At Strive Workspaces, we’re proud to be home to businesses that make a meaningful difference in their communities. This month, we’re highlighting Renee’ Austin, M.Ed., LPC-S, founder of Trauma Therapy North Dallas, a group therapy practice based at Strive Plano dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from trauma and create lasting change.
With a focus on compassionate care, specialized therapeutic approaches, and meaningful human connection, Renee’ and her team have created a welcoming environment where clients feel understood and supported.
We caught up with Renee’ to learn more about what inspired her to start Trauma Therapy North Dallas, the lessons she’s learned as a business owner, and how being part of the Strive Plano community has supported her growing practice.
Tell us a little about Trauma Therapy North Dallas.
Trauma Therapy North Dallas is a group practice focused on helping people heal from trauma and create meaningful, lasting change. Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches including EMDR, IFS, play therapy, somatic work, and psychedelic-assisted therapy. We work with adults, couples, and children, and we really value creating a space where people feel understood rather than judged.
What led you to starting Trauma Therapy North Dallas?
I wanted to create the kind of practice I would want to walk into myself—one where trauma is deeply understood and therapy goes beyond simply talking about what happened. I’ve always been drawn to approaches that help people actually process and heal, rather than just learn how to live around their pain. I’m also passionate about being part of what feels like a new era in mental health, including emerging psychedelic therapies and other innovative approaches to healing. Trauma Therapy North Dallas grew out of that vision.
What sets your business apart from your competitors?
We are very specialized in trauma, and our clinicians are trained in modalities that can help people work at a deeper level. At the same time, we don’t believe therapy should feel clinical or impersonal. We place a huge emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and on meeting each person where they are. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to healing.
What is something you wish you’d known when you were just starting out?
That I didn’t have to have everything figured out before moving forward. Building a business is a constant process of learning, adjusting, and trusting yourself. Some of the things that felt like mistakes at the time ultimately helped shape the practice into what it is now.
How do you navigate your work-life balance?
I’m still learning! Owning a business can make it very easy for work to expand into every available space. Becoming a mom has made me much more intentional about protecting my time and being present outside of work. I’ve also built an incredible team, which has made it possible for me to step back from feeling like I have to do everything myself.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Watching someone begin to see themselves differently. There is something incredibly meaningful about seeing a person who has spent years carrying shame, fear, or pain realize that their past doesn’t have to define the rest of their life. Being trusted enough to be part of that process is probably the most rewarding part of what I do.
How has being a part of the Strive Plano community affected you?
Being part of the Strive Plano community has been a huge morale boost for our entire team. We genuinely feel thought of here—the coffee bar, Wednesday breakfasts, holiday activities, and all of the small touches that make coming to work feel a little more enjoyable. Our space is absolutely gorgeous, and our clients feel the difference too. There’s something powerful about walking into an environment that feels beautiful, welcoming, and cared for before therapy even begins. Strive has helped us create an experience that reflects the kind of practice we want to be.
If you had a friend in town and you could take them to one of your favorite local places, where would you go?
I’m not very good at picking just one place! I love anywhere with great food, a beautiful atmosphere, and enough time to actually linger and connect. For me, it’s less about the specific place and more about the experience of being together. I think connection is one of the most healing things we have, whether that happens in a therapy room or over dinner with someone you love.
Want to Be Featured in Our Next Member Spotlight?
We love celebrating the people and businesses that make our Strive Workspaces community special! If you’re interested in sharing your story and being featured in an upcoming Member Spotlight, reach out to your Community Manager. We’d love to hear from you!
