This is Larry VanHook's avatar and link to their profile

Larry VanHook

Offering therapy in TX
License: DM,M.Div, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! I am excited to be considered as your counselor and friend! I have spent the last 25+ years counseling many diverse people as a minister, Army and hospital chaplain, and now a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I hold a doctorate in management and three Master degrees (counseling, religion, ministry), but I also hold a passion for help people who feel lost, broken, abandoned, anxious, or traumatized. I am deeply concerned for the well being of marriages and have lots of experience dealing with couples including those surviving infidelity. I also am a Certified Family Trauma Professional and trained in approaches that help treat trauma. Moreover, as a chaplain I am well acquainted with grief and loss including the loss of a child. My counseling approach is integrative, using aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Constructivist, Solution-Focused, mindfulness, family systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I tend to be analytical and curious. I also try to make the experience fun when I can! The following link allows you take a personality test that will allow me to get to know you: https://bigfive-test.com/ . P.S. Some notes that help me know about you: 1. Make sure you are in Texas, and I know where you are. If you leave the state, we have to postpone sessions. 2. Make sure no one is in the room with you. 3. Make sure you dress appropriately (casual is okay!) 4. If someone joins the session, make sure they view the informed consent and approved by working with Betterhelp. 5. When you first post, I need the following information: A. Your family situation B. Any individual and family past mental health diagnosis' and medications you are on with mg. C. Describe briefly your social support right now. D. Tell me briefly of any traumas you have in your story. E. Any relevant medical conditions that affect your mental well-being. F. Any developmental delays growing up. G. Any substance abuse or addictions that are relevant for us. H. What your strengths and limitations are. F. Finally, more specifics on your presenting problem.

This is Tami Brugman 's avatar and link to their profile

Tami Brugman

Offering therapy in TX
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in both Texas and California, and I have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in both community mental health settings and in private practice working with individuals, couples, and families ranging from life adjustment issues to severe mental illnesses. I approach each individual with compassion and view each situation as unique using a client-centered perspective. I believe that there is a mind and body connection to mental health, and because of this belief, I am currently in a PhD program at Saybrook University in Applied Psychophysiology. I am constantly trying to improve and seek new knowledge to benefit my clients. I will utilize a variety of treatment modalities according to your situation during treatment. As a therapist, I believe my job is to utilize the tools in my toolbox to assist you in meeting your goals in therapy. It takes courage for anyone to reach out and seek counseling, and therefore I hope to be a partner with you and walk alongside you on your journey toward your goals.

This is Donna Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Donna Davis

Offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a counselor who has worked with individuals, couples, families, children and groups for the last 30 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and challenges. Relationship issues --with spouse, parent, child, friend, boss, self or God, are often a motivation for seeking help. I have helped many clients with the difficulty of life transitions of all kinds, including grieving. While my therapy style is varied and personal, and I am trained in many of the various approaches to therapy, I believe in the importance of treating the whole person. My goal is always to provide a warm and safe environment to explore those difficult issues in a way that brings healing or resolution or peace.

This is Susan Alaina Muscarella's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Alaina Muscarella

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is John Self's avatar and link to their profile

John Self

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 30 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 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. “For over 20 years, I've dedicated myself to helping adults and adolescents achieve their goals and although reaching out for help can be scary, it is also the first step to reclaiming yourself. I collaborate with my clients in helping them address the issues that interfere with their daily function. I believe in each individual's right to happiness and am often humbled that I can be a part of that journey. I have spent much of my career helping those suffering from the disease of addiction as well as those healing from trauma.” My focus is on YOU – the client. We will work together on the issues and topics that are important for your own personal change and growth. I provide mental health counseling for individuals, couples, marriage/couples, families, teenagers, and children (ages 7 to 10). In working with individuals, couples, and families I employ a holistic approach in utilizing coping strategies, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, guided imagery, coping skills development, parenting skills, self-esteem building, and home-work assignments. I work with a wide range of therapy methods: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution based/focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, ACT model, and DBT. I specialize in the following issues: anxiety and stress management, depression, child and adolescent issues, attachment-bonding issues, self-harming behaviors, trauma/PTSD, substance use issues, grief and loss, life transitions (career, life stages and changes), caregiver stress, and military issues (family, reintegration and deployment).

