Meet Our Counselors

Elisa Childress

I am a master’s-level counseling intern under the supervision of Russell Kauitzsch, LPC-S, providing client-centered therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My work focuses on relationship difficulties rooted in developmental trauma and attachment wounds, which often

show up as patterns of disconnection, conflict, emotional exhaustion, or feeling stuck with the people we care about most. I currently facilitate group therapy as well, emphasizing healing through connection, empowerment, and shared experience.

I view therapy as a collaborative process. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or emotionally exhausted. My role is to walk alongside you, helping you feel more grounded and supported as you move toward meaningful change in your relationships and sense of self.

I bring a multicultural and integrative perspective to my work. Born in Spain, I have lived and worked in Spain, England, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States, and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. My background in education, technology consulting, and business ownership shapes my understanding of how culture, stress, and life transitions affect mental health and identity.

My clinical approach is relational, developmental-trauma-informed, and grounded in neurobiology. I integrate attachment-based, psychodynamic, somatic, experiential, and solution- focused approaches, recognizing that trauma lives both in our stories and in the nervous system. Healing occurs through safe, attuned relationships that support regulation and lasting change.

If you appreciate the depth and honesty of Couples Therapy with Orna Guralnik, my work may feel familiar - while also being more experiential and active. The goal is not only insight, but helping you carry what happens in therapy into your everyday life.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and Literature and a master’s degree in Education from the University of Valencia in Spain. I am currently completing my master’s degree in Counseling at Lamar University, with the goal of dual licensure as an LPC and LMFT. My path into therapy

began through my own experience as a client - an experience that was truly life-changing - and it is a privilege to now offer others the kind of meaningful support that once transformed my life.

Jordan Shumway

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people navigate life and the stressors that come with it. I have lived in Texas for most of my life, earning my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington. I have experience working in high acuity care settings but have spent the last three years working with individuals and families for long-term counseling.

I have experience working with all ages from 5 and up and I am skilled in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, school related issues, communication difficulties, and life transitions. I am exceptionally passionate about helping clients through LGBTQIA+ issues and transitioning to adulthood. 

My therapeutic modality is heavily based in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), focusing on finding healthy ways to feel and experience all emotions. I also use methods from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I get to know you to find the best approach that will help you meet your counseling goals.

When I am not working, I enjoy reading, crafting, puzzling, and playing video games. I am very active about volunteering with Austin Pets Alive! where I foster kittens and assist in the medical clinic. I am also a big coffee and food enthusiast, and I often enjoy spending time on the weekends enjoying a meal at one of Austin’s many amazing restaurants. 

I look forward to working alongside you to help you find your best self to enjoy life! Please reach out if you are interested in scheduling a consultation or initial counseling session.

Mimi Tilton

License Professional Counselor - Associate, NCC #97476

(she/her/hers)

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 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.

My studies at GCU 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. I am also EMDR trained and use this powerful tool to help clients achieve deep and meaningful healing. One of the integral aspects of my approach 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. 

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am proud to be a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Counseling has been my passion for many years, and it’s truly an honor to support individuals on their paths toward healing and growth.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with people facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, substance use, and chronic emotional pain. My approach is warm, compassionate, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I genuinely care about my clients and am committed to helping you find relief and resilience through our work together.

Whether you’re navigating life’s transitions, managing stress, or working through the aftermath of trauma, I strive to provide a safe, accepting space where healing and growth can happen. I believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll identify the tools and strategies that work for you, ensuring the best and most supportive process for you. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are, guide you when life feels overwhelming, and help you move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I bring specialized training in several evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Additionally, I’m certified in Basic and Advanced Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Relationships (STAIR), Integrated Cognitive Therapy (ICT), as well as Anger Management and Symptom Management techniques. With these tools, I can provide approaches that are both effective and personalized to your goals.

If you’re ready to take the first steps toward the change you’re seeking, I’d love to connect. Together, we can work toward your goals, with the support and care you deserve. It would truly be an honor to walk alongside you on this journey!

Carson Smith

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who works with clients navigating a wide range of mental health concerns, with a particular focus on the long-term impact of trauma and complex PTSD. My work often centers on trauma-related experiences—including sexual abuse and assault, religious trauma, and family-of-origin trauma—while also supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relational conflict, men’s mental health concerns, sexuality-related issues, and major life transitions.

My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, collaborative, and grounded in empathy and non-judgment. I work with clients who struggle with emotional dysregulation, chronic shame, relationship difficulties, and patterns that developed in response to unsafe or overwhelming environments. I view many symptoms not as personal failures, but as adaptive responses that once served an important purpose and can be understood and reshaped through therapy.

I integrate EMDR and Solution-Focused Therapy within a relational and systems-based framework, tailoring treatment to each client’s needs, goals, and readiness. In trauma work, I emphasize pacing, stabilization, and client consent, and I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for meaningful and sustainable change. My clinical perspective is informed by neurobiology, attachment, and the ways identity, power, and lived experience shape mental health.

