Maxi Malone-Deese
“Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I have been aiding individuals, couples and families towards better mental health for the last 7 years. I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns such as marriage/couple/family counseling, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, family conflict, and relationship issues. I specialize in marital and relationship issue. My approach is unique to each client and one that is committed to working together to ensure you accomplish your goals. I use a mixture of Person Centered Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy and I execute these modalities through a client centered method that includes snippets of life coaching. As a woman of color, I would be a great match for interested in a counselor of color with no judgment that provides a safe space for all individuals. Life is full of surprises and obstacles. My goal is to aid you with tangible and practical solutions, tools, and techniques that can be applied to all areas of your life. I am passionate about assisting you with resolving various life problems by encouraging and promoting positive and healthy mental health, as well as, healing and changing. Therapy is a collaborative process. Working with me you’ll quickly find that I respect you by recognizing that there’s no single one size fits all therapeutic approach and will treat you as the individual that you are. My hope is that you will take the next steps so that we can begin the process of bringing about healing and change to your situation. As your therapist, I can’t promise you the work will be easy, but it will be fulfilling. I will work with you in processing difficult feelings and emotions, and setting goals that are important to you, and help guide you as you work through them. If you're ready, let me know how I can support you. ________________________________________ SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Family conflicts • Life Transitions • Depression and grief • Spirituality • Self Esteem Years of Experience: 7 I also have experience in anxiety, peer relationships, stress, and anger management
Laronne James
Hi there! My name is Laronne (la-Ron) and I have been involved in several aspects of the mental health field for fifteen years. I am a Texan and currently work in a suburb of Dallas. I have a partner of 17 years and a 33 year old son. I began my journey as a criminal justice addictions professional and worked with a variety of clients to include those with intellectual disabilities who had been charged with a variety of crimes as well as federal parolees who are having issues with substance abuse. I also facilitated a group for high school kids who had tested positive for (mostly) marijuana during random testing. I worked with people with autism and intellectual disabilities from 2004 through 2017 working closely with psychiatrists and performed as a team leader. While working on obtaining my license I worked in a psychiatric hospital in the intensive outpatient program during my internship. After obtaining my license I sought employment with a social service agency so that I could work with a wide variety of people with a wide range of concerns. I enjoy working with different cultures and subcultures and most often work with people with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, past trauma and those dealing through life changes such as grief, disability, and retirement, forced or otherwise. Although an existentialist at heart, my therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I feel this approach works very well for a myriad of issues and is relatively short term and is an action therapy which provides working tools and is client driven.
Tamra Dewbre
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have an extensive history working with first responders in and out of the field. I worked with the local police, fire and EMT utilizing CISM and debriefing training. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! My sessions are 30 minutes long.
Pamela Gray
I am licensed in Texas with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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.
Eliza Mendoza
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family systems with compassion and cultural sensitivity. I bring deep expertise in working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and families navigating intricate interpersonal dynamics. My approach honors each client's unique background, whether they come from faith-based, conservative, or progressive perspectives. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop stronger communication skills, manage caregiver stress, heal from abandonment experiences, and navigate chronic health challenges. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming environment where individuals can explore their emotional landscape and build resilience. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a nuanced, empathetic approach that respects individual journeys and supports meaningful personal growth. My goal is to walk alongside you as you develop more effective coping strategies and create positive life changes.
Katy Kong
I provide focused, direct therapy for adults and couples across Texas. If you’re ready to look honestly at the patterns shaping your reactions and relationships, we’ll work well together. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who feel stuck in repeating cycles — defensiveness, withdrawal, over-functioning, or the same arguments that never get resolved. My work is trauma-informed, which means we pay attention to how past experiences shape present reactions. I help you recognize these patterns as they happen and understand what they’re protecting. When we can see the pattern clearly, we can begin to change it. I also work extensively with adults navigating ADHD, particularly when it affects emotional regulation, communication, and self-esteem. With couples, I focus on identifying reactive cycles and building clearer, more accountable communication. Therapy with me is structured, honest, and grounded in safety. We move at a pace that is challenging but not overwhelming. If you’re ready to move beyond surface-level conversations and make meaningful change, I’d be glad to work with you.
