Meet Our Counselors

Russell Kauitzsch

Welcome to Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, where we offer a variety of skilled therapists to support you on your journey towards mental health and wellness. As the founder and owner of our practice, I take great pride in the quality of services we provide and in the exceptional team of therapists we have assembled to support our clients.

My name is Russell and I am a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience in trauma, gender, sexuality, LGBTQIA+ issues, sexual abuse/assault, male survivors, grief and loss, and first responder trauma. My passion for this work stems from a deep understanding of the impact that life's challenges can have on individuals and the importance of finding the right support to help navigate those challenges.

One of the primary tools I use in my work is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a highly effective technique for treating trauma. EMDR helps clients process traumatic experiences in a safe and structured way, enabling them to reprocess those experiences in a more adaptive way, leading to healing and growth. Because EMDR is not the tool for everything, I also have experience working with a wide range of other tools and modalities to broaden my scope of practice.

At Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists, we have assembled a team of therapists who share my passion for helping individuals heal and grow. Each of our therapists has unique specialties and experiences, enabling us to offer a wide range of services to our clients. For most issues you might be facing or dealing with, we have a therapist who can work with you to address your needs.

We understand that finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, which is why we offer a free consultation to help you determine which therapist is the best fit for you. During this consultation, you can ask questions and discuss any worries or concerns with a therapist, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident in your choice. We believe that finding the right therapist is an essential part of the healing process, and we are committed to helping you find the counselor you need.

We also understand that feedback is an essential part of our work, which is why I am always available to hear from clients about their experiences with our practice or one of our therapists. If you ever need anything from me or have feedback about your experience, please reach out to me at Russell@AustinCTS.com.

Thank you for considering Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists as your partner in mental health and wellness. We are honored to have the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey towards healing and growth.

Joyce Doncaster

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I’ve spent most of my life in Texas, with time in Connecticut, Maine, and Florida while pursuing my education in Clinical Psychology. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master’s from the University of Houston, and a Doctorate from Nova Southeastern University, where I also completed a post-doctoral program in the Family Violence Clinic.

With over 20 years of experience, my career has been dedicated to helping individuals impacted by trauma, especially those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. I have worked with clients who have experienced a broad range of traumas, including abuse, intimate partner violence, combat trauma, and medical trauma. After more than a decade at the PTSD Clinic at the Veterans Affairs in Temple, Texas, I’m excited to be a part of the team here at Austin Counseling and Trauma Specialists.

I specialize in Evidence-Based Treatments (EBTs) for PTSD, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy (WET), and Prolonged Exposure (PE). I also offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Anger Management, Couples therapy focused on PTSD issues, and Mindfulness-Based approaches. Because every individual’s recovery process is unique, it is important to adjust the treatment approach to best suit each person's situation and abilities. My work is grounded in understanding the challenges faced by those coping with trauma, and I strive to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to heal and progress at their own pace. I believe that without safety, there can be no trust; without trust, there is no

therapeutic relationship, and without that relationship, it is difficult to engage in the hard but necessary work of healing.

A Little About Me:

When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, writing (poems and short stories), doing projects around the house, listening to music, and playing Zelda (Currently Tears of the Kingdom). My passion for helping others began early on. I remember in second grade, walking home from school with a young boy who had been beaten up by a bully. He was crying and had a bloody nose. I felt a deep urge to comfort him. Though I lacked the skills to help him at the time, that moment stayed with me and shaped my lifelong commitment to helping those who struggle with trauma.

I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you and explore how we can work together on your journey toward healing. Please feel free to schedule a consultation to see if we are a good fit for your recovery needs.

My Specialties Include:

 PTSD & Trauma (Combat & Non-Combat Related, Veteran & Civilian)

 Anxiety & Depression (Secondary to Traumatic Experiences)

 Couples Therapy (PTSD-Focused)

 Anger Management & Coping Skills

 Mindfulness-Based Therapy & Relaxation/Meditation

Amanda Fernie

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working in the field for over ten years. I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Oregon and a Master’s degree in clinical psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University. My childhood was spent primarily in New Orleans and Houston. After high school I decided a major change would be good for me, so I went to college on the west coast sight unseen. It was a great fit and I stayed there for several years after graduating. Now I’m back home in Texas, ready to provide mental health care for individuals in the Austin area and all throughout Texas.

