Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Waco, TX

I’m an experienced mental health professional and leader with a strong background in therapy, behavioral health, and military family support. With over a decade of post-graduate experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals, families, and service members navigate life’s challenges with compassion and professionalism. I combine clinical expertise with a warm, approachable style that fosters trust and collaboration.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving clients in Texas, Maryland & New York. I work with diverse kinds of clients (Age 18 +) with different cultural backgrounds and mental health problems. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Insomnia, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, personality disorder and much more. I am a compassionate provider with a passion for patients with mental illness.

My name is Bradley Smith, and I’m a therapist who believes that meaningful change begins with feeling understood. I work with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the everyday pressures that can make life feel overwhelming. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and heard without judgment.

I know that reaching out for therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not sure where to start. I approach each client with curiosity, empathy, and respect for their unique experiences. Everyone’s story is different, and I believe therapy should reflect that. Together, we’ll work at a pace that feels comfortable while focusing on what matters most to you.

Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions begin affecting every part of your life. You may be exhausted from trying to hold everything together, questioning your next step, or feeling like you've lost touch with the person you want to be. Change doesn't happen overnight, but it can begin with one conversation. I partner with individuals experiencing depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, identity issues, and trauma so they can rebuild confidence, strengthen their relationships, and create a life that feels more balanced, connected, and fulfilling. Working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative environment where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to grow.

Life has a way of presenting us with moments that feel overwhelming, isolating, or simply too heavy to carry alone. Whatever has brought you here today, know this: reaching out is one of the most powerful acts of self-care you can take. I'm a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience helping adults reclaim their sense of peace, purpose, and connection.

I believe meaningful therapy begins with feeling genuinely seen, heard, and understood. My approach is Humanistic and Existential, grounded in empathy, authenticity, and respect for your unique story. While my credentials reflect my dedication to the field, my greatest strength is the genuine care and seasoned clinical experience I bring to each person I serve.

I am a Doctor of Psychology with an Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University, a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), with more than 15 years of experience in mental health and education. My academic journey began at Virginia State University, a proud HBCU, where I earned a B.S. in Psychology with minors in English and Modern Dance. I later earned an M.A. in School Counseling, with a focus on Psychology and Marriage & Family Therapy, from Phillips Graduate Institute (now Phillips Graduate University).

My clinical and professional experience spans diverse settings and communities. I have worked in every jail in Los Angeles County and served for several years as a Consulting Psychologist at one of Philadelphia’s largest rehabilitation hospitals. As a native New Jerseyan who has spent much of my adult life in Los Angeles, my work as an educator and professor in multiple states, along with decades as a professional dancer and choreographer, has shaped a deeply nuanced understanding of creativity, self-expression, and the mind-body connection.

As a professor, I explore the psychological impact of media on women’s self-esteem, helping clients navigate comparison, societal expectations, and the pressures of modern life.

Therapy with me is collaborative. I will meet you where you are, listen deeply, and help you develop greater self-understanding, resilience, and a life that feels more authentic, purposeful, and your own.

As a Licensed Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Our therapeutic sessions will be packed with discovery, while building long lasting tools to apply in times of need! I’ve been practicing for 27 years, and I have developed the skills needed to address a broad spectrum of counsel. I am super excited to start our journey together!

Margarita Rice is a double-board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner. Her education and clinical experience give her a well-rounded perspective on physical and mental well-being. She treats mental health, metabolic health (wellness, weight loss, prediabetes), and hormone health (BHRT for men and women.

Welcome! I’m Kristin Petersen, MSW, LICSW, and I’ve been a psychotherapist for more than 13 years. I primarily work with women and individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the many pressures that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself.

My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. I’ve supported clients through both everyday challenges and more complex concerns, including trauma, co-occurring conditions, behavioral concerns, and significant life changes. I believe your experiences, relationships, culture, and personal history all matter when understanding what you are going through.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and honest. I won’t simply tell you what you “should” do. Instead, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and develop practical strategies that fit your life. I draw from cognitive and person-centered approaches and incorporate solution-focused strategies to help you build insight while also making meaningful changes.

Therapy is a place where you can be honest without fear of judgment. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning because something in your life no longer feels manageable, my goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and supported while developing the tools and confidence to move forward.

You don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin. We can start exactly where you are.

Hello! I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor and Art Therapist here to help you navigate emotional hardships and invest in your mental health and well-being.

I have experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, and couples. My techniques range from a variety of modalities including a person-centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. While working alongside my clients, I provide individualized treatment for a wide range of concerns.

As a seasoned practitioner (since 2006) with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, I have dedicated my career to mastering a diverse range of therapeutic modalities to better serve my clients.

My clinical practice is grounded in extensive training across several specialized frameworks, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Additionally, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Hypnotherapy into my work, allowing for a highly tailored and comprehensive approach to psychological wellness.

Hello & Welcome to Bella Vida Counseling!

Confidential counseling for:

• Teens & College-age adults

• Adults

• ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Relationships

• Parenting & Caregiver Burnout

• 20 years experience in schools

• Helping you find the tools, clarity & confidence to create your beautiful life!

I specialize in helping clients navigate through crisis, trauma, grief, mental disorders, ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting, stress, relationships, self esteem issues, chronic illness and caregiver burnout. Clients appreciate having a mental health professional who can empathize with their experiences.