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315 verified Psychotherapists in Austin, TX
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 05/18/2026
Availability last updated 05/18/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am Sunny Alexander, and I’ve been in practice for ten years treating clients working in various job placements. I’ve treated clients working inpatient and outpatient at a hospital. I instructed Intro to Psychology at a community college and I’ve been in private practice for ten years. My unique co...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·33 reviews
Awesome I felt she really cared and wanted to help my daughter and had great ideas - Oct 4, 2024 by Robert F.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master of Arts in Counseling at Wayland Baptist University. Currently, I am working with a consultant to become an EMDR therapist. I believe that this therapy is beneficial to individuals with trauma-related experiences. I specialize in helping i...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Howdy, Im a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. I have been working in the counseling field since 2016 after graduating with my masters in clinical psychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. I work with adults of all ages to identify their current goals and desir...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·28 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My name is Javier Meléndez (he/him), and I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master’s in Social Work from Andrews University. I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside others on their journey toward healing and wholeness. I have a love for nature and the outdoors, and I believe th...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·15 reviews
Terrible communication - Jul 3, 2023 by Gabriella R.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have a decade of experience focusing on children, adolescents, adults, women, and men, addressing depression, anxiety, work-life balance, sexual health, sexual addictions, grief and loss, life transitions, domestic violence, eating disorders, abuse against children, relationship health, marriage c...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Richard Spires. I believe in the therapeutic alliance. Counseling is a team effort, and we get the best results when we work together. Part of my counseling style is taking the time to get to know you and truly understand your issues. I have been to counseling myself and experienced times...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (TX & FL) with over 15 years of experience providing trauma-informed, multilingual mental health care. My practice is rooted in compassion, clarity, and cultural humility—specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and mi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Kelly Hays is a LCSW-S, practicing in Social Work since 1989 after graduation from Our Lady of The Lake University of San Antonio, TX. Kelly is a Retired Navy (Hospital Corpsman) /Army (Social Work Officer) Veteran and has served in Family Advocacy, Hospice, Outpatient Mental Health, Inpatient Menta...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with over 19 years of experience working with children, teens, and families. My passion is to meet people where they are and walk with them toward healing, hope, and growth. I offer a compassionate, faithbased approach...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello. What I offer clients when they come to see me for counseling is 32 years of experience as a licensed professional counselor who has worked in inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for both mental health and addiction diagnoses. In these same settings, I worked with eating disorder patie...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Katherine I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, widow, cancer survivor, and Christian. I approach therapy with respect for individual differences, using the best therapy for the concern and give support to all clients. I help individuals discover ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Definitely recommend. She is helping me with my most deepest issues and explains the why’s thoroughly. - Mar 25, 2026 by Kelsey H.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My initial training as a therapist was in premarital and marriage counseling, a vital part of my practice that I continue to enjoy to this day. I have approximately 20 years of experience and am licensed as a counselor and supervisor of interns. I hold a Master's in Biblical Counseling from Dallas T...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello/Hola (hablo Espanol) my name is Sandra Villarreal and I'm a bilingual therapist with her License Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)that is here to help and assist with your mental health well-being. I believe if you take care of your mental health, your physical health will align. You can then be...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Experiencing symptoms like persistent anxiety, irritability, emotional exhaustion, feeling constantly on edge, loss of joy, impulsiveness, addiction, plus pervasive frustration in relationships or with family members can be overwhelming. In such cases, therapy or counseling is an appropriate initial...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Greetings, I am a licensed professional counselor and certified biblical therapist with an extensive background working with children, adolescents, and families. I earned my Master's in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University and hold an EdD in Organizational Leadership from Abilene Christian Un...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Master's from Lamar University and have been practicing for 4 years. My goal is to meet you where you are. To understand your environment and help overcome barriers so that you can meet your goals in accomplishing mental...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
�There is no better teacher than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.� - Malcolm X Life happens no matter your race, gender, class, or socioeconomic status. Therapy offers a safe and secure spac...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Greetings! I am DeEdra Powell, LMSW, LCSW, licensed in the state of Texas. I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor's in Communication and a Master's degree in Social Work in 2016. I have spent the last 15 years of my career working with children and families in the child welfare s...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a compassionate, client-centered therapist dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel truly heard and supported. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are and walking alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges, heal from past hurts, and move toward the life yo...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I work with people of all ages who face a variety of issues and concerns. The following are examples of challenges I address regularly. Individual Adult Therapy Many people experience strong feelings like sadness, anxiety, anger, or despair and don’t fully understand their causes. Throughout our liv...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Balancing life as a wife, mom to two toddlers and two pre-teens, and a Clinical Social Worker is a wonderful adventure! My favorite moments are spent outdoors with my family, and I also love baking and traveling. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to work as a Clinical Social Worker, a role that's ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I am Doctor Shonette, and I am excited to meet you. I am here to join with you and help you live a more gratifying life by setting and meeting small positive goals and developing new tools and positive behavior habits that will lead you toward success in your chosen area of need. I consider myse...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) based in Texas. I received my master's degree from Lamar University. I am also currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology from Capella University. I enjoy helping everyone from different walks of ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
