Living in a resort town like Ruidoso, New Mexico can be a blessing as well as a curse. While the vacationers bring in a lot of income and jobs for the town, the crowded streets and recreational areas can be hard on the residents. The town holds many amenities such as the Lincoln National Forest, several mountain ranges, ski resorts, as well as casinos and hotels.

The town of Ruidoso also has great health care including some of the top mental health care experts in the state. Whether you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, depression, or any other mental health concern, there are plenty of counselors in and around Ruidoso who can help.

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Deborah Gaudet

Offering therapy in NM
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My approach is positive and hopeful while realistic, and client focused and directed. My approach is informed by Jungian perspectives, as well as cognitive behavioral approaches. I have a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. I live in the mountains of Northern New Mexico. Theorists and clinicians who inform my work include Carl Rodgers, Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Jacques Lacan, and Bracha Ettinger. I hold faith in the fact that we continue to grow heal and develop throughout the life span, and that each age and stage presents challenges and can also add richness and meaning to our life experiences. I feel passionate about the therapeutic encounter and the possibilities for healing and transformation. I bring this philosophy and clinical lens to our work together in areas ranging from trauma recovery to addiction recovery to grief and loss work, and related issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, loneliness, and life stage challenges, including overwhelming parenting or caregiving stresses and dilemmas. Attending to emotion and the psychological experience can often help create a shift in situations or difficulties that have felt stuck and stagnant for years or decades. My approach is friendly, positive, thorough and practical. In a field that emphasizes the individual, I acknowledge the importance of systemic factors, including notably income inequality, and inequality based on sex and racialization that impact our experiences and mental health, as a factor in making decisions in our lives for our healing and wellness.

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Dr. Sally Brown

Offering therapy in NM
License: PhD, DSW, LCSW
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
31 years of experience

ABOUT ME My name is Sally Brown. I graduated with a Masters degree is Social Work from the University of Houston and a doctorate in Clinical Social Work from Walden University. I also have a PhD in Holistic Health. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, EMDR and motivational interviewing. My focus is on improving an individual's quality of life and helping them find balance. SPECIALTIES Trauma Addictions Relationship issues Stress, Anxiety Depression Also experienced in: LGBT , trauma and abuse , grief , intimacy-related issues , anger management , self esteem ,bipolar disorder , coping with life changes , compassion fatigue, gender identity, Abandonment , coping with disability. Clinical approaches: Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR),Cognitive Processing Therapy , Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, New Decision Therapy Years of Experience: 31 SERVICES OFFERED MESSAGING LIVE CHAT PHONE VIDEO LANGUAGES English Spanish LICENSING LCSW - AZ #16760 LCSW-NM 06170 LCSW-CO00992910 LCSW-HI 4144 NM LADAC 0114001

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Mandy Lopez Azimy

Offering therapy in NM
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome to online therapy! *Please note: At this time, I am offering asynchronous communication via text messaging and live chat services only. If you’d prefer other modalities (live phone and/or video call), that is understandable. I encourage you to explore BetterHelp's network of available licensed counselors that will match your preference. I honor you for taking the time to be here! I know that you are brave because you’re willing to look more closely at yourself. I’m here to be with you through life’s challenges AND successes. If you're looking to find meaning, joy and peace in the present and develop strength-based strategies for the future, look no further! My name is Mandy Lopez Azimy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of New Mexico. I specialize in parenting issues, attachment disruptions, life transitions, healthy boundaries, relationship issues, self esteem, depression and anxiety. I believe that in order to show up for life and all it's challenges, we must be able to regulate our nervous system, calm our mind, and trust our inner wisdom to give us clear direction. My approach to treatment is to help you witness yourself through the lens of love, acceptance, and compassion. Seeing yourself in this new way will offer huge relief and the opportunity to go deeper in your healing. Interventions are focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) techniques. I bring a clarifying, energizing, and intuitive presence to my sessions. I hold a safe space through non-judgment in order to encourage self-expression. We will work together to illuminate and resolve any stories, beliefs, thoughts, and unresolved emotions that may unconsciously hinder personal growth. Whether you're having a moment of minor overwhelm or find yourself in a state of panic, you can turn to this platform for solutions and support. "You are the guru, learn to trust the guidance within you." -Gabrielle Bernstein

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Eric Golden

Offering therapy in NM
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

There are definitely things that we can do in service of our own healing and growth but I tend to believe that there aren’t really answers or solutions to things, nor does there need to be, but instead ways of looking at them and holding them so that we can be in better relationship with them. I believe we can offer ourselves a perspective that can turn situations, circumstances, feelings, relationships with others and the relationship with ourselves into dance partners, instead of opponents that need to be defeated, not allowed or kept down. We can invite all of our experiences onto the dance floor of our heart! As a human being we will sometimes dance with incredible Grace and at other times be quite clumsy. We are allowed, we are human! If we allow ourselves to move with humor, patience, understanding and forgiveness we can recognize that our life’s dance can truly be Blessed and beautiful! Quite simply offering behavioral, emotional and relational support to young people, individuals and families on their journeys. Providing a strength based approach in which warmth, patience, humility, humor and sincere reflection nurture the already existing health and strength within each human being. Since 2012 I have been Blessed with being able to provide therapeutic support to children, adolescents, adults and families in my role as a youth and family therapist. I would be honored to provide any support or therapeutic accompaniment I can offer to assist you on your path of healing, personal growth, individual unfoldment or just surfing the waves of life. I look forward to working with you. Thank you so much! Eric

