This is Melanie Hunter's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Hunter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Melanie and I am looking forward to discussing your counseling needs. I look forward to talking to connecting with you to establish your needs and goals for our work together. I can provide as much or as little structure as you need in our sessions and can assist with establishing goals you can achieve. Generally, my approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy and I hold a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been licensed to practice independently since 2005. You may find more information on the licensing board's website at https://www.bhec.texas.gov/

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Melanie Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
37 years of experience as a mental health therapist

“When we are no longer able to change a situation -we are challenged to change ourselves.” [Viktor Frankl] He really knew what he was talking about. Each life transition inevitably forces us to navigate unchartered water, but sometimes the challenge can be overwhelming. As a seasoned therapist, I like to think that I help people feel empowered, find meaning, and reclaim their lives. Like most therapists, I have worked in many areas while gaining vast experience in crisis stabilization, forensics, child abuse, divorce, anxiety, autism, aging, substance abuse, and depression. My approach is straightforward: we establish a problem-solving treatment plan together and go from there. This journey takes work. But it can be so rewarding. Today’s world has changed. Everything is different. People are experiencing anxiety more than ever before. It can be overwhelming and frightening. It can interfere with daily living and start to control you. It feels bad. It feels wrong. Sometimes you can't see a solution. It is easier to navigate the waters with the guidance of a skilled therapist. I will create a safe place for our journey together. Take that first step and choose hope. Currently I provide peer consultation/supervision to therapists and help them with case consultation, the business side of their practice, and confidence in approaching their work. Certified Clinical TeleMental Health Provider CTMH Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor LMHC Texas Licensed Professional Counselor LPC South Carolina Registered Professional Counselor National Board Certified Counselor NCC

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Kristen Pitzer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): M.A., LPC, PLLC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! Taking the first step into therapy can bring upon many different thoughts and emotions. I understand this which is why I believe a genuine trust and relationship with your therapist can bring healing and peace. Whether you are faced with something that occurred 2 days ago or 20 years ago, allow me to provide you with a safe place to share your struggles, your stories and your strengths. While in therapy, we work collaboratively together. I will hear your voice, ask thought provoking questions, as well as provide my thoughts and suggestions to help you achieve the change you are seeking. We will explore and build new coping skills and strengthen the ones you already have. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have endured various forms of trauma. I also work with clients who struggle with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, adjustment struggles and relationship struggles. Allow me to walk alongside you during this journey of growth and healing from past wounds.

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Karen Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working as therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I have worked with many couples for relationship repair, communication skills, and pre-marital counseling. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, without judgment. My approach combines person centered, solution focused counseling styles. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Diane McCollum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S, LMFT, NBCC
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling for adults and children in multiple settings. I have worked with many different issues over the years. I see clients as brave to be willing to make changes. I believe in the helping process because I myself have been there, and used counseling to make my life more fulfilling. I believe this experience helps me see clients not as "sick or helpless," but as stuck in the process of a life transition, as I once was. Our therapeutic alliance requires mutual respect, honesty, clear communication and boundaries. I believe I role model these, with dignity and respect for the individual, the family and the process of change. I have experience providing a family systems perspective with a warm, compassionate, humanist-spiritual foundation. I have helped many people overcome trauma and abuse to gain a more objective view of how their "past might have influenced their present." I would be encouraging you to develop your own goals for treatment to meet your unique needs. My years of experience have taught me that we will both learn as you explore your issues. I will do my best to see the world through the lens of your personal challenges and feelings.

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Tanya Wood

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. 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 am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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LaSharta Pearson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Ms. Pearson truly believes in the power of positive affirmation. As a mental health provider, she is intrinsically motivated by the desire to help those in need. Driven by a passion for witnessing the progression that individuals achieve, she values being able to join patients as they travel along the journey of change. LaSharta often recalls advice from a mentor that therapeutic work is metaphorically similar to planting a seed, recognizing that receiving nourishment allows growth and transformation to occur. Centered on an individually focused care philosophy, she tailors treatment to each patient’s specific needs, expectations, and goals. Drawing on various therapeutic modalities such as Solution Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness techniques, Ms. Pearson also utilizes effective skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Over the course of her life, LaSharta has found multiple ways to serve her community and brings that experience to her mindcare work, including her time spent as a corrections officer and as a member of the US Air Force. Inspired by additional volunteering experience with organizations like the Special Olympics, Big Brother & Big Sister, and the Guardian ad Litem program, Ms. Pearson is grateful to have found her true calling as a mindcare provider, noting that in many ways the calling found her. She hopes to empower, inspire and motivate everyone who she works with and often shares one of her favorite affirmations: “You are a powerful force of nature; your potential is limitless. Start believing in the power of you.”

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Amy Drake

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. 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 am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Jennifer Gore's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Gore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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. 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.

This is Laura De La Paz's avatar and link to their profile

Laura De La Paz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 8 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 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in West

Finding the best therapist close by in West can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in West that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in West. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in West, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the West region and in the state of Texas. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in West or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater West area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find West therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of West, elsewhere in McLennan, or in the greater state of Texas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the West area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in West due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in West may not take health insurance, some in the state of Texas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Texas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this West online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in West, Texas working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from West psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in West above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in West helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified West therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a West therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in West?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a West therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

West therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of West therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A West therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in TX, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 76691 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a West counselor?

Before seeing your West therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in West.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A West licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a West counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in West, Texas can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

West has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for West, Texas

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of West.

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

76691

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