Therapists in Texas

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 am a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor who is committed to improving mental health outcomes for individuals, couples, and families. I have provided services and evidence-based treatment interventions for mental health, behavioral, and substance abuse concerns across all age groups and within various organizations. I understand that life can be challenging, and knowing and understanding how to navigate the difficult times in our lives can seem overwhelming and may look different for each of us.

Life can be overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying the weight of past trauma or trying to navigate intense emotions. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of where to turn, I’m here to meet you exactly where you are. I work with individuals who want to process their experiences, heal from their past, and move forward with a sense of peace and empowerment. Together, we’ll create a space where your story can unfold, free of judgment or pressure.

I have worked with adults and children for about 49 years. I get great satisfaction in working together with my client's to achieve a better quality of life. If you struggle with managing anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms you are not alone and I would love to attempt to help. We can work together to find solutions to the challenges you face!

My name is Sally Tixier and I have been in practice for six years. I have a Bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology. I have a Masters in Forensic psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor. I am a certified anger resolution therapist, a certified trauma professional, and a certified anxiety treatment provider. I have worked with a diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience working with couples and crisis counseling. I have worked in both group and individual therapy. My goal is to help the client to define and achieve their short-term and long-term goals. I want to help clients develop effective coping skills that work best for them.

What if you could write the story of your life? The truth is, you can, you are in control of your destiny, you are writing the story of your life right now. The choices you make are directly related to the thoughts you have. That puts you in control, you have the ability to change the way you think, and when you change the way you think, you change your life. The thoughts you are thinking right now are writing the story of your life. If you are not happy with the story, you can reprogram your thoughts to change the story and write it the way you want it to go. Together you and I can work to manage the challenges you are facing today. Therapy may seem scary or even overwhelming, but with the right partner you really can change your life. Together we will explore how your thoughts and the dimensions of wellness are affecting your life and find a path to change the story of your life, to one of positive emotional and mental well-being.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I have 16 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. Most clients I work with seek therapy to work on anxiety, depression, stressors, and life transitions. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. My goal is to help clients process difficulties, learn effective coping skills, and heal in order to improve their emotional health and well-being. ***I offer virtual sessions and in office sessions upon request.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I focus on providing compassionate, client-centered therapy to individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. My approach is rooted in humanistic principles, where I believe in the inherent potential of every person to grow, heal, and thrive when given the right support. With specialized training and years of hands-on experience, I work with clients to help them set and achieve meaningful goals that promote emotional well-being, personal growth, and long-term success. The clients I serve come from diverse backgrounds, and I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet their unique needs. Whether it's addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or relationship issues, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings and experiences. I empower clients to take an active role in their healing process, guiding them toward greater self-awareness and resilience. Through our work together, I aim to have a lasting impact on my clients' lives by helping them develop healthier coping strategies, improve their relationships, and find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. I believe that through a collaborative, empathetic, and strengths-based approach, individuals can overcome even the most challenging obstacles and create meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to inspire and support my clients on their journey to living their most authentic and empowered lives.

Hello and welcome! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR. I work with clients navigating trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, and I have a passion for supporting women’s mental health as well. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel truly seen and understood. Together, we’ll explore your strengths, honor your unique needs, and walk side by side on your path toward healing and growth.

Welcome, I am glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) in Texas, I obtained my Master's from the University of Houston and now have over 9 Years working as a Medical Social Worker. I have worked with those who are experiencing new medical diagnoses, chronic illness, life changes, loss of loved ones and anxiety. I am a great listener and will work hard to help you find your strengths. I like to always help find ways to cope and work through current difficulties.

I'm an LPC licensed in Texas; I endeavor to help those struggling with stress management, anxiety, and depression. I'm ready to use person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to ensure you're able to become a better version of yourself, while focusing on the connections between thoughts, feelings, & behaviors, helping you grow more as an individual & learn along the way, & ensuring your autonomy is sacrosanct. A sliding scale is available.