Before entering a private group practice, I worked in community-based and nonprofit settings providing individualized support to teens and adults with developmental disabilities. This experience reinforced my belief that all people are resilient, capable of growth, and deserving of dignity, respect, and meaningful care.

I strive to create a therapeutic space where clients feel safe, understood, and respected. I approach therapy with curiosity and humility, meeting clients where they are and supporting change at a pace that feels right for them. I consider it a privilege to work with clients and be a part of their journey. In my free time, I love spending time with my dog, Diggs, exploring new restaurants and cuisines, and watching and discussing television shows.

Lily Nguyen

Hello, I'm Lily Nguyen, and I'm so glad you're here. My passion for mental health and well-being is deeply rooted in my own life experiences, which have taught me that every person has a life worth living. I believe in the strength and wisdom each of us carries, even when it's hard to see. As you explore your own path toward a more meaningful life, my goal is to walk beside you with support and compassion. You are the expert in your own story; I'm simply here to help you tell it, understand it, and find healing within it.

I was born in Minnesota and raised in the vibrant Austin, Texas area. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and later received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Saint Cloud State University. These academic foundations, paired with real-world experience, have shaped the way I approach counseling: with curiosity, empathy, and a deep respect for the unique lives of the people I work with.

I’m fluent in both Vietnamese and English, and I bring over five years of combined experience in the mental health field which includes three years working in crisis services. I’m trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting; these are powerful, evidence-based modalities that can support healing from trauma and emotional distress. Outside of these approaches, I typically take a collaborative, client-centered approach, moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you while still offering appropriate challenges to support your growth. I strive to utilize interventions that best fit your unique needs, because I believe therapy should adapt to you; not the other way around.

My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to: trauma, mood disorders, neurodiversity, grief and loss, suicidal ideations, self-harm, LGBTQIA+ experiences, identity exploration, and overall life transitions. That said, I know life doesn’t exist in neat boxes; we are all a mix of stories, identities, and experiences. My true passion lies in getting to know you in all your depth and complexity.

When I’m not working, I’m often at home with my three cats, enjoying some downtime. I’m a big fan of all kinds of games such as video games, tabletop games, you name it. I also love doing arts and crafts while watching a variety of shows from different genres. These little joys keep me grounded, and I love learning what brings the same for others.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read a bit about me. I would be honored to meet with you and be a part of your healing journey.

Kyle McCall

I am a licensed counselor, sworn law enforcement officer, and mental health advocate dedicated to bridging the gap between psychological care and public safety. As both a behavioral health professional and an active-duty police officer, I bring a rare level of insight into trauma, crisis response, human behavior, and the lived experiences of first responders, victims, and vulnerable communities. My work centers on helping individuals reclaim identity, heal from complex experiences, and strengthen resilience in the environments that matter most to them.

I approach therapy through a trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based lens, integrating Internal Family Systems, EMDR, CAMS-care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused interventions, and culturally responsive care. My clinical work often supports individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, identity development, relational patterns, and the impacts of high-stress professions. I have a particular passion for working with public safety personnel, LGBTQIA+ clients, and those who have experienced discrimination, marginalization, or systemic injustice.

With extensive experience in crisis intervention, I bring deep understanding of critical incidents, emotional dysregulation, dissociation, and the neurobiology of threat. My background in law enforcement allows me to provide a culturally competent therapeutic space for first responders who may hesitate to engage in traditional mental health services. I believe strongly in normalizing help-seeking behavior and empowering clients to develop a healthier relationship with their inner world and the systems they navigate.

My work includes teaching statewide courses on police peer support, building regional wellness networks, and developing training for law enforcement agencies on trauma, threat assessment, de-escalation, and mental health integration. I am committed to improving officer wellness, supporting families of first responders, and reducing stigma around mental health in public safety.

In addition to my clinical and law enforcement roles, I am actively engaged in community outreach, advocacy, and public speaking. I have presented at conferences on topics including mental health in policing, trauma and resilience, culturally competent care for LGBTQIA+ communities, and the importance of wellness in high-risk professions. As a Native American clinician and a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, I am passionate about honoring culture, identity, and community connection within mental health work.

My therapeutic style is authentic, grounded, and relational. I believe healing happens through collaborative insight, emotional safety, and practical skill-building. Whether supporting someone through a crisis, helping a first responder reconnect with purpose, or walking alongside a client navigating personal growth, I strive to create a space where people feel seen, valued, and empowered.

When not working, I enjoy cooking, traveling, exploring local coffee shops, spending time outdoors, and adventuring with my two dogs. I bring the same curiosity, compassion, and enthusiasm from my personal life into the relationships I builds with clients and the communities I serve.

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.

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

Jamie Lopez

Psy.D.  Licensed Psychologist

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available

• Telehealth and in-person 
• BCBS, United, Optum, UMR, Moda
• 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.