Liliana Palacios
Hi, I’m Liliana Palacios, LPC. For nearly two decades, I’ve had the privilege of sitting with people during some of the most vulnerable and meaningful moments of their lives. Whether you’re feeling stuck in painful relationship patterns, overwhelmed by life’s responsibilities, or simply longing for more peace and connection, therapy can be a place to slow down, reflect, and begin moving forward. I work with individuals and couples who want to better understand themselves and their relationships. Many of the couples I see are struggling with communication breakdowns, trust issues, emotional distance, or the lingering impact of past hurts. Together, we explore the patterns that keep partners feeling misunderstood and help them rebuild connection, respect, and emotional safety. Originally from Mexico City, I began my career studying Organizational Psychology before moving to the United States as a young mother. While raising my two daughters, I completed my Master’s in Professional Counseling and began volunteering with crisis services and community mental health programs. These early experiences shaped my belief that healing happens when people feel truly heard, respected, and supported. Over the years, I’ve worked with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I also have extensive experience supporting parents of children on the autism spectrum and caregivers navigating the emotional journey of caring for aging or ill loved ones. As a fully bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I am passionate about providing culturally responsive care and creating a space where clients can express themselves in the language that feels most natural and comfortable. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional, with additional training in grief and trauma-informed care. While training and credentials are important, I believe the most meaningful part of therapy is the relationship we build together. My style is warm, honest, and collaborative. I will support you, challenge you when needed, and celebrate your progress along the way. You don’t have to figure everything out alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you move toward greater clarity, resilience, and connection. — Liliana Palacios, LPC
Doris Gardner-Wilson
I am licensed in Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and narcissistic abuse. I also work with those struggling with sex addiction and their partners. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. You may visit my personal website at thecounselingservice.com or my youtube channel by searching for Dee Gardner for more information.
Alfonso Holmes
I am licensed in Louisiana with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Nicola Noel
About Me Hello, and welcome! I am so glad you are here. My name is Nicola Noel, and I am a licensed therapist with 6 years of experience working with individuals navigating life's challenges. My work focuses on helping people better understand themselves, manage difficult emotions, and create more fulfilling lives. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, career stress, or navigating the complexities of identity, I believe that Therapy is a safe, supportive space for self-discovery and growth. Experience and Education I hold a Bachelor's in Child and Adolescent Psychology with a minor in organization leadership and a Master's in Clinical Mental Counselling. I am currently working towards a PhD in international psychology. I am licensed in Texas as a licensed professional Counselor. Over the years, I have worked in various settings, including private practice, community mental health, and organizations focused on special education, academic structure, trauma, relationship counselling, and. career coaching. I have worked with individuals across different age groups and backgrounds, from young adults to those in mid-life transitions, each with unique goals and challenges. My Treatment Approach I take an integrative, client-centred approach to Therapy, which means I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs, goals, and challenges. I draw from a variety of evidence-based techniques, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier, more adaptive ways of thinking. Mindfulness-Based Therapy – to help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in the present moment, which can reduce stress and improve emotional regulation. Solution-Focused Therapy – to help you focus on your strengths, explore practical solutions, and move forward with greater clarity. Person-Centred Therapy – to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and valued, fostering more profound self-acceptance. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am committed to building a safe, trusting space where you can express yourself freely. I strive to create a supportive, empowering, and collaborative environment where we work together toward our personal goals. How I Can Help Life does not always go as planned, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming when faced with stress, uncertainty, or dissatisfaction in various areas of our lives. Whether you are struggling with loneliness, career burnout, relationship difficulties, or self-doubt, I can help you better understand your thoughts and behaviours, break free from limiting patterns, and develop new ways of coping. My approach is practical but compassionate—I believe that lasting change comes from a combination of self-awareness, self-compassion, and actionable strategies. I also understand that each person's journey is unique, and no one-size-fits-all solution exists. I am here to meet you where you are and support you in exploring new possibilities, whether working through challenging emotions, setting meaningful goals, or learning to manage stress and anxiety more effectively. I would love to work with you if you are ready to take the next step toward creating the life and relationships you want. I am here to support you every step of the way. Let us start this journey together!
Donald Bright
I am licensed in Texas with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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.
Breiana Jacobs
Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps clients navigate the emotional challenges that come with everyday life. I support individuals dealing with stress, relationship dynamics, anxiety, depression, addictions, and grief—offering a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. I work with individuals and families affected by serious illnesses, including those navigating cancer. For clients facing cancer, I offer steady support from the initial shock of diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship. I support caregivers of anyone with a serious illness, helping you navigate the uncertainty and changes that come with caring for a loved one. My approach is tailored to each person’s needs. I draw from multiple evidence-based therapeutic modalities to meet you where you are emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Because no two clients are the same and what helped before may not be what you need now, I adapt our work together based on your goals and strengths to support sustainable growth. You’ve already made the first step. If you are ready to take the next one, I am here to empower you.
Taiwana ONeal
I am a licensed therapist in Texas with over 20 years of professional experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My areas of focus include trauma healing, stress management, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem, life transitions, grief, and loss. I strive to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself freely and begin the journey toward healing and growth. Together, we’ll work to develop practical coping strategies, process unresolved trauma, identify and heal core wounds, and enhance your overall sense of well-being. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful act of courage, and I want to commend you for showing up for yourself. I look forward to partnering with you as you move toward greater balance, healing, and fulfillment.
Tinita Samuels
I am licensed in Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in McAllen, Texas
Finding a therapist near you in McAllen, Texas starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Texas is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Texas, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Texas, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Texas
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Texas, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Texas
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Texas
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Texas through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Texas
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Texas, including residents in McAllen.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Texas do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in McAllen, Texas
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving McAllen and the surrounding TX area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.