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315 verified Psychologists 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 07/21/2026
Availability last updated 07/21/2026
Psychologist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Clinical Psychologist with several years of experience in helping clients set and meet goals to make important changes in their lives. Reaching out for help shows strength and resilience, and my goal is to work with you as a partner in your healing to make sure those qualities help you move f...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychologist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I’m Dr. Rena Pazienza, a licensed clinical psychologist with a PhD in Counseling Psychology and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University at Albany, as well as a Bachelor’s degree from The State University of New York. I have over 9 years of experience providing evidence-based pract...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychologist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I'm a Licensed Psychologist (LP) based in Texas. I received my Doctorate from the APA accredited California School Professional Psychology- Fresno. I and have been practicing clinical psychology over 20 years. I help adults struggling with career stress, relationship issues and mental health disorde...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 28
Psychologist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, I am a clinical psychologist who has been in practice sine 1999. I work with a general adult population, with my main focus being on PTSD, depression and anxiety. During the early stages of my career, I performed extensive psychological and neuropsychological testing. This helped me to und...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Ashley Griffin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting adults as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. I specialize in helping clients feel more grounded, self-aware, and empowered during moments that feel overwhelming, uncertain, or emotiona...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Are you trying to figure out how to live in this current political climate, but others just don't seem to get it? Have you ever wanted a safe space to talk and explore, unfiltered and unafraid of what the other person is going to think? Are you in the lgbtq+ community or an ally looking for an affir...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·4 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I am a licensed therapist with a dedicated focus on supporting individuals through life transitions, self-esteem issues, complex trauma, relationship problems including domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and a range of other challenging life experiences. My approach to therapy is rooted ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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)
4.79
·19 reviews
Randy Gibson is a great therapist. He’s easy to talk to, really listens, and makes you feel comfortable from the start. I always leave our sessions feeling lighter and more focused on making positive changes in my life. If you're looking for someone who genuinely cares and knows what they're doing, ...Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
In an atmosphere of acceptance, I will establish and maintain a trusting relationship to promote your growth and self-direction. I use brief cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to assist you with your anxiety, stress, depression and relationship conflicts. I provide an environment to help you ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.17
·6 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello there, I wanted to introduce myself and share a bit about my professional background. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and EAP Counselor, with many years of experience serving as a Military & Family Life Counselor on various military bases across Texas. A...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, I have been a Counselor for 17 years and I love my work. I grew up loving working with animals, competing in sports, reading everything, and having a great curiosity for how nature and people worked. I have been blessed with many wonderful and loving people in my life; and know how much it me...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·8 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! I attended Prairie View A&M University for my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice and then stayed to earn my Master of Arts in Counseling by 2016. After graduating, I began working as an Academic Advisor at a university, where I enjoyed helping young adults navigate college. I eventua...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 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: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
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. P...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with a strong foundation in school‚Äëbased mental health, community support, and higher‚Äëlevel clinical care. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults build confidence, emotional regulation, and practical coping skills. My approach is warm, col...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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I am a licensed mental health professional who works with children, adolescents, and young adults ages 10–25. I specialize in supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional regulation difficulties. My approach is collaborative and evidence-based, drawing from Cognitive Be...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Rachel Portlock, and I have been counseling individuals for over six years. I am both a Professional School Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. My experience working with children, adolescents, college students, young adults, and adults has given me a unique understanding of ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Everyone deserves support during challenging times. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with over 19 years of experience, I'm here to help. I provide therapy, coaching, and educational services designed to help you overcome adversity and build resilience. Through secure telehealth sessions,...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Amelia, a licensed therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, improve relationships, and build healthier coping strategies. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person's unique experiences and goals. I strive to create a safe,...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
"Do you often feel like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Maybe you're the person everyone depends on, yet you're struggling with anxiety, stress, grief, relationship challenges, or feeling lost during a major life transition. If so, you're not alone, and you don't have to n...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to be themselves...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Nicole, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can openly be yourself. I work with individuals navigating depression, self-esteem struggles, stress, and crisis situations, helping clients feel heard, supported, and empowe...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a man of God, family man and someone who is always here to help. I served 10 years active-duty Army and when leaving the service, I pursued a college education earning my degrees to help individuals who want help. I will help anyone regardless of ability to pay as long as it is ethical and said...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Counselor Crooks is a compassionate and culturally responsive therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, relationship concerns, stress, and personal growth. Through a supportive and evidence-based approach, she helps clients build healthier coping skills, improve self-...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have worked with children and adolescents for over 14 years, helping individuals navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and trauma. I strive to meet each client where they are at and provide a supportive, compassionate environment tailo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! I am happy you made it to this corner of the therapy world and looking forward to working together! I am southern raised and more on the extroverted side by nature. With this comes with me being soft in my approach and also direct in challenging you throughout your healing journey. I enjoy so...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My journey began with a volunteer opportunity working with children in the care of the state, and expanded from there. Work experience ranges from acute inpatient care to my present career in outpatient care. Being a military veteran, my most recent career experience has been providing therapy to ac...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Jaelah, and I work with individuals who are ready to embrace their journey toward growth and authenticity. I serve clients from diverse backgrounds'especially BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities'navigating life transitions, anxiety, or identity exploration. My approach is collaborative, empowering ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Deborah Anderson. I've been a therapist for 20+ years. I went back to school following a medical retirement from the automotive industry. Due to being a non traditional student, I think I fell into what I was meant to do all along! My own personal life journey adds to the unique quality I...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a licensed therapist with specialized training in trauma-informed care and co-occurring disorders, dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, supportive, and structured, combining evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavior...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·44 reviews
He was very nice and open. I enjoyed our session and I look forward to working with him. - Jan 17, 2025 by Ashley C.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
My name is Derek Jesko. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who graduated from Hardin-Simmons University with a Master's in Clinical Counseling. I currently specialize in Trauma-Exposure/PTSD, Depression, and Interpersonal problems, primarily utilizing therapeutic frameworks and techniques such as...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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)
4.80
·5 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 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)
4.83
·6 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience providing psychotherapy and clinical social work across medical, academic, and private practice settings. My clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed care, psychoeducation, and a commitment to evidence-based, integrative tre...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 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 + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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
·11 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 + 51 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)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I'm April Nenjerama, a licensed counselor and the owner of Restore Family Counseling. I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from LeTourneau University. With 9 years of experience, I have helped individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges, including anxiety, depres...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.87
·15 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hey there! I am Darrien, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Counseling from Abilene Christian University, dedicated to helping people grow in the areas they struggle with most. Do you feel like life is suddenly spiraling out of control? If so, you’re in the right place. Using skill...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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Frequently asked questions

