If you’re looking for a therapist, Austin, TX, is home to a variety of therapists that can help you manage your mental well being. A therapist can provide support to help you manage everything from relationship difficulties to underlying mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. 

Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you’re seeking therapy with a qualified professional in the Austin area, BetterHelp can match you with licensed psychologists, professional counselors, clinical social workers, and other therapists. To provide therapy for BetterHelp, therapists must have completed 2,000 hours of clinical supervision and be fully licensed by the state board, so you won’t meet with a graduate student or LPC associate in your sessions. The therapy cost at BetterHelp is more affordable than many other forms of treatment, too. If you want to work with a mental health professional to gain insight into your own life in a supportive environment, check out the Austin-based therapists below.

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Dr. Dora Whiteside

Offering therapy in TX
License: EdD,LCDC,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience

I absolutely love what I do and I view each day as an opportunity to increase in love, peace, joy, and believing that all other increase (i.e. spiritual and material things) will naturally follow. Not only do I work to increase myself, but I also absolutely love helping others to increase in these areas. I primarily use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, with a mix of Solution based Therapy, and Person Center Therapy, and many different skills and interventions. I have worked in various settings; with clients from many different cultural/ethnic groups; and with various presenting problems. These presenting problems include major depression, anxiety; bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Psychosis, suicidal crisis and multiple suicide attempts; and well as feelings of self harm and harm to others; and other many other problems. When working with clients I like to begin to build the client and therapist relationship/rapport right away, and use this to create individualized treatment for each client. Whenever you make the decision to think about change in your life and/or are ready to begin change, I want to be here for you every step of the way. I pray each day "Lord let today be an adventure and not just a chore". I have been to the deepest depth of depression, death fear, hopelessness, worthlessness to highest out of control points of mania with very risky and reckless behavior and then back to living each day as the "best me". I desire to help guild you through the rough and tough times in life and all the way to truly living "your very best you and your very best life". Whenever you are ready really live your life, and not simply exist, I will be here waiting for you.

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Jessica Gentry

Offering therapy in TX
License: LPC- Supervisor,Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

Jessica is a licensed mental health counselor in Texas and Florida. She has worked in the advocacy and mental health field for 17 years, serving adults, couples, and families. Jessica meets each client where they are, and focuses on one's strengths to empower individuals to make the changes necessary for personal success and overall happiness. Jessica views client through a holistic lens and with a trauma-informed approach to treatment. Formal training and certifications: Trust-Based Relational Intervention- Certified Practitioner EMDR Trained- trained and pending certification Trauma-Informed Care- Level One Certification Trainings Behavioral Health Consultant Academy- Cherokee Health Systems ASIST- Suicide Prevention Cognitive Processing Therapy- Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Psychopharmacology Motivational Interviewing