During my years of clinical practice, I have provided treatment in a variety of settings including community clinics, residential treatment, and in private practice. Prior to that I spent eight years as a middle school teacher. This eclectic mix of experiences has provided opportunity for me to develop a deeper understanding of the diverse needs individual’s have when they begin treatment, including an understanding of specific challenges for adolescents in the school setting.

Some of the issues I treat include complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions including marriage, divorce, new parenthood, and adjusting to the shift from adolescence to adulthood. I work with clients to determine the best style of treatment to fit their specific needs with a primary focus on Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

In my free time I like talking with my adult kids about the last show we binged, spending time with my nieces, and walking with my Corgi, Betsy. Now that I’m in Austin, I love going to live music venues and there’s never a shortage of choices. Beginning therapy can be a difficult but life-changing decision. In our first session I will spend time getting to know you and learning about your specific concerns. Together we will develop a plan for treatment that will work best with your personality and individual needs.

Justin Cancel

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

LCSW

he/him/his

Accepting New Clients!

• Telehealth and in-person
• BCBS, United, Optum, and UMR.
• Superbills provided for out-of-network plans
• Private pay - $150/session
• See Rates and Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 112

Justin@AustinCTS.com

Hi there! My name is Justin Cancel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping clients navigate their mental health journey. Originally hailing from the bustling city of Chicago, I moved to Boston, MA where I earned my Master's in Social Work and began my career. I started working in community-based services which taught me how to work with the challenges individuals, couples, and families face daily. I recently made the exciting move to Austin, TX with my fiancé and dog, Raine. We’re thrilled to embrace the warm weather, eclectic culture, and live music scene that Austin has to offer.

I have experience working in a variety of settings like community counseling clinics, group homes, and other facilities. In each setting I was conducting therapy with clients from 16 years old through and up. Throughout my work experience, I have gained a breadth of knowledge working with many different needs and issues while working with clients from all walks of life. I love working with all ages and have found adolescents to be truly rewarding work. I really enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and hope I get to work with you!

My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and evidence-based practices. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel valued, heard, and understood. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, working through past trauma, anxiety, depression, or are learning how to navigate your mental health in today’s world, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, mindfulness techniques, Narrative Therapy, and Integrated Treatment of Complex Trauma (ITCT) for both adolescents and adults. In addition, as a therapist who identifies as Gay, I’m particularly attuned to the needs of LGBTQ+ clients and strive to offer affirming and supportive therapy.

Outside of work, I’m a self-proclaimed video game enthusiast and love unwinding with a good game after a productive day or reading a fantasy book to truly unwind. Austin has also some amazing food options from different cultures that truly make me excited to be living here. I look forward to supporting you and walking with you on your therapy journey.

  Hannah Alexander

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, NCC

# 88480

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch LPC-S #70432

Accepting New Clients!

• Telehealth and in-person
• Aetna and Cigna/Evernorth
• Private pay - $120/session
• See Rates and Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 108

Hannah@AustinCTS.com

My philosophy on life is that happiness is not a destination but rather the manner in which we travel through life. I believe that our bodies are the unique vessels that carry us through our journey, and it is important to take care of ourselves both physically and mentally. As a therapist, I am committed to helping my clients navigate their journeys with the support and guidance they need to live a fulfilling life.

In my work with clients, I serve as a guide on the side, reflecting their experiences rather than giving them direction. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life, and my role is to offer new perspectives and support them in their journey of self-exploration. I provide unconditional, non-judgmental, and collaborative support as we work together to craft personalized goals for a life worth living. These goals will sustain self-awareness, tolerance, acceptance, respect, and compassion.

One of my goals is to help clients develop the skillset to recognize, name, and express their needs in a way that affirms their self-respect and maintains the integrity of their relationships. We will explore patterns of behavior that can lead to patterns in relationships, which can foster unhealthy coping mechanisms and discomfort with emotions. I believe that it is essential to address these patterns and explore ways to create healthy relationships and coping mechanisms.

I use a variety of creative interventions along with traditional talk therapy, including gentle movement, yoga, expressive arts, journaling, dance, and music. You don't need any experience in these areas to benefit from the practice of whole mind/body/spirit work. I also utilize narrative therapy, as we all have a story to tell. The past can be heavy, and it can be difficult to write new experiences if we continue to read old pages. I will empower you to build the remainder of your tale, just as you wish.

I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and family systems. My specialty is working with folks experiencing disordered eating, body image concerns, and body dysmorphia, as well as those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also work with individuals who have experienced trauma, including sexual abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, first responders and their families, PTSD and complex PTSD, moral trauma, and religious trauma.

Outside of my work, I enjoy long walks in my neighborhood with my playlist on shuffle. I find nature to be restorative, and I spend as much time as possible soaking it in! If you choose to work with me, you will also have the services of Nurse Ursa, my very precocious fur baby who may pop into my virtual sessions. When we have the time, I love a good kitchen dance party to jazz up cooking. So much fun!

If you feel that we would be a good fit for your journey, please reach out, and let's have a free, brief meeting to see what we can accomplish together. I am grateful for the opportunity to support you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

Michael Jackson

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, NCC

 #91439

(he/him/his)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch, MS, LPC-S #70432

Accepting New Clients!

• Telehealth and in-person
• Aetna and Cigna/Evernorth
• Private pay - $120/session
• See Rates and Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 105

Michael@AustinCTS.com

I am a National Certified Counselor, Chicago native, and now an Austinite! I believe counseling is a power process to help people heal as they work through things that have harmed them or impacted them in some way. Change can be hard, but counseling can ease the transition and can have a huge impact in your life. I'm here to help you do the work to make the changes you desire!

I received my Bachelor of Art in Psychology with a minor in speech communication and sociology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. I attended Adler School of Professional Psychology where I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

In my career as a therapist, I have worked with a variety of individuals such as those with mental health concerns, individuals in the prison system, those needing mentorship, those in crisis, and victims and perpetrators of domestic violence/abuse. I enjoy working with many different kinds of clients and would love to talk to you about how we can work together to reach your counseling goals!

I am an African American, male-identified therapist with a trauma-informed lens. I have a passion for working with those who are stigmatized against seeking therapy. From a young age, I have been a support system for many friends and family, and as I grew older I gained the skills and techniques to help clients in a professional and effective way. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe space so that you will feel comfortable sharing with me what you need to reach your counseling goals. I enjoy helping clients identify their counseling goals and working together to accomplish them. As a therapist I have an eclectic style and some of the approaches I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, solution focused therapy, and EMDR.

My interests and specialties include grief and loss, domestic violence/abuse, trauma, sexuality, LGBTQIA+ issues, sexual assault/abuse, men’s work, racial and cultural related trauma, and other general relationship challenges. I know counseling can be hard to start, but the benefit is significant. I hope we can work together to help get you where you want to be!

Taryn Stilwell

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, NCC

 #92650

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch, MS, LPC-S #70432

Waiting list Available - Caseload Full

• Telehealth and in-person
• Aetna and Cigna/Evernorth
• Private pay - $120/session
• See Rates and Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 106

Taryn@AustinCTS.com

I am a highly dedicated and empathetic individual with a passion for helping people reach their full potential. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, I have always been fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind and the ways in which our experiences shape our perceptions and behaviors. This fascination led me to pursue my Bachelor of Psychology with a minor in Fine Arts at Texas A&M University.

After completing my undergraduate degree, I worked at a youth non-profit organization where I spent over a decade helping at-risk youth overcome the various obstacles they faced in their lives. Inspired by my experiences working with young people, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. Edward's University.

The program provided me with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with both teen and adult clients at the St. Edward's community clinic. In addition, I gained significant experience in a hospital setting where I worked in many areas including the teen inpatient unit, the adult acute inpatient unit, and the adult outpatient center.