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

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


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

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Austin Psychologist 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 Psychologist in Austin?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychologists in Austin and book appointments instantly. You can search for Austin Psychologists 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 Psychologist in Austin?

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


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

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


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

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychologists 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 Psychologist online in Austin?

Psychologists 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 Psychologists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychologist 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 Psychologists 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 Psychologist in Austin who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychologist 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 Psychologist in Austin who sees patients during the weekend?

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


Psychologists and their role in healthcare

A psychologist is a professional with training in mental health, who assists individuals in coping with mental health issues. The trained specialists offer support to individuals experiencing specific problems such as anxiety or depression and those facing difficult circumstances in life, for instance, the loss of a loved one or trauma. 


Psychologists treat people's cognitive, social, and emotional processes and behaviors. One of their main goals is to understand and help patients process their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. To understand their patient's condition, psychiatrists conduct in-depth psychological evaluations, which majorly involve:


  • Analyzing behavioral and emotional patterns
  • Diagnosing disorders, if any
  • Making referrals
  • Suggesting an appropriate treatment plan


A psychologist may have a private practice or work in other settings like schools, hospitals, community health centers, nursing homes, etc. Some may also choose to conduct further research and studies in their field.


Psychologists help with treatment related to mental health issues through counseling and psychotherapy, often referred to as talk therapy. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists cannot prescribe medication since they are not medical doctors. 


When should you see a psychologist?

Our brains constantly receive and process different stimulations, emotions, and experiences. It is natural to feel overwhelmed or affected by certain emotions. Getting the right help during this time can help you process and deal with your mental discomforts. Please reach out to a psychologist near you if you relate to any of the following:


  • Your thoughts, emotions, or actions feel uncontrollable, harming your well-being, work, or relationships.
  • Difficulty managing life events, such as loss, illness, work stress, or divorce.
  • Substance use that is affecting your health, emotions, relationships, or daily tasks
  • Seeking a non-judgmental person to help process emotions.
  • There's a sense of hopelessness, not being able to enjoy anything in life.

 

What are the different types of psychologists?

Some psychologists may seek further training in a subspecialty in their field. Depending on their area of focus and patient base, there are many different types of psychologists. Some of the most popular ones are:

1. Clinical psychologists

2. Neuropsychologists

3. Health psychologists

4. Counseling psychologists

5. Forensic psychologists

6. Child psychologists


What differentiates a clinical psychologist from a counseling psychologist?


While there is some overlap between the responsibilities of a counseling psychologist and a clinical psychologist, the main difference is that a clinical psychologist focuses on psychopathology (the study of mental health conditions). In comparison, a counseling psychologist assists people in dealing with emotional, social, and physical stressors in their lives.


In other words, a clinical psychologist is likely to assist with more serious mental health issues than a counseling psychologist.


What is the difference between psychologists and psychiatrists?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors authorized to diagnose and treat mental health issues. They can prescribe drugs and other medical treatments.


A psychologist holds a doctorate (PhD or PsyD) and usually has substantial training in research or clinical treatments. Psychologists use psychotherapy, often known as talk therapy, to treat mental health issues. A psychologist cannot prescribe medicine.


Psychiatrists often treat more complex mental health issues than psychologists, particularly those that require the use of medication or medical therapies.


What is talk therapy?

Talk therapy may provide a safe space for some people to express feelings and emotions generated by daily stressors, a medical illness, interpersonal troubles, sorrow, loss, or the impact of a specific experience.


For others, the mental and emotional concerns are more complex, and they may lead to a diagnosis of various mental health conditions. Examples include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety.


Once the psychologist identifies the underlying issues, they will assist you in understanding how the stressors affect your life. They will work with you to build strategies and solutions to help reduce the severity of the symptoms.


A talk therapy session usually lasts for nearly 45 minutes to an hour. The duration and frequency of these sessions are determined by the severity of your symptoms and the treatment plan devised by your therapist. 


At first, you can expect your initial therapy sessions at least once a week. While this may appear to be a major commitment, attending weekly sessions allows you to build a relationship with your therapist and adapt to the process. As you learn coping techniques and begin to show signs of progress, the frequency of sessions may come down to bimonthly.


Mental health evaluations, assessments, and screening tests

The World Health Organization defines the term 'mental health' as an individual's awareness of their talents, how they manage pressures in their lives, and how they think, emote, and behave in social situations. It also entails an individual's capacity for optimum productivity and how they contribute back to society — and not only the absence of psychiatric illnesses. 

According to a recent report put forth by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, in the year 2020 alone,

  • 21% of adults, or 1 in every five adults, have had a mental illness (approximately 52.9 a million people)
  • 5.6 percent of adults have had a significant mental disorder (approximately 14.2 million people).
  • 32.1 percent of adults with a mental condition also have a substance use issue (approximately 17 million individuals)


When signs and symptoms become persistent and create regular stresses that impair your ability to function, mental health concerns become mental diseases. Some of them may resemble the following:

  • Considerable exhaustion, a lack of energy, or difficulty sleeping
  • Detachment from reality (delusions), paranoia, or hallucinations 
  • Difficulty in comprehending and responding to social situations and people
  • Voluntarily withdrawing from activities that were once considered a source of happiness and cutting off friendships 


Click here to read more about the rise in mental health issues that adolescents and young adults face, as reported in the American Journal of Managed Care. 


