UnitedHealthcare/Optum Therapists in Austin, TX

Hi! I'm Denisa Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Austin, Texas. Originally from Greenville, Mississippi, I earned my Master's in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2015 and have extensive experience in crisis management, trauma intervention, and life transitions. Recently, I’ve been working with clients exiting abusive relationships and providing them with the tools to navigate these challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, empathetic, and eclectic therapy to help clients heal, grow, and find new directions in their lives.

I specialize in working with adults experiencing trauma, depression, and life phase transitions and transitions. When working with children, I specialize in helping them, and their caregivers, learn how to recognize and cope with their emotions, communicate their needs, and improve their ability to solve problems. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children in various settings including hospital and community clinic settings. I have been independently licensed and providing therapy since 2017 and it has been a great pleasure to join my client's in their healing process and I look forward to getting to be a part of yours as well!

Hello and Welcome to My Virtual Home! I'm glad you could make it. I know making the decision to ask for help is not always an easy one. I'm excited about the possibility of us working together. A little about me, I make every effort to live my very best life. In the process I have made some mistakes. I think that makes me great at what I do because I am non judgmental and accepting of others. I am mindful that recovery is possible for us all no matter what. I have over 20 years of experience as a clinician. I am versed in a variety of interventions, including DBT, EMDR, and accudetox. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.

After graduating from college with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a Micro Social Work concentration, followed by passing the Texas state board exam granting me a license to practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with individuals and families for over 25 years. My first post graduation position was Director of Child & Adolescent Unit at Intracare Psychiatric Hospital, followed by Director of Adoption Access, then Lead Therapist at St. Joseph's Hospital Adult Unit, and other agency and hospital positions scanning a 20 year period. My professional focus has always been to work with individuals, families and children in need of support, guidance and resources.

Hi! My name is Mira and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Midwestern State University. I also graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelors of Arts in Human Development and Family Sciences and a concentration on Families and Personal Relationships. As a child of immigrant parents, I understand the complexities of inter-generational trauma. The weight of cultural and societal expectations can take a toll on one’s mental health. Family and religious pressure can also have a negative effect on our own identity and self-perception. I believe that no matter what our past has given us or what our future holds, we are capable of working through our life challenges. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients embrace their authentic self and discover new paths of healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). My general approach to therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My practice has been focused on helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and PTSD. I also have an extensive background in substance use disorder. I work primarily with adults over the age of 18, and selected teens.

Christopher is a clinical social worker, licensed in Florida, Massachusetts, and Texas. For over ten years he has provided individual, couples, and family therapy and other services to clients in a variety of settings, including community centers, hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and via work in mobile crisis units. He currently provides online individual therapy for adults, utilizing a variety of common modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Christopher is also trained and certified in EMDR Therapy.

Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed, struggling to fit in, or facing challenges that impact daily life? Whether it’s difficulty building relationships, managing anxiety or depression, or overcoming self-doubt, these struggles can affect confidence and overall well-being. I’m passionate about helping individuals of all ages—children, teens, and adults—navigate life’s challenges and develop resilience. From managing social pressures to addressing personal or performance-related concerns, my goal is to empower you with the tools to thrive. As a therapist with experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I help clients reshape negative thought patterns and build confidence. Whether you're a student-athlete battling performance anxiety or a child/adult dealing with difficulties, I tailor my approach to meet your needs, providing tools to improve self-worth and navigate life's challenges. Your journey towards healing begins with a simple conversation. I encourage you to reach out and together we can address issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, communication, or sports performance challenges. Together we can navigate the path to a more fulfilling life, allowing you to worry less and enjoy each day to the fullest.

Hey there!! I’m Karen Lanxon, a Licensed Professional Counselor and fellow working mom. As a Christian, mom of three (two young adult sons and a preteen daughter—send prayers! LOL!) and wife to my high school sweetheart, I know how real the juggle is. It can be tough. Overwhelmed. Running on empty. Wondering when you stopped recognizing the woman in the mirror. Fearing that going to counseling may look like a lack of faith, and hesitating to rest because there's always one more thing. Here's the truth: You can love Jesus AND go to therapy. Rest is holy, and it’s okay to say “no” to make space for the things that light you up. If you're ready to find you again, I'd love to help!

