"Doug Hester is a minister, therapist, teacher and most importantly a systems thinker.  He brings his experience in all these areas to his seminars.  Doug's presentation style makes systems theory and the leadership ideas of Edwin Friedman come alive.  For clergy of all denominations these seminars can be a life line."
Mickie Crimone, MS, APRN
The Center for Family Process, Bethesda, MD (co-founder with Edwin Friedman)

"There seems to be virtually nothing in human experience to which systems theory does not apply!  Whether talking about one's family of origin, one's nuclear family, one's workplace or one's parish, the thought and teaching of Ed Friedman and Murray Bowen have insight to provide.  Even when their suggestions seem counterintuitive, if their principles are faithfully applied, great health seems to ensue.  Doug Hester's particular gift is that he knows systems theory so well and is such a fine and experienced teacher, he can render its complexities comprehensible and offer sage counsel for dealing with the dilemmas we all face in our lives, both personally and professionally.  I highly recommend him."

The Very Rev. Douglas Travis                                                                                                                                                 Dean and President -- The Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest                                                                                                                           

"For several years a colleague encouraged me to try Doug's systems class and I always found a reason not to take him up on the invitation.  Then three years ago I finally took the plunge and I haven't looked back.  I've enrolled each year and will continue to do so as long as I'm in range of one of Doug's class sites.  The material presented, and Doug's approach, have proven to be an invaluable resource in addressing the challenges of parish ministry and family relationships with some measure of theological, professional, and personal integrity and depth."

Rev. James Hejl
Taylor Brethren Church, Taylor, TX

"Throughout my first assignment as a Deacon in Charge, and later on, as a Vicar of a Church in San Antonio, Dr. Hester's class taught me how to begin developing the concept of effective leadership, by learning how to become a 'non-anxious presence.'  Upon my accepting the invitation to become a member of the staff at Christ Church Cathedral, in Houston, Dr. Hester's class continues to be a crucial part in my formation as an effective priest, especially with the leadership concepts of 'maintaining differentiation, while remaining connected.'  I recommend Dr. Hester's programs without hesitation.  These classes are most valuable continuing education tools for me."
Rev. Luchy Littlejohn, Canon Pastor
Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, TX

"Doug Hester is a master teacher! Yet he does more than merely 'inform' his loyal students. Indeed, Doug inspires calm, confidence and reflection in each of us. So by all means, come and study Family Systems Theory with Doug Hester; he will enrich your professional life through his expertise! Additionally, Doug will help you become a more 'centered' spiritual leader, using his life's journey as a model for professional growth."
Rabbi Seth Stander 
Congregation Beth El, Missouri City, TX

"In my 15 years of active parish ministry, I have participated in Dr. Doug Hester's 'Family Systems' class for 13.  The classes have helped not only my pastor-parish relationships, but my family relationships as well.  Plus, I feel I've grown both as a person and as a pastor.  Most exciting is that I find myself thinking more systemically about the church, my family, and all my relationships.  I recommend the class for all."
Rev. Mike Cave
St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, San Antonio, TX

"Doug's classes offer an environment to explore the application of systems thinking to church leadership.  His presentations are accessible and thought provoking at the same time.  What a joy to have him as a resource for continuing education.  If you are tired of the 'usual suspects' for continuing education - try Doug's class as an alternative."
Rev. Peter Cammarano
First United Methodist Church, Brazoria, TX

"I believe family systems theory is an answer to the 'how' of the two great commandments: to love God and to love one's neighbor. Through these classes we learn ways to build healthier relationships. And through class interaction, we find support with one another as we share common concerns and struggle."
Rev. Ed Wolf
First Presbyterian Church, Duncanville, TX

"I have attended Doug's leadership classes for several years and have always found them helpful.  The classes and suggested reading have been applicable in my family and the congregation I serve with positive results in strengthening relationships, leadership development and even worship.  Doug has an enjoyable teaching style that mixes technology, lecture, discussion and humor.  I am often amazed at how much useful information is shared in a few hours."
Rev. David Pantermuehl
Gethsemane United Church of Christ, Houston, TX

