Welcome to LaunchPad
Our Mission
Support young adults with developing the confidence to create their own path while connecting healthy skills for a sustainable future.
Our Philosophy
At Launchpad, we believe that true growth happens when learning moves beyond the classroom or therapy office and into real life. Our approach blends therapeutic integration with hands-on experiences, giving participants the chance to practice skills in authentic settings. Whether it’s building trust through equine work, finding grounding in nature, tackling a new trade skill, or navigating daily challenges with a coach by their side, each experience is designed to foster confidence, resilience, and self-discovery.
We meet every individual and family where they are, using collaboration, choice, and respect as the foundation for every interaction. By combining practical skill development with meaningful reflection, we help young people and their families connect healthy habits to sustainable futures.
Our Services
At Launchpad, we believe growth happens through experience. Our services are designed to help young people and their families build confidence, connection, and practical skills in real-world settings. From parent coaching and family support, to equine therapy, nature-based healing, trade skill projects, and experiential coaching, we provide opportunities to practice healthy communication, explore the outdoors, and develop resilience. Every offering is built around the same mission: empowering individuals to create their own path while connecting healthy skills for a sustainable future.
Meet Our Team
Dave Shelton, LCMHC-A, Ed.S., NCC
Owner & Founder • Therapist/Counselor
What to Expect in Therapy with Me
Life can feel heavy—especially when it seems like you’re carrying it alone. As a person-centered practitioner, my goal isn’t to change who you are. Together, we’ll clarify the person you want to become and what you want your life to look like. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)–informed tools and existential philosophy, we’ll reorient how you relate to your circumstances and create individualized, actionable steps aligned with your values.
If you’re navigating challenging relationships, identity barriers, decision paralysis, or you simply want deeper insight into your emotions, we’ll build practical tools you can use every day and practice engaging the world in new ways.
What Makes Me Different
Our work is collaborative—your goals drive the process. I bring an easy-going, positive presence and, when it helps, I’ll use our connection to hold you accountable to the change you’re seeking. We can tailor our approach to fit your needs, and I’m open to learning new methods that support your growth. Most importantly, we’ll keep the focus on what matters to you.
How We’ll Work
We’ll start by understanding your unique challenges, why they matter, and how to move forward. Drawing from ACT, values clarification, emotional processing, and mindfulness, we’ll connect with the self you’re meant to be—then do the real work of acting in alignment with that self.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, including neurodivergent clients, and welcome people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Education & Credentials
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Clemson University
- Ed.S. (Education Specialist) – Clemson University
- Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHC-A) – North Carolina
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)