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.

  Hannah Alexander

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, NCC

# 88480

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch LPC-S #70432

Accepting New Clients!

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

Call 512-400-4321, press 3, 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 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.

Taryn Stilwell

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, NCC

 #92650

(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 Payment for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 3, 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

Intern

(she/her/hers)

Supervised by

Russell Kauitzsch, MS, LPC-S, #70432

Accepting New Clients!

• Telehealth or in-person
• Private pay - $60/session
• See Rates and Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 3, 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 am currently enrolled at St. Edward’s University pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling on the licensed marriage and family therapy (LMFT) track. 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. Working at the St. Edward’s Community Counseling Clinic I have primarily used the Solution-Focused model while being client-centered.

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 and trauma-informed care and lens into my practice. 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.

Santiago Ramirez

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate #92846

(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 Payments for more information

Call 512-400-4321, press 3, dial 115

Santiago@AustinCTS.com

Helping others achieve their goals and overcome challenges is deeply meaningful to me. For as long as I could remember, I knew my path was to serve others. I grew up in central Texas and attended Southwestern University in Georgetown for my bachelor’s degree. There, I graduated with a degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. Throughout my time at Southwestern, I volunteered in the local community at a non-profit coffee shop and local events.

After graduating with my bachelor's degree, I started the Master's Counseling program at St. Edward’s University. The program validated my love for counseling and I learned how to become the helper I desired to be. At the St. Edward’s community clinic, I worked with a variety of clients gaining experience with many different topics through counseling with individual and couple clients.

I completed an internship at Capital Area Counseling where I worked with adults and adolescents again allowing me to work with a variety of issues to help broaden my scope of practice. My approach to therapy includes techniques from Collaborative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). My goal is to work collaboratively with clients to help them grow and fulfill their ambitions, as well as provide a safe space for open expression.

My areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, LGBTQIA+ related issues, gender, sexuality, and grief and loss. From my time at Capital Area Counseling, I have had considerable experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community. As a trans man myself, I know that our state’s current situation can make enjoying life harder than it should be. As a counselor, I believe it is important to provide a supportive space and guidance to help a client go from surviving life to living life.

Outside of work, I love hanging out with friends and family. I also enjoy playing video games with the Pokémon and MarioKart series being among my favorites. I’m a sucker when it comes to horror movies and you might find me in the kitchen trying out different recipes.

I believe that everyone has the potential to grow and to heal. As your counselor, we will work together to develop a path of change that works best for you. Even though I have graduated, I am forever learning and researching areas of counseling for the benefit of the client. It would be an honor to be a part of your journey of self-exploration and healing.

Michael Jackson

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate

 #91439

(he/him/his)
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 3, dial 105

Michael@AustinCTS.com

I am an empathetic and skilled therapist, committed to helping my clients heal and grow. My name is Michael Jackson and I am a National Certified Counselor who recently moved from Chicago to Austin, Texas. I have a Bachelor of Art in Psychology with a minor in speech communication and sociology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. I continued my education at Adler School of Professional Psychology, where I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Throughout my career as a therapist, I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals, including those with mental health concerns, individuals in the prison system, those needing mentorship, those in crisis, and victims and perpetrators of domestic violence/abuse. My experience has provided me with a breadth of knowledge that enables me to work with individuals who have unique and complex needs.

As an African American, male-identified therapist, I bring a trauma-informed lens to my work. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are stigmatized against seeking therapy. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, especially for individuals who have experienced trauma or face systemic oppression. I am dedicated to creating a safe space where my clients can feel comfortable sharing their experiences and working towards their counseling goals.

My eclectic approach to therapy is rooted in evidence-based practices. I incorporate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy to provide individualized care to my clients. I believe that therapy should be tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. By using various modalities, I strive to empower my clients to heal, grow, and achieve their goals.

My areas of interest and specialization 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 am committed to working with individuals who have experienced trauma and look forward to helping you reach your counseling goals.

When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, attending comedy shows and concerts, traveling, listening to music, and reading. I believe that taking care of oneself is an essential component of mental health and well-being. I encourage my clients to engage in self-care activities that promote healing and growth.

In summary, I am a compassionate and skilled therapist who is committed to helping individuals heal and grow and I look forward to working with you on your counseling journey.

 Shari French

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

(she/her/hers)

Waitlist Available - Caseload is Full.

• Telehealth session only
• 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 3, 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.

Robert Fuschini

As a dedicated psychotherapist with over 26 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations and helping individuals, couples, and families overcome a wide range of challenges. My practice is grounded in a humanistic and compassionate approach that emphasizes empowering individuals to make positive changes in their lives.

Throughout my career, I have worked with veterans and military personnel, individuals struggling with substance abuse, autistic individuals and their families, and those grappling with issues of depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. As a firm believer in the transformative power of therapy, I have seen countless individuals and families make meaningful progress toward healing and personal growth.

My approach to therapy is collaborative and person-centered. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings, identify their strengths and challenges, and work toward their personal goals. In my practice, I utilize a range of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and communication practice to enhance relationships with self and family. I also specialize in helping individuals navigate major life transitions such as divorce, work changes, grief and loss, and substance abuse recovery.

As a strong ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, law enforcement, and military personnel, I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals from all walks of life. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and respected, regardless of their background or circumstances. My approach is non-judgmental, affirming, and sensitive to cultural and individual differences.

My journey as a psychotherapist began after serving in the United States Army, which gave me a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and challenges faced by military personnel and their families. I attended the University of Michigan and York College of the City University of New York before earning my Master of Social Work degree from Arizona State University. I am licensed to practice in Texas and Arizona and have been serving the Austin metropolitan area since 2021.

If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health challenge, I would be honored to work with you. Together, we can create a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work toward your goals. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you would like to learn more about my practice or schedule a consultation.

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 3, 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 and in-person 
• 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 3, 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 3, 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.