Yolanda Pender
*Are you having a challenging time in your relationships, either personal or professional? *Would you like to optimize your combined strengths? *Have you been hurt by a loved one or close friend? *Looking for assistance with life's challenges? *Unsure about the path you should take? Allow me to assist you with your behavioral and emotional needs. Hello, I’m Yolanda Pender—a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas and a National Certified Counselor, with 20+ years of progressive counseling experience. I have had the privilege of working with both civilian and military populations, offering individual and couples counseling, marriage mentoring, family support, trauma and grief care, social services, and personal development. While we cannot change the past, together we can work toward understanding its impact and finding meaningful resolutions for the challenges you face today. I approach every client with compassion, honesty, dignity, and respect, creating a safe and supportive space to explore what’s weighing on you and what’s possible for your future. My counseling style is collaborative and interactive, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. I draw from humanistic principles while integrating approaches such as Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive and Cognitive-Behavioral techniques, and Psychodynamic insights, among others. My goal is to help you identify the strategies and tools best suited to your growth, well-being, and long-term success. Thank you for considering me as a partner in your journey. I look forward to walking alongside you as we uncover new ways forward and create space for healing, resilience, and renewed hope.
Carmen Kinzy
My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I view counseling as a collaborative relationship in which the client and I work together to explore the current problematic issues and develop goals to address these issues. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, behavioral issues and communication and relationships. I work with children, adults, teens, couples, and families of all backgrounds.
Dr. Sydney Crane
Hello! My name is Sydney, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Supervisor (LMFT-S) in Texas. I currently serve as the Assistant Director at a children’s behavioral health clinic, and I also provide bereavement and grief support through a non-profit hospice organization. I am continually humbled by the trust and vulnerability clients share as they navigate their most important concerns. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and collaborative, grounded in the belief that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to walk alongside you, offering guidance, tools, and support as you work through challenges and move toward your goals. As a systemic therapist, I consider the relational, emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual contexts that shape your experiences. This broad perspective allows us to explore not just symptoms, but the patterns and dynamics that influence your overall well-being. I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your journey.
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
Marisa Esparza
My name Is Marisa Esparza. I am a licensed LPC in Texas. I completed my Masters of Education in Mental Health Counseling from University of Texas at El Paso in December 2015 and have a Bachelors in Education from the University of Texas at El Paso in May 2011. I have worked in several settings that I feel allow me the advantage to recognize the barriers and conflicts with receiving mental health treatment. My most recent position at El Paso Behavioral Health systems includes: Program manager children and adolescents inpatient unit, Program manager adult and military outpatient group, Program manager adolescent outpatient group. In this position I was able to Work collaboratively with patients, medical staff, and families to help stabilize high risk children and adults. I Provided psychological assessments and risk assessments to determine needs and communicate with medical staff. I facilitated daily groups as well as family sessions. I worked collaboratively with treatment teams and attended to emergency crisis on unit. I was able to build rapport with adult and children and provide verbal deescalation when in crisis. I assisted with medical staff and treatment team to determine safety in community. Previously I worked s a qualified mental health professional on the Assertive Community Treatment Team I provided individual psychiatric rehabilitative skills training and crisis assessment/management in consumers's homes and in the community. I provided ongoing assessment, preliminary diagnosis of present Axis 1 psychiatric and co-occurring disorders. My job required coordinating of community resources to assist in assessing medical, social, educational, financial, and other appropriate services that help in achieving an improved quality of life, increase tenure in the community, and decrease the need for unnecessary inpatient hospitalization. Throughout my internship at El Paso Behavioral Health,I developed the necessary skills in order to work effectively with children, adolescents, adults, military, and seniors. Through my course work I was able to gain an understanding of mental health, chemical dependency, crisis counseling, as well as other areas of counseling. I was able to effectively apply counseling for clients experiencing psychological, social, behavioral, and emotional issues. As an intern I worked primarily in the Children and Adolescent Unit, I counseled with emphasis on Reality Therapy. I worked with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. I ran group therapy sessions, completed assessments, took risk assessments, shadowed treatments teams, and attended family sessions. As a Mental Health Technician in the Children and Adolescent Unit, I helped admit and discharge patients. I maintained close contact with them, and monitored vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure. I observed patient behaviors, recorded their conditions and lead them in therapeutic and recreational activities. I regularly consulted with RN’s, LVN’s, social workers, Dr.’s, and therapists. I am confident in my skills and abilities and am willing to work with all populations. I have a deep passion for working with adolescents, young adults, and their families. It has been in my experience that there is a disconnect in communication and world views. I am a LGBTQIA advocate and passionate about empowering youth exploring their identity as well as educating families. I have been able to explore several populations within inpatient hospitals, out patient settings, and the community. This advantage has allowed me to grow as a clinician and empathize with all my patient populations better.