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Kristi McClatchy

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I specialize in supporting women, LGBTQIA+ folks, young adults, and mothers, ages 18-35 who may be having difficulties with anxiety or simply need a safe space to talk about their experiences and their lives. My goal is to provide a welcoming, warm, and affirming place for you to process through not only your daily stressors, but to unpack some of your childhood experiences that may be manifesting in the present moment. I believe you are the expert on yourself and my role is to listen, validate, and work in collaboration with you to establish short-term and long-term healing goals. In addition to helping folks manage anxiety and day-to-day stressors, I also have training in treating trauma related to childhood abuse and neglect. If you are a survivor of childhood trauma, I will utilize a treatment system called Internal Family Systems as well as other trauma-informed approaches to assist you in processing through those experiences. Sometimes folks have not experienced childhood trauma, but they are noticing they experienced attachment injuries in childhood. I provide education around attachment theory and can provide insights towards how we can work together to begin to heal your "inner child". Attachment injuries can often make adult relationships complicated where you may find yourself inadvertently sabotaging connections, not feeling as though you can open up or show your true feelings to others, or believing that others will ultimately abandon you. My role in these situations is to help you understand your attachment style and develop new strategies to move you towards a place of earned secure attachment, which in turn may help you feel more comfortable in trusting and connecting with others. Last, I am interested in understanding how macro-systems impact the lives of individuals. We do not exist in a vacuum; our lives are deeply impacted by our social contexts. I work with individuals who are interested in deconstructing their social environment in order to feel more empowered and free. I utilize Feminist, Postmodern, and Queer-Allied therapeutic approaches to understand how identity intersects with power and oppression. I also have some experience in working with survivors of religious trauma. I utilize Mindfulness Based approaches to assist these survivors with maintaining a sense of interconnection to the universe and their understanding of a higher power. I also believe creative expression is a vital part of the healing process. I integrate art, movement, writing, meditation, and music into therapy sessions as well. My role is to tailor our discussions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and peaceful life takes tremendous courage. I am deeply honored to support you in your healing journey! I have training the following treatment approaches: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Feminist Therapy. Unfortunately, due to limited knowledge and training , I am currently NOT able to address the following concerns: substance abuse and dependency, any and all addictions, divorce, custody disputes, self-harming behaviors within the past year, disordered eating, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, severe depression, anger management, domestic violence, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, ADHD, or if you have experienced suicidal thoughts within the past year. If we begin working together and it seems that you are in need of a therapist with more training or experience, I will ensure you are connected with a better fit! Here is a little more about my therapeutic experience: I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including a non-profit, day treatment program, and an inpatient psychiatric hospital. I have experience with providing individual and family therapy. During my time at the inpatient psychiatric hospital, I provided hospital wide trainings for nursing and direct-care staff about trauma-informed care. I have worked as a researcher and adjunct professor of psychology as well. Publication: Karcher, McClatchy, Borsuk (2016). "Pair Counseling to Promote Social Competencies Among School Age Children". Play Therapy in Middle Childhood. A.A. Drews and C.E. Schaefer (Editors). American Psychological Association. Some Fun Facts about Me: I love being outdoors. I like to go for hikes and camping trips with my husband. I enjoy reading and listening to podcasts. I'm a huge animal lover! I have 3 dogs and 2 cats who frequently join my sessions (if you have pets, they are welcome and encouraged to join our therapy sessions too!) I'm a big coffee drinker and love to visit local coffee shops. To relax, I enjoy tarot, meditation, yoga, and long walks. I like to do floral arrangements, write, and dance for fun. I'd describe myself as whimsical - I love astrology, poetry, and art. At the same time, I love science! I enjoy learning about neuroscience, animal behavior, and astrophysics. I like learning - especially about people!

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Heidi Reddin

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

My calling for the past 7 years has been to help teens and young adults who have experienced child abuse, dating violence & sexual assault. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, loss and self esteem as a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. Survivors deserve to be heard and safe while they explore the effects of trauma. My approach draws on client strengths, evidence based techniques and providing helpful resources for the survivor and their tribe. I'm here to meet survivors where they are and work at their pace.

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Janessa Rodriguez

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Bobbi Ortiz

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in El Paso, TX with over 20 years of experience working in the filed. I am a therapist, a Social Work professor and the CEO of a nonprofit. I am a certified mental health first aid instructor. Through the therapeutic relationship, we will work towards developing goals, focus on change, develop a deeper understanding of self, challenge negative thoughts and create a healthier life. We will prioritize your mental health and work towards a path of healing. I look forward to working with you.

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Alexandra Reyna

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) and a Certified Anger Resolution Therapist with eight years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the University of Texas-Pan American with a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. Upon graduation, I worked with non-profit organizations to help children and families who were in need of mental health services. I have had the opportunity to help guide children, adults, and families through everyday challenges. I have experience counseling clients with a variety of symptoms including depression, anxiety, stress, and relational issues. In each session I focus on providing each client with the skills and strategies needed to overcome challenges they are experiencing. I strive to provide a welcoming, judgment free environment where individuals can work towards being their best self.

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Dr. Virginia Christophe

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, couples counseling, family conflicts, and coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Cecilia Santini

Offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jennifer Hall

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. You will find honesty and caring when sitting with me.

How to find counseling in Austin

Finding the best therapist close by in Austin can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Austin. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Austin, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Austin or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Austin area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Austin, elsewhere in Travis, or in the greater state of Texas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Austin area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Austin therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Austin due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Austin may not take health insurance, some in the state of Texas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Texas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Austin, Texas working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Austin above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Austin helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Austin therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Austin therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Austin therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in TX, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 78735 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Austin counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Austin licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Austin, Texas can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Austin has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Austin.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Austin:

73301, 73344, 78617, 78651, 78652, 78701, 78702, 78703, 78704, 78705, 78708, 78709, 78710, 78711, 78712, 78713, 78714, 78715, 78716, 78717, 78718, 78719, 78720, 78721, 78722, 78723, 78724, 78725, 78726, 78727, 78728, 78729, 78730, 78731, 78732, 78733, 78735, 78739, 78741, 78742, 78744, 78745, 78746, 78747, 78748, 78749, 78750, 78751, 78752, 78753, 78754, 78755, 78756, 78757, 78758, 78759, 78760, 78761, 78762, 78763, 78764, 78765, 78766, 78767, 78768, 78769, 78772, 78773, 78774, 78778, 78779, 78783, 78799

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