Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Killeen, TX covered by Aetna

If anxiety, depression, anger, or substance use has you or your family feeling stuck, I understand what you're facing. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, drawing on that background to help you build real skills and lasting change. I love what I do, and I want to help you become the strongest version of yourself. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a behavior teacher, lead special education teacher, and an annual review and dismissal (ARD) facilitator, giving me deep insight into the challenges families face within the education system.

I believe therapy should feel less like performing and more like finally being able to exhale. My approach is warm, collaborative, insight-oriented, and rooted in genuine human connection. I specialize in psychoanalytic and narrative therapy, helping clients explore the deeper patterns, relationships, experiences, and stories that shape how they move through the world. Together, we work to uncover the “why” beneath recurring emotions, behaviors, relationship dynamics, and internal conflicts while also rewriting narratives that no longer serve you.

Throughout life's journey, all of us face difficult challenges as well as times of reflection and growth. I have a passion for helping others through difficult times and love working with clients helping to facilitate insight and healing in their personal journey. In 2017, I opened Ponderado M Counseling Services, LLC on a ranch in La Grange, Texas. The counseling office is nestled around animals and the outdoors as they are used to create a unique therapeutic environment and opportunity for the client outside the traditional office setting.

Taking the first step is the hardest part—but you do not have to walk it alone.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 29 years of experience helping adults, children, and families transform their lives. I help clients cope with depression, anxiety, anger, coping skills issues, and past traumas. Together, we will clear the path toward your mental health goals, breaking down big obstacles into manageable steps. Your courage brought you here, and my expertise is here to support you the rest of the way. Let’s build the future you deserve.

Life can feel overwhelming when you are carrying more than you can manage on your own while trying to balance work, relationships, family responsibilities, and daily stress. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or family challenges while feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. Over time, that pressure can show up as chronic worry, burnout, sadness, emotional overwhelm, anger, or a growing sense of disconnection from yourself and others. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family issues, and grief or loss. I work with adolescents, adults, and children, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with 12 years of experience, my goal is to create a supportive space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to move toward healing and meaningful change.

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be where you want to be yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I make sure to let you know when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help.

I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with mild and severe mental health concerns.

When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. My clinical background allows me to support adults across a wide range of mental health needs—from acute stabilization to ongoing outpatient treatment—while maintaining a thoughtful, individualized approach to care.

I received my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree from Texas State University, where I developed a strong foundation in evidence-based psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. I am known for my warm, approachable style and for taking the time to truly listen, as I believe effective mental health care begins with trust, collaboration, and feeling understood.

I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, and life stressors. My approach emphasizes conservative medication management, clear patient education, and shared decision-making so individuals feel informed and confident in their care.

In addition to my psychiatric training, I have a background in women’s health, which enhances my understanding of how physical health and life-stage factors can influence mental well-being. This perspective allows me to provide well-rounded, inclusive care for all adults.

Whether you are seeking psychiatric care for the first time, transitioning from inpatient treatment, or looking for ongoing outpatient support, my goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout your care.