I have developed a theoretical integration of relational therapy and cognitive therapy that I use to help clients gain insight into their authentic selves and reach their therapeutic goals. I have also been EMDR trained, and I integrate trauma-informed practice into all of my sessions. I believe that every individual has the potential to grow and heal, and my goal is to create a safe and judgment-free space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is warm, inquisitive, and solution-oriented.

My areas of interest and specialization include trauma, EMDR, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, gender exploration and affirmation, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns. I also have extensive experience working with teenage clients (ages 12 and up) and am passionate about helping young people navigate the challenges of adolescence.

Outside of my work, I am a dedicated mother and wife who enjoys spending time with my family, watching indie films and Marvel/ Star Wars content, reading historical fiction, attending concerts, and traveling to new places. I believe that it is important to maintain a healthy work-life balance in order to be able to provide the best possible care for my clients.

In summary, my academic and professional experiences have given me a deep understanding of the human mind and the various mental health challenges that people face. I am committed to using my knowledge and expertise to help individuals overcome these challenges and reach their full potential. Whether working with teens or adults, I strive to create a compassionate environment where clients feel supported and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.

Mimi Tilton

Case Manager

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch, MS, LPC-S, #70432

Accepting New Clients!

Awaiting LPC-Associate approval from the Board.

• Telehealth or in-person
• Private pay - $120/session
• See Rates and Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 113

Mimi@AustinCTS.com

Hello there! My name is Mimi Tilton, and I was raised in the U.S. Military. One of the things I learned early on in life is that being real and honest can bring trust to a relationship. Many decades later, I believe this still holds true. I have lived in multiple states and moved every two years or so until I landed in Las Vegas, Nevada. My undergrad degree in Spanish 18^th century literature provided me with a literary tour of European culture and provided a welcome introduction into the Latino culture.

My years of working in Las Vegas as a public relations manager, human resources professional and an advocate for homeless children still left me adrift and unfulfilled. The economic downturn of 2009 brought me home to Texas. While in the Austin area I have worked in several industries, often several industries at the same time, to survive. The constant feeling of missing something hounded me until I finally accepted an invitation to reach out to Grand Canyon University for a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

I have completed my course work at GCU with a 4.0 GPA. My studies included honing and improving my counseling skill set, increasing my awareness of cultural and linguistic divides, family roles and structure and how those interplay within various cultures, counseling ethics, and counseling theories. I believe that a personalized mixture of Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused theories can bring you insight into your counseling and life goals. One of the integral aspects of both theories is that you, the client, bring with you your own ability to change, as well as your own ability to embrace your innate resilience and strengths. My role is to join you on your journey to guide you through this season of your journey from a counseling perspective.

Your counseling and life journey are yours and therefore special. Each person deserves respect, empathy, safety, and support from their chosen counselor for their unique-to-them journey. I desire to help those who need a hand up, a high-five, an open heart, and an open mind free from judgment.

My counseling areas of interest are depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, family conflict, life stage transitions, trauma, grief, loss, care-giver stress, and geriatric issues. I welcome those who bring spiritual- or faith-based issues because our belief systems and cultural nuances play a strong role in who we were, who we are, and who we would like to become. If a client wishes to incorporate their faith or spiritual belief into their session, I am more than happy to incorporate it into the change or healing process as appropriate. 

I welcome the opportunity to help you define and accomplish your counseling and life goals. You deserve a counseling partner who will support you, positively challenge you, empathize with where you are right now, and steadfastly work with you as you reach your counseling goals. 

Carson Smith

Hello! My name is Carson Smith and I am originally from Los Angeles, California. Throughout my life, I’ve had a strong desire to help others with an emphasis on non-judgment, empathy, and how to achieve individual goals. Relationships have always intrigued me, specifically how people interact with others, but also themselves. As a result, I received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Texas Christian University, with a minor in Business.

Studying neurobiology, motivation, behavior, basic counseling skills, and more gave me a foundational understanding of how the brain works and how to work well with others. My minor in business provided me with insight into areas like leadership, finance, accounting, and marketing. Together, they helped me develop skills such as honoring unique perspectives, creative problem-solving, and how to connect with diverse groups of people.

These skills proved useful when I worked at a non-profit that provides individualized support to teens and adults with developmental disabilities in their communities. This experience taught me that all people deserve respect, care, and the opportunity to grow. It also confirmed one of my philosophical beliefs that all people are resilient and capable of positive change.

I graduated from St. Edward’s University with a Master of Arts in Counseling specializing in Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT). I have learned counseling skills, counseling theories, ethics, how systems play a role in everyone’s life, and the importance of diversity, power, and privilege. I often use are EMDR and Solution-Focused therapy in counseling though I am a client-centered counselor drawing on the best process, tools, and support to meet the needs of each individual client. 

I believe that all clients are capable of change, resilient, and have numerous strengths that they can utilize to solve their problems. My goal when I meet with clients is to have a “beginner’s mind” where I do not try to fill in any blanks, draw conclusions, or judge. Simply, I want to get to know my clients for who they are and meet them where they are so we can begin build a safe relationship to foster the change the client desires. Change is inevitable, so improvement is always possible.

I believe clients are the experts in their lives, so I want to collaborate with them to accomplish goals. My areas of interest are anxiety, depression, breakups, relational conflict, mindfulness, trauma, grief and loss, men’s mental health, sexuality, and other mental health challenges. I want to work with all types of people from all walks of life because everyone deserves to feel confident, comfortable, and cared for.

If you are looking for support, it would be a privilege to work with you and be a part of your journey. Seeking counseling can be hard, so I want to provide a safe space where you can accomplish your goals, feel understood, and not feel judged for being you. I  believe together we can create positive change and growth.

Emma Newton

As a counselor, I strive to be an empathetic, compassionate, and curious individual who collaborates with clients to support and empower them in their lives. I have lived mostly in Texas and California, going back and forth the majority of my life. It was through moving a lot early in my life that I developed a passion for meeting and connecting with people. I also recognized how important social connection and support were to me personally and that everyone needs and deserves.

This passion led me to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of San Diego. As an undergraduate student, I worked for a non-profit agency where I supported therapists who were utilizing ABA therapy to treat adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Through this and other experiences, I developed a passion for advocating for this population. After obtaining my bachelor's I was also able to work in the Psychiatry Department at UCSD and author and co-author publications for Psychology Today one of which was the importance of social support during adversity such as experiences during COVID-19.

I graduated from St. Edward’s University with a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling. During my time at St. Edward’s, I worked at St. Edward’s clinic and experienced counseling adolescents, teens, and young adults. I also gained experience in a hospital setting working with adolescents in inpatient and outpatient. In this setting, I lead and co-lead groups, individual sessions, and family sessions.

I work with clients predominantly from a narrative therapy perspective to help clients gain insight into themselves and their lives, what has impacted their story, and feelings regarding it, and to strive to empower the client over their life and its various challenges. I also incorporate a systems perspective, trauma-informed care and lens into my practice and I am also EMDR trained. In the therapeutic space, I will foster an atmosphere that is safe, non-judgmental, warm, and supportive.

My areas of interest and specialization include trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, and identity exploration. I work with individuals, couples, kiddos, and families. I have a lot of experience with adolescents, teens, and young adults.

To share a little more about myself, some of my hobbies include camping, hiking, spending time outdoors, and traveling to new places. I am also an avid yogi and yes I can do a headstand for about 5 seconds. I am still deciding whether I want to combine some of my personal interests with my professional aspirations, as yoga-informed yoga does sound fascinating.

I would love to work with you and support you on your journey towards growth in mental health and overall well-being.

 Shari French

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Supervisor (LMFT-S)

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available - Caseload is Full.

• Telehealth sessions only
• Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United, Optum, and Humana
• Superbills provided for out-of-network plans
• Private pay - $150/session
  
• See Rates and Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 104

Shari@AustinCTS.com

I am an accomplished mental health practitioner, with extensive experience in counseling and human services. I spent my childhood in Austin, Texas, before moving to Honolulu, Hawaii, and then to Seattle, Washington. These diverse locations have given me a unique perspective on different cultures and helped shape my approach to therapy.

