Therapists for college students near Houston, TX

Gary Stittgen Jr. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas specializing in anxiety, stress, marriage counseling & divorce, parenting, and other relationship concerns. Over his eight years of experience in the mental health field, Gary has developed a focus on communication, social-emotional aspects, and reality-based problem solving to assist clients in achieving their therapeutic goals. Gary uses evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), two therapy modalities that encourage clients to understand the influence of their thoughts and feelings on their behaviors. Gary’s ultimate goal is to help clients free themselves from the unhelpful behaviors and cognitive distortions that are unhelpful to their achievement of their ultimate goals. As a Certified Yoga Instructor, he also incorporates elements of mindfulness and yoga into his sessions. Gary is dedicated to finding a treatment plan that works for each client. To this end, initial sessions with Gary include a diagnostic evaluation, an orientation to his therapeutic approaches, treatment planning, and then the start of therapeutic work by session three. Gary earned his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Statistics from Loyola University of Chicago and his Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University. Prior to private practice, Gary worked in psychiatric hospitals, community mental health organizations and substance use clinics—providing him with broad expertise to best meet the needs of each client.

As a licensed counselor with over 15 years of experience in educational, online, and clinical settings, I specialize in supporting college students as they navigate the unique challenges of academic life, personal growth, and adulthood. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, struggling with anxiety or depression, experiencing relationship difficulties, or simply trying to find your direction, I’m here to help. I provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can speak openly, explore your experiences, and build the tools you need to feel more balanced and confident. My approach is collaborative and flexible, combining evidence-based strategies with genuine care and respect for your individual journey. You don’t have to go through it alone—therapy can be a space to reconnect with yourself and move forward with clarity and purpose.

Let’s be honest—being a college student or young adult can feel like a lot. You’re expected to make big life decisions, manage responsibilities, and somehow have a plan for your future… all at the same time. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of what you’re doing. You might be comparing yourself to others, questioning your path, or just trying to keep up day-to-day. The truth is, most people are figuring it out as they go—even if it doesn’t look like it. I work with young adults to create a space where you can be real. You don’t have to have everything together or know all the answers. Whether you’re dealing with stress, life transitions, or just feeling off, this is a place where you can talk things through without judgment. Together, we can make sense of what you’re going through, find ways to cope, and help you feel a little more grounded and confident moving forward. You don’t have to do this alone.

Our Counseling Practice: we offer outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We are willing to use or avoid using passages from the Christian Bible in sessions. Our Treatment Focus: to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths through counseling. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Our Patient Promise: we promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.

In-network telehealth psychiatry for Kansas and Texas. Many of the students I work with are navigating big life changes, academic pressure, and the challenges of balancing school with everything else in life. You might be feeling stressed, anxious, unfocused, down, or just “off” and not like yourself. Some students come to me because they’re struggling to manage ADHD symptoms, experiencing depression or anxiety, or coping with grief and loss. Others simply know they’re not feeling their best and want support before things get worse. If you’re looking for someone who listens without judgment, helps you make sense of what you’re going through, and works with you to create a plan that fits your life, we may be a great match. Together, we can find strategies—whether through medication, lifestyle changes, or both—to help you feel more focused, balanced, and confident in yourself.

Holistic health is my focus and each client co-creates a treatment plan with me that takes into account their unique background, lifestyle, and beliefs. My approach relies on motivational interviewing and client-centered therapy to empower and advocate alongside my clients so that they can meet their goals.

Have you felt like everyday is a treadmill that's going too fast? Feeling guilty for taking time for yourself? Having doubts like: Am I in the right career? Are the people around me good for me? Why do I keep arguing with my family? Is there a disconnect within your social or cultural identity? Maybe the sense of belonging comes with straddling two or more cultures. Feeling overwhelmed by the weight of heavy expectations? Any of these issues can bring stress, confusion, regret, and a sense of isolation. I would love to help. I'm a child of Chinese immigrants trying to make the world a better place, one person at a time. I help people navigate cultural identity, relationships, anxiety, depression and mental well-being practices with an approach that blends cognitive therapy, behavioral strategies, mindfulness, and culturally responsive perspectives. I work with clients collaboratively to cultivate healthy mindsets, sense of purpose, and balance that allows us to thrive. I'm a child of immigrants trying to make the world a better place, one person at a time. I understand how complex and winding this journey can be. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share your story and build a more mindful, joyful life. When you're ready to take a step towards a more balanced life, please reach out - I'd love to help.

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At Severance Therapy, we’re proud to be a diverse collective of clinicians and staff—some of whom identify within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, and others who are fierce, informed allies deeply committed to this community. What unites us is a shared dedication to providing affirming, culturally competent care in a space where authenticity is celebrated, not questioned. Many of our clinicians bring personal experience with addiction recovery, sexual identity exploration, and the complexities of queer life—from coming out and dealing with internalized stigma to navigating sobriety in a culture that often centers around substances. Others have spent their professional lives walking alongside queer clients and communities, engaging in continual learning, advocacy, and personal reflection to be the kind of allies who show up loudly and consistently. Our team includes LGBTQIA+ therapists and allied professionals from a range of racial, cultural, and gender identities. Some are in long-term recovery. Some are sex-positive and kink-aware. Some bring academic expertise, while others bring years of boots-on-the-ground experience in queer spaces, harm reduction, and sober living. Together, we offer a dynamic, compassionate, and deeply relatable therapeutic environment—because we know healing happens best when you feel seen, heard, and understood by people who truly get it. Illustration of a soft, abstract cloud symbolizing individual therapy, reflecting introspection, and emotional support INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed and in need of a mental break? If so, you're not alone in this experience. It is quite common for many individuals to face daily stress and anxiety, which is why it becomes imperative to discover and implement healthy approaches to manage these emotions effectively. In our therapy sessions, I am here to provide you with an extensive array of valuable tools and techniques that can assist you on this journey.​By working together, we can explore various strategies that will enable you to cope more efficiently with the stressors you encounter throughout your day, consequently enhancing your overall well-being. Whether it involves engaging in relaxation exercises, practicing mindfulness techniques, or exploring other therapeutic methods, I can offer the necessary support and guidance you need to navigate the challenges life presents.​Remember, prioritizing your mental health is just as crucial as attending to your physical well-being, and I am dedicated to assisting you during every step of this process. Moreover, I possess expertise in aiding individuals dealing with depression, ADHD, family matters, substance abuse, LGBT-related concerns, as well as trauma. Image of two intertwined hearts symbolizing connection, emotional intimacy, and the healing journey supported through couples COUPLES THERAPY Couples therapy is an incredibly valuable and transformative experience. It offers a safe and supportive space where both partners can openly express themselves and work towards rebuilding and strengthening their relationship. I want to assure you that I will create an environment that is free from any judgment, encouragement to explore one another’s needs, and allow you to feel comfortable and open to the therapy process.​During the therapy sessions, I will provide you with a variety of helpful resources and tools that can assist you both in your journey towards growth and healing. These resources may include insightful books, exercises, and communication techniques that are specifically tailored to your unique needs and challenges as a couple.​I firmly believe in the power of therapy to facilitate positive change and promote a deeper understanding and connection between partners. With my guidance and support, you will have the opportunity to explore and address any underlying issues or patterns that may be causing distress or conflict in your relationship. Together, we will work towards fostering greater trust, intimacy, and effective communication, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and harmonious partnership.​Please know that I am fully committed to your well-being and the success of your therapy journey. I will be by your side every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies to help you navigate your relationship strengths and areas for growth. Together, we will create a roadmap for your future together, built on a foundation of love, understanding, and mutual respect.

Is life supposed to look like this? Is this how I’m supposed to feel? How many times have you asked yourself these questions, questioned why you are on this earth, questioned your existence? For me, the answer is that I have asked myself this countless times. Most of my life I had people tell me who I was. What I was allowed to say, what I was allowed to feel, what my opinions should or should not be. I was expected to conform, to not take up space, to obey. I never felt like I belonged anywhere. I longed for it. I wanted to know myself. I wanted to be seen. So, I went to therapy. My therapist helped me acknowledge the distorted mirror that had been held up in front of my face for so long by others. She helped me stop waiting for others to see me, to validate me, and guided me to my own gut-wrenchingly painful but oh so beautiful journey of self-exploration and healing. I wish that I could say to you that I have always had a strong identity and sense of self, but the truth is that I needed someone to let me know that they saw me. That they understood me. Have you ever felt seen? I mean really seen. Seen for everything you are. The rawness that comes with that. It makes us feel alive, it validates us, it permeates us with energy. Energy to engage, energy to connect, energy to contribute. I want to help you become a reflection of your highest self. I want to help you get to know you. I want to weather the storm of life with you, be there to see you in your most exquisite moments but also in your most broken. I specialize in working with relationship concerns, men’s issues, and trauma work (I do EMDR which is a specialized treatment for trauma. I also help with alcohol and substance-use that is causing you concern (or curiosity), old coping mechanisms stemming from childhood, existential depression, anxiety, and relationship stressors. As a therapist, I want to help my clients relinquish their stories of pain and help them move towards a future that no longer feels limited. SO, let’s begin. Let me provide you a safe, warm, judgement-free, space of acceptance. A space to be seen. A space to heal and grow. I am so excited to see you. The Story: As I consider what initially drew me to the field of psychology, a quote by Robert Frost comes to mind: “The best way out is through”. By age 10, I had already lived a life full of adversity. Receiving therapy to help sort through painful experiences was transformative and my therapist was kind, gentle, full of empathy, respectful, and empowering. My biggest takeaway from therapy was how crucial the therapeutic relationship is; so much more work, growth, and healing can be done when you feel safe with your therapist, when you feel they really see you and understand you. You can always count on me to be genuinely myself when we are together, to be a human with another human. I knew since I was ten years old that I wanted to be able to help people heal. I knew that I wanted to listen to all those intricate details that are woven together that makes up someone’s life story. I wanted to sit there on the floor with someone, help them pick up the pieces, sort through them, notice each piece, and help put things back together. I learned early that pain can travel through family lines until someone is ready to heal it in themselves. I wanted to encourage others that by going through the pain or growth, will allow for the cycle to be broken, for the pattern to end there. It’s incredibly sacred work and incredibly meaningful. I also knew it was going to be a long road to be able to get where I needed to be so that I could offer this to others. I’m thankful to be here now with you. I’m now equipped with my PhD and more life experiences than it might appear at first glance. My Training: I began my pursuit of a career as a psychologist at Texas Tech University where I received my Bachelor of Arts in psychology. I then attended the University of Louisville where I completed my Master’s degree in counseling psychology. I finalized my education at the University of Missouri- Columbia where I received my Doctorate (Ph.D.) in counseling psychology. Through so many years of experience and education, countless hours of research, and looking at the science of everything, I have found that the most crucial part of helping a person heal, is the therapeutic relationship. If we don’t like or trust someone, how in the world can we open up and allow someone to know us intimately enough to help facilitate our own healing? I specialize in working with trauma of all kinds and have obtained my certification as an EMDR therapist (a type of trauma healing therapy). I also have spent a lot of time working with addictions and believe that addiction is not about the substance itself but rather it’s about the pain that fuels the desire to use the substance. I also enjoy working with life anxieties and stressors, family of origin concerns, inner-child healing, relational issues, grief, and so many other things! Can you tell my training has been eclectic? I believe that everyone is unique and there is not a one size fits all method of therapy. I tailor my work to each individual and their needs and goals. Some concepts and theories that inform my work are attachment theory (childhood experiences effect how we see ourselves and others), trauma informed care, interpersonal, relational, and feminist theory (all components of our identities and environments we are in impact us). My Commitment: Every step I have taken in my life has brought me here; to being a psychologist. I look at past experiences I have had as ways of deeply understanding my clients and their struggles. You can trust that I will sit with you, as a human sitting with another human (not some therapy robot), and express genuine empathy and compassion towards you and your story. We will take time to create a relationship that you can believe in, that you can depend on, and feel safe in. I want to spend my time empowering you, helping you feel inconceivably brave, unloading some of the pain you might have been carrying, watching you gain inner peace, and allowing yourself to be seen. It is my privilege to be able to sit and listen to you and be your guide on this journey.

You’ve always been the one who holds it together. The friend everyone leans on, the one who keeps the peace, even when you're falling apart inside. You’re kind, thoughtful, and always thinking about how others feel—sometimes to the point of losing sight of what you need. Maybe you grew up in a home where speaking up was risky, or you were labeled as “too much.” Now, in college or early adulthood, you feel lost - constantly second-guessing yourself, unsure who you are outside of relationships or achievements. You want to feel more grounded, confident, and in control of your life—but you’re not sure where to start.

*survivors of sexual trauma support group starting this May* please inquire more to join! Let's be real- the world has gotten a bit crazy right? Some days, it can feel like you're burnt out, barely making it by on fumes. Life can feel relentless sometimes, and you deserve a grounded and nonjudgmental place to come to for relief from the chaos. Therapy should be about giving you the time and space to breathe and unravel. Because things can get better with a little extra support. Let's work together to help you build resilience, cope with life's curveballs, and find yourself again! ***I also run group therapy for survivors of sexual assault. Please text me to join and learn more. 872-215-2542.***

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

Do you feel like there’s a better version of yourself waiting to reveal itself or that there must be a better way of life beyond your symptoms? If your answer to either question is “yes,” then I am the therapist for you! My goal is to help you discover your best you and live your best life at home, school/work, amongst peers, or any place else where you frequent. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Columbia University, a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania, experience as a former collegiate athlete, and years as a school-based mental health professional, I am knowledgeable of the challenges youth, young adults, and student-athletes face today and am well equipped to help you overcome. Schedule a FREE, 15-minute video consultation to begin discovering your best you!

If you are trying to figure out who you are and where you’re headed, you are not alone. This stage of life can feel exciting one minute and overwhelming the next. You might look like you have it together on the outside, but inside you are stressed, anxious, burned out, or unsure of yourself. The students I work best with are thoughtful, self-aware, and trying hard to “do things right.” You care about your future. You want meaningful relationships. You want to succeed. But you may also feel pressure from family, academics, social media, or your own expectations. Maybe you overthink everything. Maybe you procrastinate and then criticize yourself for it. Maybe you feel lonely even when you are surrounded by people. Some of the students I work with are: -Adjusting to college life or struggling with the transition -Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or constantly “on edge” -Navigating identity questions around career, relationships, culture, or sexuality -Recovering from a breakup or friendship shift -Dealing with perfectionism or fear of failure -Questioning whether they’re “good enough” In our work together, we create space to slow down and really listen to what’s going on beneath the surface. Therapy is something we build together, a place to be honest, ask hard questions, and try new ways of coping. We will make sense of what you’re feeling, practice tools to manage stress and self-doubt, and help you move toward a life that feels more grounded and more like your own. You don’t have to wait until things fall apart to reach out. If you’are willing to show up as you are, we can start from there.

