David Kelton Starks

Personal Introduction

I’ve been on a lifelong journey toward emotional wellness and balance, one that led me straight into the heart of Gestalt work. I stand in quiet wonder at this life, learning each day how to be more present with myself and with those I love.

What fuels me now is a deep desire to share what I’ve found: the power of being here, in this moment, fully alive. This isn’t just theory to me, it’s how I live, how I love, and how I walk with others on their own path toward wholeness.

I partner with individuals, families, and organizations to navigate complexity, foster resilience, and cultivate meaningful transformation.

Drawing on over 30 years of experience in emergency response, trauma-informed care, and Gestalt therapeutic coaching, I bring a steady, present-centered approach to high-stakes environments. Whether supporting a CEO through organizational change, guiding a team toward deeper collaboration, coaching individuals seeking clarity, or assisting families in crisis, my work is rooted in systemic awareness and relational intelligence.

My role is not to replace clinicians or consultants but to serve as a thinking partner and guide—helping clients assess risk, clarify next steps, and move forward with grounded strategy. I offer insight without judgment, compassion without enabling, and structure without rigidity.

At Starks Insights, we integrate Gestalt principles to unlock potential, foster collaboration, and promote sustainable growth across personal and professional domains.

My style is direct, steady, and deeply grounded in the here and now. I support families by:

  • De-escalating emotional volatility
  • Mapping relational dynamics and power patterns
  • Guiding clear and compassionate communication
  • Offering external referrals when clinical or legal intervention is needed

Helping family members regain agency and emotional clarity in difficult moments

President, Starks Insights
Leadership, systems, and crisis coaching for individuals, families, and organizations.
Gestalt Therapeutic Coach
Certified with four years of immersive Gestalt training in Barcelona, Spain.

Over 30 Years in Crisis & Support Work, including:

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Former EMT with deep field experience in medical and psychological emergencies.
  • Substance Use & Mental Health Recovery: 15 years combined experience including direct care at RAP Inc. (DC), Gaudenzia Recovery (MD), independent coaching with clients, and facilitating therapeutic workshops focused on emotional regulation and recovery.
  • Crisis Debriefing & Family Systems Work: Skilled in navigating high-risk, emotionally charged family dynamics and transitions.
Workshop Facilitator
National and international experience designing and leading groups focused on emotional resilience, presence, and conflict navigation.
Systemic Awareness
Adept at working across generational divides, hierarchical tensions (family or organizational), and institutional constraints that often complicate mental health navigation.

I offer a 30–45-minute intake conversation to assess fit and clarify how I can help.

Consultation is available by the hour or through a retainer package.

All work is confidential and tailored to meet your needs, goals, and current capacity.

Contact me

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