By Loretta Fulton

In May of this year, Colin Hollingsworth completed the 3,000 hours of supervision to become a fully Licensed Professional Counselor. But that’s not the only thing good that happened.

Around the same time, he learned of an opening with Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS). 

“After researching and interviewing for the position, I immediately felt it was the type of work I had always hoped to do,” he said. “I can confidently say it has provided some of the most meaningful experiences of my professional career.”

His professional career has been varied. At only age 26, Collin has graduated Summa Cum Laude from Hardin-Simmons University in 2020 with an undergraduate degree in psychology. He then earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from HSU in 2022.

He then was a behavior liaison at an elementary school and earned a certification as a special education teacher. He then was asked to lead the Disciplinary Education Program for elementary students in Abilene schools. He has also worked in a local high school and has served parttime for two years as a therapist at the Ben Richey Boys Ranch and Family Program. 

With all that, Colin is working to strengthen community partnerships between Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services and local organizations. As a Child and Family Specialist, Colin’s role is to provide compassionate support and guidance to children and families facing challenges by promoting stability, healing, and growth.

“My ultimate goal,” Colin said, “is to empower families to create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.”

Colin and Lizzie Hollingworth and daughter Libby

BIO
Profession: Child and Family Specialist, Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services
Age: 26
Family: Wife, Lizzie, and daughter, Libby
Education: Cooper High School, 2017; Summa Cum Laude from Hardin-Simmons University in 2020 with an undergraduate degree in psychology; Master’s degree from HSU in clinical mental health counseling in 2022
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A) credential; certified special education teacher; May 2025, completed the 3,000 supervision hours required for full LPC licensure; over the past year, completed advanced training in both ADHD and trauma treatment; ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider; EMDR-trained therapist, which allows helping individuals process trauma and find healing from past or present experiences. 
Other professional experience: After earning LPC-A, worked as a behavior liaison at a local elementary school; led Disciplinary Education Program for elementary students; behavior specialist at a local high school, providing behavioral and mental health interventions to students in need; therapist at the Ben Richey Boys Ranch and Family Program, providing individual counseling for boys and supporting house parents as needed. Around the same time, I learned of an opening with Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS). After researching and interviewing for the position, I immediately felt it was the type of work I had always hoped to do
Community: Volunteers with Youth Voice, a local nonprofit serving students in grades 6–12; active members of First Central Presbyterian Church

Q: When did you open an office at First Central Presbyterian? Where is it located?
A: PCHAS has maintained an office at First Central Presbyterian Church for more than 15 years. The previous Child and Family Specialist served this community faithfully for many years, and I feel honored to continue that legacy. The PCHAS office is located on the second floor in Room 202, between the elevator and Fellowship Hall.

Q: Are your services available only to church members or to the general public?
A: Our services are open to anyone in need of support. PCHAS serves all families regardless of religious affiliation, financial status, or background. The only requirement is that there be a child in the home. While most of the families I serve are not church members, our services are always available to members of First Central Presbyterian as well.

Q: How long have you been in practice as a Child and Family Specialist?
A: I began serving as the Child and Family Specialist in July of this year.

Q: Have you worked with PCHAS before?
A: This is my first position with PCHAS, though I have extensive experience working in areas that closely align with the agency’s mission and services.

Q: Are you connected with the Presbyterian Medical Care Mission? Do you receive referrals from there?
A: I have not yet received referrals from the Presbyterian Medical Care Mission, but I do have relationships with several people affiliated with the organization and anticipate connecting more closely in the near future. I have referred several families there for medical support and appreciate the resources they provide to the community.

Q: Your information flier mentions services are provided at no cost. Are there any fees for other services?
A: All PCHAS services are completely free. We are blessed to offer support to any family in need, regardless of income or circumstance.

Q: Do you offer group sessions at the church?
A: Not at this time, though I am very open to offering group sessions in the future if the need arises. Possible group topics could include grief, trauma, or parenting. I would be happy to explore this further based on community interest.