Marriage and Relationship Counseling Austin Reviews

Reviews and Testimonials

The most important elements in selecting a marriage counseling professional (or therapist) are training, experience, trust, compassion and client referrals. We have all of these. We’ve worked with individuals and couples since 1995, have thousands of hours of training, and the following testimonials are evidence of my value and helpfulness to people. Please contact us if you would like to speak in person with current or former clients.

I have been fortunate to have worked with many wonderful people. It takes courage to open ourselves to others; to be willing to be vulnerable with a stranger. Everyone I’ve worked with faced that dilemma when we first met. With few exceptions, the people I coach are honest and straightforward. What follows is a testament to their willingness to persevere and to change a familiar way of life and to face the unknown. Every story does not have a happy ending, but by seeking the truth we create hope for our relationships.

David Cantu

Marriage Counseling Reviews & Individual Testimonials

David is incredibly adept at pinpointing the root cause of overly complex issues and simplifying them. He taught us to be strong as a single unit in order to be strong as a couple. He challenged us to, as individuals, look within, face our insecurities, confront our shortcomings, and celebrate our strengths. Further, he motivated us to better understand and uncover the needs of one another. As a result, we grew as individuals and as a couple, and are excited to continue this journey based on his insights. All in all, David was incredible. He is amazingly talented, bright, and giving and we often left his office mesmerized by his abilities as a counselor, life coach, and friend.

Nita and Sameer
Atlanta, Georgia – 2010

I came to David two years ago with my life in a shambles. I was physically ill, on the brink of divorce, jobless, terrified that I wouldn’t be able to get or keep a job, and drowning in debt. I had been to many counselors over the years but none spoke to me like David. David’s language is Truth and Love. He helped me face reality; the reality that I am a powerful human being. Today my health is better than it has been in a decade, I am approaching my two year anniversary at a great job, I have paid off all of my credit card debt, and I am much happier in my marriage. David is a wonderful teacher and coach who has helped change my life in beautiful ways.

Kristine Nesbitt
Austin, Texas – 2010

Sometimes, it takes another person to help us appreciate what we have, and to show us that nothing is impossible if we believe in ourselves. For me, that other person is you David, – and I just want to say, thank you.

Lynn Mitchell
Austin, Texas – 2009

Working with someone on your own personal relationship is a very touchy and emotional situation. David’s remarkable ability and insight with relationships has saved me from losing the number one person in my life by identifying problems that neither of us realized existed. Through his ability to open up channels of communication we have been able to rediscover our true love for one another!

Shawn
Austin, Texas – 2009

Good morning, David: Thank you for all your help over the past weeks. You have been great for Tony and me. Before I scheduled an appointment with you three weeks ago, our relationship was over. I didn’t want to be burdened by a relationship that I felt wasn’t working anymore. Tony and I decided to give it one last ditch effort. The love was there, but we were slowly disconnecting and becoming defensive over our views. I am so glad that I made my appointment with you! You have breathed new life into our relationship and both Tony and I are thankful for you.
(Tony and Robin were married later in 2008 and had a baby in 2009.)

Robin Ragan
Austin, Texas – 2008

I came to see David after a rather “traumatic” breakup of a long relationship. I had a broken heart, pain, sadness, a confused mind, and incessant thoughts and questions that would never rest. I had absolutely no idea what to do, no idea what had happened, and not a clue as to what I desired to do going forward.

On our first visit, David led me through a meditation in which I actually saw and touched my own pain. That was the first time I truly understood the concept that brokenness can yield the most exquisite and beautiful formations once we see God’s light shining through.

Through David, I learned to seek out and discern what is real in life, and not be taken up with what is merely superficial. That we are not our emotions, and we are not our thoughts. However, too often we hide behind these to avoid dealing with what is really in front of us.

David helped me to realize that everyone makes mistakes, those that hurt us and ourselves included; that we cannot expect ourselves to never falter – rather, it is the process of recognition, responsibility, and forgiveness that allows us to finally let go and move on.

I approached David hoping to be saved from the sinking ship that was my life at the time — and I got SO much more. Not only did David reach out and guide me in pulling myself up from the wreckage, he also helped me to look around and notice that what I had initially perceived as “wreckage” was actually an amazing opportunity for a renewed and improved life for myself. David has helped me to climb mountains and to take great strides in building a strong, “unsinkable” foundation for my life.

Thank you, David – my heart and soul thank you! I cannot imagine my life without your having such an integral part in it.

