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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Martha Meador

Offering therapy in TX
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

Hello! My name is Martha and I am an LPC licensed in the state of Texas. I have a Master of Science degree in Psychology from Texas Wesleyan University(2007). My experience in the mental health field is over 17 years consisting of case management, crisis intervention, counseling, psychiatric emergency room assessments and diagnosis. I would describe my counseling style as one of being caring, compassionate, trustworthy, genuine and ethical. My favorite therapeutic approaches are Person-centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and feel that they lend themselves well to helping with most issues. I believe that it's very important to allow you to learn and identify the skills you need to work on the issues you are experiencing throughout therapy sessions and long after therapy sessions end. My hope for you is that you will feel comfortable discussing any topics of concern and that you are able to gain the knowledge you need to help you through this time in your life. I look forward to working with you and thank you for putting your trust in me!

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Dr. Marshia Allen

Offering therapy in TX
License: MEd,LPC-S,RPT
Stress, AnxietyDepression
15 years of experience

“In my early professional years I was asking the question: How can I treat, or cure, or change this person? Now I would phrase the question in this way: How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their own personal growth?” - Carl Rogers I believe that the most important thing in counseling is the therapeutic relationship that will develop between us, and that you will experience me as a real and genuine person in this relationship. As a Licensed Professional Counselor – Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist, I have provided counseling services for over a decade in a variety of roles including university based mental health clinics, crisis hospitalization treatment, and as a child and adolescent parent educator. Additionally, I have presented a wide assortment of unique workshops that focused on enhancing the parent-child relationship in vulnerable populations and on the use of effective crisis intervention strategies for adolescents through group therapy treatment.

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Stephanie Ritcherson

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. I have worked with clients who were survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, including survivors of human trafficking, as well as individuals who have varied concerns regarding depression, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy issues, family concerns, sexual difficulties, work and life balance struggles, career challenges, and parenting issues. I have also had many years of experience helping those who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is relaxed and professional. I am warm and inviting with a focus on building rapport to encourage a therapeutic and working relationship. Treating the client with dignity and respect is a priority. I have an appreciation for individual uniqueness and encourage all clients to bring their personal life experience and knowledge into sessions. I have traveled and have worked with clients from varying cultures and acknowledge the beauty of cultures and ethnic backgrounds. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and trauma-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Choosing to take an active role in making changes in your life is admirable and takes courage. I welcome you to your new beginning and will support you as you take the first and most important steps in having the life you deserve. I look forward to working with you!

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Cherry Weaver

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCDC,LPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
16 years of experience

Hello! My name is Cherry and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: inpatient substance abuse/psychiatric hospitalization, partial and intensive outpatient care, and with a private practice in the Fort Worth, Texas. I work with clients with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, couples and domestic violence. I received my Masters degree in Counseling at Amberton University in Garland, Texas. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their lives and let them determine the focus and progress in therapy. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Coaching and Brain Spotting to help client reach their goals. I will use the modality(s) which lends itself to the particular issues and the client. Brain Spotting is an off-shoot of EMDR which is used in many countries and is a brain and body based therapy. SPECIALTIES Relationship Issues Substance Use Domestic Violence Trauma Life Coaching I am also experienced in: Parenting Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Years of Experience: 16

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Alexandra Leonardo-Hsu

Offering therapy in TX
License: MSSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. In my private practice, I help my clients find their spark and passion back into their lives by helping them to develop tools that will lead to greater self-awareness, awareness of others, and mindfulness practices. After overcoming my own struggle with anxiety through yoga and mindfulness practices, I decided to pursue further training as a yoga teacher and incorporate holistic healing practices in therapy. Now, I teach clients how to practice yoga, breathing exercises, and mindfulness during our sessions together so they can live the life they were meant to without holding themselves back. My ultimate goal is to assist people in finding their life purpose and living it fully!

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Connie Fredrick

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
6 years of experience

Hello! I applaud your bravery in taking the first step to being your best self! I provide virtual sessions. My focus is supporting black women and other BIPOC women to help address and heal racial trauma, generational trauma, life changes, difficult life adjustments, grief, low self-esteem, women issues, and relationship issues just to name a few. I use a solution focused, cognitive behavioral model that can incorporate cultural and religious/spiritual elements if you prefer. Let's work together to get you to a healed & healthy place! I offer traditional talk therapy individually and in groups. I also offer premarital counseling. If the client is religious, I can incorporate spiritual counseling as well. My priority is to meet the client where they are. I recognize the mental health barriers for people of color, and I believe representation matters in therapy also. We are in this together. I want black women who need therapy to reach out to me so you can get the therapy you deserve in a safe, culturally competent space.

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Karyn Smiley

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorder
4 years of experience

I am a graduate of Northcentral University with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy. I have worked with diverse populations including individual, couple, and families. I also have experience in helping families cope with more severe mental illness such as bipolar, schizophrenia and depression. I enjoy empowering people to take charge of their own emotions and become expert problem solvers.

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Stephanie Passmore

Offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed to practice in Texas and Washington, and I have 8 years of professional work experience. My expertise lies in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, as well as parenting issues. I strongly believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I understand that every individual has their unique needs, and I will tailor our conversations and treatment plan accordingly. Taking the first step towards seeking therapy can require a great deal of courage, and I am proud of you for getting started.

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Gene Hauser

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 20 years of experience. It has been my honor to work with disabled American Veterans, persons who are homeless and marginalized, and those who have severe mental health issues. I am mostly retired but continue to maintain my commitment to help others develop a strong and healthy sense of self, explore their feelings, find meaning and purpose, and focus on their strengths. My core beliefs are to treat everyone with dignity and respect; equity of power (meaning this is your time and your choices), and transformation (we all have the ability to change our lives). I encourage you to take that first step in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support you on your journey.

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Lauren Nash

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
7 years of experience

I am an LPC located in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I received both my undergraduate and graduate degree from Dallas Baptist University. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, postpartum anxiety/depression, infertility and family planning, relationship or interpersonal issues, and parenting issues. My goal is to help clients understand their own story and learn how to integrate tools and strategies to help improve their quality of life. It is my hope to go along side you in your journey and help you find your way through the adversities and difficulties that we face in life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take immense courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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 78651 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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