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Tommy Barbosa

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA, LPC, CRC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, my name is Tommy Lee Barbosa and I am a Veteran of the United States Navy, for which I served from 2005-2009. Soon after exiting the military with an honorable discharge, I enrolled at The University of Texas Pan American to study Psychology. Three short years later, I graduated with my Bachelors of Science (Psychology) and pursued graduate school the following semester. After two years of course work and training I graduated with my Masters of Science (Rehabilitation Counseling) in 2014 and shortly after obtained my professional license as a Licensed Professional Counselor from the State of Texas. Once obtaining my license, I began working at South Texas Chronic Pain Institute where I conducted a wide range of clinical practice. My clientele ranged from clients experiencing symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobia, Panic Disorder, Chronic Pain, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Clients under my care ranged from Major Depression to catastrophic injuries that caused life altering circumstances that included diagnosis of Adjustment Disorder to Paraplegia which included, but were not limited to work related injuries, and motor vehicle accidents. I have treated Law Enforcement officials, which include police officers, firefighters and others who have experienced symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. I have worked directly under Dr. Elisa G. Sanchez, M.D. Psychiatrist for the previous 2.3 years and under her supervision, I treated clients on an individual and group therapy basis. Together, Dr. Sanchez and I would evaluate the patients for several hours at our clinic and we would discuss and diagnose each patient, placing them on either a pharmacological treatment plan or a non-pharmacological treatment plan which primarily utilized individual counseling. On a smaller scale, I also have experience with Marriage Counseling, albeit I am not a marriage counselor, I have assisted in counseling married couples that are experiencing marital discord at the local church center. I approach every interaction and/or session with you, the client, with empathy and a duty to provide you with the most accurate and current evidence-based practice in order to improve your current situation. Whether it is stress from work or family, major depression or panic disorder, I have an obligation to put my best effort in assisting you in achieving all your therapeutic goals. My counseling style is very similar to the most common and effective therapy approach known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Very similar because I combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other therapeutic approaches, such as Reality Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Talk Therapy, in order to tailor your experience to my treatment plan to fit your needs. I expect a lot from my patients and have seen great results clinically because the key to success in both, the therapeutic environment and the real world, is effort on the part of the client and the will to change. Client/Counselor relationship is the number 1 priority for me and I will devote countless hours a week to provide you with the best therapeutic experience I can offer.

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Dr. James Foos

Offering therapy in TX
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
31 years of experience

If you’re seeking help from a therapist, you are likely in significant distress. It’s difficult task to overcome the stigma of seeking help for life’s problems from a professional, but please remember, even your unique circumstances have a solution. I’m a Texas licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping people find their way. Whether you’re dealing with the ache of loss, the constant worries of anxiety and stress, the sting of problems in your relationship , or are struggling with the shame from trauma or addiction, I can provide a helping hand. Utilizing an approach that emphasizes change through doing, I help focus changes in mood, thoughts and behaviors that can see you through even the toughest of tough times. At first, with me as a guide and then, having learned new skills, you will be able to navigate any problem on your own, knowing you now have a cheerleader just a call or text away. Make an appointment today.

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Carson Gerber

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello, I am excited that you are considering me to come alongside you during your counseling experience. I have worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor for the past 3 years. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from West Texas A&M Univeristy in 2008 and my Master of Arts in Counseling from Wayland Baptist University in 2013. I have experience working with adolescents and families navigating the criminal justice system. I have also received specialized training in trauma focused modalities to include EMDR and TF-CBT. My primary therapy approach is CBT, but I find other modalities such as Solution Focused, Functional Family Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to be equally effective with different clients. Regardless of treatment modality, I believe the effectiveness of a client-therapist relationship is grounded in the ability for trust to thrive. The ability to listen and to process the exact concern of the client allows me as the clinician to offer an effective treatment. It has been my experience as a therapist, as well as a client, that most of us can identify an appropriate solution for our current situation, once we ascertain the exact problem we are facing. Generally we are often too close or to enmeshed in the situation to maintain an objective perspective. As a clinician, I believe the ability to help facilitate the discovery of a more rational perspective is perhaps the most critical and beneficial service I can provide to you as my client. Thank you and I look forward to working with you.

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Claudia Smithart

Offering therapy in TX
License: M.S.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Claudia Smithart, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which followed my graduation in Psychology and Sociology undergraduate, where I graduated Suma Cum Laude with Highest Honors. Psychology/Counseling is my passion, and I have worked in a Metacognition psychology lab, and interned early in my education working in a psychology and counseling clinic. Since then, I have worked with children, teens, and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as populations 18+, across the lifespan, with a variety of presenting problems, such as LGBTQ+ related-issues, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, self-esteem issues, and everything in between. I have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis, crisis intervention, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. In addition to the information listed above, I work from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, which basically means that I believe in challenging our cognitive distortions, or "stinkin' thinkin'" as an old supervisor of mine referred to it as. Our maladaptive thinking patterns can affect our behaviors, beliefs, and even our actions. Breaking these down and unpacking our assumptions and thoughts can be very therapeutic, and where we will spend most of our time in therapy, as well as building coping skills, and building a new way of thinking and viewing the world. I also use a Person-Centered approach, which means that I view my clients with an unconditional positive regard. How can I help if I come in with preconceived ideas about a person? Your values, beliefs, and experiences matter, and my non-judgmental approach is an absolute necessity to help you on your journey. I am a part-time therapist on the platform, and offer some evening hours Monday-Thursday only. Please note I do not offer any session availability on weekends. If this schedule seems to work well with you, I look forward to meeting you!

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Vielka Johnson

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Vielka E. Johnson. I received my BA in Psychology in 1996 from the University of Colorado. In 1998 I moved to San Antonio, TX and continued in receiving my master’s degree in counseling and in 2006 was licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been fortunate to have worked with such a diverse population within our community. My background primarily is with children and adolescents ages 3 to 18; however, I have worked with young adults and adults up to the ages of 65+. I have worked in variety of settings to include community agencies, school settings and residential facilities. I have experience in working with therapeutic foster care children, family domestic violence, mental and physical abuse, the mobile crisis unit, and crisis intervention. I am trained in Trauma Focus CBT. I also incorporate different modalities approaches to address the needs of the client. I am deeply committed in assisting clients with identifying their strengths and weaknesses; learning new skills to achieve their goals and improve their lives.

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Francesca O'Connor

Offering therapy in TX
AddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. 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.

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Melissa Birdwell

Offering therapy in TX
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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. If you are ready to do the work, I am ready to walk with you during your healing journey. Solution Focused Brief Therapy is a great tool that is a strengths based approach, focusing on the current circumstances you are in while also exploring how to start steps towards your goals. Socratic dialogue is sometimes used during therapy to help you explore thoughts and feelings more, especially if you are at a stuck point. Sometimes Socratic Dialogue feels less empathetic, it has the purpose of helping you shift perspective or trust yourself to find solutions. Examples of Socratic Dialogue can include: How do you know? Can you give me an example of that? What do you mean by that? What would be the consequences of that? What is the counterargument? Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, the best description for this modality comes from Healthline.com: "This core principle underlies acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). ACT views “negative” emotions and experiences as part of life. Trying to avoid them can lead to unhelpful or unproductive behaviors. ACT (pronounced “act”) helps you accept the reality of these experiences and commit to pursuing your values." (www.Healthline.com). My treatment focus is client centered, we will work towards your goals (of course you have to do the work).

This is Tonya King-Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Tonya King-Smith

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Veronica Vera

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

Hi, my name is Veronica. I have been licensed in Texas as counselor with 5 years of professional work experience. I work as a counselor because I like helping people. I believe in “doing unto others as you would have them do unto you.” As social creatures, I believe that all Humans are born with an innate need to connect with others. Sometimes, some people need a counselor, as an unbiased, objective source of support and empathy during critical life experiences and challenges. No one is born with a manual on how to do life; we all are learning how to be in the world. Counselors can help by providing psychoeducation through the process of developing coping strategies, problem-solving skills, life skills, assertive communication, self-care, boundaries, goal setting, etc., In counseling, I utilize eclectic variety of therapeutic modalities, depending on an individual’s emotional experiences and needs. Nevertheless, I believe that actively listening to the individual I work with, is healing in and of itself. We live in a fast-paced world full of expectations and responsibilities and feeling alone. All people want to be heard, have control of their own lives, want to feel accepted and feel that they belong. I hope, given the opportunity, I may have the privilege of serving another fellow Human through the process of providing professional therapeutic support. You are not alone.

This is Kendall Altheimer's avatar and link to their profile

Kendall Altheimer

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.

How to find counseling in Bear Creek

Finding the best therapist close by in Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek. 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 Bear Creek, 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek, elsewhere in Hays, 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 Bear Creek area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek, 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 78737 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek, 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.

Bear Creek 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 Bear Creek.

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

78737

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