"Hello, I'm Ashley Whitley-Mitchell, LMFT, the heart behind ThriveFocus Counseling. As a seasoned therapists and dedicated veteran, I bring years of expertise in guiding individuals through life's challenges. With a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, pre-marital and couples counseling, teen and adolescent support, life transitions, and military-related mental health, I'm committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to help you thrive."

Welcome! Are you looking to heal something in your life, or perhaps feeling stuck and without direction? Do you desire growth but find the possible changes frightening and wearying? Even healing from the effects of stress and anxiety can be challenging, making us want to avoid discomfort. In our sessions, I work with my clients to create a safe and comfortable environment where these challenges can be faced with courage and support. I admire the bravery it takes to start this journey and treasure the experience of walking alongside you. My role can vary between therapist, educator, or coach, depending on what is best suited to your needs. Let's work together to identify and achieve your goals.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Austin, Texas. I graduated from the MAC (Masters of Arts in Counseling) program at St. Edward's University in 2014. I will always be thankful for the experience that I had at Capital Area Counseling during my post-graduate internship where I learned that my desire to become a counselor extended beyond the classroom and into the actual world.

Hi! I'm Tori Volanski. I'm so glad you're here and that you've taken the first step towards getting support. Maybe you aren't quite sure how to focus on what matters or even find the motivation to figure it out. You want to find more ways to connect with those important to you, lean into the joys that life has to offer and embrace new challenges. I've been there too, many times and I'm here to support you on your journey. I connect well with adults and adolescents who are exploring their identities and learning to embrace their values. I practice from a person-centered approach which means that getting to know you, your personal experiences, and what feels most important to you right now is what will guide our work together. I look forward to learning more about you and providing a place for you to be your most authentic self. Please schedule a consultation if you have any questions.

Hello! Welcome. In short, I am a military Veteran, Christian, bilingual Counselor, and former School Counselor. My former education and experiences are certainly varied, but have helped me to appreciate a varied clientele, and be open-minded and thus prepared me to help others. I work primarily with adults, couples, and older adolescents, 14-19. You'll find me to be empowering, and understanding.

Hello. My name is Vanessa, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I currently reside in Alaska, but I am originally from Texas. I received my Master of Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Texas-Pan American and have been practicing since 2018. I mostly work with adults struggling to process life and help them learn better coping skills to function successfully in their lives and society.

Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to read this & congratulations on your first step to finding a therapist who’s right for you! My background is in trauma therapy, attachment focused, person-centered & cultural/relational model. Before I was a therapist I served in the military & love to work with women vets, LGTBQ+ veterans & folks in general & have a strong foundation in working with complex trauma & survivors of assault & intimate partner violence. I operate from an inclusive & anti-racist lens & work as a practitioner of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) with kiddo clients & Internal Family Systems as well as Somatic Embodiment practices as a way of helping clients to integrate their system after trauma. My dog & cat are usually in the room as I exclusively am offering telehealth at this time, so if that sounds like a good fit do reach out & we will schedule a free 15 minute conversation!

I specialize in helping adults heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress that’s built up over time. My approach is compassionate, down-to-earth, and focused on getting to the root of what’s holding you back. We’ll explore patterns, build healthier boundaries, and reconnect you with your inner peace. I integrate talk therapy with somatic tools, trauma therapy, mindfulness, and culturally aware care to support your healing in a way that feels safe, empowering, and authentic to you.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been working as a psychotherapist for the past 4 years. I have experience in a number of settings prior to becoming a therapist including working at an inpatient psychiatric hospital for 4 years. I am comfortable working with adults with issues related to anxiety, depression, PTSD and life transitions.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) licensed in Louisiana and Texas. My practice is fully remote, which is convenient for all clients. I received my PhD from Walden University and my Master's from Southeastern Louisiana University and have been practicing for 11 years. I help individuals who may be experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, coping skills, burnout, and much more.

Hi, my name is Stephanie Perez, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Austin, Texas. As an Air Force Veteran and Martial Artist originally from California, I am also a mother to two sons, ages 14 and 20. I received my Master's in Clinical Counseling from Colorado Christian University. In my practice, I am a spiritually oriented psychotherapist who employs various therapeutic modalities to help you align with your truest self. My approach includes mindfulness-based techniques, such as somatic approaches and Internal Family Systems, to aid clients in discovering their inner sense of self and direction.