Una Howard
I am licensed in Texas with 5 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Katherine Cirbo
I am a psychologist licensed in Texas with experience providing therapy and assessment services to various populations. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship concerns, life changes/transitions, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling life and to take the first steps towards growth and change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, while also encouraging and motivating . I work from a cognitive-behavioral, relational-cultural, and strengths-based approach in therapy, and I will tailor our treatment to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!
Jonathan White
I am licensed in Texas with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Victoria Martinez
I am licensed in Texas with 3 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 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!
Jennifer Brent
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
David Cardona
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding and compassionately addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and grief. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Hospice Chaplain and Social Worker for 25 years. I have been married since New Year's Eve of 1978. I have two sons and a daughter. I have six grandsons and two great-granddaughters. I am an ordained Anglican Priest with a formal theological degree. I also hold a Master's in Health Science and a Master's in Counseling Psychology. I specialize in creating a supportive therapeutic environment that respects individual beliefs and values, particularly for clients seeking a faith-informed and conservative counseling approach. My practice is grounded in evidence-based techniques that honor each person's unique journey and personal context. My commitment is to provide empathetic, thoughtful guidance that helps clients develop resilience, gain meaningful insights, and cultivate healthier emotional patterns. I believe in walking alongside my clients with genuine understanding, respect, and professional expertise.
Robert Mackeen
As a licensed therapist serving clients in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping people address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem concerns. I offer a compassionate, faith-informed approach that honors each person's unique journey and spiritual perspective. My therapeutic work centers on guiding clients through transformative experiences, including healing from isolation, exploring life purpose, managing social anxiety, and working through feelings of guilt and shame. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can develop self-love, process difficult life transitions like divorce, and build resilience in both personal and professional contexts. Drawing from evidence-based practices and a Christian-centered perspective, I aim to walk alongside clients as they rediscover their inner strength, find meaningful connections, and develop healthier emotional patterns. My goal is to provide thoughtful, empathetic support that respects each individual's personal experiences and spiritual beliefs.
Renatta Lindsey
Hi, I am Dr. Renatta Lindsey, Ed.D., LPC, and I am here to support you as you work toward becoming a healthier and stronger version of yourself. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I believe that mental health is a priority and that everyone deserves the opportunity to nurture it in a safe and compassionate space. My approach to therapy is collaborative and grounded in authenticity. I take an eclectic approach, drawing on modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, to support my clients' needs. I invite you to bring your whole self into the session - personality, thoughts, feelings, culture, and lived experiences. My intention is to help you develop coping skills, uncover your strengths, and navigate life's challenges, while fostering a sense of wholeness, self-awareness, healing, and growth. I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can say, "I'm not okay," and begin to explore the "why" with compassion and support.
B. Steven Melman
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is rooted in compassionate, evidence-based care, with a specialized focus on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. Throughout my 40-year professional journey, I've developed a deep understanding of how individuals can effectively manage stress, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformations. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop practical strategies for emotional well-being. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaboration, respect, and personalized care. I work closely with clients to understand their unique strengths and challenges, helping them develop insights and skills that promote lasting positive change. Whether you're experiencing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, or seeking support through difficult emotional periods, I am here to walk alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
Find a Therapist Near You in Rancho Viejo , Texas
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Texas can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Texas is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Texas, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Texas (TX). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across Texas with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Texas
When searching for a therapist near me in Texas, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Texas, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Texas.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Texas want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Texas
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Texas without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Texas (TX)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Texas
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Texas, including residents in Rancho Viejo.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.