Marcus Thigpen, MA, Counseling Intern

Marcus Thigpen - MA, Counseling Intern

Marcus Thigpen is a former professional football player who discovered his passion for inspiring others while excelling on the field. As an NFL running back, Marcus realized the power of his talent and faith in Christ to uplift and encourage his fans. This passion led him to pursue a broader impact through writing and personal development. In 2019, Marcus published his first autobiography, Resist & Persist, where he shared the highs and lows of his journey as an athlete, inspiring readers to overcome their own challenges. The success of his book fueled his desire to continue empowering others through storytelling and personal growth.

Beyond his football career, Marcus earned a Master’s in Psychology and appeared in various film and television roles. Known for his compassionate and service-oriented approach to life, he is now pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to expand his ability to support others. Marcus’s unwavering faith, coupled with his role as a devoted father of seven, shapes his mission to help individuals and families thrive.

Marcus’s Role at Lion Counseling
As a team member at Lion Counseling, Marcus provides individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and life coaching. His specialties include:

• Managing anxiety and stress
• Healing from trauma and grief
• Supporting marriages and families

For clients interested in a faith-based approach, Marcus incorporates Christian Counseling into his work, offering a unique perspective grounded in his own “crazy faith” journey.

Under the guidance of his supervisor, Mark Odland, the founder of Lion Counseling, Marcus combines his educational background, personal experiences, and professional achievements to offer clients a truly transformative counseling experience. Working with Marcus means benefiting from the expertise and collaboration of both men, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your care.

Why Choose Marcus Thigpen?
Marcus brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to his role as a counselor and coach. His qualifications include:

• Currently completing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Grand Canyon University
• Holding a Master of Science in Psychology with a focus on Life Coaching from Grand Canyon University
• Earning a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science with a Minor in Criminal Justice from Indiana University
• A 12-year career in professional football with the NFL and CFL
• Authoring two inspirational books: Resist & Persist and When No Isn’t an Option
• Helping men navigate career transitions, including mentoring NFL athletes
• Living his purpose as a husband and father to seven children

Marcus’s background as a professional athlete, author, and life coach, combined with his strong faith and commitment to growth, make him uniquely qualified to guide clients toward personal breakthroughs. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or your family, Marcus is here to help you achieve lasting change.

The “Lion” Philosophy

At Lion Counseling, we work with a wide range of clients but specialize in helping high-achieving men and their spouses achieve their personal and relational goals. Marcus offers a variety of services, including individual counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling, and life coaching. For those who seek it, these services can be delivered through a Christian lens, integrating faith into the healing and growth process.

Our team has extensive experience supporting men in demanding careers, such as CEOs, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals in fields like medicine, aviation, engineering, and architecture.

Understanding the Unique Challenges of High-Achieving Men
The concept of “balance” is often oversimplified, especially for men who face constant pressure to excel in their professional and personal lives. As a high-performing individual, you are deeply committed to your family while also feeling the weight of your responsibilities at work. This dynamic can leave you feeling stretched thin and conflicted.

You may not feel like a “caged lion,” as you’ve already taken bold steps to escape mediocrity. Instead, you might identify more with being a “rogue lion,” forging your own path and pursuing freedom—the freedom to chase your passions, provide for your loved ones, and create a life of purpose.

While the thrill of achievement and competition remains fulfilling, many successful men eventually turn their focus to deeper goals: nurturing meaningful relationships, cultivating personal passions, and building a lasting legacy. You may have made progress in these areas, but relationships, particularly with a spouse or children, can present unique challenges. The skills and mindset that drive your professional success often don’t translate to the complexities of home life.

Why Counseling and Coaching Matter
Even the most respected and accomplished men encounter vulnerabilities at home. Flaws and insecurities that may go unnoticed in public can be magnified in close relationships. It’s natural to feel defensive, angry, or hurt when faced with these challenges. However, the real strength lies in confronting these feelings and doing the inner work necessary to grow.

At Lion Counseling, we guide you through this process with compassion and expertise. Whether you’re struggling with stress, motivation, or unhealthy habits, we’re here to support you. Think of us as your co-pilot navigating you through life’s turbulence, helping you find clarity, peace, and priorities that align with your values.

Confidentiality and Customization
Unlike traditional therapy, life coaching is not covered by insurance, ensuring your privacy and eliminating the need for a formal diagnosis. This approach allows for completely confidential, tailored support—designed to meet the unique needs of men in leadership positions.

Our team has helped hundreds of men achieve breakthroughs in life, but true transformation requires readiness and commitment. As Dr. Jordan Peterson famously said, “You’re not everything you could be, and you know it.” If you’re prepared to take the next step, we’re here to walk alongside you, helping you unlock your full potential.