I am in private practice in Dallas. ** When scheduling an appointment with me, please contact me via text to schedule a time for us to talk and put your appointment on the calendar. (214) 912-9019 I founded the North Dallas Individual and Family Therapy Center and over the past 40 years helped families, couples, individuals and teens overcome their emotional and situational challenges with improved mental health and renewed perspective. My therapeutic style reflects my graduate training in Brief Problem Solving Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Restructuring in the treatment of of problems such as depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, shyness and social phobias. My post-graduate experience with Mental Illness focuses on suicide prevention, intervention for Bi-Polar and Borderline Personality Disorders as well as trauma-related disorders. I completed extensive training in Life Skills, a cognitive psycho-educational program used in the aftermath of crisis situations such as Columbine. I've worked with the Dallas Diagnostic Association, Brookhaven Psychiatric Pavilion, and been an adjunct professor for graduate students at TWU and Texas Wesleyan University. A percentage of my free time is devoted to causes that reflect my passions and clinical interests including all aspects of psychology, health and wellness, and self-improvement. For my mental health I read, relax, hike, bike, weight-lift, box, pray and walk my dog.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Therapist-Supervisor (LPC-S) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Minor in Sociology, as well as a Master’s of Arts in Counseling. My primary therapeutic approach for individuals is Cognitive Therapy, complemented by Dialectical Therapy when it aligns with clients' needs. What does all of the mean, I am a great resource for you to find clarity and support! In our work together, my focus is on creating a collaborative and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. We will work together to identify your unique challenges and develop a personalized plan to support your overall well-being and personal growth.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from the University of Our Lady of the Lake in 2018. My goal is to help transform anxiety and self-doubt into opportunities for growth, becoming more resilient with each challenge. I wish to to assist individuals from childhood into adulthood in developing their own resilience and fostering authenticity and purpose in their lives.

Hi there, I'm Stephen. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Shelena is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has worked in the field of mental health for 10 years and in private practice for the past 5 years. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with individuals to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She utilizes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Dallas, Texas, with a Master's degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. Since 2019, I have been in private practice, helping clients navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. Before opening my practice, I gained extensive experience working in mental health within hospital settings, where I developed a strong foundation in providing compassionate and evidence-based care.

My name is Tiffany Pangarakis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Texas. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in social work from Stephen F. Austin State University in Fall of 2016. I then went on to obtain my master’s degree in social work from Texas State University in 2018. I worked in the Hospice setting as a medical social worker for over 4 years before deciding to expand my client population. I currently provide evidenced based psychotherapy to a wide variety of populations including adolescents and adult individuals of all ages. I specialize in treating clients who are experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as well as a variety of personality and adjustment disorders.

Hello and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have been practicing in the counseling field for over three years and can truly say, it has been a pleasure. I feel it is an honor to help clients through various issues such as relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, etc. My fascination with the field began when I was merely ten years old, a time marked by the heart-wrenching aftermath of my parents' divorce, which left emotional scars that ignited my curiosity. Like many people, I have experienced loss and pain; however, with the right mindset and support, these challenges can be overcome!

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I received my master's degree from Dallas Baptist University in Counseling Psychology. I have been in the mental health field for over twenty years where I started out in psychiatric hospitals as a mental health technician, and I ended my hospital career as a Hospital Administrator. I have been a part of building some amazing clinical programs, so I know the struggles and frustrations that we all experience at some point in our life. I have been doing private practice primarily for the past 3 years and loving every moment. I really enjoy helping people through struggles at different stages of their life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people realize the underlying reasons to their stressful factors and lay out a personalized plan towards the goals they would like achieve. Therapy itself can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I am fully engaged with you through your journey.

