Book 100+ of the best Aetna therapists in Texas

I provide a warm atmosphere where you can talk about what’s on your mind; feel heard, accepted, and if you're ready, empowered to begin the next steps toward the changes you desire. We will discuss your goals during the first visit and together come up with a plan of action to make them happen. Many clients by this stage have been struggling for a long time. They can’t even imagine that they could be free of their troubling symptoms. While I can’t give you a guarantee, most clients begin to feel better in as few as 10-15 sessions, many sooner. Please reach out for any questions or information. I look forward to serving you in your endeavors.

Hola! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that has developed experience helping families with generational trauma, cultural issues, youth-specific trauma, challenges as an immigrant, life adjustments, and family conflict. I utilize a client centered and holistic approach during each session. I tailor dialog and treatment plans to meet the unique and specific needs of each client using a variety of models including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, art therapy, narrative therapy, and play therapy.

Hi, I am Samantha, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years experience in community mental health. Native to Texas, I graduated from St. Mary's University, with Master's of Arts in Community Counseling. I have a passion for helping people reclaim their lives and thrive. Whether you’re facing challenges related to trauma, substance use, or life transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. I provide a warm, non-judgmental space where we can explore your story and work toward healing and growth.

Hello! I am the founder of Lighthouse Counseling of San Antonio, PLLC. Here is a little bit of information on my professional background and interest. I am an Asian American, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) here in San Antonio. I studied at The University of Texas at San Antonio, and obtained my undergraduate degree in Psychology, and my graduate degree in Community Counseling. I take pride in using my education and skills learned to provide culturally sensitive counseling services to clients here in San Antonio and virtually to anyone in the state of Texas. My focus is working with adults who face hardships. Basically any hardship that may cause or be accompanied by potential, existing, or chronic mental health related conditions, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse or alcohol addiction, unresolved or complicated grief, family issues, or difficult experiences. I try to meet clients where they are in their process, explore their concerns, and provide a safe and therapeutic space for them to talk about their experiences. I use a variety of approaches specific to their needs, which may include Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy.

I am a LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist based in Bulverde, Texas. I will also be offering IN PERSON sessions beginning February 2025 in the Stone Oak medical area. I received my graduate degree from Newman University (2014) and my undergrad at Wichita State University (2008), both in Wichita, Kansas. My Clinical Supervision was obtained through University Health System under their Community First Health/Star Kids program. Something unique about me in my career is that I have served premature babies through centenarians throughout every developmental stage of life. My passion as your therapist is to unlock your full potential and be the best version of yourself so that you may honor your dreams and goals.

Hi there! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has been in practice for over 20 years. I help adults manage the struggles of life- stress, relationships, caregiving, life changes, chronic health issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, etc. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of thing so I can utilize several different types of treatment modalities to help you reach your goals.

Therapy with me is taking a journey through the labyrinth of your mind. It's a journey into who you are, or think you are, and why. It's narrating your stories through the use of a metaphysical philosophy of Epistemology, which is the study of Knowledge. Your subconscious and Shadow, the stories you tell yourself and where they came from. Mindfully exploring if what you see is Reality or just perception. It's family of origin, a examining the stories through a cognitive behavior eye-why you are the way you are, and what to do about it. How to interact from a place of authenticity without letting outside judgements play games with your stories.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional and Certified Biblical Counselor. I have a strong desire to help others have a change of heart, mind, and spirit! I have a passion for working with individuals who want to improve their lives and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I strive to instill hope, perseverance, and biblical truth to help clients reach their goals and find the root of their problems.

Hi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for over 7 years and have experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I am now accepting appointment requests for Sunday-Thursday evening hours starting at 8:30pm cst for clients in Texas and New Jersey. Feel free to book an appointment directly or send me a message to schedule a time that works for you.

This is your world, I'm just the therapist to help you navigate through it. Hi, I'm Brandon! Thank you for checking out my bio. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach tailored to YOUR individual needs and wants. I'm always eager to work with new individuals and have over 8 years of experience. Some of that experience includes working with individuals who have experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety, bullying, PTSD, bipolar disorder, marital concerns, childhood trauma, adult trauma, suicidal ideations, grief, stress, family conflict and relationship conflict. I like to utilize many approaches in my therapeutic sessions. Therapeutic practices include Solutions Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Adventured based therapy. I do not believe that one style works for everyone and I work to the strengths and goals of the people I serve. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, experiencing relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help you navigate those feelings/symptoms. Seeking therapy can feel scary and overwhelming but I'm here to help with that process. You deserve a safe space to heal, grow and process your experiences at YOUR pace. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can manage and alleviate concerns that may be holding you back. Let's find some healthy and effective strategies to help you. I look forward to working with you!

