Dr. Paulette Edwards
I am Paulette Edwards, PhD, LPC and I am Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I have over 12 years of experience as a counselor and have assisted a wide variety of adults, couples, children and families in reaching their goals. My counseling style is warm and interactive, because I want to provide the best level of care to my clients while also helping my clients to be the best person you can be. This compassionate approach provides a safe place in which clients can find their inner strength to grow and adapt to the many changes in life. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focus, narrative, natural system and psycho-dynamic therspy, of course I will tailor the approach specific to your needs. I realize in life we get overwhelmed by situations that are unexpected and out of our control. My job is to teach you ways to balance these unexpected events with the appropriate tools. I applaud you for taking the next step towards change that will lead to a happier and fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you.
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.
Beatrice Tomlinson
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas with over 30 years of experience. I have counseled couples, individual, and teens with varying issues I have a passion for helping people through life crisis that can become overwhelming and especially parenting skills. zi have also helped people through trauma and physical and sexual abuse. It would be my pleasure to help facilitate life struggles such as stress, parenting and depression. Each one of the mentioned items can be debilitating but with some help and different perspective of life situations can become manageable. I have experience of 29 years in the public school setting as well as part-time work of 10 years at a state and federal prison for men and women. I have twelve years of working with children and adults with sexual abuse issues at an advocacy center. I have experience in testifying in court cases for multiple issues. Looking forward to working with you to overcome some of life's struggles. My counseling style has many types theories with compassion and interaction with the clients. I have a history of making the client feel at ease and comfortable with each session. The goals of your treatment will be geared to motivate each client to be empowered through the process. I takes courage to risk counseling and I want to empower each client to live their best life and be fulfilled with the forthcoming change. If you want to take the next step to moving into a happier life I will be here to support the step. I look forward to helping you through this transition.
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
Teresa Riley
Teresa Riley, M.Div.,LMFT, works from an integrative framework with individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Her areas of experience and special interest include relationship difficulties, men's issues, substance abuse, anger, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Teresa has a history of working in crisis mental health, men's residential treatment for addiction, teen residential treatment for trauma, and clinical outpatient settings. She has specialized training in psychodynamic, CBT, EFT, IFS and solution focused approaches, as well as Discernment Counseling for couples who are experiencing conflict or considering divorce.
Kenyon Arthur
Thank you for visiting my profile. Our work together will be based first and foremost on creating a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where you can be yourself. Together we will focus on understanding and working through difficult feelings and powerful beliefs which leave you stuck and unsatisfied with your life. Your decision to seek counseling provides a unique opportunity to process the challenges you are facing, identify your priorities and values, and to develop the skills needed to reach your goals. My role as your therapist will be to help you access your inner resources for healing and coping. During my career, I've worked with children, adolescents and adults on issues such as behavioral disruptions, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and trauma. I utilize a personalized approach combining interventions from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and motivational interviewing tailored to meet your individual needs. I have worked successfully with adolescents, individuals, couples and their families. If you are: feeling overwhelmed by loss or change, feeling emotional pain, seeking personal growth, and are in search of accepting, non-judgmental support. having anger management issues, please call me. I am only available to work with clients located in Texas at this time.
Maria Acosta
I am licensed in Texas with 20 years of professional work experience. 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.
Jamie Daughdrill
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & parenting issues. During school I enjoyed working and volunteering with at risk communities in the Waco and Dallas area, such as the Methodist Children's Home in Waco, and Prestonwood Pregnancy Center in Richardson. As a counselor I have worked with children, teens, young adults and women dealing with eating disorders, abuse recovery, school related issues and relationship issues. Following my time as a stay-at-home-mom, I worked as a children's minister, a preschool teacher, an administrative assistant at a middle school and opened my own bakery. I also have done some volunteer work with a counseling group offering large and small group weekend intensive counseling experiences. My kids and I stay busy with their activities, and volunteering at their schools and with our church. 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.
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.
Eric Martinez
When imagining my ideal client, I see individuals from diverse backgrounds—LGBTQ+ youth navigating identity and acceptance, juveniles facing emotional and behavioral challenges during critical developmental years, adults striving for personal growth or healing from past trauma, and men working to overcome stigma around mental health and express vulnerability. Each client brings a unique set of needs: the need to be heard without judgment, to feel safe in their identity, to rebuild trust, and to move toward a more empowered and authentic self. My approach is grounded in existential-phenomenological psychology, which means I focus on understanding each person’s unique lived experience—how they make meaning, face uncertainty, and navigate questions of identity, purpose, and connection. Alongside this foundation, I integrate evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each client—whether that’s a teen struggling with identity, an adult working through anxiety or life transitions, someone processing trauma, or a man learning to express emotion in a safe and healthy way.
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.
Leslie LaBranch
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My practice focuses on empowering clients to develop stronger self-understanding, improve communication skills, and build resilience through compassionate, evidence-based approaches. I have extensive expertise in addressing challenges related to stress, anxiety, self-esteem, career difficulties, and life changes. My therapeutic approach centers on helping young adults and women explore their inner strengths, overcome social anxiety, and cultivate meaningful personal connections. My work is deeply rooted in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their life purpose, develop healthier communication patterns, and learn strategies for self-love and personal transformation. I believe in a collaborative approach that honors each individual's unique journey and potential for growth.
Tonya Boyett-Etheridge
My name is Tonya Boyett-Etheridge, and I am a licensed clinical social work supervisor (LCSW-S) in the state of Texas. I have been practicing social work for the past 27 years. I spent 10 years working in a Level 1 Burn and Trauma Intensive Care Unit at a teaching hospital in New Mexico. I have other experience in working for private, for profit medical facilities, home hospice, psychotherapy services at a Federally Qualified Health Care Center (FQHC) integrating behavioral health services with primary care clinics and long-term care facilities, a contractor for the EFMP program at Goodfellow Air Force Base working with active Air Force members and their dependents, a supervisor for MHMR Adult Crisis Services and Suicide prevention Grant coordinator. I have served clients as young as 3 and as old as 103. My therapeutic services include working from a General Systems Theory and looking at the person as a whole. As a licensed therapist in Texas, I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes with compassion, clinical expertise, and deep respect for each person’s unique journey. I specialize in helping clients work through depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction recovery, and the emotional weight of guilt and shame. My approach centers on fostering self‑love, strengthening communication skills, and building emotional resilience. My relationship with God is foundational to who I am, and my walk with Him guides the heart I bring to this work. At the same time, my practice is firmly rooted in professional ethics and inclusivity. I have the privilege of serving clients from all faith traditions — including those who are questioning, agnostic, or non‑religious — and I honor each person’s beliefs, values, and worldview. My role is not to direct someone’s faith, but to support their healing, growth, and wellbeing with respect and clinical integrity. Drawing from extensive experience and evidence‑based therapeutic practices, I provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals can process grief, explore past hurts, and move toward wholeness. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy and professionalism as they rediscover their inner strength and create meaningful, lasting change. I do have some evening and weekend appointment times that may not appear on the online schedule. If you need one of those options, feel free to let me know and I can check availability.
Judy Luu
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors diverse experiences and identities. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges like social anxiety, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, communication difficulties, and personal growth. My clinical work spans a wide range of concerns, including workplace stress, family conflicts, trauma recovery, and multicultural experiences. I approach each session with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine desire to support your individual path toward healing and self-discovery. I believe in collaborative, strength-based therapy that empowers you to develop meaningful insights, build resilience, and create positive change in your life. Together, we can explore your experiences, challenges, and potential with compassion and respect.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Santa Monica, Texas
Finding a therapist near you in Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica.
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 Santa Monica, Texas
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Santa Monica and the surrounding TX area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.