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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Craig Kalman

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA, LCPC, LPC NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
33 years of experience

I've been a professional counselor for over 31 years working at several very interesting locations during my career. I spent over 12 years at the National Institutes of health serving a wide spectrum of clients from some of the leading health researchers in the world to the hardworking staff workers from executive administrators to cafeteria custodians. I was the senior staff EAP representative and crisis counselor during the attack on the Pentagon on 9/11/2001, the anthrax attack in Washington D.C. two weeks later and the D.C. Sniper about a year later. Subsequently I gained a tremendous amount of first line experience assisting people with stress and trauma as well as the milieu of issues facing any employee of such a large institution. After a 12 year stint at the NIH I was recruited to work with DOD and the United States military around the country assisting soldiers and their families with the complicated relationship and individual stress brought about by multiple combat deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and other areas on conflict in the world. My experiences have given me a tremendous amount of training and skills honing toward helping people deal with a multitude of issues. I know how difficult it can be to ask for help and I applaud you for your courage in coming to this site to seek a solution to issues in life which can indeed be challenging. I look forward to working along with you on your journey of change and personal improvement. My style is relaxed and accepting with the aim of providing my client a safe and non-judgmental venue with which to explore their current situation. My approaches are somewhat eclectic using motivational interviewing to center on specific areas of conflict or distress and applying various modes of cognitive behavioral therapy to help effect change . Areas of Expertise: Stress Management Processing Trauma Grief and Loss The Navigation of sudden change, both personal and professional/vocational Generalized and Specific Anxiety

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Sara Cooley

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Colorado and Texas. I earned my license in 2017 and have been working as a psychotherapist for adults, adolescents, and groups. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and processing through past trauma and abuse. I am additionally interested in helping clients address issues of spirituality and meaning. My counseling style is person-centered. I believe everyone is the expert of their own lives and experiences, and my role as counselor is to help guide clients toward change they want for themselves. I value nonjudmentalness, openness, and authenticity in counseling sessions. My background primarily includes cognitive behavioral therapies, including acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. I am also a certified EMDR therapist. Ultimately, I believe it is important to structure counseling sessions around your unique needs and goals. I look forward to meeting with you!

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Karyn Bates

Offering therapy in TX
License: M.S.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Working as a Licensed Professional Counselor for over ten years has given me great empathy for those suffering with anxiety, mood disorders, and relationship issues. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with major depression, bipolar disorder, and other diagnosed mental health disorders. I greet my clients with genuine warmth and acceptance, respecting where you are on the path to wellness and self-discovery. I will do an initial, brief evaluation over the phone and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Then we will work together to help your achieve your therapy goals. Sessions may include: -Reprocessing ineffective thoughts and behaviors. -Gaining new perspectives on difficult circumstances. -Using body-oriented techniques to tap into your body's natural resources. -Take home activities to help you practice new skills I help clients manage stress, build relationships and enhance communication skills by providing psychotherapy and counseling services. My goal is to listen, understand and support clients so that they will know their own inner strength and no longer need my services. My approach is to provide an environment that feels safe and comfortable for individuals, young or old, to explore and discuss issues that are causing them distress. I help clients discover realistic and practical ways to grow and to more fully interact with others, while learning to better understand oneself. Together we will identify your hopes and goals for change, and then walk through the process of change together.

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Queamani Mickens

Offering therapy in TX
License: MS,LPA-IP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
4 years of experience

I am a licensed psychological associate in Texas with over 4 years of experience providing individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy; administering and interpreting psychological assessments; and formulating psychological reports for private patients of various ages and for preschool and school aged youth as referred by local school districts. Through consulting within the school system, it is here where I identified a great and immediate need for youth mental health intervention. I I took a 4 year break from practicing psychology to become a full-time middle school math teacher to help meet this mental health crisis among local youth. I have experience working with various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, emotional regulation, interpersonal issues, personality disorders, and Autism to name a few. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I look forward to getting to know you! Visit my website for more info and resources at therapywithkiki.com.

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Matthew Lee

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issues
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 addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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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Jason Jenkins

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 11 years of professional counseling experience. I graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts Degree in Biblical and Professional Counseling. I am also trained in the use of EMDR. I specialize in teen, tween, and adolescent trauma. I also comparable experience in helping other age groups with trauma and abuse, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation and 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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Donna Martinez

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf 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 extreme life changes, depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in no judgement, and that the conflicts you have in your life are important, and that you are the expert of your story. I believe in helping you see that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you and in reasons to why things are how they seem or why things happen. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Matthew Henderson

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

As a compassionate and dedicated tele-health counselor licensed in the states of Texas and Missouri, I bring over 27 years of professional experience to our sessions. My journey in this field includes working in a private psychiatric hospital, community mental health clinics, employee assistance/ insurance programs, long-term care facilities, a military mental health clinic, and private practice. This has equipped me with deep insights into managing stress and anxiety, fostering motivation, boosting self-esteem and confidence, navigating career challenges, and adapting to life’s changes. What sets my approach apart is my commitment to creating a warm, inclusive, and safe space. Here, every thought and feeling is respected, free from judgment. I believe in a collaborative process, working together to unlock your potential for a more fulfilling and happier life. This journey requires courage, and I deeply admire the strength it takes to start. In our sessions, you’ll find a blend of empathy, expertise, and tailored strategies aimed at your unique life story and goals. The strategies I would use would be based on the unique qualities of you as a human being within the context of your cultural and life circumstances. Some of the approaches that I employ include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Solution Focused Treatment, and Mindfulness approaches. Your well-being is my priority, and together, we’ll explore new perspectives and coping mechanisms that resonate with your personal experiences. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, with me supporting you every step of the way towards a more empowered and joyful life.

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Dr. Betsy Puentes

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
45 years of experience

I am licensed with 4 licenses in mental health in Texas. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, plus I have 45 years of professional work experience. I have been helping clients overcome stress, depression, anxiety, motivational problems, low self-esteem, weak self-confidence, career difficulties, and a variety of other sensitive issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have strengths that will assist you in resolving things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am available to assist you in that process.

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Krissandra Haynes

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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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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 78742 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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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