Searching for the right therapist? Don't settle for just help...get top-notch help from an experienced professional! I am excited to explore with you how to reach your goals and start on the path to leading the life that you desire. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas with thirty-one years in the field. I graduated from Texas State University with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling with a focus in individual counseling and marriage & family therapy. I am also a certified Master Level Practitioner of NLP (the roots of EMDR). I take the privilege of serving clients seriously and strive to provide a safe environment where any issue can be discussed openly focusing on healing, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking counseling due to trauma, grief and loss, to manage anxiety or depression, or desire to improve upon a firm foundation or just learn more about yourself, I am delighted to walk along with you to a more refined YOU! Please know all my availability is not posted so if none of the options work for you, feel free to reach out to me at 512-655-3317 to determine alternative session times (including EVENING options) or book what is available and then message me on the platform to request other options. If you know you want to work with me and I have no current availability and your need is not emergent, I do offer a waiting list at client's request; just let me know you'd like to be added to the waiting list and I will work you into my schedule as soon as possible.

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.

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.

Working together once you realize your inner power, both therapist and client collaborate on cultivating that inner strength. For example, I've worked with individuals dealing with self-harm, formerly referred to as cutters/self-mutilation. Also, I worked with SI/HI, depression, anxiety, people with AH/VH/TH and paranoia, addictions, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, grief, eating disorders, sleep disorders, self-esteem, Bipolar, coping with life changes, attachment issues, body image, developing healthy boundaries. Counseling is a collaborative process, "Working together for a better tomorrow."

I have a decade of experience focusing on children, adolescents, adults, women, men focusing on depression, anxiety, work life balance, sexual health, sexual addictions, grief and loss, life transitions, domestic violence, eating disorders, abuse against children, relationship health, marriage counseling, pre-marriage counseling, trans gender issues and court mandated therapy services. THIS WORK is my life’s passion and it is a honor to be in this profession. I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Michigan with a degree in Interpersonal Practice and it is my life’s work to help you get to a place you want to be. I provide a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to help you overcome your past struggles and present barriers. I will guide you to help yourself to master the tools necessary to effectively navigate through the complexities of life with a new set lenses in order to help you reach your full potential.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor based out of Texas with more than a decade of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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. My primary therapeutic approach is from a strength-based perspective helping empower you to utilize your inherent strengths to work towards self-sufficiency and through life's adversities.

My ideal client is any woman navigating life’s complexities—whether exploring her identity, managing motherhood, or addressing family dynamics. As your dedicated guide, I’m here to support your journey of self-discovery and empowerment. My mission is to help you feel valued and understood, equipping you with tools to face challenges and turn obstacles into strengths. Together, we’ll create a vibrant future for you and your loved ones./Mi cliente ideal es cualquier mujer que navegue por las complejidades de la vida, ya sea explorando su identidad, gestionando la maternidad o abordando la dinámica familiar. Como tu guía, estoy aquí para apoyar tu viaje de autodescubrimiento y empoderamiento. Mi misión es ayudarte a sentirte valorada y comprendida, equipándote con herramientas para enfrentar desafíos y convertir los obstáculos en fortalezas. Juntas, crearemos un futuro vibrante para ti y tus seres queridos.

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.

Welcome! Are you a high-functioning adult, particularly a parent, longing to reclaim the spontaneity of your early life? I specialize in empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds, including parents and young adults, to navigate the delicate balance of parenthood and personal growth. In our sessions, I employ a unique mixed therapeutic approach, blending cognitive-behavioral and person-centered therapy. Through meaningful conversations, we'll uncover the roots of your struggles. As a single black mom, I bring a profound understanding of life's complexities. Join me on a journey to rediscover joy and equilibrium, regardless of your background or experiences.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, GA and have been a Social Worker for 11 years. A majority of my career has been spent working in the medical field and mental health. I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds. I have experience working with clients with mood disorders, such as depression and bi-polar, to clients struggle with hallucinations.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the daily challenges that can sometimes feel unmanageable. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to meet you where you are, providing a safe and compassionate space to explore your inner world. In my practice, I use evidence-based approaches that support you in uncovering your strengths, developing new coping skills, and finding pathways to healing and resilience.

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.