This is Elena Knutson's avatar and link to their profile

Elena Knutson

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Introducing Elena, a skilled clinician fluent in both Spanish and English. She has obtained dual master's degrees in clinical social work and community psychology, and has gained over a decade of experience working with integrative healthcare, private practice, and non-profit organizations. Elena specializes in providing mental health support to individuals who have suffered from various mental health disorders, particularly trauma. She is a certified clinical professional trauma therapist and currently pursuing play therapy certification. Elena is a talented children nonfiction author, entrepreneur, and musician who finds solace in her creative pursuits including writing, art, and music.

This is Micaela Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Micaela Brown

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Hi! I am a counselor, educator, and coach wrapped in one. I help young humans to achieve wellness encompassing mind, body, and soul in order to fulfill their individual purposes. I hold a Master's of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well as, a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Human Services. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. I believe that everyone has the potential to thrive, and I work with my clients to support them to reach their full potential. Together, we can set goals, overcome fear of failure, cultivate mental toughness, create effortless structure in your life, and achieve balanced wellness. I am a warm and compassionate counselor who creates a safe and supportive space of army clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am committed to helping my clients find relief from their symptoms and build a more fulfilling life. If you are a young human who is struggling with identity, finding purpose, processing past trauma, building community, or feeling stuck, book a session so I can walk alongside you on your healing journey!

This is Tiesha White's avatar and link to their profile

Tiesha White

Offering therapy in TX
7 years of experience

Everyday is a fresh start! I most certainly believe that...Seasons Change and so do You! It is inevitable to journey through life without the help of someone else. That’s just what therapy is for me; to join you on a journey and help clients see the other side to things. Having clients join me on a mindfully attuned self-awareness journey, will help one begin to explore what works for them; seeing the Seasons change for themselves. Lifestyle therapy is important as it it offers each person a framework for a way to live despite what obstacles and trauma faced. Often times when grief and toxic relationships overtake, break, and burden our hearts; being a caregiver stretches us, depression and anxiety infiltrate our minds; self-esteem and the inability to express our thoughts and feelings, emotions overtake our voice; clients find themselves hiding in the shadows; just existing and not living; doing and not being. Learning to live within their desired lifestyle practice, gaining more awareness, and the ability to use their voice; clients will be on their way to leading a healthier and mindful lifestyle. In my 7 years of counseling, I care to take a person centered approach and aim to inspire others to engage in a mindfulness lifestyle therapy that innately drives a client to be... Inspired By You!

This is Jon Turner's avatar and link to their profile

Jon Turner

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

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience with adolescents. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am hoping to help you make the journey through progress and change.

This is Michael McVey's avatar and link to their profile

Michael McVey

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Texas with several years of experience both as a counselor as well as a language teacher and business manager responsible for training and coaching for improved performance. Throughout my career, I've helped diverse clients grapple with severe depression & anxiety, relationship hurdles, parenting dilemmas, career obstacles, grief & loss, and the search for purpose or fulfillment in life. I'm also a certified yoga teacher and firmly believe in the value and benefit of mindfulness and meditation. My therapeutic approach has been described as laid-back and "chill." I believe in treating everyone with utmost respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and reject stigmatizing labels. My approach is a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, internal family systems, solution-focused therapy, and the Gottman Method. I customize our discussions and treatment plans to suit your unique needs. Starting on the path towards a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage — the courage to make significant change. If you're ready to take that leap, I'm ready to provide unwavering support. Looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you!

How to find counseling in Milford

Finding the best therapist close by in Milford 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 Milford. 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 Milford, 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford, elsewhere in Ellis, 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 Milford area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford, 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 76670 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 Milford 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 Milford 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 Milford, 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.

Milford 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 Milford.

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

76670

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