I’m Becks, a Licensed Professional Counselor & NASM Certified Personal Trainer who specializes in behavior change & nutrition coaching. You might also call me a guiding light toward overall wellness or a catalyst for growth & healing. My great passion as a Health & Wellness Professional is to help you build a healthier relationship with food & your body, cultivate emotional agility to freely express yourself, & be able to communicate your needs/wants to others more effectively. While I’d love to help you improve your mental health through movement & balanced nutrition, I also understand that everyone’s starting point in therapy can look very different. It would be my pleasure in meeting you where you are in your journey to help build your toolbox of skills so that you can lead the life you deserve to live.

My journey as a professional counselor for the past two decades has been deeply rewarding. Witnessing the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of therapy has fueled my commitment to this work. Over the years, my expertise in trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions has grown through continuous learning and, most importantly, through the privilege of walking alongside countless individuals on their paths to healing and growth. My foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, coupled with a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach, has shaped my practice and my unwavering belief in the potential for positive change within each person I have the honor to support.

Hi, I'm Abel Garcia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. My journey began in 1999, working in child and family welfare, and has since evolved into a dedicated practice focused on helping individuals aged 13 and up navigate life's challenges. I believe it is important to create a sense of safety and security in my practice. With safety comes vulnerability, and when we reach that space we will do our best work to help you feel seen, accepted, heard, and loved. Throughout my career, I've supported clients through a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including those who feel overwhelmed by the stresses of life, are battling low moods, or find themselves constantly worrying. Whether it's the weight of the past, the pressures of the present, or concerns about the future, I work alongside you to help ease these burdens. I specialize in trauma, adult ADHD, disordered eating, and body image/self-worth concerns. My therapeutic approach is integrative, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic techniques to create a holistic, strength-based experience for my clients. Having faced my own struggles with body image and self-worth, as well as managing ADHD as an adult, I understand the importance of having a safe, supportive space where you can be vulnerable and feel truly understood. Therapy with me is a partnership where you can expect to be met with empathy, humor, and a genuine desire to help you uncover your strengths and achieve your goals. For those who may find it difficult to open up—especially men. My goal is to create a space where you can tackle what’s on your mind without feeling judged or pushed. We’ll work at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you.

"Carrie is helping me to think positively and remove my negative self-talk. She helps me recognize where I might be holding myself back and teaches me ways to challenge my self-imposed limitations." I focus on supporting working professionals and college students who are struggling in their careers, education, or relationships due to anxiety or depression. Many feel burnt out, irritable, overwhelmed, and stuck. Chronic stress and rumination make it hard for them to connect with their co-workers, boss, friends, and family. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas and Michigan specializing in workplace mental health. I help clients struggling with burnout, anxiety, and depression bring their best selves to work. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) with over 20 years working in career counseling, education, and mental health. Follow me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-may

With a background as a high-performing D1 athlete, experience in law enforcement, support for military families and the expectations of the corporate world - I bring a unique perspective to therapy. I understand the mental and physical demands of high performance and offer a compassionate, open-minded space where you can explore your past, present, and future. I have been licensed and practicing since 2010.

Hi, my name is Terri Lee Stowe and I am the founder/owner of Engaging Teens Counseling Center, PLLC. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I provide in-person and telehealth individual sessions to clients age 11- 25 years of age. My journey in counseling began when I witnessed my middle school students struggling both emotionally and academically and feeling as if I could not help them enough within the field of education. It would be my pleasure to help you/your child to navigate the transition between adolescence and adulthood. It is my goal to engage clients and allow them to feel both seen and heard and learn to recognize their own value as well as personal strengths.

Howdy, Im a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. I have been working in the counseling field since 2016 after graduating with my masters in clinical psychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. I work with adults of all ages to identify their current goals and desires concerning the changes they would like to see in their lives.

My personal background gave me life learned lessons to help understand others. My personal struggles along with my education has given me the strength I feel I need to work in this field. Counseling is an absolute passion I live with every day as this is what gives me purpose. The feeling of being able to help those in need motivates me like nothing else ever could.

