This is Sarah Soto's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Soto

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been conducting therapy for a total of six years. I have worked with clients endeavoring through intense trauma, psychological crisis, addiction, anxiety, depression, stress management, unhealthy patterns, self-image, interpersonal relationship issues, and life in general. I have created strong therapeutic relationships with clients from differing socioeconomic statuses, genders, ages, and life-stages. I have run mindfulness training and stress-relief exercises. I continuously aspire to continue my education and sharpen my skills. I practice through a person-centered, integrative, and eclectic perspective. I have received specialized training in EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, sexual trauma, and addictions. I am culturally competent and am an advocate for those who are queer and gender non-conforming. In addition to my experience, I hold a Masters Degree in Counseling, a Bachelors Degree in English and a Bachelors Degree in Radio, Television, and Film. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Therapy and clients ignite and excite me. I am passionate about helping individuals and communities; I love what I do. My beliefs about mental health are an immense part of who I am at my core. It is not a job, it is a calling. You can consider me an emotional guardian and professional secret keeper. In a session, I start with the person, the energy, the issues, intuition, information, and goals. I believe that each client is an individual person and that people are doing the best they can with what they have. I appreciate the resilience and bravery it takes for all clients to envision and practice a better version of themselves. It is like being given the opportunity to watch an inspirational and transformational movie in real time. As a therapist, it is imperative to understand what a person wants, where they come from, what they are struggling with, and what they are looking for. I then use the best of what I know to help; if I don’t know, I research, I ask, and I learn. Change can be demonstrated in any growth, unseen emotional experiences, small and large victories, and behavioral changes. Change is reaching goals and your own idea of your potential, experiencing relief, gaining insight, and the little moments that make that happen. Change is fluid and continuous. Therapy is both a science and an art. In order for change to manifest within therapy, it first takes a strong counselor and client relationship. Therapists should have a disposition that is authentic, present, empathetic, knowledgeable, accepting, patient, and skilled. It takes being the person someone can trust to hold their secrets and guide them in the healing and the development of their best self. In the therapy room, I’m a lot like I am outside of it. I have a tendency to sit with my legs criss-crossed applesauce style in session and I talk with my hands. I’m completely down to lay down with my clients (after asking permission, of course) to teach them deep breathing or practice meditations with them. I’m a visual learner, so I also like to draw pictures when I’m explaining something or teaching a new technique. I believe in the holistic qualities of the healing arts. I believe in therapy that is non-judgmental, humanistic, goal-centered, person-centered, integrative, and eclectic. I believe in authenticity in life and in sessions and I try to practice what I preach on a regular basis. I never assign or expect clients to attempt anything I would not be willing to try myself. I believe in the artistry of therapy and am grateful for the honor and responsibility of sharing moments of people’s lives and stories. I think that humor is one of a therapist’s best tools. I believe in immediacy and presence in sessions. I believe in the power of understanding where you come from and what your patterns are, and also in practicing and creating the life you want for yourself. I believe that therapists and clients are constantly changing and pulsing with life and possibility, and that the therapeutic experience should reflect that creative fluidity. I believe in self-actualization and striving for whatever your yoda-status may be, even while learning to feel peaceful where you are now.

This is Claudia Smithart's avatar and link to their profile

Claudia Smithart

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): M.S.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi there! My name is Claudia Smithart, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which followed my graduation in Psychology and Sociology undergraduate, where I graduated Suma Cum Laude with Highest Honors. Psychology/Counseling is my passion, and I have worked in a Metacognition psychology lab, and interned early in my education working in a psychology and counseling clinic. Since then, I have worked with children, teens, and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as populations 18+, across the lifespan, with a variety of presenting problems, such as LGBTQ+ related-issues, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, self-esteem issues, and everything in between. I have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis, crisis intervention, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. In addition to the information listed above, I work from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, which basically means that I believe in challenging our cognitive distortions, or "stinkin' thinkin'" as an old supervisor of mine referred to it as. Our maladaptive thinking patterns can affect our behaviors, beliefs, and even our actions. Breaking these down and unpacking our assumptions and thoughts can be very therapeutic, and where we will spend most of our time in therapy, as well as building coping skills, and building a new way of thinking and viewing the world. I also use a Person-Centered approach, which means that I view my clients with an unconditional positive regard. How can I help if I come in with preconceived ideas about a person? Your values, beliefs, and experiences matter, and my non-judgmental approach is an absolute necessity to help you on your journey. I am a part-time therapist on the platform, and offer some evening hours Monday-Thursday only. Please note I do not offer any session availability on weekends. If this schedule seems to work well with you, I look forward to meeting you!

This is Thea Cristwell-Butler's avatar and link to their profile

Thea Cristwell-Butler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I'm Thea Cristwell-Butler, I have a Master's of Arts degree in Professional Counselor from Webster University, and I am currently working on earning my Doctorate degree from Liberty University in Community Care and Counseling. I primarily use Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment, Client-centered Therapy, and Narrative Therapy when working with my clients. I have worked over 10 years with non-profit agencies, school settings, and community settings. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and small groups. I have helped my clients work through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, mood disorders, and poor coping skills. If you are going through a difficult time and need help stabilizing your emotions, thoughts, and behavior, I can help.

This is Korina Aldama's avatar and link to their profile

Korina Aldama

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. 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.

This is Robert Good's avatar and link to their profile

Robert Good

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Nicole Harder's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Harder

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jean Castle's avatar and link to their profile

Jean Castle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, 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 or 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 and empower you on your journey.

This is Joy Kramer's avatar and link to their profile

Joy Kramer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Trauma and abuse
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients work through issues of childhood trauma and abuse. I have worked specifically with adoptive and foster families and adult, teen and child adoptees. I have been trained in attachment therapy and connective parenting. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Charde Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Charde Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is DeeAnna Allison's avatar and link to their profile

DeeAnna Allison

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Johnson City

Finding the best therapist close by in Johnson City 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 in Johnson City that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Johnson City. 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 Johnson City, 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 in the Johnson City region and in the state of Texas. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Johnson City or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Johnson City area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Johnson City 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 Johnson City, elsewhere in Blanco, or in the greater state of Texas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Johnson City 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 Johnson City 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 Johnson City 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

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

Therapists in Johnson City, 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 Johnson City psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Johnson City 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 Johnson City helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Johnson City 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Johnson City 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 in Johnson City?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Johnson City 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.

Johnson City therapists 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 Johnson City 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 Johnson City 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in TX, therapists 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 78636 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your Johnson City 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Johnson City.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Johnson City 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 with a Johnson City counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Johnson City, 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.

Johnson City 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Johnson City, Texas

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 to customer service 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 Johnson City.

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

78636

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist