If you’re looking for a therapist, Austin, TX, is home to a variety of therapists that can help you manage your mental well being. A therapist can provide support to help you manage everything from relationship difficulties to underlying mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. 

Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you’re seeking therapy with a qualified professional in the Austin area, BetterHelp can match you with licensed psychologists, professional counselors, clinical social workers, and other therapists. To provide therapy for BetterHelp, therapists must have completed 2,000 hours of clinical supervision and be fully licensed by the state board, so you won’t meet with a graduate student or LPC associate in your sessions. The therapy cost at BetterHelp is more affordable than many other forms of treatment, too. If you want to work with a mental health professional to gain insight into your own life in a supportive environment, check out the Austin-based therapists below.

This is Raven Brown-McKinney's avatar and link to their profile

Raven Brown-McKinney

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW,CLC
Self esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Life Coach with 15 years experience partnering with individuals, families, adolescents, and women to help them reach their goals and live more fulfilling and healthy lives. Dealing with stress, depression, work, family or personal issues? Balancing work, family, friends, and life can be overwhelming. Partnering with a therapist to overcome life's challenges can be essential to living a healthy and fulfilling life. I am an experienced Social Worker with crisis intervention, assessment, domestic violence, health education, and coaching experience. I have been successful working with adults to reach their highest potential for more than 15 years. My counseling style is open, warm, and collaborative. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapies. I will collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that helps you reach your individual goals. A real therapist for real people! Make the first step to enjoying your new life!

Get started View profile
This is Maja Steele's avatar and link to their profile

Maja Steele

Offering therapy in TX
License: LPC-S, LCDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas. I have over 10 years experience working in a variety of settings, including but not limited to inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient therapy. My specialties are codependency and addictions related issues. My goal is to help each person be free of any addiction whether it be to drugs, alcohol, gambling, shopping or pornography. I have helped many couples work through these issues which were destroying their relationships with others. My counseling style is client centered and respectful. My approach is warm and interactive and tailored to fit each client's current issue. I do not believe in a cookie cutter approach and believe each person's experience in life (negative and positive) affect our rational and irrational beliefs about the world and sometimes these can be identified and positively changed if possible. I commend each client's willingness to take the courage to find a more fulling life which is built upon their individual purpose in life. If you are ready to take that step, please let me know how I can support you in these positive steps. My goal is to provide the support you need to live the life you want. Sometimes change can be painful but it need not be debilitating. Sometimes finding a supportive counselor is necessary to work through these life changes. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Mario Nicolas's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Mario Nicolas

Offering therapy in TX
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

Hi, I’m Dr. Mario Nicolas. I am a Ph.D. (Penn State, 2002) trained Clinical Psychologist, with extensive experience in military mental health (Maj [Ret. – 2014]; USAF), clinical neuropsychology (fellowship trained; Univ. of Virginia Medical School [2005-07]), and Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH; past-USAF program consultant [2015-20]). If you want to learn more, check me out on LinkedIn. I provide individual therapy to adults and am available on weekday evenings, some early weekday early-mornings, and weekend mornings. I consider myself a cognitive-behavioral therapist, strongly influenced by Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). My style of interaction is patient-centered & culturally sensitive; and I consider hearing (not just listening to) my patient’s situation (your “story”) to be my most important task. I incorporate motivational interviewing, and the science of behavior-change, into everything that I do. At our initial visit we will go through what I describe as my "Game Plan" for working together. The "Game Plan" is a metaphor that many of my clients have found helpful for working with me -- in that it provides a "shared story" that we can use to navigate our work together. Here is the "Game Plan..." 1. We use the metaphor of a journey that you're on; and I am ONE OF your guides (friends, family members, mentors, etc. are also guides). 2. Help you understand the direction you're heading on this journey... This is your “North Star” or "Guiding Light..." essentially your “purpose” or your “values” -- the type of person you want to be in your life. NOTE: Your Values are different from your goals. The metaphor for the difference between the two is that Goals are like "destinations" (you can accomplish it) and Values are like "directions" (You don't ever get there... you just focus on moving forward and/or towards it). 3. Understand the concept of a “psychological toolbox” that is made up of certain tools. Our focus is on adding as many tools to your toolbox as we can. IMPORTANT: Our focus is not necessarily on finding tools that work... just ADDING TOOLS TO THE TOOLBOX. Important things to know about the "toolbox" are that: a) it is limitless and can never get too full, and b) the more tools you have in your toolbox the better you will feel about life. 4. Understand the the two main tools in the toolbox: A. INSIDE THE HEAD (ITH) tools: thoughts, images, sayings/mantras, memes, memories, the focus of your thoughts (past/present/future), your perspective B. OUTSIDE THE HEAD (OTH) tools: behaviors, reactions, hobbies/interests, body posture, facial expressions, things you do more/less, things you do/don’t do 5. Help you understand and recognize the tools that you use and, IMPORTANTLY, the tools that have become habits for you and/or have become "automatic.". The best way to recognize tools that have become automatic, is to pay attention to how you THINK, ACT, and/or FEEL. If you are THINKING/ACTING/FEELING in ways that just "don't feel right" that's a sign that you are using automatic tools that do NOT work for you. On the other hand, if you feel positive and healthy, that's a sign that you are using tools that DO work for you. 6. Once you recognize the tools that you’re using, you will learn how to ask yourself “Is this tool helpful or not helpful?” (based on how well it moves you TOWARDS or AWAY FROM your “North Star”) 7, If the tools work, we will help you to continue using them, and/or to strengthen your use of them. If they do not work , we will help you try out different ones and/or develop new ones. NOTE: Just because a tool does not work in one situation; it does not mean that it will not work in another situation. Therefore, you don't necessarily have to get rid of tools that aren't working. Also, even if you cannot get rid of, or change, a particular tool that is not helpful; you can learn to develop other types of tools that you can use to limit its impact (e.g., "watering down the liquor"). Don't worry if this "Game Plan" does not make too much sense for you; we will discuss it more during our first session. Likewise, if this "Game Plan" does not work for you, we will discuss addressing your therapy in a different way. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Scott Persinger's avatar and link to their profile