- Feb 27, 2024 by Yarimar D.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor in Texas with more than 2o years of experience supporting adolescents and adults. With a doctorate in developmental psychology, I bring both expertise and a down-to-earth approach to helping people find clarity and direction when life feels overwh...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Joice, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the States of Indiana and Texas. I am a good listener, empathetic and non-judgemental. I am an African immigrant know how it feels to move into a different country and acculturate, so I would be a good fit for any immigrant out there. My ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have 14 years experience in the mental health field. This has mostly been in substance abuse and trauma. My interests mostly revolve around overcoming adverse events. We are shaped by events both good and bad. I believe that a bad or harmful event does not have to totally negative consequences. ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
I really enjoyed visiting with my therapist but she is not in my network so I will not be able to continue visits unfortunately - Sep 4, 2025 by Jessica R.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
You are seeking-that is what brought you here. Sometimes it may be a single event, a crisis, a trauma, or a series of events that leave you weary. Life can bring us to a place where we need to do things differently but can't quite sort out what that looks like. My experiences working with community...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·6 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Sharon! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that others (or other things) run your life? I work with individuals, couples, and famili...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I received my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. I have been practicing in the field for 5 years. I work with adult individuals who struggle with various mental health issues and couples who are exper...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in rural Texas. I received my education from Tarleton State University and have been practicing for 24 years. I help clients who are struggling with Depression, Anxiety, and overwhelming life situations find new ways to look at their life. I w...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·14 reviews
- Apr 9, 2024 by Gabriela L.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hey! I’m Esme, I’m a licensed professional counselor, and my goal is to empower you to overcome vulnerabilities! Perhaps you have felt misunderstood or even neglected by a previous mental health provider. Or if this is your first time seeking counseling, I want to assure you that my aim is to suppor...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
He is amazing- great listener, excellent bedside manner and very thorough. - Aug 2, 2025 by Yoani D.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, my name is Ofori Asante, and I am a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I specialize in helping others understand the causes of their frustrations, anger, anxiety, and lack of resources in dealing with their problems. After earning my Bachelor of Science degree in Human ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·14 reviews
This is my first real experience with a therapist so I was really nervous. She did a great job guiding the session, making me feel comfortable. She explained the science behind what I was experiencing, provided her thoughts and reasoning, and even gave me some homework. We talked about my goals, and...Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Mari. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and over 10 years of experience working with various age groups—from children and adolescents to adults and geriatrics. I help men, women, and children work through d...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, Texas, and Virginia. I have over a decade of experience working with a diverse population of individuals. I have worked in community mental health, public schools, corrections facilities, hospitals, and as an EAP provider. I am most passio...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·21 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! Are you feeling stuck and confused? Are you experiencing anxiety about your relationship and/or attachment challenges? I am a licensed clinical social worker, licensed in Florida and Texas. I received my Master's in Social Work from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. I have witnesse...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions. You may find yourself overthinking, struggling to sleep, feeling disconnected from others, or carrying emotional pain that feels hard to explain or manage alone. I provide ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·10 reviews
Not a great fit.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Do you feel worn down by the relentless events of your life? Are you overwhelmed by the myriad of self-help choices out there and need some guidance? Have you experienced loss and don’t know what to do with those intense feelings? Do you just feel like you are “going through the motions,” trying to ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a dedicated social worker who has served individuals and families since 2004. My background spans foster care, behavioral health, crisis prevention programs, medical social work, and long term care coordination for clients receiving Medicaid services. I've also supported families navigating cou...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.25
·4 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi! I like to provide an eclectic approach to therapy that is individualized to your needs. I enjoy working with individual adults as well as couples. I know therapy can be intimidating, but I will provide you with a warm and empathetic approach that focuses on your goals or areas of your life that ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
For most of us, life has not been easy, and dealing with life's struggles can be overwhelming and exhausting at times. Life stressors and impactful situations can greatly affect our mental well-being and, as a result, impact our physical health. Having the necessary and proper tools to work through ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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Frequently asked questions

How many Psychotherapists are available in Austin?

There are currently 376 Psychotherapists in Austin available for booking on Zocdoc. Filter by insurance, language, or appointment time to find your best match.


Are there Psychotherapists in Austin accepting new patients?

Yes. 346 Psychotherapists in Austin are accepting new patients right now. Many offer appointments within the next few days.


Which insurance carriers are most accepted by Psychotherapists in Austin?

Among psychotherapists in Austin:

  • 79.2% accept UnitedHealthcare
  • 76.7% accept Aetna
  • 75.9% accept Cigna
Filter by insurance to see which providers take your plan.


Can I find a Psychotherapist in Austin who speaks Spanish?

Yes. 111 Psychotherapists in Austin speak Spanish. Use the language filter on Zocdoc to find Spanish-speaking providers and book an appointment.


How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychotherapist in Austin?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychotherapist in Austin, book an appointment, and see the Psychotherapist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Psychotherapists in Austin who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Austin Psychotherapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Austin Psychotherapist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Psychotherapist in Austin?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychotherapists in Austin and book appointments instantly. You can search for Austin Psychotherapists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychotherapist in Austin?

When you search for Austin Psychotherapists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Psychotherapists in Austin who match your preferences.


How can I find an Austin Psychotherapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Austin Psychotherapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychotherapist in Austin?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapists in Austin who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychotherapist online in Austin?

Psychotherapists in Austin on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychotherapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychotherapists in Austin who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Austin who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Austin who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychotherapists in Austin. Many Psychotherapists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


All numbers and provider counts reflect Zocdoc data as of December 2025

Psychotherapists and their role in healthcare

A psychotherapist is a healthcare professional who provides therapy to enable people to deal with their emotional and mental health issues. They are well-equipped to help with various mental disorders and conditions, including loss, trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, addictions, phobias, personality disorders, etc.


Psychotherapy can help individuals improve their mental well-being and heal by enabling them to express their thoughts, feelings, emotions, behavioral patterns, and mood swings. Patients can develop healthier approaches to dealing with situations and learn how to handle their circumstances better. Lifestyle improvements such as good nutrition, exercise, and sleep can complement a patient's treatment and support their recovery and wellness.


Confidentiality is crucial in psychotherapy for patients to share their thoughts and feelings comfortably, and any contact between the patient and the doctor outside the treatment is considered inappropriate. The patient and therapist need to have a relationship of trust and participate actively in the conversation for it to work. The therapy can take anywhere from a few sessions (short-term) to deal with immediate issues to months and years (long-term) for longstanding problems. The patient and therapist, together, plan treatment goals, frequency of their meetings, and duration of each session. 


Types of psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," is of several types and can be combined with other therapies or medicines. Psychotherapists near you can choose the appropriate treatment depending on the patient's preference and illness. Some types of psychotherapy are :


  1. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): It helps people identify harmful behavioral patterns contributing to their problems and replace them with thoughts and behaviors that can help solve them. CBT helps people practice new skills in the real world and treat issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, and eating disorders.
  2. Dialectical behavior therapy (DPT): A type of cognitive behavioral therapy, DPT aims to help people manage suicidal thoughts, borderline personality disorders, substance use issues, and post-traumatic stress disorders. It teaches people to manage stress, change their self-destructive behaviors, and enhance their relationships with others.
  3. Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT recognizes that a person's relationships can impact their mental health. This therapy helps patients understand troublesome interpersonal issues and social interactions. It helps develop healthy ways to express emotions and improve communication. 
  4. Psychodynamic therapy: It originates from Freudian psychoanalysis and is rooted in the belief that childhood experiences and unconscious repetitive thoughts influence one's behavior. This therapy examines a patient's past and makes them aware of their repressed feelings to take control of their life by changing old patterns and dealing with unresolved problems.
  5. Supportive therapy: It requires therapists to build an alliance with their patients by engaging them in collaborative discussions. Through conversations, they guide and encourage patients to develop their resources and self-esteem, thus providing "support." It helps patients strengthen their coping mechanisms and get equipped with tools to deal with challenging situations and anxiety.


