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315 verified Psychologists in Austin, TX
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Availability last updated 08/30/2026
Availability last updated 08/30/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you’re managing anxiety, navigating a major life transition, struggling in relationships, or simply feeling stuck. You don’t have to figure it out alone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work with adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depressi...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, Sep 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, emotional balance, and resilience. I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients can process difficult experiences, strengthen coping skills, and create meaning...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·12 reviews
I enjoyed my appointment. I found it to be very helpful.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 39 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am Guy "Jeff" Powell, Ph.D., a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Clinical Child Psychology from McGill University. I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and couples for over 20 years. I have worked with people from all walks of life. I call myse...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·13 reviews
Ms. Roger’s, after only two appointments, has gotten me on a journey of learning more about my anxiety and panic issues. A true professional that has put the work in to become a master of her craft. She’s gotten me to truly learn how to focus myself on my triggers and is dedicated to making sure get...Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master's in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and over 15 years of experience in children's mental health, trauma-informed care, and interagency collaboration, I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy ta...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 2
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing evidence-based psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults throughout Texas via secure telepsychiatry. Services include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.81
·26 reviews
Terrible communication - Jul 3, 2023 by Gabriella R.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·48 reviews
My session was beautiful. I felt heard, seen, accepted & respected. ? - Aug 23, 2026 by Maria R.Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, I'm glad you decided to connect with me today. Do you feel overwhelmed and unable to perform at your optimal level? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, school, and health? Is it hard to function daily without support? I help clients manage anxiety and depression to m...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Welcome here! My name is Tommie A Colin, and I am an experienced Psychotherapist, Counseling Therapist, and Mental Health Practitioner. I hold a Master's degree in Counseling from Texas A&M University. This can be a safe space to explore, discuss, and address your concerns. Here, you matter! As a th...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi there! I'm so glad that you have taken the step to begin your journey to becoming the best version of yourself. A little about me: I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, both from Kean University in Union, NJ. I also earned a Bachel...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, I am a licensed mental health counselor. I have lived in Texas, Colorado, Massachusetts and now New Hampshire. I have been practicing for over 25 years. My experience enables me to provide well rounded care. Everyone has a different life experience, different circumstances that brought you to...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·12 reviews
She listens and provides a comprehensive assessment of the situations you're addressing. I felt validated for the first time in a long time, and feel much confident that things will work out in the end. I can't express just how amazing this experience was; I've had therapy sessions in the past, and ...Click to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I believe in the healing power of a strong therapeutic alliance. My practice is based on the conviction that with the right support, everyone can effect change in their lives. My style is caring and nonjudgmental; I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, existential therapy, and Brief Cognitive Hypno...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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There is a way out. Those who come to see me are often at a crossroads, frustrated at how they are trying to deal with problems and seeking workable strategies and solutions to cope. Therapy is meant to be a space to feel welcome to talk about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are problematic. ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 49 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Licensure and Professional Roles I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina, as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Texas. These credentials reflect my commitment to providing quality mental health services across multiple states. Passion and Pr...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adults, Veterans, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship stress, chronic health concerns, and systems-related challenges. I’ve worked across medical, community, psychiatric, and g...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.33
·6 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Duane Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners and a Board-Approved Provisional Licensed Professional Counselors (PLPC) Supervisor. He is also licensed with the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I am licensed social worker serving clients throughout the state of Michigan. I graduated with my MSW from Grand Valley State University in 2013. I have worked within the foster care system, provided wraparound services for at-risk youth, worked with those experiencing homelessness and with V...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Alessa is a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in Texas. Alessa has a wide range of experience in working with people of various backgrounds, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. Her special interests include but are not limited to working with individua...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and Texas. More specifically, I am someone who finds gratification in supporting young adults and women to spark change in their lives. I have 14 years of experience working with diverse populations to enhance their mental health. I've h...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience supporting people through anxiety, stress, life transitions, grief, caregiving challenges, and other emotional difficulties. My background includes working in hospice, corrections mental health, and child protection. These experiences have taugh...