Case Manager David H. Lester finds affirmation in observing improved health in his patients as they progress through the program.
“It’s very rewarding to see the external effects of the positive internal change these guys make while they are here,” says David, who works with young males 18 and older.
“I try hard to meet the patients where they are and have a lot of experience dealing with the Collegiate age group. I don’t rile easily, and I listen well.”
He feels it’s important to exhibit a caring attitude.
“We’re all in the same boat, we’re all human beings and deserve to be treated as such.”
Degrees in Social Work and Psychology
Born in Fort Worth and raised in several locations around Texas, David holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake in San Antonio and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Southwestern University in Georgetown.
His first mental health position out of college was with the state hospital in Austin. He later worked in adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.
For 17 years David had a private psychotherapy practice in South Texas. More recently he was on the staffs of a wilderness camp for adolescent males and another Hill Country-based chemical dependence treatment facility.
A Background in Psychotherapy
When he was ready to move on, David applied at La Hacienda Treatment Center “on the chances there was an opening.”
“I had always heard good things about La Hacienda as to the quality of the program, staff, and administration.”
He was hired and started work here in March 2018.
Time Outdoors and with Family
In his free time, David enjoys camping, kayaking, hunting, fishing, reading, and spending time with his family.
“I am happily remarried. Between us we have two sons, two daughters and six grandkids. I also have an undisciplined, Black Lab/Blue Lacy named Bullet.”
He has also earned a student pilot’s flying license.
Given the opportunity, David would go to Ireland and trace his family history.