Occasionally, therapists use additional therapies alongside psychotherapy. These include animal-assisted (working with dogs, cats, or other animals to bring comfort) and creative-arts therapies (using music, art, dance, and poetry to improve the state of mind).


What to anticipate during your psychotherapy sessions?

Your initial session

In the first session, the psychotherapist near you will actively gather information about your needs, potentially requiring you to complete forms related to your physical and emotional well-being. The therapist may take a few sessions to fully comprehend your situation and concerns and determine the most suitable treatment option. The initial session also allows you to interview the therapist, assessing whether their approach and personality align with your preferences.

Get a clear understanding of:

  1. The type of therapy to be employed.
  2. The objectives of your treatment.
  3. The duration of each session.
  4. The potential number of required therapy sessions.

Feel free to ask questions at any point during your appointment. Consider exploring other options if you need to be a better fit with the initial therapist. Establishing a positive connection with your therapist is crucial for effective treatment.

Starting psychotherapy

You will likely meet with your psychotherapist weekly or bi-weekly for 45-minute to one-hour sessions. Sessions may be conducted in the therapist's office or through video visits. Sometimes, hospitals may provide psychotherapy, especially when you have been admitted for treatment. Hospital-based psychotherapy emphasizes safety and the enhancement of mental and emotional stability.

During psychotherapy

In most psychotherapy approaches, your therapist actively encourages you to discuss your thoughts, feelings, and any troubling aspects of your life. If you find it challenging to open up initially, your therapist will support you in gaining confidence and comfort over time.

Given that psychotherapy may involve intense emotional discussions, it's normal to experience moments of crying, upset feelings, or even anger during a session. Physical exhaustion might also occur afterward. Your therapist is equipped to help you navigate and cope with these emotions.

Post-session, your therapist may assign specific activities or recommend practicing what you've learned. As you continue addressing your concerns, there is potential for improvement in mood and a positive shift in your thoughts and self-perception. Psychotherapy can enhance your coping abilities over time.


Finding the best psychotherapists near you

Mental health is a sensitive issue, and finding a doctor who understands you can be challenging. Therapy requires you to trust the therapist so that you can openly share your thoughts. Zocdoc's comprehensive database of top-rated healthcare professionals can help you locate reliable, experienced psychotherapists in Austin, Texas.


Start by creating a free account on Zocdoc and enter details such as your location, symptoms, preferred appointment date, or specialist you seek to begin your search. You can also include your insurance details to find in-network professionals and save money using your insurance plan. You will then receive a list of providers matching your search criteria. Each provider has a detailed profile containing all the required information, such as their educational qualifications, specializations, awards, certifications, hospital affiliations, experience, etc. 


Zocdoc also allows you to read reviews and ratings from other patients who have previously consulted with the specialist. This way, you can make a more informed choice and make the best decision for your mental health. Once you have decided on the best-suited psychotherapist near you for your needs and requirements, you can book an in-person appointment or a video call consultation with them by clicking on the purple video icon. 


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Mental health statistics for Texas

According to the Texas fact sheet compiled by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in 2021, one in five (20%) U.S. adults suffer from mental illness each year. It also showed that COVID-19 significantly impacted more than half of Americans' mental health.


In February 2021, almost half of the adult population of Texas (43.4%) reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. Around 3,347,000 Texan adults had mental health problems but struggled to get the care they needed, and nearly 26.4% were unable to get the required counseling or therapy. 

According to the report, the cost was the main reason for approximately 45.3% of the 839,000 Texan adults who did not get the necessary mental health care. Another reason was that 18.4% of people in the state were uninsured. Moreover, even if insured, they are likely to be forced out-of-network for mental health care, making the care less affordable due to higher out-of-pocket costs.


Sources

American Psychiatric Association 

Mayo Clinic[1]

Mayo Clinic[2]

National Alliance on Mental Illness 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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