I have 20+ years as a licensed professional counselor and 15 years post graduation in clinical psychology. My virtual practice focuses on women and men who are seeking to reduce depression and anxiety while enhancing positive mood. These sessions are priced by your insurance company. I have in person sessions working with individuals and families of all ages. Clients are taught coping strategies to manage difficult feelings. My approach is to conduct evaluations, design treatment plans, and facilitate individual therapy. My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in psychology from Texas A&M University, a master's degree in professional counseling from Texas State University and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Alliant International University. My doctoral dissertation was "Childhood Near-Death Experiences and Psychotherapy." In 2009, this research study won an award for meeting the California Mental Health Services Act requirements for research about spirituality.

I have had the privilege to work with adults, teens, and children who struggle with life challenges, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and grief. I offer a safe space for clients to gain insight, learn more about themselves, and heal from painful experiences that continue to affect their personal life. In my practice, I help clients to reinvent themselves and unlearn unhealthy patterns that no longer serve a purpose through a compassionate approach.

Hello, and welcome! My name is JD, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both Oklahoma and Texas. I’m currently completing the internship portion of my doctorate in clinical psychology, with the goal of becoming a licensed psychologist in the near future. My hope is that through our work together, I can help you find relief and resilience as you navigate life’s challenges. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward well-being

Hi, my name is Adam Turner. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been working with individuals to help them handle difficulties and overcome issues for over 20 years. I have worked in jails, on the streets, in schools, and even in other countries learning ways to help improve others lives.

Hola/Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Houston TX. I received my MS from University of Houston Clear Lake, and I have been practicing for 5+ years. I work with adolescents and young adults who have experienced trauma and need help transitioning into adult life. I also have experience helping women in different life challenging situations, from domestic violence to career burn-out. I also hold a Ph.D. in Hispanic Studies and I'm a former academic with extensive training and expertise in cultural identity issues due to migration, feminist theory and gender issues. I'm fully bilingual (Spanish and English), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy certified and EMDR trained.

Kelly Hays is a LCSW-S, practicing in Social Work since 1989 after graduation from Our Lady of The Lake University of San Antonio, TX. Kelly is a Retired Navy (Hospital Corpsman) /Army (Social Work Officer) Veteran and has served in Family Advocacy, Hospice, Outpatient Mental Health, Inpatient Mental Health, Physical Rehabilitation, Juvenile Probation, Veteran Services over the past 30 plus years. Kelly has served as a “Life-After-Loss” facilitator for the American Cancer Society as well as a “Stephen-Ministry Leader” in Two Lutheran Congregations in the past. Kelly has also taught for “Park University” (Sociology) and UTSA. (Social Work) and St. Philips College (Medical Terminology) previously. Kelly is also a Social Work Supervisor for those seeking LCSW licensure. Kelly has an eclectic approach to therapy as well as experience in CBT, Motivational Interviewing, is trained in EMDR and has training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Kelly also is a professional member of CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, (NACBT) American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) National Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW)

Hello. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas and received my graduate degree from Texas Tech University. I believe my life experience interacting with different people allows me to provide a distinctive perspective. My goal as a counselor is to assist you in becoming the best you possible. And you are the determining factor in who and what you want to become.

Hi! I am Gene Gibbs, a trained counselor and mental health therapist. I enjoy helping people as they navigate the issues and concerns that arise as one lives from day to day. I seek to provide a sounding board that allows clients to hear what they are saying and then to process their thoughts and ideas and get a clear view of how they are heard and what it means. From the processing step I move to clarification and application. They goal is to help the client do what is helpful for them and for those with whom they interact.

I'm a LCSW based in Texas. I am an somatic therapist trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), ​TCYM Certified (Trauma Conscious Yoga Method), and a RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher 200). I integrate somatic approaches such as, EMDR and yoga to strengthen a mind-body connection, increase self-awareness, and process old wounds. I'm 100% virtual, making therapy accessible and convenient! Many women are on autopilot, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, depleted, and burnt out. I integrate somatic practices such as EMDR (trauma healing) and yoga into therapy, recognizing the importance of the mind-body connection in healing. Together, we will practice ways to manage stress, address inner wounds, and remain intentional throughout your life.

