Brian Briscoe
I work with people who need help with estrangement, addiction, anxiety, grief, anger, and depression. Are you wondering if you need rehab? I have done over 7000 substance abuse assessments in my career. If you are a parent struggling to cope with estrangement from your child, I'd be happy to consult with you about working together. I run a program called Parents Living After Child Estrangement (PLACE). I utilize Solution-Focused, Narrative, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies primarily. My work emphasizes practical, specific tools for coping with/healing from distress. I’ve trained with internationally-renowned therapists, including David Epston (co-author of Narrative Means to Therapeutic Ends) and Dr. Linda Metcalf (author of Parenting Toward Solutions). Among my peers, I’m considered a “go-to” counselor. The life-changing mentoring and guidance I received from counselors, professors and peers led me to write The Conflict Etiquette Handbook. I am passionate and ready to help.
Steven Vaughan
Hello my name is Steve Vaughan MAC, LPC-S. I am grateful that I have been a counselor for 18 years and have worked at multiple facilities along with my private practice. This has given me experience in many areas and the opportunity to help thousands of people have a happier more fulfilling life. I am also counseling supervisor for new counselors which takes both experience and has given me even more breadth of knowledge to help my own clients. I use an insight oriented cognitive behavioral style of counseling that helps individuals understand themselves better and enables them to grow and change. This provides healing, growth, empowerment which leads to a healthier happier life. My goal is to assist you in working through the mental and emotional barriers that hold you back. I have worked helping individuals coping with or overcoming depression, anxiety, bipolar, psychosis, relationship problems, grief, anger, ADHD, parenting, adjustment to life changes, trauma, PTSD, spiritual problems, LBGT+ issues, and emotional problems related to illness. I am a down to earth person who is ready and willing to partner with you to help meet the difficulties you face with warmth and acceptance. You have the courage to change your life for the better and I have the skills to help you get there. I would consider it an honor to assist you. See you soon!
Gregory Barringer
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Colorado. I received specialized training as a fellow at Stanford Children’s and Adult Hospitals. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, but I am here to listen to my client’s needs without judgement and incorporate your goals to establish a holistic treatment plan to address your individual situation. My counseling style revolves around authenticity and genuine interaction. Treatment begins with mutual respect, compassion, and where you currently are in your life. My approach combines ACT, motivational interviewing, and task-centered therapies. Best of luck in your search for counseling options, and look forward to working with you!
Chiara Scott
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 13 yrs of experience. My passion is helping people resolve mental health and relationship concerns, and find their own paths to happiness! I work hard to create a nonjudgmental and dynamic environment & Together, we will work to examine these patterns and shift them by creating new ways of coping to reach your full potential. My therapeutic style is active in conversation, while being supportive and collaborative. I work using an integrative framework to understand mental health and I utilize a wide variety of therapeutic techniques. I've worked with clients with a a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ODD and ADHD. I'm also fully bilingual and efficiently have been able to work with clients of various ages, beliefs, ethnicities, races, genders, religions and socioeconomic status. Therapy with me is a dynamic process in which we collaborate to establish, accomplish, and reevaluate your goals. Remember that taking care of yourself is the right thing to do. I look forward to working with you!
Kasey Alexander
I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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!
Brianne Swack
I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I am familiar working with all age groups as well as all different kinds of backgrounds. 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.
Joshua Cook
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I want you to know that there is hope, healing, and that recovery is possible. Professional Background: I received a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University with a double major in Psychology and Economics. I received a master's degree in general psychology from Sam Houston State University along with additional post-graduate studies in counseling at Liberty University. Since graduating, I've worked as a Mobile Crisis Outreach Coordinator and trained public school teachers in Mental Health First Aid. I have also served people on probation and parole as a counseling associate and case manager. As a counseling intern, I volunteered at a small psychiatric hospital called the Crisis Stabilization Unit where I facilitated psychoeducation groups on relapse prevention planning and building social support. As an associate counselor, I also worked at a private practice, Intentional Counseling, where I provided telehealth counseling to couples, children, teens, and individuals.
Blanca Vela
I would be honored to work with you through your current life stressors and life roadblocks. I am a solution focused therapist who is ready to walk alongside you during a time in need. It is difficult to lean on family and friends when life gets tough. Allow me to be someone who is readily available to help you work through life’s challenges. I have 11 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, families, individuals, and couples. I specialize in domestic violence and immigration, but have many years of experience in working with several populations and difficult situations. I have experience with behavior modification, depression, anxiety, bereavement, loss, anger management, stress management, family and relationship conflict, crisis & trauma, immigration, domestic violence survivors, and many other areas of life. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am also licensed to provide psychiatric services in the Spanish language. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Deborah Denson
Hello, my name is Deborah Denson. I am a licensed clinical psychotherapist with 24 years in the mental health profession. I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals seeking support on their journey to mental and emotional well-being. Throughout my extensive career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients facing various challenges, and I bring a wealth of expertise to guide you through your unique path of self-discovery and healing. At the heart of my practice is a deep understanding that each individual is unique, and therapy should be tailored to meet the specific needs of the client. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, my therapeutic approaches are rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques. Together, we will work towards building resilience, fostering personal growth, and empowering you to lead a more fulfilling life. With a foundation built on trust and confidentiality, my goal is to create a therapeutic alliance that promotes self-awareness, resilience, and positive change. I invite you to take the first step towards a healthier and more balanced life by reaching out to me for a confidential consultation. Your mental health is a priority, and I am here to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery. Kindest regards, Deborah M. Denson, LCSW
Leah Erickson
I am licensed in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & career difficulties. 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!
How to find counseling in Hays
Finding the best therapist close by in Hays 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 Hays. 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 Hays, 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 Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays, 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 Hays area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays, 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 Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Hays 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 Hays 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 78610 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 Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays, 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.
Hays 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Hays:
78610