The experienced therapists at BetterHelp can help you overcome a variety of obstacles in your life. If you’re looking for a therapist in McAllen, TX, BetterHelp offers a safe and supportive environment where you can get the help you need online, from the comfort of home, at a time that fits your schedule.
The person-centered care you receive in therapy can help you overcome many challenges, from anxiety disorders to anger management to low self-esteem. Although BetterHelp does not currently offer family counseling, one-on-one therapy can help you work through the emotional wounds and self-limiting beliefs that may come from family dysfunction. If you need support with stress management, want to build self-confidence, or are just ready to focus on your mental well-being, connect with a McAllen-based therapist to get started.
Debra Halseth
To seek help is the first and often hardest step to address challenges, alleviate pain, and achieve positive change in one's life. I am a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years experience in medical, mental health and community-based settings. I have worked in acute hospital units including trauma, surgical, heart/lung transplantation, neonatal, and rehabilitation. I also provided individual, group, and family counseling in a variety of settings including partial hospital programs for dually diagnosed individuals. In addition, I have conducted stress management seminars and provided public speaking on a variety of health-related topics. My approach to counseling is solution focused, helping clients to identify realistic goals and strategies based on individual strengths. I only focus attention on past experiences to the extent that they may block progress now and in the future. I believe that any person can achieve significant change and improved quality of life, regardless of past experiences and circumstances. I received both a Bachelor of Social Work in 1991 and Master of Science in Social Work in 1994 from the University of Texas at Arlington. I live in Houston, Texas with my husband, son, and daughter. I look forward to working as your partner to achieve the changes that you seek with counseling.
Berit Benson
Hello! If you have found your way to this page it is likely that you are struggling with something significant in your life. It can be a relationship, personal concern, or professional issue, and sometimes it's all of those things at once. No matter what brought you to this page, I'm so glad it did. Finding the right counselor can sometimes be the thing that stops someone from seeking help to begin with, and I see it as my job to help you feel safe and accepted with me as your therapist. Let me tell you a little about myself in order to help you determine if you'd like to move forward. I received my Masters of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 2010 and for the past 10 years I have worked with individuals and families from a variety of backgrounds who have struggled with a variety of concerns. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and the elderly about issues ranging from depression/anxiety, chronic illnesses, addiction/eating disorders, grief/loss, relationship struggles, identity crises, and stage-of-life struggles. It is my aim to provide a non-judgmental, objective, and critical look at whatever it is you're finding difficult right now and help you navigate these struggles while remaining open and kind. I also firmly believe that mental health doesn't have to always be heavy or dreary and that finding greater psychological flexibility can be a fun (and sometimes funny) journey of self-discovery. I pride myself on finding joy, even in difficult times, while still respecting the gravity and pain of what you are experiencing. I know finding a therapist can be vulnerable and hard. If you think we might be a good match, I would be honored to work with you.
Dr. Kimberly Kerksiek
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed therapist with over 18 years of experience in the mental health field across private practice and community settings. I approach therapy from a systemic and client-centered perspective, and utilize a variety of approaches to tailor therapy to the needs of each client. I have been fortunate to work with a very diverse population of individuals and couples with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, substance abuse/recovery, LGBT+ issues, and trauma. I have training in multiple methodologies, including narrative therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and empowering. Throughout the therapy process, I strive to create an accepting environment so each client feels comfortable processing personal issues or concerns. This, in turn, helps each individual tap into his or her own strengths and achieve desired growth. Reaching out for help can be difficult, and the therapy process can often be challenging. Through working together, I believe you can achieve your goals, overcome obstacles, and ultimately thrive in your personal endeavors. I look forward to working with you.
