Peter Bush(He/Him/His)

Pete Bush is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Blackshear, Georgia, and the founder of Arch Theory Counseling. His therapeutic approach integrates existential theory with cognitive-behavioral (CBT/REBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, providing focused, evidence-based care to adults and older teens. Pete works with clients struggling with issues such as lack of meaning, trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. His philosophy is clear: therapy should not only help people feel better but also equip them to get better.

Pete’s framework, rooted in existential cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizes choice, responsibility, and self-discipline in thinking. He draws heavily on REBT interventions while incorporating DBT skills to help clients build resilience and self-sufficiency. In session, Pete is active and directive, challenging clients while remaining empathetic, validating, and nonjudgmental. His goal is to foster independence, empowering clients to regulate their emotions, dispute negative beliefs, and ultimately reduce their reliance on therapy.

Pete’s passion for counseling is deeply personal. After struggling with anxiety and depression for years, he discovered the power of cognitive-behavioral techniques as an undergraduate. By applying these tools, he alleviated his own self-defeating patterns and realized he wanted to help others do the same. He went on to complete both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology at Valdosta State University, finishing his graduate studies in 2016.

Over the years, Pete gained extensive experience in community mental health, working with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Through this work, he found that progress depended less on circumstance and more on a client’s openness, willingness to engage, and commitment to change. These lessons shaped Arch Theory Counseling, where Pete seeks to partner with clients who are ready to put in the work, embrace discomfort, and pursue lasting change.