Claudia Burns
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology (1971) and a master’s degree in Psychology (2005). I went back to school after many years during which I raised three sons and worked mostly at Baylor College of Medicine in the departments of Surgery and later Psychiatry. I attended school while working fulltime for three years to complete my master’s and had great support and encouragement from the Psychiatry department. During my practicum, I worked in the psychiatric ward of a county hospital which was an eye opening experience! We also worked with people in the Astrodome after Hurricane Katrina. During my internship, I worked with clients with eating disorders and gained an understanding of the great difficulties that they face. For 15 years, I worked in neuropsychological testing which involved a thorough evaluation of the mental, cognitive, and emotional condition of the client. I spent most of a day with a client and developed insight into their emotional problems which included PTSD, depression, and anxiety due to a traumatic injury or experience and the necessity of adjusting to life changing events such as accidents or illnesses. I have also worked with clients who were attempting to get disability benefits for chronic illnesses and with clients with disabilities who were trying to return to work. I have learned to meet diverse clients where they are, and I always find ways to connect and feel empathy for them in their struggles. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is integral to the success of any counseling experience. Humor is good too! I have also experienced counseling myself, and I led an online Panic Disorder Support Group on AOL for six years before I went back to school. My treatment approach is focused on emotional support, education, helping you gain insight into yourself and others, and giving you the tools to help yourself. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic principles as well as other appropriate methods in order to help you meet your therapeutic goals. I am ready to help you with whatever you are experiencing and look forward to talking to you!
Laura Akins
Welcome to BetterHelp! I look forward to knowing you and helping you to have a better, more peaceful and fulfilling life. My approach to counseling is relaxed - one person listening to and sharing with another - the simple, but not always easy, principles that make life better. A person can go to college, pass the tests and get the license. But a human being with heart, combined with past experiences can feel another's difficulties and emotional pain. Because of the victories and tragedies in my own life, I can relate to the hardships of others. Most of my career has been dedicated to helping people with emotional issues that steal peace and fulfillment. My graduate research was in the field of spiritual development. Whatever your personal religious beliefs might be, I am skilled at helping you find spiritual solutions to life's physical and emotional problems. I have 34 years experience assisting people heal from emotions relationship, and purpose of life issues. I relate to others, not based on gender, race, politics, or creed, but on the "the content of their character," as Dr. ML King said.
Lawrence Story
I have over three decades as a leader by inspiring, coaching, speaking, and most importantly, leading by example, my views have been uniquely and carefully shaped. I embrace my “in the trenches” clinical approach and believe that leadership is a conscious decision made moment to moment, it supersedes gender, culture, position, or socio-economic status. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with everyone and every day…it’s how we should live. I am often referred to as a “Professor” for my ability to teach a group how to bring hope out of questionable times. I use “Frame of references” to bring clarity to change real-life circumstances where the loss of hope and fear have been predominant. The fusion of my personal stories through conversation helps me connect with my audience and clients on an intimate, intense, and individual level. I have served as Chief Executive Officer and /or a Senior Consultant for public and privately traded Healthcare organizations. In addition to being a Licensed Psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage Therapist, and Licensed Family Therapist, Certified in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Certified Personal Trainer and past owner of Lake Houston Gym and Fitness, I am the author of Living in Green Pastures with Life Storys, a published inspiration/motivational book, and co-publisher of “Treatment Effectiveness in Adult Partial Hospitalization”. Before my leadership efforts, I was a competitive collegiate football athlete and a champion both nationally and internationally in bodybuilding, health and fitness. I currently hold over 27 titles in bodybuilding and have conducted numerous workshops on Wellness / Fitness. Finally, I am a former consulting therapist for the National Basketball Association and served on the board of advisors for The Shoulder, Inc., Harris County, and awarded past Outstanding Young Men in America. I look forward to meeting you and designing a plan to help you meet your personal goals now and in the future. The Best, Lawrence Story
Chris Goetz
My initial training as a therapist was in premarital and marriage counseling, a vital part of my practice that to this day I enjoy very much. I have approximately 20 years of experience and am licensed in the state of Texas. In addition to counseling couples, I have also worked with persons coming out of the sex industry. It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse, as well as major depressive disorders, bipolar I & II, schizoaffective, co-occurring and substance abuse disorders. I have a great deal of experience working with dissociative, borderline and personality disorders. I am well-versed and extremely comfortable working with persons of different cultures. My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” I utilize a trauma-informed, person-centered, psychodynamic approach in therapy and often incorporate CBT, DBT and mindfulness techniques. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I am a certified revisioning practitioner, a technique that simulates re-attachment for grief resolution and ego-integration and am certified by the FBI National Academy in resiliency training. I also enjoy training local police departments throughout the Metroplex in critical incident and mental health orientation trainings. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be!
Margie Harper
I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Marquita Turner
My name is Marquita Turner I have been Licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana for 8 years. I recently obtained licensure in Texas as well. This work of helping others find peace and purpose in their lives feels like my innate purpose. Therapy is not always easy or enjoyable but if done correctly it will bring about a desirable change. I view the therapeutic process as teamwork for clients and myself. We become equal partners in identifying, processing and developing person-centered solutions to the issues you are facing. I pride myself on being a great listener. This skill has helped me build rapport and trust with clients which both aid the effectiveness of the therapeutic process. I have worked in various mental health settings that afforded me the ability to treat most common and uncommon disorders. I can treat all DSM-5 diagnosis. At the end of this process it is my hope that you are closer to your authentic self and operating from your own place of purpose.