I received my Associate of Applied Science in Human Services and Counseling Skills from Austin Community College, where I honed my skills in counseling and communication. I then went on to pursue my Bachelor of Arts in Mental Health Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. My passion for mental health and dedication to the field led me to obtain my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University.

With over 22 years of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with a wide range of clients and have gained a deep understanding of their needs. I have been licensed to practice independently since 2009 in Washington State and since 2017 in Texas. In recognition of my exceptional work, I have earned the prestigious AAMFT Clinical Fellows, which is one of the highest levels of licensure for an MFT in the United States.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with survivors of domestic violence, women and men in recovery, and clients within the adolescent and adult criminal justice systems. Additionally, I have worked in the primary care medical setting and have collaborated with medical professionals to provide the best possible care for my clients. I have also established a strong relationship with bariatric specialists in the Austin area and am currently studying to become certified as a Bariatric Counselor through the American Association of Bariatric Counselors. In addition, I have completed the Ample and RootED Foundations Eating Disorder Training Program, which has provided me with specialized skills to support clients with eating disorders.

My expertise in trauma therapy, depression, anxiety, gender and sexuality, weight and food issues, PTSD, and more has helped me assist my clients in achieving their goals. While I primarily work with individuals, I rely heavily on family systems theory in my practice, recognizing that an individual's environment and relationships can have a significant impact on their mental health. I also incorporate art therapy interventions when appropriate, as I believe creativity can be an effective tool for self-expression and healing.

After spending several years away, I am thrilled to be back in Texas and practicing in the Austin area. My dedication to my clients and passion for mental health drives me to provide the best possible care to those I work with.

Allison Brown

MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available - Caseload is Full

• Telehealth and in-person
• BCBS, United, and Optum.
• Superbills provided for out-of-network plans
• Private pay - $150/session
• See Rates and Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 109

Allison@AustinCTS.com

I am a professional counselor who has dedicated over a decade of my life to working in the mental health field. I was born and raised in the Midwest, but I have had the opportunity to live and work in different parts of the country, including New York, Hawaii, and Texas. Growing up, my family moved frequently, and as a military wife and mother, I continued this pattern of relocation every three to four years. These experiences allowed me to gain a unique perspective on different cultures and lifestyles.

As a full-time student and a mother, I had to juggle various responsibilities to achieve my academic goals. I attended Grand Canyon University, where I earned my master's degree in Professional Counseling. During my time in college, I learned the importance of time management, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. These skills have been invaluable in my personal and professional life.

I am a Nationally Certified Counselor and a member of the Mid-Texas Counseling Association, where I currently serve on the Leadership Board. This involvement has allowed me to keep abreast of current trends and developments in the field of counseling. I am passionate about learning and expanding my knowledge to provide the best possible care for my clients.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in various settings with diverse populations. My journey in the mental health field began as support staff at a residential treatment center. Later, I worked as a case manager for a foster care agency, where I gained experience in providing care to children and families. From there, I ran an independent living center for young adults aging out of foster care. Eventually, I transitioned to working with adults, children, and families in group practice.

My experiences have shaped me both personally and professionally. They have allowed me to develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the unique challenges that individuals face. My areas of clinical focus include trauma, anxiety, depression, self-confidence, and stress management. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and I am committed to providing that care to my clients.

As a counselor, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and grow, and I work to empower my clients to achieve their goals. I am an integrative counselor, and I use a variety of treatment approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual. My approach is client-centered, and I work collaboratively with my clients to develop treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs and goals. I also incorporate EMDR in my treatment tools when appropriate. 

Ultimately, my goal as a counselor is to help my clients achieve a sense of peace, personal insight, and an empowered mindset to move through life's challenges with confidence. I am not interested in changing my clients; instead, I strive to understand and support them as they navigate their personal journey. I believe that every individual has the power to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals with the right support and guidance.