I have been found to be very effective working with individuals that present with persistent mental illness to impaired professionals including lawyers, pilots, entrepreneurs and other high-achieving individuals who are experiencing difficulty managing their careers and relationships due to dual diagnosis, psychiatric disorder, demands of stress and all types of addictions. With several years of impatient experience, I am known for being able to identify and treat the real problem. Let's work together, you can feel better! I have several years working in different capacities of Behavioral health treatment facilities. I am a certified interventionist with experience getting those suffering the treatment they deserve.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the University of Houston Clear Lake and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people from all ages with their mental health concerns. I'm focused on helping clients discover their strengths, build support systems, and foster holistic self-awareness. I firmly believe that the client is the expert of their own life and a key collaborator in treatment planning. I also believe in a cooperative approach to treating clients and welcome collaboration from family members.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Texas. I have over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a trauma informed, person centered, and eclectic therapist. I prioritize cultural humility in my practice to honor each individual's values, beliefs and traditions. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Mind Body techniques, Motivational Interviewing and Gottman's strategies.

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)

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the University of North Texas; I have been practicing for 8 years and have 15 years experience in various roles within the mental health field. I work well with men’s issues as well as adults and teens struggling with life transitions, confidence, interpersonal conflict, and codependency.

You wake up worried about the day ahead before you even get out of bed. At work, you're scared of making mistakes, it feels like everyone's waiting for you to mess up. When friends invite you out, you say “yes” but inside, you're nervous about going. At home, instead of relaxing, you keep thinking about awkward things you said or did, wondering what kind of impression you left on everyone. It feels like your brain won't turn off these thoughts that make you feel not good enough, and it's exhausting. These anxious thoughts are undercutting your confidence and affecting both your professional and personal relationships.

Hi! My name is Monica Tapia, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Texas. I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Texas A&M University and have been practicing for 10 years. I work with adults, teenagers, children, families, and couples. My main goal is to assist every individual become the best version of themselves while understanding that process and making it their own.

Hello! Welcome, congratulation on taking your first step to healing. I'm excited to walk with you and learn what makes you the unique. How can I help you meet your goals? I know first hand that it can be complicated to balance it all- work, family, friends hobbies, health, you name it and it just part or the weight that at times can hold us down. We always here the "put yourself first" and "make time for you" without the how or when. That's what I do with my clients. We get into the nitty gritty to understand how to balance all of the complicated stressors while also remembering and or finding who you are or want to be. I will stand by your side as you navigate, learn and make the life you want.

Difficult circumstances, stressful changes in your life, relationship trouble, or difficulties dealing with loss? please contact James Harrison. All of us eventually feel overwhelmed with life and our circumstances. I offer encouraging and compassionate care for couples, and individuals. I want to assist others duringwd their times of loss, healing or overcoming personal and interpersonal struggles in order to help and bring about lasting change. Tele-health Therapy Offered only at this time. For the past 5 years, I have worked with the military population, adolescence, adults. I also have worked with couples through relationship counseling. I have helped individuals who have been having difficulties with depression, anxiety, loss and grief, communication, coping skills and anger management. I am a ten year veteran of the United State Army. Life can be difficult please allow me to assist you with overcoming those obstacles that life may place in your way so you can became a better version of your self.

I am a License professional counselor with over 25 years of individual, marriage, and family counseling experience. I have also developed communication skills programs for managers at NASA and the United Space alliance, and for Houston oil and gas companies of El Paso Energy, and Tenneco, Halliburton, Chevron. I have also coauthored with my wife the book “When Anxiety Attacks” (1995) based on our experiences successfully treating anxiety disorders.

​Welcome! I'm Heather D. Vest, LPC, NCC. With over 12 years of ​experience, I offer personalized therapy to help you uncover ​your authentic self and heal from trauma. My background ​includes extensive work in trauma therapy and training in CBT, ​DBT, and EMDR, ensuring a compassionate and effective ​approach tailored to your needs. I provide flexible virtual and phone counseling to fit your ​lifestyle, creating a safe space where humor and compassion ​are integral to the healing process. Together, we’ll explore ​your concerns, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey to personal ​growth and well-being. I look forward to supporting you.

I have specialized training in many forms of therapy ranging from traditional talk therapy to the latest neurobiological breakthroughs. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples and families to help alleviate some of the most grievous situations and find a comfortable change. As a trauma specialist, I focus on treating individuals with PTSD, the various aftereffects of childhood and/or adult sexual abuse, secondary trauma, domestic violence, depression/anxiety, grief/loss, the various aftereffects of 2020 and Covid 19, and behavioral changes for healthier living.

Everyone has their own unique story and I will work to understand yours. I work with a variety of people including individuals, couples and families from a wide variety of professions, family situations, race, age and religious affiliations. Some of the issues I have experience and success working with are sexual dysfunction, infidelity, communication issues, trauma, and mental disorders. My approach looks at the entire person and the “system” in and surrounding them. I examine elements of people’s lives like their physical well-being, emotional coping and conflict resolution skills. We will work together in developing helpful behaviors and collaborate to create a safe place to develop emotional and physical wellness.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I received my Masters from LeTourneau University and have been practicing for 3 years. I work with adult clients living with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and anger. The goal is to provide a safe space for clients to openly talk, gain self-awareness, and identify ways to overcome their challenges.

My name is Sandra McKnight, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas, I love serving my clients, who are struggling with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to help you navigate the complexities of life and promote positive change. Together we can explore the path towards healing, growth, and a renewed sense of wellbeing.

Finding yourself stuck, blocked in your efforts to grow and heal? Depth psychology is key. I specialize in helping you discover how to unblock and move forward in your life, especially by working with the information in your unconscious and uncovering what those blocks are all about. As a counselor with over 25 years of experience, I can help with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, family and relationship issues, addiction and crisis of the spirit, I specialize in discovering what is at the core of problems and use a variety of healing and treatment modalities tailored to each client. I’ve found working with the unconscious, especially through dreams, more than anything, helps gain the insight and understanding necessary to heal quickly, permanently and remove the blocks that get in the way of a happier, more successful life. You can’t fix anything until you make it conscious. A wholistic approach that addresses the body, mind and spirit works very well to reveal the fullness of who you are. I have experience working with a variety of counseling modalities, such as cognitive/ behavioral, dream work, hypnosis and alternative methods of healing, in addition to meditation and mindfulness. I’ve worked with couples, families, addicts and clients who are dually diagnosed, meaning they have both mental health and addiction issues.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology. I have been practicing practicing for 15 years. I have been practicing in the state of Texas for the last 6 years. I have worked in private practice, case management, in home and grief counseling. I currently work with adults on adjustments and transitions. I focus on motivation and positive change and processing barriers. I help process a preferred narrative that leads to an improved congruency of mental and emotional wellness.

I've wanted to be a therapist since I was 9 years old. It's been a lifelong dream that I was able to achieve. My first experience with mental health is in a community mental health facility. I learned lots about major mental illness and skills training. I believe this time developed me into a therapist that "teaches" my client how to help themselves and how to relate to people on a personal level. My passions outside of work are DIY projects in my new home, crocheting, camping and my pug. I love reading romance novels. I am also a wife, mother and grandmother. I am a stepmother, bio-mother, mother of twins, mother of boys, mother of girls and have a variety of ages.

Life is one big journey! I would genuinely love to help you navigate through some of life's storms that might have taken you off your path. I've been on journeys with people from all walks of life: people struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, experiencing homelessness, loss of loved ones and jobs, disenfranchisement due to sexuality, spirituality, complex relationships and much more. Life is beautifully complex. It's my goal to help you identify the tools you already possess and obtain new tools needed to get through life's storms, prepare you for future storms and to thrive. Together, let's discover your North Star and help you get back on your path. You're not alone. I earned my Master's in Social Work from University of Southern California in 2019 and Bachelors in Psychology from University of New Mexico in 2012. I have extensive knowledge in, and even passionate about, therapies: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, but I truly believe that treatment is to be tailored to each individual I serve.

My name is Melanie; I am a board-certified, licensed professional counselor supervisor supporting clients struggling with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or major life changes. Oftentimes we find ourselves at a crossroads and become stuck from indecision and fear. I have over 10 years of experience working with adults and teens in community mental health settings in the following areas: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Anger & Stress Management, Substance Use, Intimate Partner Violence, Parent/Child Relationship Problems, and Non-Suicidal Self-Harm.

I am a licensed clinical social worker trained in the MSW and PhD program at Loyola in Chicago. I have done graduate studies in Philosphy and majored in Literature, Economics and Finance. I have practiced as a psychotherapist and also taught in the graduate school for over twenty years. I help people understand and work thru the problems we all have in our lives, our relationships and our work.

Michael Braxton is an Owner, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), holds an MBA, and is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). His organization Providing Justice LLC offers a variety of social services including mental health treatment, Addiction Treatment and Peer Support services. Other ancillary services are a notary public and access to health care enrollment. Michael Braxton is committed to creating positive change and empowering communities. His work aims to transform lives by connecting, collaborating, and making a difference.

