Yin.

Currently: Clinical Intern at Experience Therapy Group

Education: MSW Candidate, Tennessee State University

Background: Buddhist Chaplain, BBA, MBA

Approach

Integrating Mind, Body & Spirit

I draw from several evidence-based modalities, weaving them together based on what serves you best.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

A compassionate approach that honors all parts of yourself, helping you understand and heal internal conflicts with curiosity rather than judgment.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

Combining mindfulness practices with cognitive techniques to help you develop a different relationship with difficult thoughts and emotions.

Ideal Parent Figure Protocol

An attachment-focused meditation practice developed by Dr. Daniel P. Brown and Dr. David S. Elliott that helps heal relational wounds at their roots.

Contemplative & Spiritual Direction

Drawing from Buddhist wisdom and interfaith chaplaincy to support your spiritual exploration, whatever path that may take.

Areas of Focus

How I Can Help

Religious Trauma

Healing from harmful religious experiences while honoring your ongoing spiritual journey—or your choice to step away entirely.

Spiritual Exploration

Support for those on non-traditional paths, questioning their beliefs, or seeking deeper meaning. All faiths and none are welcome here.

Attachment & Relational Wounds

Working with early relational patterns that continue to shape how you connect with yourself and others.

Trauma

A gentle, titrated approach to processing difficult experiences, building safety and capacity along the way.

Addiction & Recovery

Support for those in recovery or exploring their relationship with substances, behaviors, or patterns that no longer serve them.

Meditation & Mindfulness

Guidance in establishing or deepening a contemplative practice as part of your healing journey.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Clinical Intern?

Don Givens is a Clinical Intern at Experience Therapy Group, currently pursuing his Master's in Social Work. This means he provides therapy services under the supervision of a licensed clinician, offering quality care at a reduced fee.

What is Spiritual Exploration?

Spiritual exploration is a non-denominational, contemplative practice focused on helping you connect with meaning, purpose, and the sacred in your life. It's a supportive space to explore your beliefs, doubts, and experiences, regardless of your faith background (or lack thereof).

Are your services integrated, or can I choose one?

While Don's approach is holistically informed, you have the flexibility to engage with either clinical therapy or spiritual exploration as separate services, or to explore how they might complement each other in your journey.

How do I schedule an appointment?

All appointments for both clinical therapy and spiritual exploration are scheduled through Experience Therapy Group. Please visit the Experience Therapy Group website to learn more and book your initial consultation with Don.

What are your fees?

As a Clinical Intern at Experience Therapy Group, Don offers low-fee therapy services. Specific fee details and payment options can be found on the Experience Therapy Group website when you schedule your appointment.

Do you accept insurance?

Don's services as a Clinical Intern are generally offered at a self-pay low fee. For questions regarding insurance or payment, please refer to the Experience Therapy Group's booking page or contact them directly.

What should I expect in my first session?

Your first session is a chance for Don to get to know you, understand your goals, and for you to ask any questions. It's a comfortable conversation where you can discuss what brings you to therapy or spiritual exploration and determine if it's a good fit.

Where Healing Meets
Wholeness