Summer Davenport

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available - Caseload is Full

• Telehealth sessions only 
• BCBS, United, Optum, and Humana
• Superbills provided for out-of-network plans
• Private pay - $150/session
• See Rates and Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 102

Summer@AustinCTS.com

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate through their personal struggles and reach their fullest potential. I grew up in a small town east of Austin, Texas, and received my education from some of the finest institutions in the state. After completing my Associate of Arts degree from Blinn College, I went on to earn my Bachelor's Degree in Applied Sociology from Texas State University (when it was still Southwest Texas State University) and then completed my Master's Degree in Social Work from the same institution.

With over 15 years of experience in the field, I have gained a plethora of knowledge and skills to assist individuals from all walks of life. I am trained in various modalities such as EMDR, ASSYST, Group EMDR, PRECI, and CAMS, which enable me to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who have experienced trauma and grief.

Early in my career, I worked in hospice care for five years, where I developed counseling skills to assist individuals who were dealing with anticipatory grief, stacked grief, end of life issues, acceptance of transitions, losses, and dying. After that, I began working with victims of crime in a law enforcement setting where I gained vast experience in trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, robberies, suicide, murder, traffic fatalities, natural deaths, and much more.

As a practitioner who is well-versed in trauma and grief, I have extensive knowledge of issues such as shame, guilt, isolation, trust, anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality, and much more. Additionally, I have developed a special interest in working with first responders, military personnel, and the LGBTQIA+ community, for whom trauma is often a significant factor in their lives.

I am committed to a holistic approach to therapy and understand how trauma impacts the mind, body, and soul. As someone who is very comfortable addressing issues of faith, I am inclusive and welcoming of all religious beliefs and practices, including atheism and agnosticism. I believe that spirituality can play a significant role in the healing process for some individuals and am always happy to incorporate faith into my work if it is something that resonates with my clients.

I maintain my license with continuing education and training and am always seeking new ways to improve my practice and enhance the services I offer to my clients. My passion for helping individuals experience their true selves drives me to stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in the field of social work.

In conclusion, as an LCSW, I bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and skills to the table. My commitment to a holistic approach to therapy, my expertise in trauma and grief, and my understanding of how faith can play a role in the healing process make me a compassionate and effective practitioner. I am dedicated to helping individuals reach their full potential and am proud to be a licensed social worker in the state of Texas.

Jamie Lopez

Psy.D.  Licensed Psychologist

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available - Caseload is Full

• Telehealth and in-person 
• BCBS, United, and Optum
• Superbills provided for out-of-network plans
• Private pay - $180/session
• See Rates and Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 2, dial 103

Jamie@AustinCTS.com

Hi there! My name is Jamie and I am a proud Latina from Puerto Rico. I am excited to share more about my professional journey and approach to therapy. My passion for psychology began in my undergraduate years, where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I was fascinated by how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can impact our daily lives and relationships. This curiosity led me to pursue a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology.

During my graduate program, I had the opportunity to work with diverse populations in a variety of settings, including a college counseling center, a community mental health clinic, and a domestic violence program. I was struck by the resilience and strength of my clients, who inspired me to provide the highest quality care possible. Through my experiences, I realized the importance of tailoring my therapeutic approach to each individual's unique needs and preferences.

My therapeutic approach is client-centered, meaning that I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with each person I work with. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where individuals can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. Collaboration is a key component of my approach, and I believe that my clients are the experts on their own lives. By working together, we can identify the goals that are most important to them and develop strategies to achieve them.

I have extensive training in evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Interpersonal Process Therapy, and I tailor these approaches to each client's unique needs. I have experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that is sensitive to the intersection of various identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and religion.

Some of my areas of clinical interest include trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity development, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns. I believe that mental health is a crucial aspect of overall wellness, and I am passionate about helping my clients cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and a greater sense of self-awareness.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new cultures through food and travel, dancing, and spending time with my loved ones, including my cat, Luna. I believe that it is essential to prioritize self-care and balance in order to provide the best care possible for my clients.

I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey towards greater health and wellbeing.