Scott Persinger

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersDepression
35 years of experience

I am kind & caring individual / professional. I do not judge others. My job is to seek understanding of others by learning about my client's needs, goals, desires, motivation & hopes for each person's life & satisfaction.

Get started View profile
This is Robert McGowen Jr's avatar and link to their profile

Robert McGowen Jr

Offering therapy in TX
License: MBA,MA,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
11 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I am actively getting licensed to be an EMDR therapist. I went through the training and started to provide EMDR in 2015 and now need to provide EMDR to 12 more people for licensure. I believe in EMDR and the help it gives people to overcome their struggles through Traumatic experiences. It could change your life! EMDR therapy: What is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing? And how does it work? EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it is a psychotherapy approach that is primarily used to treat trauma-related disorders and emotional distress. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has gained recognition as an effective treatment for various mental health issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic memories. I recognize evidence-based therapeutic approaches like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in helping individuals heal from trauma and related emotional distress. EMDR follows a structured and comprehensive process to facilitate healing and promote emotional resilience. I put my faith in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior at the age of 18 and life has never been the same. That does not mean it has been without trouble. I would like to think it impacts everything I do though. It makes me a better husband to my beautiful wife and a better dad to my kiddos. I don’t have all the answers, but I know the one who does. As we establish, invest in, and grow the most important relationship we can ever have, we more clearly and confidently face any troubles this world may throw our way. It truly is a privilege to sit across from a person or couple that says, “Life is a little bit broken right now, and I need some help.” I have significant experience working with Anxiety, Trauma, and Adolescents over the past 11+ years, and if you, your spouse, or your child need help clarifying any portion of my information, please do not hesitate to ask. I look forward to sitting across from you.

Get started View profile
This is Marquita Tolbert's avatar and link to their profile

Marquita Tolbert

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma and Texas with 6 plus years of professional mental health work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and rewarding life takes courage. I am here to support you through that process.

Get started View profile
This is Kevin Fuller's avatar and link to their profile

Kevin Fuller

Offering therapy in TX
GriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards meaningful change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Julie Waller's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Waller

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Texas with three years of professional counseling experience. I have 30+ years of teaching and coaching. Therefore, the license does not indicate my abilities. I am also currently being trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing), a therapy that increases success in overcoming many problems including trauma, PTSD, and emotional dysregulation. Though still in training, I am allowed to use EMDR (according to the international board - EMDRIA). I will explain the therapy in detail to any client who is interested. However, that is not the only approach I use. My approach includes family systems, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and solution focused therapies. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, addictions, self harm, relationships, family conflicts, parenting and so much more. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Ayanna Sidle's avatar and link to their profile

Ayanna Sidle

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
7 years of experience

I am a faith-based licensed clinician in Texas and Arizona with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Sherene Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Sherene Jones

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), licensed in Washington with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Austin

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

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

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

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Austin or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

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

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

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

While many psychologists in Austin may not take health insurance, some in the state of Texas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Texas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

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

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

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

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

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

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

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

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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

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

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

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

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

With a lot of people in TX, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 78727 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

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

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

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

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

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

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

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

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

73301, 73344, 78617, 78651, 78652, 78701, 78702, 78703, 78704, 78705, 78708, 78709, 78710, 78711, 78712, 78713, 78714, 78715, 78716, 78717, 78718, 78719, 78720, 78721, 78722, 78723, 78724, 78725, 78726, 78727, 78728, 78729, 78730, 78731, 78732, 78733, 78735, 78739, 78741, 78742, 78744, 78745, 78746, 78747, 78748, 78749, 78750, 78751, 78752, 78753, 78754, 78755, 78756, 78757, 78758, 78759, 78760, 78761, 78762, 78763, 78764, 78765, 78766, 78767, 78768, 78769, 78772, 78773, 78774, 78778, 78779, 78783, 78799

Popular cities near Austin, TX

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist