My Approach to Mental Health Therapy: A Family-Centered Perspective
Often I’m asked, “What is your approach to therapy?” So I want to share a little about my background and how I work with children, adolescents, and families—both in person and through online therapy across Texas.
I received my master’s degree from Divine Mercy University, and what initially drew me to mental health counseling was my deep interest in people. I’ve always been a good listener. I genuinely enjoy hearing people’s stories and helping them navigate difficult seasons of life. My graduate training helped me refine that skill—to listen more attentively and become more attuned to what truly matters to the person sitting across from me.
To me, therapy is a sacred space. When someone shares their fears, struggles, or pain, that information is held with care and respect. Trust is foundational in counseling, whether I’m working with a young child, a teenager, a parent—or supporting someone through virtual counseling sessions.
Specializing in Children, Teens, and Families
In addition to being a therapist, I’m also a wife and a mother. That personal experience naturally influenced my professional focus. Early in my career, I worked with very young children—starting around ages three to five. Over time, my work expanded to include adolescents, which is now one of the primary populations I serve.
Adolescence is a critical developmental stage. Teens face real struggles—anxiety, depression, identity questions, peer pressure, academic stress, and family conflict. These challenges don’t exist in isolation. They are connected to what’s happening at home, at school, and in the broader environment.
That’s why my therapy approach often expands beyond just the individual. While child therapy and adolescent counseling are essential, I believe it’s equally important to look at the entire family system.
A Family Systems Approach to Therapy
When choosing a mental health therapist, it’s important to ask: Does this therapist only work with my child, or are they open to working with the whole family?
In my experience, it’s rare that one individual is responsible for all the problems in a household. We all contribute to the dynamics within our homes. What happens in the family system often spreads into school, friendships, and even the workplace.
My approach involves “zooming out” to look at the bigger picture, and then “zooming in” to address individual struggles. This family-centered perspective allows everyone to be informed, involved, and part of the healing process.
Gentle and Attuned
Clients often ask what my style is like in the therapy room. I would describe myself as hands-on and engaged. I follow your lead, but I can also be directive when needed. If you are seeking therapy, it’s usually because you’re looking for guidance and support.
Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about growth. That means offering insight, practical tools, and sometimes gentle challenges to help you move forward.
And if meeting in person isn’t possible, telehealth therapy offers a flexible and effective alternative. Online therapy in Texas allows individuals and families to receive consistent, professional mental health support from the comfort of home.
Mental Health Therapy in Buda, Kyle, South Austin — and Across Texas
Terapia disponible en español
If you’re searching for a mental health therapist in Buda, family counseling in Kyle, or adolescent therapy in South Austin, I invite you to consider a therapist who looks at the whole system—not just one piece of it.
At Emmaus Counseling, I offer bilingual therapy services (English and Spanish) for children, teens, and families across Central Texas.
Virtual therapy services and online counseling are available for clients anywhere in Texas. Terapia disponible en español.
Whether in person or through secure telehealth sessions, healing is possible. And sometimes, it begins with finding the right person to listen.
🌐 Learn more at www.emmaus-counseling.net
📍 Serving Buda, Kyle, South Austin & clients statewide in Texas
💙 In-person and virtual therapy available
