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 specialize in helping families navigate complex emotional and psychological crises—especially when traditional systems feel overwhelming, inaccessible, or ineffective.

With over three decades of experience in emergency response, trauma-informed care, and Gestalt therapeutic coaching, I bring calm clarity and grounded strategy to moments of deep uncertainty.

My role is not to replace clinicians, but to walk beside families as a thinking partner and guide. I work with you to assess risks, clarify next steps, stabilize communication, and create a more sustainable path forward. I bring compassion without enabling, and insight without judgment.

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 family’s needs, goals, and current capacity.

Contact me

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