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.

Carson Smith

I’m passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples as they navigate life's challenges. I work with ages 13 and up and the primary focus of my work is helping people heal from the long-term impacts of trauma and complex PTSD, including things like sexual trauma, religious trauma, and family-of-origin wounds. But I also love supporting clients working through experiences like anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, men’s mental health, LGBTQIA+ topics, and big life transitions such as divorce, marriage, graduation, having a child, empty nest, and loss of loved ones. I also hold a safe, welcoming space for first responders and veterans.

If you’ve been dealing with emotions that feel hard to manage, heavy shame, or repeating patterns that feel stuck, you are definitely not alone. I tend to see these struggles not as personal flaws, but as smart ways your mind and body learned to cope with overwhelming situations in the past. Together, we can gently understand them and help you find new ways forward.

My style is warm, collaborative, and judgment-free. I use approaches like EMDR and Solution-Focused therapy, but always at a pace that feels comfortable and safe for you. I believe the most important part of therapy is the human connection we build, and I will always prioritize your consent, your needs, and your goals.

Before private practice, I spent time working in community and nonprofit settings with teens and adults with developmental disabilities. That experience really shaped who I am as a therapist and deepened my belief that everyone is resilient, capable of growth, and deeply deserving of respect and genuine care.

My goal is simply to create a cozy, safe spot where you can exhale, feel truly understood, and be yourself. I love meeting people right where they are and moving at whatever speed works best for them. It’s always an incredible privilege to join someone on their healing journey.

When I’m not in the office, you can usually find me hanging out with my dog, Diggs, checking out new local restaurants, or binge-watching and talking about good TV shows!

Sometimes we all need help navigating the uncertainties of life. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, substance abuse, intrusive memories of traumatic events, or just feeling stuck in life, your pain is unique and deserves a personalized treatment, not a one-size-fits-all approach. My method balances attention to your current concerns with thoughtful exploration of past experiences, helping you find relief in the present while also addressing the deeper roots of your suffering. We will move at your pace and work collaboratively toward your goals.

I offer a safe, confidential space to explore your most difficult thoughts and feelings. No subject is off-limits or taboo. I invite you to say whatever comes to mind in the moment while also reflecting on dreams, fantasies, and thoughts and feelings that have previously gone unsaid. Putting your experiences into words with the support of a trusted professional can have a transformative effect, ultimately enabling you to think, feel, and act with more freedom, flexibility, and agency. I see therapy as a space of open possibility. While it’s important to make room for difficult emotions and painful experiences, it can also be a place for creativity, play, and moments of laughter. I will always approach our work together with openness and respect.

I am a native Texan who has spent several years living abroad. I also hold a master’s degree in International Studies. I particularly enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and bring an understanding of some of the challenges of living in a new cultural environment.

In my free time, I enjoy making art, cooking, reading, watching movies, playing video games, and spending time outdoors with my family. I currently serve as member-at-large on the board of Austin Psychoanalytic.

Beginning therapy is a big step. It’s a commitment to understanding yourself more deeply, and that process can unfold in ways that are both challenging and rewarding. I take that work seriously and would be honored to join you on the path of growth and self-discovery.

Vincent Walford

Hello, I'm Vincent. It's a privilege to walk alongside people during some of life's most difficult moments, and I'm deeply committed to helping you move through those transitions with care and confidence.

My background brings together clinical practice, academic research, and public health. I earned my Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Howard University and a Master of Public Health from the Morehouse School of Medicine. This combination lets me weave health education and promotion into my therapeutic work, so the support you receive is holistic and truly focused on healing the whole person.

I work with clients ages 13 and up, offering individual, couples, and group counseling. My areas of expertise include trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, religion and spirituality, men's issues, shame and guilt, and racial issues. While every person's path to healing is unique, some of the tools I draw on include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE). My experience and genuine passion for this work help me meet you exactly where you are and support you in the way that fits you best.

Throughout my career, I've served in clinical and leadership roles at the University of Pennsylvania, Baylor University, the University of Houston, and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. Whether providing individual or group therapy, offering crisis intervention, or coordinating outreach efforts, my approach stays grounded in evidence-based, short-term, solution-focused counseling that honors the cultural diversity of everyone I serve.

I believe therapy is a partnership. My goal is to create a warm, professional space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered to prioritize your well-being. By blending my clinical experience with my expertise in trauma-informed care and public health, I strive to offer comprehensive, effective support to the individuals, couples, and families I'm honored to work with.



I look forward to the opportunity to help you take that next step.

Mary King

Hello, I'm Mary. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor (NCC), I offer a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space where adults can heal and truly thrive. I'm here to help you navigate life's complexities whether you're managing anxiety and depression, working through the lingering effects of trauma, or finding your footing during a major life transition.

While I work with a wide variety of clients, my specialty areas include trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, shame and guilt, racial and cultural issues, and anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience supporting veterans and first responders, and I'm deeply passionate about walking alongside members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

My approach is warm, practical, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I believe effective therapy is a genuine partnership. While I draw on proven tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), we'll work together to understand your unique needs and build a personalized plan that honors your goals. My focus is simple: to meet you where you are, provide care that fits you, and empower you to build lasting resilience.

I know that reaching out for support is often the hardest step, and it takes real courage. Please know that I'm here to support you at every stage of the journey. If you're ready to explore a path toward greater emotional well-being and personal growth, I would welcome the opportunity to connect with you.

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 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 Certified; 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 (particularly bipolar disorder and depression); neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, with a primary focus on ADHD); grief and loss; suicidal ideation; self-harm; LGBTQIA+ experiences; identity exploration; and major 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.

Mimi Tilton

Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, NCC #97476

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch, MS, LPC-S, #70432

Waitlist Available

• Telehealth and in-person
• Aetna, Cigna, Curative, Frontier Direct
• EMDR
• Private pay - $120/session

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. 

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.

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. I use a wide variety of tools, techniques, and theories like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help each client in the best possible way.

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.

Jamie Lopez

Psy.D.  Licensed Psychologist

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available

• Telehealth and in-person 
• Aetna, BCBS, Curative, Frontier Direct, Optum, United, UMR, Moda
• Private pay - $180/session

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.

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