You do not have to struggle with your thoughts and emotions in silence. A peaceful life is possible no matter what the surrounding circumstances are. We are mostly troubled by our perceptions of the situations around us, not by the situations themselves. Sometimes, our thoughts are the scary part of our story, not our reality. And even when reality gets harsh, our thoughts and the way we see this reality will determine how we feel about it and how much we suffer. I am an LPC who practices mostly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I share the tools that are not only evidence-based and supported by extensive research but also that I've seen work with me and my clients/patients. Working on our thoughts and behaviors will affect every aspect of our lives, and relationships. We do not have to be a hostage to our unhelpful thoughts, we have tools to work on that. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and relationship troubles are only some of many examples where this kind of therapy can help, and I would like to be that therapist who can help you achieve that change in your life.

Hello, and thank you for considering my services. I am a husband, father of two, and a person of faith who values family and community. Outside of my work, I enjoy coaching youth sports and supporting the growth of young people. I am a fully licensed Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) with more than 10 years of experience working with individuals, children, and families. I began my counseling practice five years ago and specialize in the treatment of addiction and mental health concerns. I hold a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Amberton University and a Bachelor of Science in Business and Human Development. In addition, I completed over 4,000 hours of chemical dependency counseling in both residential and outpatient settings through the Institute of Chemical Dependency, which led to my full licensure as an LCDC. I strive to bring professional expertise, compassion, and understanding into each session, creating a safe space for healing and growth. I believe my main attribute is being present in the session while attentively listening in effort to discover a clients fears, goals, and ambitions! My experience provides me the ability to provide an eclectic approach to meet the individual or couple's needs. I strongly believe my life experiences and educational background allow me to be versatility equipped and empathetic towards the potential trauma endured by the individual and family. Let me help you get your life back on track!

My professional experience working within counseling has allowed me to become skilled and comfortable in delivering solution focused therapy. My theoretical orientation aligns with Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, however, I hold a strong belief that a counselor should possess technical eclecticism and be comfortable and well-versed in many theoretical orientations and interventions in an effort to accommodate the varying and diverse individual needs of clients. With that goal in mind, I continue to stay immersed in other styles such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy, to name a few, while also maintaining a Humanistic approach at the core of my counseling approach. When working with couples and families, I utilize Family Systems Therapy, Structural Therapy, Strategic Therapy and Transgenerational Therapy approaches as treatment modalities. I am also Gottman Level I certified and enjoy utilizing the Gottman Approach when working with couples.

As a trauma therapist, I'm dedicated to helping you through your journey of healing from traumatic experiences and sports-related injuries. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I aim to create a safe space for exploration and growth. My goal is to empower you to process you past traumas, alleviate distressing symptoms, and reclaim control over you life. Whether you're struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic event or facing sports related challenges, I'm here to provide you with the support, tools, and techniques needed to overcome obstacles and thrive.

Hello! And thank you for considering me to be your partner on your journey to wholeness and improvement. Congratulations on taking that pivotal first step to reach out for help. My name is Marisa Montes and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience in helping people who are at a crossroads and unsure of what their next steps will be. Many of those I have successfully worked with have gone through experiences that have marked them and left them reeling. In my practice, I use a variety of evidence based therapeutic techniques to equip clients to live life successfully and confront their challenges head on.

Hi! I’m an experienced mental health professional and I have worked in a state hospital, many treatment centers, private practice and in state correctional facilities. I enjoy helping people overcome obstacles to live their best lives. I have enjoyed working in the field of therapy for over 20 years. I have earned a BA in psychology, a Master’s degree in Community Counseling and a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.

Howdy! I am honored to be a part of your journey of healing and helping you become the best version of yourself. I have a passion for building deeply rooted connections with all of my clients. My experience as a special education teacher, school administrator, high school counselor, and special education counselor for 28 years has provided me the knowledge and skills to work with your child, adolescent, and even adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, addiction, or PTSD. Understanding how these challenges ultimately affect behaviors in the classroom, at home, and in the workplace environments, help fuel my passion to connect, learn and problem solve with my clients and their families on an interpersonal level in an effort to build hope and resilience. I received my education and training in understanding behavioral, emotional, learning and psychological disorders, as well as professional school counseling and mental health counseling from Texas A & M University in College Station, Texas.