Anna Maria Mendez
Austin, TX 2008

With David Cantu as my Life Coach for the past two years, I have made significant positive changes in the way I live life. The intent of my initial session was to address very typical issues for a single mom raising a teenage boy. What I learned in that session definitely improved my relationship with my teenage son, and in addition caused me to realize that I was not truly happy or satisfied with my life.

After a few coaching sessions and the Authentic Presence workshop, I had the courage and confidence to make significant changes which very positively impacted me and my family. A year later, due to other changes in my life, I sought David’s help with dating, and other relationships, and tools to manage them.

EVERY time I leave a coaching session I leave with the confidence to live my life being true to myself and working toward peace with everyone else. I had always been a co-dependent people-pleaser and am no longer that person. The personal growth and freedom I have achieved as a result of having David as a Life Coach has definitely been worth my time and investment! I have recommended David as a Life Coach to many of my friends, and the ones who have seen him were just as pleased. David’s understanding of relationships and his guidance are invaluable!

Cheryl New
Austin, Texas – 2008

Hi David: I just wanted to say thank you for the session yesterday. My depression is pretty much gone and I hope to keep it that way. I am no longer afraid of getting divorced, no longer afraid of being lonely, no longer hanging on to futile hopes.

It will take some time to figure out exactly how I define and find peace but I can say that I am not feeding my despair. As you put it I am creating a new life based upon what I do from this day forward. And your analogy of the train wreck was right on the money. The train wreck already happened… I was responsible for that wreck but now the train is back on the tracks and I am steering it towards a more peaceful life. As you said… “Gregg you made a lot of mistakes…but you didn’t know any better, forgive yourself and move toward a joyful future”.
David….I was listening yesterday. Thanks Again:

Gregg McGough
Austin, Texas – 2008

David: your coaching has been instrumental in helping me get over my fear of commitment, fear of having children, and my fear of giving up my freedom. Because of your coaching, Alma and I have become closer and are now engaged! We couldn’t have made it through our challenges without you. You are a God send! We will be eternally grateful for your gift to us. May God bless you as much as you have blessed us!

Christopher & Alma
Austin, Texas – 2007

David: I just wanted to thank you for inviting us to Authentic Presence. It was truly a changing moment in my life. Now that I have had a few hours to think about my experience, it has become clear to me that besides the things I learned about myself I learned something this weekend that is truly “Life Changing”: I learned how to listen, truly listen. I never knew before how powerful it is to really listen to others and take in everything they say … not think about my response or try to impose myself into their problem …, but just to sit and listen to them.

I just had the opportunity to sit with Jim and let him tell me about his evening, his work event, and I truly listened to everything he told me. It was amazing. I realized that I have been missing out on learning about his true feelings and his true experiences because I haven’t been really listening to him this entire time. I have been hearing what he says and trying to tell him what I think … but I have never just let him talk while I just listen.

I had a fantastic time, and I learned so much from everyone there. I feel that my relationship with my husband is headed into a whole new direction … a really positive direction.
Thank you:

Loralea Knox
Austin, Texas – 2006

When we first went to see David, I felt that my relationship with my husband was, from 1 to 10 (10 being perfect), a 2. After several visits with David I can say that my relationship with my husband is more like a 9.

If you want your husband to understand you, if you would like to argue less and you want things to be better, you have to talk to David. I think you will learn a lot in just a few visits, and your marriage and life in general will improve tremendously.

Mariza Cremona
Austin, Texas – 2006

You are so gifted. Not that many people can really reach as far down as you can. Many try but fall short of actually connecting. Thank you so much again, and I’ll be seeing you soon.

Since meeting you I have become more aware of my thoughts and I truly feel that I can have deeper conversations with other people. I am more focused on what needs to be done now and less overwhelmed with life’s daily issues. I had been stressed for months preparing to go to Iraq and was worried my relationship would fall apart. Working with you helped bring my partner and me much closer; opened communication lines; broke down selfish, prideful barriers, and consequently, enabled us to realize how precious we are to one another.

Sometimes we forget, but Cantu re-incarnated the love we have for each other through his uncanny ability to see us for who we really are. With his unique approach, he facilitated our own understanding of why we think the way we do and how to change the things about ourselves we really want to change. I wanted change; and now I feel more patient, positive, and interested in others. I definitely will continue on this new path of self-awareness and positive conscious choices.

