LGBT therapists in Lufkin, TX

Hi, I’m Melissa! Thanks for visiting! My ideal client is someone who’s ready to take accountability and implement change. I believe accountability is one of the strongest foundations for growth. When you can own your choices and patterns, you can shift them and move toward your highest self. With 20 years of experience as a social worker, I support individuals who are navigating depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and self-esteem challenges. I also have experience working with people who have been impacted by foster care, domestic violence, court system, family conflict and traumatic events.

Hello, I’m Bibiana Peña, a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I am a bilingual therapist, offering sessions in both English and Spanish. I work with clients ages 10 and up. Using a person‐centered approach, I strive to build genuine therapeutic relationships that honor each person’s lived experiences, cultural background, and unique strengths.

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I've been a therapist for 14 years, and in that time I've learned that people need space to be heard. I work with clients navigating relationships, identity, cultural and ethnic experiences, LGBTQ+ concerns, stress, trauma, and the particular weight that women often carry without anyone noticing. My style is warm and direct. I'll laugh with you, and I'll also tell you the truth when it matters. Outside of work, I'm usually on the sidelines at my son's games, hunting down a restaurant I've never tried, or talking someone into an experience that's a little more immersive than they signed up for. A bit of whimsy goes a long way, in therapy and everywhere else.

I work with clients presenting with a variety of concerns, but work primarily with family history and attachment patterns showing up in the present. Many of my clients come in for current stressors, and find they also need help with developmental trauma.

Clients are welcome to book the first available consultation time on my calendar. I will reach out upon booking to confirm our time, and will offer something sooner if it is available.

I have a variety of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to a range of clients from young children to adults. Having worked in environments including the school system, outpatient facilities and private practice, I have a solid understanding of how to collaborate with clients to identify their needs and provide appropriate support or connect to the right community resources. Throughout my career, I have gained experience with navigating conflict resolution, addressing general DSM-5 diagnosis’, and helping clients increase emotional regulation and distress tolerance.

You've been called too much, or not enough. Maybe both, depending on the room. I work with individuals and couples in affirming, culturally responsive therapy. POC, LGBTQIA+ folks, people in ENM and nontraditional relationships, and anyone who's spent a lifetime translating themselves to be understood. Clients come in carrying grief, people-pleasing patterns, identity questions, the weight of being misread, or a relationship that's drifted, gone quiet, or is trying to find a new shape that actually fits. I'll challenge you and stay warm doing it. I don't ask you to shrink or perform to be met. This is a space to be known in full.

Seeking help can be the first step to acquire greater understanding and insight into our lives and relationships.

My clients should know that I provide a calm, nonjudgemental space where they can show up exactly as they are. I understand how overwhelming anxiety, depression, and trauma can feel, and I approach each session with compassion and respect. I believe healing happens at your own pace, and I will walk alongside you as we work toward meaningful change.