Dr. Mary A. Patton, PhD, LPC — Psychotherapist in Dallas, TX

I saw Dr. Mary Patton for trauma support and initially found her comforting, easy to talk to, and helpful in affirming that I wasn’t “crazy” after experiencing a major trauma. She explained depersonalization and derealization as trauma responses—not psychosis—which gave me clarity and relief at a crucial time. However, the relationship became harmful once we moved past the evaluation phase. As a Black woman, I spoke about generational trauma rooted in chattel slavery and Jim Crow—context necessary for my healing. Instead of holding space, Dr. Patton often responded with comparisons to her own family’s trauma, creating an atmosphere of “oppression Olympics,” which is inappropriate and dismissive. It felt racially gaslighting. She also labeled parts of my experience as hallucinations, which delayed my healing by months. Despite claiming to be trauma-informed, she refused to help when I was stuck in a freeze response, and admitted to being jealous of my living situation abroad—something I worked hard for and sacrificed to achieve. This personal disclosure, especially paired with her resistance to actually support me, felt unprofessional and inappropriate. When I chose to pursue EMDR therapy elsewhere—something she discouraged—she attempted to retain me as a client while providing little therapeutic value, pressuring me to continue paying out-of-pocket despite telling her I could not afford both. She became codependent and resentful when I decided to end therapy, offering no formal closing process and again implying I was mentally unwell without basis. I do not recommend Dr. Patton to Black women or women of color. Despite her friendly demeanor, she carries unchecked racial bias, dismisses lived experience, and creates a dynamic where she must remain the “expert,” even at the client’s expense. She may work well with clients she doesn’t feel threatened by, but if you’re intelligent, self-aware, or empowered—proceed with caution.

Dr. Patton has changed my life for the better in so many ways. She has been my therapist for a handful of years now. I initially sought her council for PTSD over a traumatic physical injury. She helped me discover so many coping strategies and tools. As a result, I am now able to live my life unimpeded by my diagnosis. I continue my sessions with Dr. Patton because she offers so much insight and understanding about good and fair communication in my interpersonal relationships. She is a fantastic listener, extremely empathetic, and very knowledgeable in the field of psychology. She helps me to be the best possible version of myself, and when unforeseen things happen in my life, she is always there to validate my feelings and offer the perspective I need. She really has her clients' best interests at heart, and she goes above and beyond to be present and available if ever I need extra help. She is a phenomenal person and professional, and I truly value her presence and guidance in my life. I can't recommend her highly enough!

Dr. Patton has been extremely beneficial in her service to her clients. She has gone above and beyond to ensure the innocent have the best counsel and guidance throughout their treatment. Dr. Patton has exemplified extreme professionalism, client educate, and grace through tough cases. She is adored and greatly appreciated for her service and help. She truly cares for her clients and their well-being.

Dr. Mary Patton has been my psychologist for 2 years and is ongoing. She is real and can relate to women of all ages. She gives real world advice in trauma's caused to women by narcissists'. I feel heard and safe. She zeros in on trauma from my childhood and previous relationships and has helped me heal from and see so much!! She cares about me and my family! If you want a counselor who sees you and cares about you.... get booked with Dr. Patton!

Dr. Patton has helped me over the last several years in every way! Helped me through an acrimonious divorce, my child moving across the country for college and certifying my dog as an emotional support animal for the past 2+ years. Dr. Patton is truly amazing!!

I have been seeing Dr. Patton for nearly two years now. She has changed my life and has helped me to understand myself, my family, and others through her tactical, open, and science based approach. Our sessions flow so easy due to how simple it is for me to talk to her about some tough situations, to where I often feel as though I’m taking to a trusted friend. I’ve also done group therapy with Dr. Patton, with myself and a family member, and just after one session together my relationship with this family member has completely changed for the better. We now understand each other on a level we never have in 30 years. I highly recommend Dr. Patton to anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, abusive/codependent relationships, or just to have someone to talk through life’s daily struggles!

Dr Mary is the absolute best in every possible way! Not only is she extremely educated in her field (and published), but remarkably compassionate! She balances her intelligence and sincere care perfectly. She has helped me and both my boys navigate many of life’s ups and downs. I am so deeply grateful to have her in our lives with her unique ability to access, give the right tools to manage in the moment and moving forward. I continue to HIGHLY recommend her to anyone wishing to understand themselves better, to enjoy a better quality life!

I have seen Dr. Patton for over 4 years, and I cannot recommend her enough. Everything in my life has significantly improved since seeing Dr. Patton: friendships, family relationships, career, finances, and overall confidence and happiness. Whether I had major life events or small day-to-day things to discuss, she always helps me process and find proactive solutions and next steps. She’s extremely easy to talk to, friendly, and non-judgemental. I’ve enjoyed having dr. Patton as my go-to person to talk through anything I need to stay on track to reaching my life goals.

Dr. Patton has been my therapist for several years now and I can attest to how incredible she is at her job. I came to her for multiple reasons and since working with her I’ve become a more confident and secure individual. She is kind, understanding, and I always feel comfortable discussing topics or issues with her. I highly recommend her services.

I’ve been seeing Dr. Patton for 5 years. She has truly changed my life. She has a way of relating to her patients that makes her very easy to trust, and like she’s one of your friends. It makes it very easy to talk to. She has gone above and beyond, and even advocated for with me other doctors when I’ve gone through health issues. I can’t recommend her enough.