Life hasn’t gone the way you thought it would. Maybe you’re grieving someone or something important, navigating chronic illness, or facing a major life change that’s left you questioning who you are. You might look “fine” on the outside but you feel lost, disconnected, or just tired of holding it all together. Deep down you want to feel at peace - to rediscover your sense of purpose, rebuild your confidence, find your new normal, and reconnect with the part of yourself you’ve had to leave behind. I offer a calm, supportive space to process what you’re going through - without judgment or pressure. Using a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, I help clients explore self-compassion, resilience, and growth. Together, we’ll uncover what healing looks like for you and take it one day at a time. You don’t have to face this alone. Healing doesn’t mean pretending everything’s okay - it’s about honoring your story and finding new ways forward. We might laugh, maybe even curse a little, but we’ll always keep it real. If you’re ready to begin again, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. I specialize in helping individuals who are experiencing chronic illness, life transitions, and grief as well as suicidal thoughts and psychosis. Chronic Illness: Living with a chronic illness can impact every part of your life - your identity, your relationships, your energy, and your sense of control. Together, we’ll make space for the frustration, fear, and grief that can come with ongoing health challenges. We’ll explore ways to honor your body’s limits while still creating a fulfilling, meaningful life that feels like yours again. Life Transitions: Change, even when it’s “supposed” to be positive, can feel unsettling. Whether you’re adjusting to a move, a career shift, becoming a caregiver, or adjusting to a new phase of life, I’ll help you slow down, reflect, and find your new normal. Our work will focus on clarity, self-compassion, and building resilience as you move through uncertainty and rediscover your footing. Grief: Grief isn’t something to “get over.” It’s a process of learning how to carry what’s been lost and find moments of peace amongst the pain. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, a part of yourself, or a life that didn’t go as planned, we’ll navigate that process together - with gentleness, honesty, and the space to just be where you are. Suicidal Thoughts: If you’ve ever felt like giving up or that things will never get better, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk openly about these thoughts, identify what keeps you going, and find ways to reduce pain and increase safety. Healing begins with honesty, and it’s okay to start wherever you are. Psychosis: If you are living with psychosis, it can feel confusing, isolating, or overwhelming. Together, we’ll work to understand your experiences, identify triggers, and develop grounding and coping strategies that help you feel more in control of your life. My approach emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and restoring confidence — helping you find meaning, safety, and connection while honoring your lived experience. Professional Experience: I began my career in 2014 and have since worked in a variety of settings, including crisis services, partial hospitalization (PHP), and community mental health. Over the years, I’ve supported individuals navigating depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief, suicidal ideation, self-harm, psychosis, major life transitions, and much more. My work has included crisis intervention, safety planning, clinical assessment, and ongoing therapy focused on building self-compassion and resilience. These experiences have shaped my belief that growth happens when we feel seen, supported, and empowered to take life one step at a time. Next Steps: Start with free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit. We’ll briefly discuss your goals, what’s bringing you to therapy, and answer any questions you may have about the process. Reach out to me via my website, email, or phone. Please allow 24-48 business hours for me to return contact to inquiries.

I’m a therapist who values honesty, reflection, and meaningful change. I go beyond surface-level work, helping you understand the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that shape how you show up in your life. My approach is supportive yet direct. I’ll help you identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck—like perfectionism, people-pleasing, or self-criticism—while creating a space where you feel respected and not judged.

There is no magic button or quick-fix solution when it comes to making a change. I find that I am the best fit for individuals who are looking to enhance their emotional well being and want to challenge themselves. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach considers clients to be the experts in their life, with my role as a guide to help uncover negative patterns and work towards positive change.

Are you navigating an ‘it’s complicated’ relationship? Do you feel crazy, like you can’t trust yourself? Have you found out your partner has betrayed you? Are you ready to process through childhood trauma to end generational curses? It is my passion and honor to focus on women’s issues, relationship issues, and trauma. I believe in tracing symptoms to their roots. My approach to counseling is about creating a space of trust and rapport to collect dots, to connect dots, to ultimately, correct the dots. I utilize EMDR, somatic experiencing, and behavior therapy to respond to how past unresolved experiences are coming up and creating obstacles in present life. If you’re ready to do the work, you have access to freedom from things that are no longer serving you and an opportunity to move toward a brighter and more secure future.

Texas therapy that embraces preferences, personalities, fetishes, relationships, kinks, gender identities and romantic feelings. I offer support to individuals, relationships, couples, and polycules seeking an honest, open, therapeutic space for growth and change.