Maddy Buxton

Imagine a therapy session where laughter mingles with self-discovery, and the roll of dice could lead to profound personal growth. This is the unique world of Maddy Buxton, LAPC, NCC, MA, CTGM, CALC, a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who brings the creativity of improv and theater into the therapeutic space.

Maddy's journey to becoming a mental health counselor has been as diverse as her therapeutic toolkit. With a B.F.A in Performing Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design, she initially pursued a career in improv comedy and sketch writing in Chicago and Los Angeles. However, her personal experience with fibromyalgia and disillusionment with the entertainment industry led her to a pivotal realization: her true calling was in mental health counseling.

In 2023, Maddy graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She now employs a person-centered, social-constructionist approach to therapy, recognizing each client as the expert in their own life. Her background in performing arts isn't just a footnote in her biography; it's an integral part of her therapeutic approach. Maddy skillfully incorporates humor, improv, and theater exercises into her counseling work, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for personal growth.

As a Certified ADHD Life Coach, Maddy specializes in helping clients with ADHD navigate their challenges and harness their unique strengths. She utilizes Solution-Focused Therapy to assist clients in accomplishing their long-term goals, providing practical strategies tailored to the ADHD mind. But perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Maddy's practice is her role as a Certified Therapeutic Game Master. She occasionally offers group therapy sessions using the game Dungeons and Dragons, creating a unique blend of fantasy role-playing and therapeutic exploration.

Maddy's approach to therapy is as multifaceted as her background. She believes in the power of narrative and how language shapes our perceptions and reality. In her sessions, clients are encouraged to explore their personal stories, challenge harmful narratives, and craft new, empowering perspectives. Whether through traditional talk therapy, improvisational exercises, or a therapeutic D&D campaign, Maddy provides a safe, judgment-free space for clients to explore their inner worlds and develop new coping strategies.

For those seeking a therapist who can bring creativity, humor, and a fresh perspective to the therapeutic process, Maddy Buxton offers a truly unique experience. Her combination of traditional therapeutic techniques with innovative approaches like improv and game-based therapy creates a dynamic, engaging environment for personal growth and healing. Whether you're grappling with ADHD, seeking to overcome personal challenges, or simply looking for a new approach to therapy, Maddy's practice offers a refreshing path to self-discovery and mental well-being.