Generally, most mental health diseases do not improve on their own. In the event that they are left untreated, they may worsen over time and lead to significant consequences. Mental health practitioners, like psychologists, can use various tests to determine whether or not a patient has an undetected mental health disorder. Screenings and evaluations are not the same concepts, although they are frequently used interchangeably. They differ in terms of their respective goals, use indicators, amount of complexity, and outcomes. They could appear in the form of:


Self-evaluations

Self-evaluation tests assist you in gaining a better understanding of your mental health. Early detection and treatment, according to NAMI, lead to better outcomes. Early treatment can also help to reduce long-term disability and alleviate years of pain. If you would like to see if you have an underlying mental health disorder, you can take tests on any of these websites presented by accredited organizations:



Although the tests are indicative, reaching out to a mental healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation is advisable. 


Assessments

Assessments give psychologists a more comprehensive clinical picture of a patient's motives, drives, and attitudes. Attributes like memory and language, visual and verbal problem-solving, executive functioning, adaptive functioning, psychological status, self-care ability, relevant psychosocial history, and other domains of functioning may be covered to reply to the referral questions. A final, concise report is inclusive of multiple psychological tests, clinical interviews, behavioral observations, clinical record reviews, and collateral information.


Screenings

Screenings are typically used to identify those who are at a higher risk of developing a mental health problem. They are usually performed as part of routine clinical visits and are an excellent sign of the need for further examination or preparatory action. Screenings for mental Illness enable early detection and intervention, bridging the gap.

You can take tests, exams, and screenings from your home to determine if you are currently dealing with a mental health problem.


Psychologists near me in Austin, Texas

Find top-rated psychologists who fit your needs and requirements using Zocdoc. You can select their doctors, read about their specializations, and book appointments at times that work for both you and the physician. You only need to enter their location and desired insurance network to get the list of providers near you. You can learn about their area of specialization, clinical interests, previous clinical experience, board certifications, and licensure on personally curated pages. You can also find information about their current practice and the hospitals with which they are affiliated.


We've always put our patient's well-being first at Zocdoc. 


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Austin and Texas – mental health statistics 

As the National Alliance on Mental Health reports, 43.4 percent of adults in Texas experienced anxiety or depression symptoms in February 2021. 26.4 percent of people said they couldn't get the counseling or therapy they needed. In Texas, 3,930 people died by suicide last year, while 756,000 adults reported suicidal thoughts. In Texas, approximately 15 million people reside in a community with insufficient mental health experts.


The Kaiser Family Foundation states that between September 29 and October 11, 2021, 34.2 percent of individuals in Texas had anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms, compared to 31.6 percent of adults in the United States. Drug overdose deaths in Texas have climbed from nearly 9.5 per 100,000 in 2015 to almost 14.3 per 100,000 in 2020.


According to the Community Health Assessment Austin/Travis County, Texas, 

  • Approximately 20% of Travis County adults, where the city of Austin is located, on average, had five or more days of poor mental health in a month. 
  • In the county, a higher percentage of African Americans (24.3%) and Latinos/Hispanics (26.6%) reported poor mental health. 
  • According to quantitative data, there were 759.4 psychiatric discharges per 100,000 people across all Travis County hospitals. In addition, Travis County had a rate of 16.7 psychiatrists per 100,000 people in 2010, which was more than double the state average (6.6 psychiatrists per 100,000 population).


Sources

Central Health

National Alliance on Mental Illness[1]

National Alliance on Mental Illness[2]

National Alliance on Mental Illness[3]

Kaiser Family Foundation

MedlinePlus

Mayo Clinic

American Psychological Association[1]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

American Psychological Association[2]

World Health Organization

WebMD

Cleveland Clinic

Healthline


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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