This is Sharon Esters's avatar and link to their profile

Sharon Esters

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Counselor License Type(s): MA,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello- I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the helping profession for 8 years. When I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in 1996, I worked as a worker’s compensation adjuster for 12 years. The money was great, but I hated working in that field. Eventually, the company I was working for downsized, so I was laid off. From there, I was lost and didn’t know what to do. Should I continue to stay in the same line of work for the next 12 years, dreading to get out of the bed every day for the money, or should I find a career that will help me utilize my own personal experiences and education to make a difference in the lives of others? I chose to follow my heart. When I took my first counseling class, I knew being a counselor was my calling in life. This is what I was born to do. I realized the most important thing in the world is not how much money you make; it’s about enjoying the work you do. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I don’t enjoy making money, but I know I wasn’t happy. Being a counselor makes me feel alive, full of hope, and purpose. Educating clients on how to manage their mood disorders, stressors, or providing guidance to some of the most difficult challenges in a person’s life is what I live for. I want you to know that I am here for you. We can face life’s challenges together. Sincerely, Sharon Esters

This is Terrie Hailey's avatar and link to their profile

Terrie Hailey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, my name is Terrie Hailey, and I am a Master's level clinician and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Texas. I have over 14 years of experience, including owning my own private practice, working both inpatient and outpatient units in a hospital setting, working with online companies as a remote therapist and working with our heros - our American Veterans. My clients present with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, self-esteem and self-efficacy issues, career challenges, PTSD and MST. I believe in the philosophy of teaching a man to fish, and as such, I utilize psychoeducational material and work with theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Play Therapy, Couples or Systemic Therapy, and trauma informed care. I want to work with you in a therapeutic partnership, providing an atmosphere that is non-judgmental and feels safe to explore the issues that you are experiencing in your life that is bringing you to counseling. Whether this is your first time to counseling, or you've had multiple counseling experiences, I want to work with you to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that focuses on mutual respect, sensitivity, and compassion and help you find a better balance in your life. Life has many different phases, and if you are ready to take that step I am here to support and to empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Judy Boland's avatar and link to their profile

Judy Boland

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
36 years of experience

Hello. Congratulations for taking action to focus on yourself. My passion is to work in conjunction with people in order to live their best life and learn how to LIVE life instead of just surviving. I have been working successfully as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the last 23 years. I believe we have everything we need inside of us however, our strengths become covered up with life experiences and challenges. I believe in empowering my clients to find their voice and get started living the life their best life. I have been working as an LPC in Texas since I graduated from University of Central Texas in 1997 and received my license in 1999. I have had the privilege of working with people with numerous issues they were striving to overcome. I have worked with our Honorable Military and First Responders to address PTSD. I have a passion for working with people who have been affected by traumatic situations and desire to not be identified by a label and as the strong and brilliant person they are. I have worked in treatment facilities including inpatient, residential, outpatient, and private practice. I practice evidence-based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. Above all of that, I honor and respect the person I am working with and their unique attributes. I will empower the people I work with to set and reach realistic and attainable goals in order to enjoy life. Therapy has serious moments and of course has humorous moments as well when learning about ourselves.

This is Haris Ciceklic's avatar and link to their profile

Haris Ciceklic

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & parenting 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kathy Joe's avatar and link to their profile

Kathy Joe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ-related issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, life wellness, academic counseling, adjusting to life stressors & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I take a holistic approach to life wellness counseling. I foster that each person is an individual with their own life perspectives. I can help you uncover and explore options within your social context and develop the potential inside you. I believe in providing a supportive, motivating environment to enable you to learn and discover how to enhance your personal view of happiness and life's purpose. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Shelley Jackson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shelley Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 30 years of professional counseling experience. I believe in the inherent good in all people and believe that the counselor builds a relationship with the client that creates a safe and nurturing environment for the client to grow to their own potential. I have experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy and Psychodrama which works well with both children and adults. My work has involved conducting special topics groups; individual counseling with children, adolescents, families and couples. I have additional training and experience in working with clients who differ from me. I am as a white, Caucasian, cis-gendered female from a North-Eastern lower-middle class family. I celebrate differences and strive to approach clients with cultural humility. Specialties of Practice but not limited to: • Depression • Bipolar disorders and Mood Disorders • Anxiety • Relationship Conflicts including • Self-Exploration and Growth for all clients; specific training and experience with LGBTQ-A and BI-POC populations. • Career and Vocational Issues • Grief and Loss 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.

This is Rafaela DeSoto-Ray's avatar and link to their profile

Rafaela DeSoto-Ray

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD, & coping with life changes. I am knowledgeable and skilled with developmental and behavioral disorders, issues associated with head trauma, dementia, and other neurological conditions. Because every individual is different I am eclectic in my therapeutic approach. I am willing to find the techniques and approaches that will work best for you. My hope is that with each session I am able to give you some new idea or skill that will bring a positive change to your life outside of therapy. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have 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!

This is Robyn Carey's avatar and link to their profile

Robyn Carey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
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, depression, AD/HD, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. My Counseling style is more laid back, supportive, and with humor. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I want to make sure to clarify that I check messages here daily during the week and will respond to you whenever I can, at least twice a day. You can also schedule a live session (text chat, phone call, video session) with me using the Scheduler. The days/times you see are when I am available for a session, so feel free to select any slot there that works for you. I like to enjoy life and take time to recharge a few days each week, which I encourage you to do as well, so I do not schedule sessions at those times/days. I will do my best to respond as soon as I am able. I look forward to working with each of you.

This is Jaime Rivera's avatar and link to their profile

Jaime Rivera

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with more than a decade of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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. My primary therapeutic approach is from a strength-based perspective helping empower you to utilize your inherent strengths to work towards self-sufficiency and through life's adversities.

This is Alyssa Kee's avatar and link to their profile

Alyssa Kee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Alto
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

I have 9 years of experience in Texas. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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 a therapist for counseling in Alto

Finding the best therapist close by in Alto 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 with therapists in Alto 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 Alto. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Alto, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Alto 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 Alto 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 Alto therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Alto area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Alto, elsewhere in Cherokee, or in the greater state of Texas. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

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 Alto 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 Alto therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Alto due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Alto 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 therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Alto, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Alto 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 and therapists 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 professional, including the therapists in Alto 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 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. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Alto provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Alto 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

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 Alto 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 Alto 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 or therapists 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 75925 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. 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 Alto counselor?

Before seeing your Alto therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Alto therapists here 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.

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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Alto 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 with a Alto 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 Alto, 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.

Alto has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Alto, Texas

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 Alto 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:

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

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

75925

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