I'm Kiandra Harry, a licensed professional counselor and I approach therapy in an inviting and validating way, as you are the expert in your life. I have a Bachelors in Psychology, Master's in Counseling and I am currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I'm a solution focused therapist that will help you find healthy solutions to solving your issues and concerns and live your life on your terms. I am also a registered Twogether in Texas provider, which means that I provide premarital education and or counseling that is recognized by the state of Texas for marriage license incentives.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor virtually based in Beaumont, Tx. I received my Master’s from Stephen F. Austin State University & have been practicing mental health treatment since 2016 . I previously have been employed in private practice, MHMR, & TDCJ (all male units). Those close to me often tell me I never meet a stranger. They describe me as being friendly, genuine, open, respectful, honest & direct. If you’re looking to overcome obstacles, regulate emotions, process feelings & develop coping skills let's embark on a mental health journey where together we will find your strengths through your vulnerability.

Hi! I'm a Licensed LPC with a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Counseling. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in working with individuals aged 14 and above who are navigating various challenges, from anxiety to life transitions. I provide a supportive and collaborative environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we identify the root causes of their struggles and develop tailored plans aimed at fostering personal growth and well-being.

Who I Am as a Counselor I am a compassionate and dedicated licensed professional counselor with 7 years of school counseling experience, committed to helping you navigate life's challenges. I approach therapy with empathy, respect, and a focus on your unique needs and goals. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. What I Do In our work together, I use evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific concerns, whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or personal growth. My approach is collaborative, meaning we’ll work together to explore solutions that fit your values and needs. My goal is to help you build resilience, gain insight, and move toward positive change in your life.

Hello! My name is Chapin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with four years of experience. My experience includes working within the school system as well as in private practice. I received my Masters of Science in Social Work from West Texas A&M University. I utilize a trauma-informed, client-centered approach in therapy to create a welcoming environment that encourages hope and growth.

Welcome! My name is Shelese Moaning and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I have been working with clients for about 7 years in various settings from acute psychiatric facilities to traditional online therapy sessions. I aim to create a space where you feel open to share the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that come with being human.

Great to meet you! I’m Lacy Fields, LPC, NCC, and Emotional Wealth Strategist. I help individuals unravel survival patterns, heal from burnout, and create lives rooted in confidence, purpose, and emotional wealth. With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and an MBA in Healthcare Management, I blend clinical expertise with practical strategy to help clients move from merely surviving to truly thriving.

I have over 16 years of experience working with children and families. I specialize working with trauma, depression, and PTSD. I also have experience working with clients who are in crisis, providing immediate support and intervention in times of acute emotional distress. Often times current situations are a symptom of underlying past trauma that permeate our daily lives. We will work together to uncover and confront these issues. In this approach, the development of a preferred solution is more important than clarifying and directly addressing the problem.

Hi, my name is Sierra Thompson and welcome to Bee Self-Full Counseling Services. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling, specializing in trauma. I have years of experience working with adult and adolescent populations. My experience in the field has been comprised of private practice and community behavioral settings. I am eclectic in my approach to treating challenging symptoms that negatively impact daily functioning. I am CBT certified and I have experience using approaches such as DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and a host of others. My goal is to assist YOU in being the best version of YOU. Together, we can develop ways to tackle challenges and adversities while adapting to living an intentional life filled with happiness and fulfillment. Sliding scale available upon request. Unfortunately I do not take insurance for couples therapy. Couples' therapy would be private pay only at a rate of $200/hour. Sliding sale offered upon request. Virtual appointments only. If there is a need for in person therapy, please reachout to schedule a consultation.

I became a therapist because seeing growth and progress is extremely rewarding. This feeling of supporting others was a golden thread during my life, thus choosing this path professionally. I believe that therapy is a collaborative and flexible process, allowing us to address issues that are most important to you in a timeframe that is comfortable for you. I prioritize creating a supportive environment that opens up opportunity to explore thoughts and emotions, receive non-biased feedback and ultimately reach goals that you have set.

