West University Place is nicknamed “the neighborhood city,” and borders the most populous city in the state – Houston. Being a good neighbor is to be kind and to care, but if you’re struggling with emotional or mental issues, you must first take care of yourself in order to help others.

Knowledge is what drives this community. If you know that you may have a problem that you need help with, the counselors in West University Place and the surrounding area are ready and willing to help you get back on track. Consider reaching out to one today.

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Dr. Amy Cuellar

Offering therapy in TX
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
13 years of experience

My name is Dr. Amy Cuellar, and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas. I obtained my PhD in clinical psychology (adult track) from the University of Miami and afterwards completed a pre-doctoral internship (general track) at the James A. Haley VA Hospital and a post-doctoral fellowship at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in the Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center. My area of expertise lies in helping people to achieve their visions of recovery from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, stress, paranoia, and other problems in living so that they lead lives of meaning. Much of my work has focused on helping people overcome barriers in setting, achieving, and sustaining goals in order to live the lives that they want. My theoretical orientations are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused therapy. I am an advocate of using CBT in many cases because it has the strongest scientific evidence to support its efficacy in decreasing symptoms. When someone appears to be struggling with adjustment to a life transition, however, I tend to use solution focused therapy as my theoretical approach. Regardless of theoretical orientation, however, my style is always collaborative and based in my unwavering belief that everyone has the capacity to grow, change, and recover. I view myself as a partner on a team with my client, and that my clients’ knowledge about themselves as just as important as my knowledge of how to provide therapy. My goal for clients is for them to learn skills so that they can become their own therapists. I would be honored to be a partner on your recovery journey and look forward to meeting you soon. Selected publications: Johnson, S. L., Cuellar, A. K., & Peckham, A. D. (2014). Risk factors for bipolar disorder. In I. Gotlib & C. Hammen (Eds.) Handbook of Depression, 3rd Edition. New York: Guilford Press. Johnson, S. J., Cuellar, A. K. & Gershon, A. (2016). The influence of trauma, life events, and social relationships on bipolar depression. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 39,87-94. Cuellar, A. K., & Johnson, S. L. (2009). Depressive symptoms and affective reactivity to maternal praise and criticism. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 28, 1173-1194.

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Kristen Pitzer

Offering therapy in TX
License: M.A., LPC, PLLC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

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

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Dr. Randall Maurer

Offering therapy in TX
License: PhD,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

My training and experience are varied. I have a PhD in Counseling Psychology and I am licensed as a marriage and family therapist. I have trained therapists and counselors for the past three decades. In addition, I have seminary training and years in ministry and in training ministers. My work has ranged from private settings, agencies, and even in-patient psychiatric hospitals. This training and experience enable me to address both psychological and spiritual issues, when counselees wish to do so. My foremost concern is to help you make the changes you want to make in a psychologically and relationally sound manner. I do not have an agenda nor will I ever push religion on anyone. To do so would be unethical and very distasteful to me. I enjoy helping people make changes in their lives by discovering and implementing strengths and resources they already possess. To that end, I use a solution-focused and strategic approaches. In other words, I help you to discover or create the solutions, develop a plan to help you find the motivation and direction to apply those solutions, and do so with encouragement, warmth, and support.

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Dr. David Barrera

Offering therapy in TX
License: PhD,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I have been working in the mental health field since the early 2000s. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a PhD in Counselor Education. I've worked with various clients struggling with a multitude of issues including personal, marital, and family issues, domestic violence, and challenging parenting situations. For many years I worked with parents whose children were sexually abused and helped them work through all the difficulties that come with such tragedy. I have worked extensively in the field of mental illness and I am comfortable working with individuals struggling with emotional issues related to life's problems as well as challenging mental illness problems, whether these struggles are those of the patient or those of the family members touched by mental illness. The focus of my practice is approaching problems directly with genuine and sincere communication and addressing those problems as a team with the client. "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." - Helen Keller

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Miguel De la fuente

Offering therapy in TX
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in the state of Texas. Professionally, I have a little over 3 years of experience. I have been a fitness/life coach for over 20 years and I am a veteran with 10 years of service. Therefore, in both positions I have had the honor to provide counseling and guidance to hundreds of individuals in all areas and walks of life. Currently, I work as a mental health counselor at a Behavioral Hospital. Our main focus is to attend to the crisis at hand, utilizing brief and swift psychotherapy. Once patients are stable, I provide psychotherapy or psychoeducation in accord to their main problems or obstacles. I have worked with patients and clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, substance/alcohol, and sexual abuse. Been a Hispanic male veteran with personal experience in dealing with mental health, I understand the stigmatization and the cultural sensitivity that is needed to provide support for any and all individuals. Therefore, I get to work more often with patients and their families, who struggle with PTSD and other military related trauma. I am a Christian and follow Christian principles, therefore, I believe in treating all individuals with outmost respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My counseling style is assertive and direct, but empathic and compassionate, all at once. My approach is eclectic, hence, it is a combination of cognitive-behavioral, spiritual, psychodynamic and positive psychology. I am able and willing to adapt to any form of counseling and treatment as required by the patient or client, in order to meet your specific needs and unique obstacle. Lastly, I am currently finishing my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. Hence, I am constantly learning new ways of improving my skills, knowledge, and attaining more tools to better serve my patients and clients. I personally understand the courage and confidence that it is needed to accept that one needs help and seek that help in order to better one’s life and improve quality of life, for you and those around you. I am excited and look forward to providing guidance and effective therapy.

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Heather Richard

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, self-esteem issues, and life transition issues. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating individuals with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, narrative, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Ashley Trevino

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 3 years of experience working with clients of all ages. I have worked with clients that have a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, and lack of motivation. I have worked with individuals with autism and intellectual developmental disabilities, as well. I believe that it takes a lot of courage to seek a fuller life and asking for help. When working together, I will ensure that you continue to feel comfortable and safe in the therapeutic relationship. I work with each individual in a way that allows them to be fully themselves and is unique to their needs. In the first session, we will discuss your goals and the objectives to get you there. I am so glad you are here and willing to work towards your goals. I am ready to support you!

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Michael Leffingwell

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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April Spotsville

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jasmine Robinson

Offering therapy in TX
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a graduate of Troy University where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services. I also have a Master's degree in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has experience in direct practice. I have worked with individuals, children, families and seniors. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health issues to include grief and loss, anxiety, Depression, and career burnout to name a few. I use a number of therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Solution Focused Therapy. I use a strengths based, holistic, and person centered approach to guide practice.

How to find counseling in West University Place

Finding the best therapist close by in West University Place 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 West University Place. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in West University Place, 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 West University Place 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 West University Place 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 West University Place, elsewhere in Harris, 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 West University Place area can be found below:

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

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

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

While many psychologists in West University Place 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 West University Place, 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 West University Place above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in West University Place 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 West University Place 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 West University Place 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 West University Place 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 77005 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 West University Place 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 West University Place 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 West University Place, Texas can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

West University Place 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

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

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

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

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

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

77005

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