Surnedra "Nedra" Simmons
Greetings! Sometimes life's challenges will prompt us to seek support and you've come to the right place. Kudos to you for taking the first step in getting the support you are seeking. I have a master's degree in School and Professional Counseling from Amberton University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. As a School Counselor I have refined my skills in working with adolescents from diverse backgrounds. I have over seventeen years working with high school students and adults. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, low self esteem, lack of motivation and significant trauma. My therapeutic style is future-focused, goal-directed and focuses on solutions rather than on the problems. My assumption is that you have knowledge of what would make your life better and together we will work on solutions. My approach is collaborative, in order to achieve change. As a therapist/counselor, I am very open and you can tell me anything in a non judmental environment. I am here if you need to feel understood and you want the truth. If this is what you are looking for, you have come to the right place.
Steven Gares
I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Otis Mann
I have worked with populations that have substance problems and who have been incarcerated, on probation, or parole. Very familiar with the military and aerospace industries. Although, I am extremely familiar with Christianity, secular counseling is important. Solution Focused Brief Therapy is my main interest because I feel the client knows him or herself better than any counselor. In this light, I become a helper rather than a therapist. I have used Written Exposure Therapy for Complex PTSD.
Miguel De la fuente
Miguel Angel De La Fuente is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas and Virginia, a National Certified Counselor, and a proud U.S. Army Ranger combat veteran. He has been serving as a mental health professional since 2018 and brings a unique blend of clinical training, military service, leadership, and lived experience to his work. Miguel is committed to serving his community by offering guidance that is grounded in both professional excellence and real-world understanding. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, a master’s degree in Psychology, and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. With over 10 years of military service, more than 30 years in health and fitness, and years of counseling experience, Miguel offers well-rounded care that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. His clinical approach is eclectic and individualized, drawing from cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic concepts, positive psychology, spiritual integration, and trauma-informed care. Miguel has extensive experience working with individuals facing depression, PTSD, trauma, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, alcohol abuse, marital struggles, and major life transitions. His primary clinical focus includes PTSD, trauma, bipolar disorder, and marriage counseling. Because of his military background and life experience, he is especially equipped to understand and support veterans, first responders, their families, and individuals impacted by trauma, separation, deployment, and identity-related struggles. Rooted in his Christian faith, Miguel is passionate about helping people find healing, resilience, and renewed purpose. He is the founder of FIRE-FORGED, a faith-based life coaching venture centered on Faith, Identity, Resilience, and Execution. He is also the author of Fire-Forged: Reclaiming Biblical Manhood in a Generation of Drift, a leadership manual shaped by his own story of adversity, perseverance, and redemption. In addition, he leads a men’s group called Biblical Manhood, where he teaches and equips men to pursue Christ-centered leadership, discipline, and integrity in their homes and communities. Outside of counseling, Miguel strongly promotes physical wellness as a key part of mental and spiritual health. As a pioneer of CrossFit in South Texas, he has spent over two decades in the health and fitness field and remains active through CrossFit and mountain biking. Miguel is a proud father of six children and values spending time with his family as often as he can. His mission is to help others heal, grow, and become who God has called them to be. He holds the following Certifications: • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-I). • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II): Complex Trauma & Dissociative Disorders. • Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider. • Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) Medical Provider Course (2024).
Norma Deering
I am licensed in Texas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. Also, I will assist you with anxiety and distress related to your job and will help you with job seeking techniques and motivation. I can be of help with those dealing with disabilities with themselves and as care takers who are experiencing burnout related to care taking ie. Cancer Diagnosis; Dementia and or Alzheimer’s of a love one or their disability. If you have recently sustained accident and or disability ;I am here to help you cope with your anxiety and or depression related to this issue as well. 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.. *** In addition I can help you if you have anxiety related to dissatisfaction with present day to day pressures and or political outcomes and or current events that causes fear. I can also help you if you prefer in Spanish. (Estoy aquí para ayudarle)!