I’m Oscar Martinez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. With over two decades of diverse experience across business, fitness, education, and therapy, I bring a unique, holistic approach to counseling that connects with people from all walks of life. I am a father of two beautiful daughters, and a husband to a wonder wife. I believe that every individual is capable of creating positive change, and that therapy should be a partnership, one where you feel heard, valued, and empowered. I bring over two decades of diverse work experiences, with former roles in the fields of business, fitness, education and therapy.

I’m a licensed therapist who believes everyone deserves a safe place to breathe, heal, and feel heard. With 6 years of experience, I’ve helped people work through anxiety, self esteem, trauma, relationship stress, and adjusting to life changes. My approach is calm, and supportive,I’m here to walk with you through life’s challenges and help you feel more grounded, confident, and empowered as you move forward.

HI! I am a licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Texas. I received my Master of Science from Grand Canyon University in 2015 and have been counseling as an LPC for the past three years. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and past trauma by helping the clients navigate through their healing process by using tools and strategies to do so.

I'm a compassionate mental health therapist. My primary focus is on empowering my clients with practical tools and strategies to manage their anxiety effectively. I have a deep passion for working with women facing various mental health challenges, offering them support and guidance through their journey to healing. Additionally, I love assisting couples in developing healthy conflict resolution skills, fostering stronger and more fulfilling relationships. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of each individual and couple you work with.

I have been a mental health provider for 13 years. I have extensive experience working with people who have suffered trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Together we can set goals to help you on your healing journey. I also work with young adults who are in need of help with life transitions whether it be from high school to college/workforce and beyond. I am also a TBRI practitioner and love working with parents who may need a few extra tools to work with their children’s behaviors. I have a passion for helping others heal their mind to live a well-balanced life. I look forward to working with you.

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Texas. I specialize in a narrative, solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy to gently help you to uncover your strengths, rewriting life's narratives and moving toward a positive path forward. I know that times can bring rocky challenges and life is not always linear and sometimes that can make you feel tough on yourself. I will help you to find the positive change that can redirect you on your path.

Life has its challenges, and you don’t need to go through them alone. I provide a safe space by creating a warm, non-judgmental and empowering environment that allow you to process your feelings and work towards creating the life you want to live. Seeking support is one of the most important and often one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. You’re here because you know your life can be better. I’m here to help you break through the hurdles that are in your way. Congratulations for taking the most important first step towards healing.

Hello, I am a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, in the state of Texas. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years. I have worked in the school system as a school counselor and in private practice to help youth and adolescents, individuals and families. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma/abuse, ADHD, relationship issues, grief/loss, parenting concerns and life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. My approaches combine Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am here to support and empower you through your journey.

Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired, but unsure what to do about it? Does anxiety, depression, or other life conditions keep you from being your best? If so, I may be able to assist you in your growth and development along your healing journey. I serve to empower my clients and assist them in working through and overcoming their mental and behavioral health struggles. I have 20+ years of experience in helping clients with recovery from trauma and abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, and anger management. I will work with you to create an open and safe environment where your thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I appreciate you for demonstrating your worth and value as you begin your healing journey.

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.

I approach clients with the an open mindset, looking to explore what the client needs and what they want for themselves. I always want my clients to know there is no judgement from me in their decisions, EVER. I view everyone's mistakes as us just being human and having a human experience. This practice of examining our human journey and what motivates us to do the things we do is extended to myself, my clients and my children/family. I often attempt to have the practice of asking myself "why did I do that? Did I do that because of this or because I was feeling blank?" I think it is important to help others get to the place where they ask themselves the same type of questions. We're all here just having human experiences!

I am a Licenced Professional Counselor in Texas and National Certified Counselor. I have a Bachelors from the University of California, Berkeley in Social Welfare and African American Studies, a Masters in School Counseling, and a Certification in Contemporary Mental Health Issues from Capella University. I have 20 years of experience working as a mentor, a teacher, and providing guidance to youth and families.