Andrea Mitchell
Hello I’m Andie, and I’d love to spend some time with you. In my experience as a human being, I have come to recognize that there is a vital connection between what we believe about ourselves and how we choose to respond to our circumstance. There is no shame in wanting to have your needs met, and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey to a balanced state of being. I spent my early years in an alcoholic home, and it took me the greater part of my young adulthood to recognize the impact this had on my interactions and relationships. After running that gauntlet alone, my purpose became educating myself and inspiring others to meet their needs in healthy ways. I have since worked with many clients undergoing a variety of circumstances including depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship trouble, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, and childhood trauma. My conversational style is unique and interactive, and my counseling style is customized to meet your circumstances. Whomever you chose to work with, do not stop fighting for the version of yourself that you deserve. With Love, Andie
Shari Stark
Hello and welcome! My name is Shari Stark, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Supervisor Endorsement, and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas. I am also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a National Certified counselor. I have over 20 years of experience in working in mental health. My experience includes private practice, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, nonprofit, and substance abuse. I also spent 18 years in public education as a teacher, school counselor, and therapeutic counselor. I worked in the field of domestic violence for 5 years. During my time in private practice, I mostly worked with couples, blended families, and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, anger, boundaries, and family of origin. I also worked with First Responders. As your therapist, it is an honor to work with you on your journey towards personal growth, empowerment, and to assist you in discovering mindsets and stumbling blocks that are preventing you from reaching your full potential. My counseling style is warm, compassionate, respectful, and encouraging while maintaining the strictest confidentiality while building mutual trust. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, and client-centered; however, I utilize other counseling modalities in an effort to meet clients where they are. I also provide Christian counseling for those clients seeking a Biblical perspective. To best serve you, please know that I do not provide legal/court documentation, diagnosis, assessment, or treatment reports as I feel this is best achieved by seeing a counselor for in person sessions. Also, I know that some prefer texting as a form of counseling; however, I prefer to do sessions via video or phone call. In my free time, I enjoy spending time in nature, gardening, hiking, listening to music, reading, and volunteering. I have been a volunteer for over 20 years, which consisted of facilitating a grief support group, time spent in Stennis, MS after Hurricane Katrina, being a mentor for teens, but mostly volunteering with animal rescue groups and animal shelters. I wish you the very best in finding a counselor, who best suits your needs and who will provide you with the tools to help you gain a better perspective and live life to the fullest. You deserve this!
Robert Smith
Dr. Smith has over 25 years of experience working with executives, athletes, first responders, physicians, attorneys, actors, musicians, and other high performance professionals on issues impacting their careers and home life. As a counselor, coach, and consultant, I work with high performance professionals to help them change derailing and self-destructive behaviors that are putting their careers, relationships, health, financial security, and freedom at risk. I hold a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. Areas of specialization include: • Anger • Interpersonal Skills • Emotional Regulation • Self Management • Burnout • Resilience • Executive Wellbeing • Transitions • Reputation Rehabilitation -- Personal, Professional, Public Recovery.
Margarita Medina
I am licensed in Texas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. Be assured that you are the driver in this car and I the passenger whose helping you read the map.
Daphane Joy Harris
I am licensed in Texas with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship 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!
Lauren Hale-Gonzales
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!
Melody McKibbin
My name is Melody- I am a faith-based clinician located in Texas(but licensed in 10 other states and am here to support you on your journey! I specialize in treating BPD, grief, depression, and anxiety. I have 3 years of experience in private practice and community mental health settings and am passionate about serving individuals ages 25 and up. Unsure if a faith-based approach is right for you? That is completely okay. In our sessions, we can explore how faith might relate to your community, personal growth, and values in a way that feels right for you. I genuinely welcome individuals from all backgrounds and beliefs, and I’m committed to tailoring our work together to meet your needs. Have questions? I’d love to chat! Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. Together, we can discuss your goals and see if we’re a good fit. I look forward to hearing from you."
How to find a therapist for counseling in McAllen
Finding the best therapist close by in McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen. 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 McAllen, 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen, elsewhere in Hidalgo, 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in McAllen, 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 78505 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 McAllen counselor?
Before seeing your McAllen 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. McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen 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 McAllen, 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.
McAllen 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 McAllen, 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 McAllen 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 McAllen:
78501, 78502, 78503, 78504, 78505