About
Vicki Tidwell Palmer, LCSW, CSAT
Vicki Tidwell Palmer, LCSW, CSAT, CGP is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Certified Group Psychotherapist in private practice in Houston, Texas. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Houston and Master of Social Work from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. Vicki’s clinical specialties include sex addiction, partners of sex addicts and survivors of infidelity, codependency, resolution of childhood trauma, and couples' therapy.
Vicki received her certification as a sex addiction therapist from the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals under the direction of Patrick Carnes, a pioneer in the field of sexual addiction recovery. She has completed over 200 hours of face-to-face training with Pia Mellody, senior clinical advisor of The Meadows, both in Pia's family of origin trauma model (Survivors I & II) as well as couples boundary work. Vicki is currently in training to become a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner®. Somatic Experiencing® is a gentle, body-centered approach to the treatment of trauma developed by Peter Levine.
Vicki has worked with individuals and families in recovery from substance and alcohol dependence, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and offenders in the Federal Pre-Trial and Probation system. She teaches mindfulness practice and meditation to help individuals increase focus, reduce obsessive thinking, and achieve relief from stress-related symptoms.
Professional Certifications/Trainings:
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT)
Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP)
Post Induction Therapy Training with Pia Mellody
Couples Boundary Work with Pia Mellody
Level I Relational Life Therapy with Terry Real
Professional Affiliations:
American Association of Sexuality Counselors, Educators, Counselors and Therapists
American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA)
Healing Trauma Network
Houston Group Psychotherapy Society
National Association of Social Workers
Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health
The Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC)
Treatment Philosophy
Vicki believes that each person has the ability to realize their full potential and life vision both individually and in relationship with others. Her treatment approach is grounded in the premise that personal growth requires the cultivation of the following core skills:
- Awareness of self – physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual
- Insight into the origins of compulsive, self-defeating behaviors as well as one’s strengths, life vision and purpose
- The ability to live consistently within one’s value system
The fundamental principles that guide Vicki’s approach to treatment are confidentiality, accountability, and respect for the unique perspectives and experiences of each client. She strives to create an effective and dynamic alliance by joining with her clients through the truth in a non-judgmental and compassionate way.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 713.540.0909 or send an email.