Denise
Killeen, Texas – 2006

With your help, I realized that I felt uprooted and shocked when I moved to Florida as a child. To deal with life, I learned to check out. I focused on things like school, but I zoned out. I dealt with people by giving in to them. When I was young, I had no choice about some things; but as an adult, I had continued to feel as if I didn’t have a choice when in fact I did. Checking out all this time had become a painful addiction for me.

With my partner I had the feeling that he had pursued me and that I was just going along. After meeting you, I recently decided to be apart from him to figure out what I really wanted. When I had suggested this before, my partner convinced me otherwise, but really I just let myself be convinced. This time I made my decision, and even though he didn’t agree with it I told him not to convince me, and he listened. After that it was awkward as we talked about the separation. I felt good that I had done what I set out to do, but I felt sad that he was leaving. Soon I had an overwhelming realization. I did want him with me. I do love him. I felt like I was going crazy. How could I change my mind so fast? The truth is that the question wasn’t about me loving him but about realizing that I was in charge of my life. I asked for forgiveness and chose him out loud. In a very short time I had made a decision, carried it out and then recognized my true desire.

When I came to see you I was in search of passion. What I learned is that I’ve been living checked out, angry, blaming others for my life and playing victim …. I now know that I want to make choices and own them, to take responsibility for my life. It’s good for me to ask myself what I really want, to go after it and to take risks. I now feel at peace. I’m going in the right direction and have begun to find my passion!
Thank you for everything so far.

Zachira
Austin, Texas – 2006

Over the past month, I have learned so much. I have learned how to forgive myself for past mistakes. I am concentrating on who I am now, rather than on the person that I was back then. My boyfriend demonstrates how much he loves me and accepts me the way I am. Life coaching has brought us to a higher level of love and understanding. For that, I am so thankful. It has also opened my eyes to the fact that I have been a judgmental person. Now each time I catch myself judging someone else, I stop that thought and pray for the person. I am then filled with love for that person. I have also been able to stop the anxiety before it starts. When it does occur, I meditate.

Amber Hancock
Austin, Texas – 2005

I never thought I had a problem admitting my faults. As a teacher, that has been a real strength of mine. Almost immediately after the first few sessions, I realized that half of the problems I was having in my marriage were mine. My judgments and “way things should be” attitude were clouding my ability to communicate with my husband. Since going to the coaching sessions, it has been easier to examine myself and find the real problems in our relationship.

Through the coaching our communication with each other has improved dramatically. We didn’t have a relationship where we fought or argued, but we were getting to the point where we just didn’t talk. Our sessions have helped me to listen on a different level. We have learned to say what we really mean and to understand where the other person is coming from. This has virtually solved our problems. With this work we’ve learned how to make our marriage last!

Kim Foy
Austin, Texas – 2004

A year ago, I desperately needed a lifeboat. All aspects of my life were in a river of turmoil. My marriage was stormy and on the rocks; my employees were out of control and my kids were functional alcoholics.

David Cantu at Life Coach Austin became my lifeboat. With David’s help I realized that I am the common denominator in all these problems, and he taught me a new way of living — with tools I already possessed. I also learned how to be an influence to the people around me. Gradually everything started improving.

My marriage is better than ever; my employees are content, motivated and respectful; and my kids have stopped drinking. I feel peace and harmony in my life.

The good news is now that I have learned this new way of living, I am ready to get off the lifeboat on the other side of the river. David helps you, then lets you go with the tools to stay afloat in the ever-changing sea of life.
Thank you, David and Life Coach Austin:

Beverly
Lockhart, Texas – 2004

Authentic Presence is a very aptly named workshop. It is about being present with your feelings in an honest, authentic way without pretense. I could take this workshop over and over and get great benefit from it every time, for each time I would be exploring a deeper part of myself.

David is an excellent facilitator. He is insightful and compassionate. I always felt safe and well respected. I would recommend this workshop to any who are pursuing personal and spiritual growth.

Donna Belk
Austin, Texas – 2003

Life coaching is the most powerful internal work that I have ever done. It has been the most effective tool that I have used to look at my life and change how I experience it. It has allowed me to build more rich, intimate and honest relationships and find purpose in my life.

David and Laura Lee Cantu are extremely gifted and loving people. They create a safe and nurturing environment that allows me to unveil myself and take that person out into the world. One of the most important aspects of life coaching for me was learning that I have total responsibility in all areas of my life, hence, a great power to change it. I am grateful for the freedom, peace, and growth that life coaching with the Cantus has given me.