"It's one thing to learn something for the first time and formulate professional skills.  It's quite another to revisit the same learning after years of experience and enjoy having the blanks filled in.  Each requires a different teaching approach.  Doug Hester has mastered the art of doing both well and at the same time.  But then, in systems theory, what else is new?"
Lane Johnson, Counselor, Private Practice
Victoria, TX

"As a recovering perfectionist and people pleaser, it has been a lifesaver for me to be in Doug's family systems class. It's not just another class (this is my 3rd year), but a way of learning to live a less stress-filled life--learning not to take on everyone else's stress and keeping my own at a minimum!"
Rev. Glenna Kelley
First United Methodist Church, Junction, TX

"Doug Hester's class on Family Systems Theory, based on the work of Rabbi Ed Friedman, should be required of every minister, priest, rabbi and imam in Texas!  The application of this powerful theory to religious life can literally change one's active ministry overnight.  Doug's presentation is interesting, witty and intelligent; you will certainly leave each class energized and ready to face the day with renewed enthusiasm for your ministry or rabbinate.  Many people return to Doug's class year after year in order to soak up this material; truly the use of Ed Friedman's work is boundless and timeless."
Rabbi Jordan Parr
Adat Chaverim, Plano, TX

"The reason I enroll in Doug's class is because it affords me the opportunity to be in a group of leaders who stimulate me with their experience and intelligence concerning the topic of ministry.  Also, Doug presents material each and every time that informs me and keeps me anchored to good, sound principles of leadership."
Rev. Michael Zimmerman
First Baptist Church, Bay City,TX

"In the past I have picked up bits and pieces of Family Systems Theory from here and there, but this course has helped me see the overall picture.  What I have learned has helped me make a whole lot of sense out of relationships in the congregation I serve and in my family."
Rev. Jeff Thompson
St. John Lutheran Church, Robstown, TX

"Doug Hester is a master teacher.  His classes on Bowen family systems theory are just the right blend of theory and practical application.  Doug brings a wealth of both pastoral and clinical experience and allows due time for questions and case material from participants.  Although I was fairly well acquainted with family systems theory prior to taking Doug's classes, I have never left a class without learning something new.  Doug's use of cartoons, humor, and film clips adds a creative spark to each class.  His classes are well worth the time--and I highly recommend them.  His insistence that family systems is not just some 'theory' we understand cognitively--but a useful lens that both informs and guides how we manage ourselves, families, and respective ministries continues to challenge me."
Rev. David Lee Jones, Th.D.
Director, Doctor of Ministry Program
Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Austin, TX

"Experience has taught me that being a leader in any system inevitably means being the 'lightening rod' that attracts the power surges that course through the system.  The Family Systems Seminars have taught me that my personal response to those inevitable power surges provides the greatest promise for effective and productive leadership."
Rev. Ron Shott
Point Comfort & Lolita United Methodist Churches, Point Comfort, TX

"I've enjoyed the class in many respects:  It has helped me grow as a person, as a pastor, as a family member, but most importantly as a Child of God.  My only regret is that I didn't start taking the class sooner!!!  I highly recommend it."
Rev. Consuelo Donahue
Hospice Chaplain, San Antonio, TX

"I really enjoy Doug's class on systems theory based on the works of Murray Bowen and Edwin Friedman.  He has such a depth of knowledge of systems theory as it applies to families and to organizations as well as a thought provoking teaching style.  At the end of each class I come away with more insights and tools to bring to my family, my business, and to my clients, especially to those clients owning family businesses."
Lisa Bargsley, CPA
Bargsley, Andrews, & Steinbach, CPAs, LLP
Austin, TX

"Is chronic anxiety making it difficult for you to keep Jesus' command to 'Consider the lilies!'?  Doug Hester and the Family Systems approach to life and ministry will help you 'consider the lilies' AND 'smell the roses.'"
Rev. Bette Burris
Goliad Presbyterian Church, Goliad, TX

"The class has given me a new understanding of my interpersonal dynamics and those of my congregation.  I've gained valuable insight on relating to others in my personal life and in my congregation."
Rev. Steve Schur
Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Hondo, TX