Liliana Palacios
Hi, I’m Liliana Palacios, LPC. For nearly two decades, I’ve had the privilege of sitting with people during some of the most vulnerable and meaningful moments of their lives. Whether you’re feeling stuck in painful relationship patterns, overwhelmed by life’s responsibilities, or simply longing for more peace and connection, therapy can be a place to slow down, reflect, and begin moving forward. I work with individuals and couples who want to better understand themselves and their relationships. Many of the couples I see are struggling with communication breakdowns, trust issues, emotional distance, or the lingering impact of past hurts. Together, we explore the patterns that keep partners feeling misunderstood and help them rebuild connection, respect, and emotional safety. Originally from Mexico City, I began my career studying Organizational Psychology before moving to the United States as a young mother. While raising my two daughters, I completed my Master’s in Professional Counseling and began volunteering with crisis services and community mental health programs. These early experiences shaped my belief that healing happens when people feel truly heard, respected, and supported. Over the years, I’ve worked with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I also have extensive experience supporting parents of children on the autism spectrum and caregivers navigating the emotional journey of caring for aging or ill loved ones. As a fully bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I am passionate about providing culturally responsive care and creating a space where clients can express themselves in the language that feels most natural and comfortable. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional, with additional training in grief and trauma-informed care. While training and credentials are important, I believe the most meaningful part of therapy is the relationship we build together. My style is warm, honest, and collaborative. I will support you, challenge you when needed, and celebrate your progress along the way. You don’t have to figure everything out alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you move toward greater clarity, resilience, and connection. — Liliana Palacios, LPC
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.
Sandra Grace Martinez
I am licensed in Texas with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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!
Dr. Marilyn Thomas
I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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!
Cecilia Santini
I am licensed in Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with issues in 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 and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I will work alongside you zoning in on your strengths and encouraging you to identify possible solutions to arrive at hope. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Betsy Puentes
I am licensed with 4 licenses in mental health in Texas. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, plus I have 46 years of professional work experience. I have been helping clients overcome stress, depression, anxiety, motivational problems, low self-esteem, weak self-confidence, career difficulties, and a variety of other sensitive issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have strengths that will assist you in resolving things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am available to assist you in that process.
Dr. Anthony Kelley
Licensed MFT with Texas, Florida and South Carolina, I am a retired U.S. Army Chaplain. I have experience in helping clients with various trauma, dissociation and abuse with EMDR therapy. Believing in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, I 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.
Jennifer Karr
I’m a licensed counselor in Texas with 20 years of experience, specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. While I have extensive experience working with individuals involved in the legal system—including those who are incarcerated, recently released, or facing legal challenges; my practice is open to anyone seeking support. I work with adults from all walks of life who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, or questioning, “Am I normal?” My approach is casual, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe that therapy should be a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself, and I tailor each session to meet YOUR individual needs and comfort level. When appropriate, I also find that a sense of humor can be a powerful part of the healing process. I provided mental health services in jail for about 19 years and I have truly seen it all, so you never have to worry about being judged and don’t have to hold back or filter yourself. In addition to working with clients facing personal struggles, I also support professionals in high-stress roles; such as law enforcement, correctional officers, attorneys, and first responders. Reaching out for help takes courage and can feel scary, and I'm glad you’re here. Whether you're dealing with something specific or just feeling overwhelmed, we can work through it together.
Erin McConnell
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I feel honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate life’s challenges. I understand that reaching out for support can be a big step, and my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and genuinely understood. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem struggles, as well as challenges related to relationships, work, trauma, and social anxiety. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I believe in getting to know you—your story, your strengths, and what matters most to you. Together, we can gently explore patterns that may be holding you back, build self-compassion, and develop practical tools to help you move forward in a way that feels meaningful and manageable. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, but always guided by empathy, curiosity, and respect for your unique experience. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to support you at your own pace. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Tool, Texas
Finding a therapist near you in Tool, 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 Tool.
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 Tool, Texas
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Tool and the surrounding TX area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.