I am a mature woman with a young spirit. I am interested in what is going on in the world and tend to stay current and youthful in my thinking. I am a perpetual learner and am very open minded. I strive to be accepting and non-judgemental. I see myself as a tool to be used in the therapeutic work we are pursuing. I have had many unique and challenging life experiences that equip me to easily relate to a broad group of individuals. I may have walked in your shoes. I will strive to relate to you as though I have with empathy and compassion.

I am dedicated to helping people navigate the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, and personal challenges with compassion and understanding. I specialize in addressing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and self-esteem issues. My aim is to create a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, grow emotionally, and build healthier relationships. If your goals include improving emotional regulation, building stronger relationships, gaining self-awareness, and fostering positive change, don't hesitate to contact me.

Hi there, I'm Melissa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based near Austin, Texas. I work with clients state-wide utilizing telehealth. I have always had an interest in helping others. I have practiced therapy for 17 years. My approach to therapy depends on the needs of my clients. I believe in meeting clients where they are as everyone is an individual with their own indvidual needs.

Hello, I am Dr. Walter Calvo and I have two questions for you. Are you interested in learning why you think and feel the way you do? How about learning why you choose to do the things that you do? I can help you learn coping skills to address common life challenges such as adjusting to change, managing conflict, reducing stress, improving relationships, and coping with grief. Equally important, I can help you process your emotional responses to distressing life circumstances. I also provide psychotherapy to address acute trauma, post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression. My experience in this area comes from working with active-duty military, veterans, and first responders such as law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical responders and their families. Gaining insight into why you think and feel the way you do is empowering. It will put you on a path to becoming the best version of yourself. If you are interested in any of that, let's talk!

Hello! Welcome to my safe space. My name is Cierra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for both Texas and New Mexico. I received my Masters degree from Western New Mexico University and Bachelors degree from Louisiana State University. I help children and adults struggling with historical and everyday stressors and assist them in achieving resilience and stability. I make all efforts to ensure clients feel safe in sessions, and encourage clients to take ownership of their therapeutic process.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide compassionate & professional support to individuals seeking guidance & healing. Whether you're facing personal challenges, seeking self-discovery, or navigating through difficult times, I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is centered on nurturing and enriching the lives of those I work with. Together, we'll explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and work towards achieving your goals. With a focus on empowerment and growth, my goal is to help you thrive emotionally, mentally, and personally.

My name is Pablo, and I have been working as a clinician for the past fourteen years. I have worked with a variety of clients, including adults and couples. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, marital problems, anger problems, and a wide range of other mental health concerns in both clinical and hospital settings. My goal as a clinician is to help people gain a better understanding of the challenges that can arise in daily life and how to maintain a healthy balance so that these problems do not define them. I want to help my clients understand the true purpose of counseling and how it can empower them to grow as individuals. I am passionate about helping people build the tools they need to live fulfilling lives. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Faith Development. I also have a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. I am committed to providing my clients with the highest quality of care.

Why should you choose ME, over anyone else? That is the burning question. As I sit here and try to think of all the ways to possibly distinguish myself in comparison to my peers and colleagues, one specific thing comes to mind: the exact moment that I knew I wanted to be a therapist. My life’s trials and tribulations have put me in a strangely unique position in regard to understanding and empathizing with much of what is thrown at many of us, and it is because of that, that I found strength in my weaknesses and lowest moments. Readjusting to life after deployments, after the military, after divorce and growing pains and heartache, was a monumentally transitional period of my life, and my therapist bared the brunt of my pain with compassion and grace. In my very last session, I looked him in the eyes and said: “I want to do what you’re doing. I want to help people the way that you’ve helped me. I’ve been on this side of the table – now I want to be on that side.” So, what’re my credentials, expertise, focus and treatment approaches? Credentials: MSW, LICSW (WA), LCSW (HI, TN, TX) Expertise: My background and personal experience of the military and with Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) ensure that I have a good handling on trauma and know all too well the burdens of Veterans that come with serving your country during war, as well as in the aftermath. Beyond that, I specialize and have experience with anger management, mood disorders, thought disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, self-esteem issues. Approaches: I clinically find myself utilizing a psychodynamic approach to therapy with my clients. I believe we are who we are today based on the many influences we had in our lives, especially in those formidable early childhood years. Oftentimes, we can find the source of your current concerns today by processing how you originally developed your core values and beliefs. These roots run deeper than we typically ever realize without therapy. If you choose to work with me, we will naturally dive deeper into what this may mean for you. The path of healing is not an easy road, nor a short one. Doing the work takes gusto, but I believe that you have it inside of you, and I believe that I am the one for the job to aid in your process and growth. I hope to hear from you soon!!! Respectfully, Sean

