This is Crystal Dungan's avatar and link to their profile

Crystal Dungan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello there, my name is Crystal Dungan, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I hold a masters in Community Counseling from Webster University. I got my start in counseling working at a psychiatric hospital working with a large variety in population varying from adults, military, veterans, senior behavioral, rehabilitation services, and children and adolescents. Currently I have the privilege of working with the military and their families focusing on short term solution based counseling; working with individuals or focusing on couples counseling. My approach to counseling is some what laid back, I like my client to feel relaxed and at ease, to feel as if they are having a conversation with a friend. I still maintain professional boundaries, but try to remove any anxiety that comes with receiving any new services. My style is very flexible and I will do my best to tailor my approach to best suit your needs. This is my life's passion and I look forward to sharing that experience with you.

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Teresa Adcock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

Reaching out and trying to find a therapist can be one of the hardest things to do when you are feeling in chaos and in crisis. Once you take that first step, it gets easier and progressively easier. Feeling like someone is actually listening to you and focusing on you is so important, especially now days. As a therapist, I focus on each person’s specific needs and I adjust my style accordingly. I tend to draw from solution focused, strengths based and cognitive behavioral areas in order to help folks problem solve things that are going on currently and in the past. This has worked well for my client’s and outcomes have been positive. I will strive to help you feel comfortable and safe from judgement and censure. Together I feel we can work on goals you want to achieve that will help you feel more confident, motivated and self-aware. I have over 10 years of clinical experience. I have been privileged to have worked in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community teams providing therapy in homes, as well as private practice. I have a large amount of experience with relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, Autism, PTSD, parenting, grief/loss and medical changes. I obtained my Masters of Science in Social Work from University of Texas at Austin. I feel very strongly about quality therapy being provided for clients, so I obtained higher clinical training and acquired my license to supervise others in my field who also want to provide therapy and help people. Being accepted and understood is what most people want and need. It would be a privilege to be present with you and provide that safe non-judgmental space so you are able to process and grow from the challenges life has thrown your way. In terms of availability, I check and respond to messages at least twice daily, seven days a week. I offer live chat, phone sessions and occasional video sessions weekly, mostly between the hours of 8am and 6pm on select days of the week. I also offer a few live chat sessions each week in the later evening hours or on the weekends depending on needs.

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Jodi Morley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Welcome. I know how difficult it is to seek mental health assistance, and am so grateful that you were able to recognize your need for professional health. This shows a level of awareness that many never acknowledge. I hope I am able to assist you in obtaining the kind of life you are seeking by working through the issues you are currently experiencing. I have been working in the Mental Health field since I graduated with my Master’s of Arts in Clinical Psychology in 2006. I graduated from The University of Texas-Pan American, which is now The University of Texas-RGV. I have worked with a diverse population. I have worked with elderly individuals in nursing homes as they prepared for the end of their lives. I have worked with children as young as 3 years of age through adulthood. I understand what it is like to experience mental health issues, including, self-injury and thoughts of suicide. I also understand what it feels like to be a client in the therapeutic relationship. I work well with individuals experiencing depression and/or anxiety but welcome any and all issues as they develop. I work hard to help build the therapeutic relationship and foster trust and caring, as these are the building blocks of any relationship. I look forward to working with you and building strong skill sets to assist you throughout your lifetime.

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Dr. Shauna Snipes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I have always been intrigued by how the mind works and what makes people do the things they do. I was lucky enough to turn that interest into a career and one I am deeply passionate about. I think it also helps that I have no desire to judge anyone but rather a strong desire to help others. I graduated with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology in 2011, and I have been a licensed psychologist through the state of Texas since 2014. I have an interest in all areas of psychology and have been privileged enough to work with children, adolescents, adults, and aging/older-adult populations. Additionally, I have experience in testing and evaluating within general and forensic populations. I have enjoyed working with individuals diagnosed with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and have spent much of my career helping them to develop the skills they need to best function on a daily basis. Through this work, I gained an appreciation for the importance of interpersonal relationships and the acquisition of appropriate communication and social skills. As I have worked in various populations, I have considerable experience treating disorders with common symptoms such as depression and anxiety. My therapeutic approach, as a result of my diverse career path, is best described as eclectic therapy with client-centered focus. I know that each individual comes into therapy with a unique experience and unique concerns. I believe in meeting the clients where they are and moving at their pace, providing what clients need throughout the course of their personal growth. Therapy consists of entrusting your most sensitive thoughts and feelings to a person that is a relative stranger. It requires a lot of trust and vulnerability. Nonetheless, therapy has been shown to have benefits for individuals that have committed to the process. I look forward to working with you along your process, and I hope to help you take the steps toward your healthiest and most fulfilled life.

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Lori Downs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
10 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad to see you. I have been working with all types of people and hope to work with you soon. I have worked with people of all ages from 6 to 98 over my 6 years of counseling. I graduated from Tarleton State University in Texas with my Masters in Science and received my Licensed in Professional Counseling. I have helped people struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, psychosis, sexual disorders, communication issues, anger management, couples, family therapy, and the list continues. I am not bothered by any topic and listen with a non-judgmental ear. Past clients describe me as "sincere" and someone who "keeps it real" and " very honest". I primarily work from a perspective of thoughts and choices, looking to empower my clients. I also love to work on mindfulness and working with YOUR own strengths. Most importantly, I work side by side with you to reach YOUR overall goals in YOUR counseling journey. So, let's get started!

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Heidi Reddin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

My calling for the past 7 years has been to help teens and young adults who have experienced child abuse, dating violence & sexual assault. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, loss and self esteem as a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. Survivors deserve to be heard and safe while they explore the effects of trauma. My approach draws on client strengths, evidence based techniques and providing helpful resources for the survivor and their tribe. I'm here to meet survivors where they are and work at their pace.

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Cynthia Himstedt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with over 26 years of having the honor of connecting with amazing individuals. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, relationships and so much more. 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.

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Sally Daniels

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to helping you on your journey!

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Hildebrando Mireles III

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 14 years of professional work experience and I'm also about to finish up my PhD in Psychology. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Aleman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Merkel
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in South Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. My experience comes from working with kids, teens and young adults providing counseling and support in the educational setting. I also have experience providing mental health and behavioral counseling with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, gender identity, family issues, and trauma. I have worked in a variety of settings, from community mental health, school based counseling (K-12 and higher education), and private practice settings. I believe that people are not defined by their experiences or what has happened to them in their past. Some of us just need some help to move forward in our lives past those experiences. I try my best to treat you and our therapeutic relationship with respect and understanding. My treatment style draws from different techniques including Solution Focused, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also am a strong believer in engaging in the systems you are a part of to utilize the resources available to you. I am fairly laid back, and I am told I have a good sense of humor. I will meet you where you are and tailor my approach to treatment and create a plan on what will work best to work together and achieve your goals. 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!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Merkel

Finding the best therapist close by in Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel. 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 Merkel, 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel, elsewhere in Taylor, 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Merkel, 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 79536 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 Merkel counselor?

Before seeing your Merkel 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. Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel 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 Merkel, 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.

Merkel 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 Merkel, 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 Merkel 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 Merkel.

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

79536

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