This is Leah Alviar's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Alviar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

My name is Leah Alviar and I would like to share a little bit about myself with you.  Degrees, Certifications, and Professional Experience:  Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership from the University of the Incarnate Word M.A. in Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio B.S. in Generic Special Education from Our Lady of the Lake University.   I am both a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified professional school counselor with over 22 years of counseling experience.  I have held leadership roles in local, regional, and state counseling organizations, am a published author, present at local, state, and national conferences and served as editor for Ph.D. student dissertations.   Currently I am a Senior Director at the University of the Incarnate Word and teach graduate counseling courses as well as undergraduate prep courses at various universities. I previously served as the Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence, an instructional designer, adjunct professor for the M.A. in Counseling program, Director of Field Experience, and assistant professor of education at OLLU, as well as professional school counselor in various ISDs in San Antonio.  I have over 15 years’ experience teaching university students in both the online and face-to-face environments and have authored courses and taught classes at the undergraduate and graduate level for over 17 years. Theoretical Perspective: Over the course of my counseling career, I have worked with people who were anxious, depressed, stressed, and simply burned out; I have helped adolescents and couples who have struggled with communication issues and relationship barriers; I have worked with families regarding parenting, abuse, grief, and death; and I have helped individuals with career planning, self-esteem building, goal setting, and wellness strategies to cope with major life changes. Throughout my work, I have used many techniques and applied multiple theories, as each person is as unique as the theories and techniques.  I am solution-focused and client-centered.  I feel the counselor serves as the guide and facilitator for the clients as they move through their journey.  I use a humanistic approach to counseling, but also integrate cognitive behavior therapy techniques as deemed appropriate.  I adapt my counseling strategies to meet the needs of the client. A Little About Me: I have been happily married to my high school sweetheart for almost 25 years and together we have three amazing sons.  We enjoy fishing, being outdoors, reading, traveling, and catching the latest movie together as a family.  When practicing self-care, I enjoy ultrarunning, reading, skydiving and quilting.  

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Barbara Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with close to thirty years of experience. I have counseled clients in a wide variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment facilities, as well as my own private practice. Some of the concerns of clients have been depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, grief, anger, relationship issues, separation, and divorce. I would describe my approach as empathetic, encouraging, supportive, goal oriented, and centered on the client’s needs. Although I have completed much training and have experience in many therapy methods during my career, I would describe myself mostly utilizing Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I love helping clients go from struggling with their issues to gaining more satisfaction and meaning in their lives and feeling more secure in their capabilities for dealing with their life challenges. I have worked with many people who state it is their first time in counseling. Frequently they remark by the end of the session that I helped them feel very comfortable in delving into their concerns and they were pleased they chose to contact me. I understand it takes courage to ask for help. I want to warmly welcome you to start the journey of making your life better by letting us work together.

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Kristine Benson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kristine. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with 7 years of experience in providing therapeutic services to adults, children, and couples. I focus on domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance abuse, family and relationship challenges, learning challenges, problem-solving skills, building resilience skills, career and vocational guidance, anger and stress management, emotional triggers, and life and resilience skills. My treatment approaches are Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My educational foundation is a Masters in Psychology and a second Masters in Psychology specializing in Family, Couple, and Individual Psychotherapy. I have a variety of training and experience, ranging from working with children in an elementary school to family violence prevention services, group counseling, individual counseling, couple and family counseling, and military services. I am a 24-year Air Force and Army veteran with three combat deployments, and I bring a unique understanding of deployments and family separation. I keep myself current on the latest techniques and theories to provide the best services for my clients. I am here to help. The sessions will go at your pace and address your needs. I look forward to assisting you and being a part of your life's journey.

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Michelle Robbins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
24 years of experience

Congratulations! You have just taken a very courageous step in taking back control of your life. Just a word or two about myself in introduction. I have been working in the mental health field for the past Twenty two years working with people with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar, adjustment disorder as well as a variety of other issues. I am currently facilitating group counseling in a mental health setting specifically catering to patients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorder diagnosis. I also see people in a private practice setting for individual therapy. I utilize an eclectic mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy in working with my clients. ln later stages of therapy I prefer to move the focus toward a forward focused, goal oriented mindset incorporating Positive Psychology to work toward the client's ideal self. I look forward to working with you and accompanying you on your journey of being you bravely!

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Steven Gaddis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger management
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am a counselor, currently licensed in California and Texas, with approximately 20 years of experience. My experiences include working with individuals to address topics such as anger management, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug related concerns, personal development, and mood disturbances. I have also worked with criminal justice involved individuals. My style primarily utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral perspectives with an understanding that the connection and trust between counselor and client is paramount in an effective and productive partnership. I believe that by working to create a safe and authentic environment the stage is best prepared for creating healthy change and movement towards ones goals. Although the specific methods utilized will be based on individual details and interactions, my interactions are personalized and focused on an individual's strengths. I typically review incoming messages at least twice a day, at least once in the AM and once in the PM. I appreciate you and your interest in counseling as an opportunity to create or maintain the life you envision. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with you in your next steps and I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

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Chapin Renshaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

This is Torey Gilmore's avatar and link to their profile

Torey Gilmore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is James Ritchie's avatar and link to their profile

James Ritchie

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
3 years of experience

Hello, Thank you for visiting my profile and wanting to make changes in your life! I am so glad that you are here! My name is James Ritchie and I am a full-time Counselor located in the San Antonio, TX & Atkins, TX areas. I counsel using my private practice "Just Real Counseling Services, PLLC". The reason behind “Just Real Counseling” is I saw too many bios of other counselors talking about potentially taking the first steps. You already have taken that first step and I hope to be able to take the next step with you! I use an approach that includes goal setting (my personal favorite) where we collaborate on goals from the very first session! I will always be real with you each and every session! I am no teacher, but I do give homework. Usually, the goals are small things to be mindful of as you continue your week until the next time we meet. You will get my full real authentic self and I hope you are ready to begin this journey with me. I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, substance use / abuse, career coaching & career difficulties. 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!

This is Charmaine Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Charmaine Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoaching
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Kentucky with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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!

This is Lauren Nash's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Nash

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Leakey
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
7 years of experience

I am an LPC located in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I received both my undergraduate and graduate degree from Dallas Baptist University. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, postpartum anxiety/depression, infertility and family planning, relationship or interpersonal issues, and parenting issues. My goal is to help clients understand their own story and learn how to integrate tools and strategies to help improve their quality of life. It is my hope to go along side you in your journey and help you find your way through the adversities and difficulties that we face in life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take immense courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Leakey

Finding the best therapist close by in Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey. 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 Leakey, 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey, elsewhere in Real, 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Leakey, 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 78873 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 Leakey counselor?

Before seeing your Leakey 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. Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey 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 Leakey, 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.

Leakey 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 Leakey, 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 Leakey 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 Leakey.

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

78873

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