I am a mental health therapist (LPC) from Texas with 3+ years of experience. I help clients cope and process through concerns related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, social anxiety/panic, and trauma. Life brings inevitable ups and downs. As a therapist, I feel honored to foster a safe space which allows for an intentional and non-judgemental relationship to develop. This allows my clients to dig deep and discover incredible growth.

I support individuals, couples, and families in understanding how traits associated with ADHD, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, and other neurodivergent conditions impact the neurodivergent individual and the dynamics of their relationships with partners, family members, coworkers, and classmates. I encourage my clients to identify their life purpose based on their values, strengths, and lived experiences, while providing actionable feedback through psychoeducation, insights, communication tools, and coping strategies tailored to their specific needs. My goal is to help them cultivate a life that is as unique and meaningful as they are. I work with various types of relationships to enhance communication, set goals, and prevent or resolve misunderstandings and breaches of trust, while helping to rebuild confidence in one another. This includes reinforcing relationship foundations and establishing shared meaning and purpose. Additionally, I enjoy assisting new couples in developing healthy communication skills and trust to strengthen their connection and foster resilient, lasting relationships. When working with children and teens, I adopt a systems-based approach to empower parents in supporting their children. I provide insights into how a neurodivergent mind perceives the world and the myriad demands placed on children today, regardless of whether they are neurotypical, neurodiverse, or anywhere along the spectrum. Drawing on my experience as an autistic parent with ADHD and as a caregiver to my own neurodivergent child, I empathize with families as they navigate the challenges of providing comprehensive support for their children while also prioritizing their own well-being.

Dennis is a certified trauma professional (PESI), serving clients Online within the great State of Texas, as an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Mr. Dennis Patrick Smith's greatest passion is in helping others with any unresolved trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); helping those of you with the underlying causes of addictions; and helping you and yours with relationship issues. In addition, Dennis began his EMDR training and experience from 2018 under Dr. Robbie Adler-Tapia and some brief advanced EMDR supervision by the late Dr Francine Shapiro, in 2019, and has continued EMDR training with other leaders in the field from 2018 to the present day.

As a therapist, I am deeply committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in a client-centered, collaborative approach, where the therapeutic relationship is a partnership. I meet clients as equals, respecting them as the experts in their own lives, and providing unconditional positive regard. I recognize that clients’ struggles are often shaped by social, cultural, and political forces like gender, race, and class. I take an intersectional approach, understanding how various aspects of identity intersect to create unique experiences. I focus on empowerment—helping clients reclaim their voice, challenge societal norms, and recognize their inner strength. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each client’s needs. I integrate methods like Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support healing, whether through trauma processing, emotional regulation, or shifting unhelpful thought patterns. I’m also trauma-informed, providing a safe space for clients to explore past experiences at their own pace. I value cultural humility and am committed to understanding the impact of cultural background on mental health. I strive to be inclusive, respecting each person’s unique worldview and lived experience. I see therapy as a strength-based process rather than a path to fixing someone. Clients are not broken but resilient individuals with the capacity to grow and heal. My goal is to support clients in reconnecting with their agency and personal power, empowering them to make choices that align with their true selves. Ultimately, I am an empathetic, compassionate therapist dedicated to the growth, healing, and empowerment of my clients, always working from a place of respect, authenticity, and social justice.

As a social worker for twenty years, I have seen both the incredible hardships that people face as well as human resilience and adaptability. I became a therapist because I believe that healing happens best when we feel seen, heard, and accepted—just as we are. In therapy sessions, I use humor, warmth, and genuine respect to create a safe and supportive space for that purpose.