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have been practicing for over three years, in addition to two years of practicum experience, and I hold a Master’s in Social Work. I am also nearing completion of my Doctorate in Social Work. As my ideal client, you are someone who recognizes the challenges you are facing and is motivated to seek ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there! Welcome. My name is Dr. Richards and I have over 16 years of expert training and experience in the field of Education, Counseling & Psychology. I thoroughly enjoy providing mental health services to individuals and their families in need of treatment. Even when you’re feeling hopeless, st...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I believe therapy is a supportive partnership, one where I walk alongside you as we uncover solutions tailored to your unique journey. I strive to create a safe, nurturing space where you feel truly heard and can explore challenges without fear of judgment. Every step of our work together is guided ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a woman of color and Army combat veteran, I understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. I know from personal experience that seeking support can feel vulnerable, and at the same time, it can be one of the most supportive and life-giving steps a person can take. As a clinician, I prioritiz...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed clinical social worker with three years of experience, during which I’ve developed a strong sense of who I am as a therapist and what allows me to best support my clients. I strive to keep sessions light‑hearted so clients feel genuinely accepted, and I work intentionally to create a...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 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: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed therapist with experience supporting adults navigating trauma, substance use concerns, and other significant life experiences that can impact identity, emotional well-being, and day-to-day functioning. My work is grounded in a collaborative, client-centered, and nonjudgmental approac...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m a licensed professional counselor and former school counselor with a heart for supporting children, teens, and women through life’s ups and downs. I create a warm, supportive space where you can feel comfortable being yourself while also learning practical tools to manage emotions, reduce st...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I describe myself as a grounded, authentic, and collaborative therapist who balances a warm heart with a highly practical, real world approach to healing. I'm not the type to just sit back and nod silently; I am right there in the trenches with you, bringing my genuine, slightly nerdy self to every ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I believe therapy is most effective when it feels like a genuine partnership built on trust, respect, and connection. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, without fear of judgment, and where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I un...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm LeAnna, a Latina (se habla Español) licensed clinical social worker, with over 15 years experience in medical case management, domestic violence advocacy and mental health support groups. I am a firm believer in turning struggle into strength. I believe in you and the power of change. I am ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with adults. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress, and relationship challenges through a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based approach. I prim...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling to keep up with life's constant changes? Do you ever feel alone, isolated, or caught in the middle of difficult relationships? Maybe you're trying to break free from generational cycles, heal childhood wounds, or carry burdens that were never meant t...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
To put it simply, I believe we are travelers on this journey. I’m not your guide, provider or healer and you’re not my client, user, or patient in a passive sense. We’re both learning from each other. That said, I know the expectation is still that I share my knowledge and help you reach your destin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Pearline Williams, and I have been providing therapeutic services for more than six years. I am passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges and work toward healing, growth, and greater emotional well-being. My goal as a therapist is not only to help you addr...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Sep 3
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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What would feel different if your mind was quieter and your focus finally made sense? I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than a decade in nursing, and I help adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and trauma related stress. My style is patient centered and coll...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
She is a good listener, who asks useful questions to get to the bottom of things, and she has a proactive approach. She is understanding, and very helpful! I would recommend her to everyone! by AMClick to read more
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Irma Mendez, a licensed professional counselor with a deep passion for helping people heal, grow, and reconnect with their inner strength. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship stress, self-worth struggles, or simply trying to make sense of life, I’m here to walk beside you. My goa...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Austin, TX
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Everyone is familiar with the term �If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.� That process can leave a person feeling unsettled, doubtful, or anxious. No matter what life brings us, rest assured knowing that there is a place where the tools to handle those situations exist. This is why a therapeutic...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·36 reviews
Perla has a warm and welcoming attitude! Enjoying my sessions with her! - Apr 9, 2025 by Alyssa G.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
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from Barry University and have been working as a therapist for over 12 years in different settings. My experience includes working with children, traumatic brain injury patients, adolescents, and adults in a variety of community se...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 4
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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.


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Looking for the best psychologists near you in Austin, TX, has never been easy. Simply go to Zocdoc and schedule your appointment at no cost. Zocdoc is a free, easy-to-use, and secure website!


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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