Meet Our Administrative Team
Over the years, our administrative team has supported thousands of individuals and families by ensuring every detail of care runs smoothly from start to finish. We work together to serve the whole family system by coordinating between our intake specialists, counselors, finance, & operations teams to provide quality care for clients.
Dawn Lawless, LCSW-S
EMDR Trained, TBRI® Practitioner
Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder
I believe we are created for connection—whether through family, friendships, or the counseling relationship. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the life-changing power of God’s presence in therapy, bringing stability and hope when life’s struggles feel overwhelming. My philosophy is simple yet steadfast: healing is possible, and our stories can lead us toward greater understanding, peace, and fulfillment.
I began my career in social work at Children’s Protective Services and the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, where I learned the importance of empathy, servant leadership, and resilience. Since then, I’ve transitioned into clinical practice, earning my Bachelor’s in Sociology from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. I was honored to be named Social Worker of the Year by the Gulf Coast Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. I served clients through play therapy, adolescent therapy, and individual counseling, helping each person work toward their therapeutic goals.
Outside of my professional life, my greatest joy comes from being a wife and mother to two beautiful children. While family life can be both challenging and rewarding, I am continually reminded that God’s plan is sufficient, and it is in His design that true healing and purpose are found.
Pam Waters
Chief Financial Officer & Co-Founder
With a Business degree in management, I was a business owner for many years. In 2007 the business
was sold and I started seeking my second career. God knew that my heart’s desire was to be involved in
an organization that helped people. In May of 2010 I was employed by CC4C as business manager, in
March 2013 we converted to a 501C.3 and I became a Co-founder and CEO of CC4C. I believe what this
organization is doing for the community is transformative and I am honored to be a part of this team. As
you seek either services or other involvement in CC4C, I look forward to working with you.
Terri Hlavaty
Financial Coordinator
I have over 30 years of financial and business operations. Coming from a large family, my parents taught me to be hard working, appreciative and flexible. I have used all of these traits in life and in the work place.
I have a wonderful husband and two handsome sons. I’m very fortunate that God has always provided me with a very loving circle of family and friends.
Counseling Connections has a very special place in my heart, I’m excited to be back and working with this awesome team!
Victoria Simonsen
Agency Care Coordinator
I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Kinesiology. I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. I have been in the Houston area for over a decade and now happily reside in Pearland with my husband.
My faith plays a central role in my life, inspiring my passion for helping others and guiding me in both personal and professional settings. I love connecting with people, whether through my work, my church community, or simply lending a hand when someone needs it.
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and diving into a good book. I find joy in both adventure and quiet moments, always looking for ways to learn, grow, and encourage those around me.
Shannan Murray
Development Coordinator
I graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a BA in Political Science and an emphasis in Business Administration. My career began in sales and marketing with Coca-Cola, where I worked in both California and Texas for 13 years before transitioning into nonprofit leadership.
In 1997, I became the Executive Director of the Children’s Art Project at MD Anderson Cancer Center, leading the program for 20 years and helping return $22 million to patient programs through products featuring pediatric patient artwork.
After MD Anderson, I joined B.I.G. Love Cancer Care, where I served for three years. During that time, the organization surpassed $1 million in income, further fueling my passion for using creativity, fundraising, and partnerships to bring tangible impact to families in need.
Today, I am honored to serve as the Development Coordinator for Counseling Connections for Change, Inc. I believe mental health affects every family, often across generations, and that the stigma surrounding it prevents many from seeking the care they deserve. I am eager to continue my lifelong work of building awareness, support, and acceptance for those facing life’s greatest challenges.
Daniel Jarvis
Mission Fulfillment Coordinator
I graduated magna cum laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, specializing in Entrepreneurship. Born in Houston, I have spent all 24 years of my life in Missouri City. Growing up in my household, and through my family, I developed a strong drive and passion for continual learning. This upbringing, in a way, encouraged me to acquire as many tools as possible, leading me to pursue training and an Associate’s Degree as a welder.
Following my graduation from trade school, I spent 5 years as a certified welder in construction. Through this work, I came to believe in contributing to projects larger than myself. Now, I am eager to apply my skills and education to benefit our community through Counseling Connections. The opportunity to join the team in Pearland is a privilege I am excited about.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, creative writing, and gaming with friends online in my spare time
Xochil Hernandez Hinshaw, LPC-S
Clinical Supervisor
Xochil Hernandez Hinshaw earned her Master of Science in Counseling from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, along with a Spanish Bilingual Counselor Certificate. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor–Supervisor who is passionate about mentoring and guiding future mental health professionals in their journey. Her passion for counseling was first sparked during her 19 years as a bilingual teacher, where she saw firsthand the transformative impact of supporting students and families in reaching their full potential.
Although she is not currently seeing clients directly, Xochil firmly believes that strong families are the foundation of healthy, thriving individuals. She values an eclectic counseling approach, drawing on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and person-centered therapy as powerful tools for growth and healing.
Beyond her professional life, Xochil treasures time with her husband of 37 years, their three daughters, and two granddaughters. She enjoys spending time in nature, exercising, reading, hiking, and embracing opportunities to learn new things.
David Arenas
Administrative Student Intern
I was born and raised in Houston, TX. After high school, I served 11 years in the Marine Corps before transitioning into civilian life. I am currently a senior at Angelo State University working toward my Bachelor of Social Work.
Having gone through the shift from being a Marine to a civilian, I understand how important it is to feel purpose rather than just being a number. My goal is to help others find that same sense of meaning and belonging.
I enjoy walking in nature, visiting museums, and going on road trips. As an introvert, I also value quiet time with my fiancée. I am excited to be a part of the Counseling Connections team.