Hi! I have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for about 16 years. I received my Masters degree in counseling from St. Edwards University. I am eager to provide a safe space for you to process life's daily struggles and help you achieve your goals. Seeking help through therapy is the first step in improving your life!

I'm an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). I practice in Texas and received my master's degree at Texas A&M University - Commerce in 2020. I have 4 years of culminative experience working with clients who are survivors of domestic violence, people who are recovering from substance use, and individuals with serious mental illnesses. I help people understand themselves better, and make positive changes in their lives.

Hi there, my name’s Stacee and I’m a transgender therapist who specializes in work with adult LGBTQ+ clients. There are so many parts to our shared experience: Trauma that’s related to our families-of-origin. For many of us, our families were our first bullies. Grief from our losses of intimate partners, lovers, friends, family, and pets. Anxiety and perfectionism that comes with trying to prove our worth in the world. Spiritual trauma from histories with shame-based religious systems. History with abusive or exploitative relationships, whether bullying bosses, predatory ex-partners or family members. Sometimes, we allowed ourselves to be exploited if it meant we could matter to someone. Weird shaming dynamics that exist within our queer subcultures around body image, shape, and size; our gender behaviors; and even social factors like a decision to live sober. Legitimate fear for our own lives and the safety of our families that’s in response to government actions. Our histories can show up in complicated ways: intrusive thoughts and nightmares, panic and anxiety, compulsive behaviors that once soothed us but now are destructive, cycles of depression. Then we experience guilt and shame that comes with the belief that we should ‘just get over it,’ just as we’ve had to forgive and get over so many things. Yet, there are some things we can't just get over on our own. This is the subject of my self-help book, The Healing Otherness Handbook. I look forward to meeting you and learning how I can help you get your fabulous back, or maybe discover it for the first time.

I received my license to practice marriage and family therapy in Texas in 1995. Over the years I've had the opportunity to work successfully with many different types of clients. I am experienced with mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. Anxiety, and adjustment disorders are quite common. We are all products of our family and culture so these issues are discussed in individual and couples counseling sessions. Because my specialty is marriage and family counseling, I sometimes work with couples or with several family members in the counseling session. If you are seeking marital therapy, then you are already aware of how complex it is to resolve problems to satisfy both of you. I want you to know that it is possible to unravel the issues and resolve them. All that is required is honesty – primarily with yourself – and a bit of work. We have seen many couples return to a peaceful and satisfying marriage. My counseling style is relaxed, but very direct. I prefer for clients to come to counseling weary of how things are going and prepared to begin changing their life. I practice solution-oriented and CBT counseling techniques which means that we work hard to ensure you come to as few sessions as possible. Many clients report 6 to 10 sessions are sufficient to provide mastery over the symptoms that brought them to therapy. Integrity, honesty and decency are keys to success and it is my commitment to bring these characteristics to each session.

Ivy Ickes is a licensed clinical social worker practicing in Houston, Texas with extensive experience in mental health treatment across diverse populations, especially ethnicity, gender, age, religious, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status. Her journey in the mental health field began during her undergraduate studies, where she first became involved in victim advocacy. This experience deepened her understanding of social dynamics and human behavior, leading her to earn dual bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Women’s Studies. While pursuing her graduate degree, Ivy worked at the National Domestic Violence Hotline, further honing her skills in crisis intervention and support. After earning a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin, she completed a post-graduate fellowship focused on psychiatric rehabilitation of veterans with severe mental illness. Ivy’s career further clinical advanced as she joined The Menninger Clinic staff, where she spent five years specializing in the treatment of business professionals facing mental health crises, young adults navigating the transition into adulthood, and clients experiencing severe mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Ivy recognized the urgent need for increased access to mental health care and established her private practice, Therapy by Ivy, PLLC. She has since offered individual telehealth sessions to adult clients seeking to improve their mental health and enhance their lives. In 2023, she expanded her practice to include in-person sessions while continuing to provide virtual telehealth. Based in the Houston Heights area, Ivy is proud to offer flexible session options—virtually or in person—and accepts most major insurance plans, as well as self-pay options for the uninsured or underinsured.

I help couples and individuals find hope, happiness, and peace in their home environment. I can help you delicately explore childhood trauma to see if these past hurts are interfering in your ability to have a healthy relationship. I am an expert in helping couples effectively communicate and co-parent. If the goal is separation, we can work together to learn how to separate in love. I help my clients feel empowered to believe in themselves and focus on maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.