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Elizabeth Chavez

Offering therapy in NM
License: MA, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Jo and I appreciate you taking a look at my profile to consider if I might be a good match for what you need. MY EXPERIENCE: I am an independently licensed counselor (LPCC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My career journey has placed me within: Intensive Psychiatric Hospital settings, Correctional settings, Substance Treatment Centers, and Community Counseling Centers. WHAT I’VE LEARNED: The common factor that everyone I have ever supported through my counseling services seems to have is that they just want to feel better now. They also want to have the tools, insight, and motivation to keep feeling better and to keep making the choices that will help them to feel stable, safe, happy, content and engaged in life in a way that works for them. MY APPROACH: I believe that every individual is doing the best they can in the moment in their lives. Sometimes help and support is needed to manage the stressors that life throws our way. My approach is very person-centered. When I meet with you, it's a conversation. You know yourself. My job is to understand you: your needs, wants, desires, obstacles, strengths and growing edges, dreams, fears, challenges. How we work together depends on your needs and who you are as an individual. MY SPECIALITIES: • Trauma/Grief • Depression • Anxiety • Substance Use • Life Transitions • Existential Crisis WAYS WE CAN WORK TOGETHER: Some of the modalities I am able to use include: • CBT • DBT • Somatic Therapy • Relational/Systems Therapy • Mindfulness • Solution-Focused Therapy • Narrative Therapy • Motivational Therapy

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Dr. Andrew Mendonsa

Offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in various states with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. There isn't much I have not seen and helped folks through. My professional background has included working within criminal justice settings, psychiatric settings, community mental health, with high-wealth clients, everyday folks, and folks from all walks of life. Besides my clinical psychology doctorate and master degrees, I also went to business school and earned an MBA which allows me to bring perspectives and interventions that other therapists might be missing. I have owned, managed and sold businesses and bring that experience to those who need it. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. If you are looking to be in therapy your whole life with me, I am not your match. I believe in getting goals developed, getting folks some solid progress, and then, when ready, using therapy as needed. Like a car, folks should take themselves into the shop for tune-ups throughout their life. No car stays in the shop the entire time you own it? Why should you stay in therapy your whole life? Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Feel free to learn more about me at www.AndrewMendonsa.com.

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Nancy Martinez

Offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

My name is Nancy L. Martinez, and I am licensed as a clinical social worker ( LCSW) in New Mexico. I have four years of clinical work experience in therapy and sixteen years in the mental health field. I have developed a well-rounded working knowledge of clinical modalities and skill development through different capacities and positions I have had in mental health throughout my career. I am also grateful to have worked with an abundance of people who have exposed me to many walks of life. My masters' degree is in Social Work with an emphasis on Clinical work and Bilingual/Bicultural Studies. I was honored to do my thesis within some pueblos in Mexico at the School of Social Work there. I have a diverse background and do my best to render culturally sensitive therapy. Through support, guidance, and the work of therapy, I have seen the restoration of many. My experience includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, depression and bipolar disorder, as well as addictions. I also offer therapy within a Christian and Biblical context, if requested. I have worked together with many clients to provide a safe and open environment where thoughts and feelings can be expressed with no judgment. This journey may prove to be life-changing, and it begins with one step forward. I am here to support and assist you in the pursuit of self-growth and healing. I will do so with empathy and compassion as I accompany you during this process. I work with 18+ and look forward to working with you.

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Linda Acosta-Smith

Offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in both Texas and New Mexico with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Ashleigh Pratt

Offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hey there! I'm Ashleigh Pratt, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Mexico and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts. I work with folks from a broad range of backgrounds in a supportive, inclusive, and judgement-free way. I can help you work through issues like depression, anxiety, life changes, stress management, self-esteem, family/relationship issues, and much more. I use strength-based and evidence-informed therapy methods to help you along the way. My mission is to create a safe and accepting environment for you to express your true self and work towards your goals. I will be your biggest supporter but also help to challenge negative thinking patterns that can get in the way of your happiness. I will be by your side every step of the way during this process. I know how hard it can be to ask for help, and I am so proud of you for taking this first step towards growth and healing. Please let me know if you have any questions at all, and I look forward to learning more about you!

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Richard Banton

Offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico and Connecticut with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression and other life issues. I operate from a mental wellness perspective as opposed to a mental illness perspective. This means that you, the client must be seeking mental wellness and believe that it is possible. If you have been told that you are damaged, broken, or defective and you prefer not to view yourself that way I can help. I teach clients how they are creating their moment to moment experience using three universal concepts of mind, consciousness, and thought. When clients are able to realize how they are creating their painful experience of life, they become able to stop doing that. They experience a dramatic paradigm shift that empowers them to be happier, more content and peaceful than they ever imagined possible. *** This is not to deny that you are currently having or have had very painful experiences. It is an invitation see something new that can empower you to move forward with a calm and clear confidence.

How to find counseling in Ruidoso

Finding the best therapist close by in Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso. 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 Ruidoso, 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso, elsewhere in Lincoln, or in the greater state of New Mexico.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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 Ruidoso, New Mexico 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 NM, 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 88345 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso, New Mexico 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.

Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso.

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

88338, 88345, 88355

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