With all the stress of the modern world, and life’s challenges and transitions, many of us can benefit from mental health support at one time or another. When it comes to finding a therapist, Richardson, TX can offer a wider range of choice than surrounding rural and suburban areas. However, it isn’t always easy to find mental health care, even in more populated areas.
One of the reasons is that there are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches in the field of psychology, and they are all more or less effective depending on what mental health challenge is being addressed. College students from nearby Southern Methodist University dealing with stress can have very different needs than a middle-aged parent dealing with long-term effects of childhood trauma. There are so many specializations that what you need may not be available nearby.
That’s where online therapy can help. With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, you get access to over 30,000 mental health professionals that have expertise in a number of therapeutic approaches, and experience working with diverse populations and life stages. From psychologists to social workers, to licensed professional counselors (LPCs), these practitioners support clients through family conflict, traumatic events, eating disorders, and more. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your personal needs.
BetterHelp can also be a solution for people that are looking for a more supportive space to talk to their therapist. Not everyone feels comfortable in a clinical environment, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home.
If you live in the Richardson area and have been thinking about therapy, whether in the form of therapeutic yoga, solution-based therapy for goal setting, or CBT to treat mood disorders, there is no better time to begin. Reach out to BetterHelp to get started on your journey to wellness and self-discovery.
Mary Acosta-Granger
I am an LCSW licensed in Texas with over 35 years of experience as a psychotherapist/counselor. I have a wide range of experience working with clients who have serious mental illness to people with concerns about daily life problems. I have worked with children as well, but my preference is adults who are struggling and motivated to make some change in their lives that will lead to a more personally fulfilling life and overall satisfaction. Many of my clients have trouble communicating with others, so that is one of my specialties, in addition to treating depression, anxiety, PtSD, phobias, and other impairing conditions. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and a nonjudgmental attitude. I individualize treatment to suit the needs of my clients and we establish a treatment plan together. I have many years or positive experience, but I also stay current on newer modalities and well-researched outcomes. I use Cognitive-Behavioral therapy combined with client-centered, interactive, and goal-directed therapy models. I am Bilingual in Spanish at a native speaker level, and am comfortable with European as well as Latin American Spanish.. I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Shawn Hysten-Williams
Dr. Shawn Hysten-Williams, Ed.D., LPC is an experienced psychotherapist with over a decade of experience in goal-focused approaches and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She has her masters degree in Counseling from Prairie View A & M University and a doctorate in Counseling Education from Texas Southern University. She has specialized experience in multiple areas including: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues (personal & professional), anger issues, and working with individuals who have experienced trauma such as neglect or abuse. She also has expertise in couples therapy, grief therapy, and helping individual's successfully manage life transitions. Dr. Hysten-Williams primarily uses Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She enjoys working with couples, individuals, and families experiencing challenges that may seem too difficult to over-come. In addition, Dr. Hysten-Williams uses psychoeducation as a tool to help equip clients with the necessary information to effectively problem-solve and develop communication skills. She also use psychoeducation as a platform to provide information and resources in an empathetic and supportive environment. Her approach to therapy is beneficial and embraces all individuals, including those who may find it difficult to be accepted in society, All are welcome to inquire about services.
Rebecca Wedel
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, I will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Psychotherapy. An Integrated approach can be utilized as well. I have my Master's in Social Work, the advanced clinical License for LCSW, and recently I achieved the goal of becoming a Certified Dementia Specialist. I have worked in many modalities. Individual Therapy, Medical/Surgical, High-Risk pregnancy and miscarriages, Inpatient Psychiatric help, and Rehab. My husband and I have moved 11 times, so each job was a new learning adventure, and the stress of moving and helping children adjust something I well understand. Some of my strengths are being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and energetic. Not only do I have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but I also has a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! Lately, I have been working with caregivers that are taking care of their elderly parents and their children, while trying to have a life. It's a tough job! There are other areas that are prevalent now: such as your expectations of yourself: For example, "All my friends are married and having kids and I'm not, I feel alone". Another common one is, "my kids have left home....I have lost my identity, what do I do". Lastly, a big one is " my family/friends do not approve/understand of my partner/career choice/lifestyle/choice". Each one of these have taken prominence in our culture in the last 15 years and it can be difficult to navigate. I have heard people say that, "Your perception is your reality". What if you don't even know what that perception is? That's where we can work together. Personally I love yoga, digging in my yard, mindfulness, and University of Kentucky Basketball! 2 of my 3 kids went to UK. So Go Big Blue! Please let me know any questions or concerns and I would be happy to help. Best Regards Rebecca
Christy Stinton
I am a licensed counselor, with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with a variety of issues, including infertility, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, career challenges, and life changes. I have also helped people with parenting, attachment and divorce related issues. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Susan Alaina Muscarella
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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.
Brenda Valencia
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & anger management. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Penelope van der Westhuizen
I am licensed in Texas with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Katherine Bell Thomasy
Hi, I'm Katherine -- Following life-changing paths with my clients is not my first career. I’ve been a writer, a teacher, and a homeschooling mom. I’ve survived trauma and divorce, fought depression, and lived with chronic illness. I’ve made tons of mistakes, and I’ve outright failed—more times than I can count. Sometimes I wasn’t sure I’d recover. Counseling helped me heal. And it can help you, too. Sometimes healing means diving deep—into your past, your pain, and even your shame. Your own depths can be a scary place. But there’s treasure down there, too, if you just know where to find it. Deep inside, there is a person created in God’s own image, uniquely wired to be like no one else in the world. You have gifts and strengths you may have forgotten… maybe even some you’ve never discovered. I’m honored to be able offer a welcoming space for you to explore yourself. It’s safe here. You’re free to be completely, unashamedly you... without all those filters and masks we all when we’re afraid to let anyone see beneath the surface. I want to hear your story, offer validation, demonstrate acceptance and grace, and encourage you as you take those first steps towards becoming the person God designed you to be. Discover the life you’ve always wanted as you learn to extend grace to yourself. A life of abundant joy and hope really is possible. Take that first step—schedule your first appointment today!
Susan Brinkley
I am licensed in Texas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Angel Avila
I am licensed in Texas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, sleeping disorders, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! If you want to know more about me, I served 10-years in the US Air Force and served another 11-years as a social worker in the Department of Veteran Affairs. LGBTQ+ ally, open-minded, non-judgmental and I have a certification in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. I believe you hold the key to change within you, my job is to assist you with finding that key and using it to open the door to change. It is a journey and I look forward to walking along the path with you.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Richardson
Finding the best therapist close by in Richardson 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 in Richardson that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Richardson. 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 Richardson, 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 in the Richardson region and in the state of Texas. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Richardson or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Richardson area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Richardson 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 Richardson, elsewhere in Dallas, or in the greater state of Texas.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Richardson area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Richardson 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 Richardson 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 Richardson 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Richardson online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Richardson, 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 Richardson psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Richardson 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 Richardson helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Richardson 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 - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- 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 Richardson 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 in Richardson?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Richardson 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.
Richardson therapists 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 Richardson 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 Richardson 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in TX, therapists 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 75080 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Richardson counselor?
Before seeing your Richardson 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Richardson.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Richardson 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 with a Richardson counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Richardson, 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.
Richardson 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Richardson, Texas
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 to customer service 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 Richardson:
75080, 75081, 75082, 75083, 75085