Deborah Zimmerman
Hello there! I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to provide psychotherapy in Texas. With me, you are working with a trained mental health professional. I received my bachelor's degree at St. Edward's University and my master's degree at The University of Texas, both in Austin, Texas. Over the past eighteen years, I have worked with people experiencing psychiatric crises, provided child protective services, and one-on-one therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns: chronic and severe mental illness (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder); depression; anxiety; PTSD; end of life issues; grief and loss; parenting concerns. Thorough my career, I have the privilege of helping hundreds of individuals suffering with the lasting effects of trauma. I am experienced in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach is person-centered, and is tailored to your specific wants, needs, and goals. The best news is that emotional and/or psychological distress does not have to control your life!
Stephen Clifton
My name is Stephen Clifton, LPC., M.A.C., I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC #75647, I am currently located in Austin, Texas. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University, in Austin, Texas in August 2013. You should know I assist people going through difficult life changes that need to talk through any troubling emotions or feelings that may be causing them distress. I assist people that may be struggling with depression/anxiety, substance use and trauma. I help people realize their power in various environments they may be having a difficult time in (Work, Home, Relationships, etc). My typical client is an adult or adolescent, male or female (LGBTQIA+ friendly) that wants to work on understanding and conquering their fears and difficult situations impeding their life and gaining a better understanding of themselves. I am a person centered therapist that helps cultivate my client's abilities to process and work through their life struggles. I have experience working with people that suffer from depression, anxiety and have difficulty in social situations. Therapy with me is all about helping us find your inner strength in life's difficult moments.
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!
Robert Good
I am licensed in both Missouri and 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.
Dr. Olufolake Ike ThD
Dr. Olufolake Ike, ThD, LMFT-S is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, faith-integrated therapist, and creator of Faith-Powered Relationship Therapy (FPRT). She specializes in helping individuals, couples, and families overcome emotional pain, relationship challenges, anxiety, trauma, identity struggles, and life transitions through a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based therapy with biblical principles. Dr. Ike combines CBT, EFT, and Solution-Focused Therapy with practical faith-based strategies to help clients experience healing, restoration, emotional growth, and purposeful living. She is passionate about helping clients build healthier relationships, renew their minds, strengthen communication, and discover lasting transformation in their spirit, soul, and body. Her counseling style is compassionate, empowering, nonjudgmental, and goal-oriented. She works with individuals, couples, families, Christians seeking faith-based counseling, and clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Dr. Ike believes healing is possible, growth is intentional, and transformation begins with renewed thinking and authentic connection.
Dawn Maria Spradley
I am a licensed mental health therapist in the great state of Texas with at least 7 years of professional work experience. I take exceptional pride of making sure each client has a free and protected space to feel vulnerable and safe to process raw emotions, feelings, thoughts, and experiences. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bereavement, grief, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. From an Adlerian Therapy approach, I want to help encourage and empower clients to identify and use their strengths to attain their goals, with the power of learning their own positive psychology. My goodness-CONGRATULATIONS to you! It takes courage to seek help-and I am here to support & empower you through your journey of healing! So let healing BEGIN, right here! I want to hear your story! Right now! <Important Side Notes> *Unfortunately, due to other commitments, I am only able to offer 5-7 hour a week-however, I am willing to discuss how to better accommodate days/hours as needed. ((FOR couples- some evenings because of you alls work schedules)). *I am unable to do paperwork for FMLA or any other documentation that you may need per BH rules. *I DO NOT prescribe medications. *I am unable to accommodate after 5 pm sessions because of other work commitments 😟-I do offer Sundays. *I would prefer that the client DOES NOT operate a vehicle during the session.
Alfred Umagu
As a licensed therapist serving clients in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping people develop deeper self-understanding, heal from past challenges, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I have extensive experience addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family conflicts. My therapeutic practice is deeply rooted in compassionate, culturally responsive care. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop stronger communication skills, and work through feelings of isolation, shame, and uncertainty. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help individuals reconnect with their sense of purpose and build resilience. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through life transitions, social challenges, and personal healing journeys. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, processing trauma, or seeking greater emotional clarity, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Darla Avery
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or the weight of past experiences, you’re not alone. Many people reach out for support when their thoughts feel constant, their emotions feel exhausting, or they’re unsure how to move forward—and therapy can help create clarity and relief. I am a licensed mental health professional with experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, stress, and traumatic experiences. My work focuses on helping clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns so they can develop healthier coping strategies and feel more confident in their daily lives. I have experience working with adults who struggle with anxiety, emotional distress, past trauma, and low self-confidence. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Together we work to identify underlying patterns, process difficult experiences, and develop practical tools for managing emotional distress. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and supportive. I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These approaches help clients process, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier emotional responses and process past experiences that continue to cause distress. I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their experiences. My goal is to help clients gain insight, develop resilience, and create meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. I work with individuals experiencing persistent worry, overthinking, emotional overwhelm, and the impact of past experiences. Many clients seek support when they feel mentally exhausted, have difficulty relaxing, or notice that stress and anxiety are interfering with their daily functioning. Therapy focuses on building practical coping skills, increasing self-awareness, and helping clients feel more grounded and in control of their lives.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Portland, Texas
Finding a therapist near you in Portland, 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 Portland.
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 Portland, Texas
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Portland and the surrounding TX area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.