Rebecca Hilton
Austin, Texas -2003

When I met David Cantu I was very depressed and had long battled thoughts of suicide. I had seen several counselors and had even earned a degree in counseling and psychology in search of answers, but nothing seemed to work – until I was introduced to David.

After working with David I feel like I have finally seen myself, and my life is clear. I have a sense of strength, joy, peace and love in my life that I have always longed for and now have and know how to create. His dedication and love have changed me forever, and I will never be the same. I am eternally thankful.

Two years after working with David I am much more laid back, decisive, confident and happy than I used to be! It’s amazing how far I’ve come.
Thanks & LOVE

Valerie
Austin, Texas – 2003

I am a 43-year-old certified public accountant, and I have two other accountants working for me. I have been in business for myself now for 14 years. When I started seeing David for life coaching in August of 2001, I was in individual psychotherapy and group psychotherapy for bipolar and borderline personality disorder. After several months of coaching I was getting more help from the coaching than from therapy.

David has helped me in the following areas:

Relationships – I changed my attitude in relationships from seeing why they could not work to looking for what is positive and how they could work. After three months I was dating, and after five months I was engaged to be married. I now have been married three years, and my wife and I have a wonderfully close relationship.

In therapy I was told that my parents were the cause of my problems. With the coaching I came to realize that it was my perceptions from my childhood
that were the cause of my problems. I changed my perceptions and was able to quit blaming my parents for my difficulties and reestablish a loving relationship with my dad.

Work – I was able to resolve a problem where an employee was taking advantage of me without having to fire the employee. This saved lots of time and money in terms of rehiring and training a new person.

I can listen to criticism from clients without taking it personally; I no longer view their criticism as an attack. I am able to step into their shoes and see their points of view and respond in a helpful manner.

Spiritual – I was very critical and judgmental of people whose ideas and belief systems were different from my own. I am now tolerant of others‘ points of view and have opened myself to studying other points of view. I now look for what we all have in common as human beings rather than look for ways to divide us.

Emotional management – I go through mood swings several times throughout the day. Because of the coaching I am able to manage my emotions more effectively. My anger lasts a few minutes rather than going into a rage that may last an hour or more. I am able to recognize my feelings of sadness or fear and deal with them directly.

Fritz Vogt
Austin, Texas – 2002

To some extent, we all hide behind a façade or an image that we want the world to see. We do this only because we are desperate to connect with others and to feel worthy. We all yearn for love and connection but it seems to be just beyond our reach. And we wonder why it appears that everyone else can do life so well. Where is the truth?

David Cantu is dedicated to helping people learn to love, see the truth and connect with others. He has gained these skills by walking the walk of life and by helping others walk the walk.

During many times of depression in my life I have asked myself, “how much would I be willing to pay for peace — for mental health?” I imagined my life without depression and realized it would be priceless. But, who could help me? I paid for help then, but it proved to be temporary, and at times I felt hopeless. David has taught me how to change that.

David’s method of helping people is to teach them valuable, practical tools for living. David is a teacher of life. He helps people to see how their automatic reactions to life circumstances create patterns that are harmful and cause great pain. And he teaches how to do life differently. Now, I can see how these patterns and reactions have limited me, and by seeing this truth I have learned to change. And David’s Life Coaching process provided me with the support I needed during the periods of transition. These life tools are invaluable to me. David has helped me create a new found-strength and a love for life.

If you have any questions, about this work, I would be happy to talk with you.

Claudette Smith
Austin, Texas
(512) 238-6238 – 2002

What life coaching has meant to me… RESULTS!

David and Laura Lee’s life coaching has helped me and guided me to take charge of my life, to put me in the driver’s seat. I was in a place of total hopelessness, blaming, being the victim and not even able to describe and put into words what was going on with me. Both of them gave me examples of what it meant, not withholding love. They were able to point out to me that MY behavior or MY actions or inaction was the only thing holding me back.

I was afraid to ask for anything, but first of all I needed to identify what I wanted, then I had to get out of my box, and ask. It was quite an accomplishment to finally learn that I could ask and take action.

And today I have taken charge of my life, I can identify feelings and go into each day knowing that as long as I keep the intention of love in my heart and choose not to be fearful, I can accomplish anything.

I will never forget a small life example: “If I don’t want the honeymoon to end, I am the one who needs to keep it alive. If I want romance in my life, I am the one who is responsible for creating it.”
Thank you, David and Laura Lee:

Nancy Brand
Houston, Texas – 2001