Living a slower lifestyle, being present in the moment, and practicing stillness may be easier than you think. If you've ever considered slowing down, let this inspire you. Chase M. Wade, M.Ed, LPC-S, shares how a slower-paced, family-oriented lifestyle and perhaps even a few chickens can positively impact your life. As the founder, lead counselor, and consultant of Starting Line Counseling & Consulting, Chase has a unique perspective on finding balance and fulfillment.
Chase counsels adults and adolescents through in-person and teletherapy sessions. His local practice provides a safe place for healing and hope. With specialties in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and addiction, along with a background in Human Development and Family Studies and a master's degree in Counselor Education from Texas Tech University, he has come to view counseling as something that extends far beyond the four walls of an office.
To Chase, therapy is about healing, growth, and achievement. He encourages those he serves to find hope not only through counseling but also by building a meaningful life outside. He believes there is tremendous value in caring for something beyond yourself and finding balance through everyday experiences.
Inspired by his wife, what began as a small chicken coop has grown into a 300-square-foot labor of love. Alongside his wife and sons, Chase now cares for chickens, roosters, ducks, and cats. He believes that caring for animals strengthens family bonds and teaches valuable life lessons. "Caring for animals teaches young kids empathy and emotional regulation," he says.
For Chase and his family, this shared outdoor experience has created quality time, encouraged a love of nature, and provided a meaningful family project that continues to bring them closer together. His passion for helping others extends beyond his counseling practice to caring for the animals that give so much unconditional love in return.
The coop not only helps Chase maintain balance in his own life but also influences how he supports his clients. Working with people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and experiences, he has found that stepping away from his desk and spending time caring for animals provides perspective. He notes that animals offer stress relief and encourage mindfulness because, as he puts it, "They don't care what kind of day you had; they're just happy to see you."
Pets are often present during life's biggest moments and transitions. While they are only part of our lives, we are their entire world. That perspective serves as a powerful reminder to slow down and appreciate the relationships that matter most.
For you, balance may not come in the form of a 300-square-foot chicken coop or a flock of free-range chickens. It may be found in spending quality time with family, trying new activities, creating lasting memories, and unplugging from daily distractions. Find something your family can build together and enjoy the journey.
If you're interested in connecting with a therapist or scheduling a counseling session, Chase M. Wade, M.Ed, LPC-S, and the newest addition to the team, Felica Pacewicz, M.S., LPC-Associate, NCC, are here to help. Together, they are committed to helping individuals find hope through healing.
For more information, visit their website, call to schedule an appointment, or stop by today.
325-766-7284
StartingLineCounseling.com
110 S. 4th Street, Suite 105, Gunter, Texas 75058