Secular and Non-Religious Therapists in Austin, TX
Whether you're familiar with therapy or just starting out, I’m here to support you in making sense of what’s happening in your life. My work often centers around life transitions—the confusion, chaos, and growth they can bring. Big life shifts like a breakup, a move, a new diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one can shake the ground beneath us. Often, it’s these moments of change that spark anxiety, depression, or a feeling that things just aren’t quite right. My goal is to help you find your footing again. I take a person-centered approach, which means we’ll explore your experience together, with curiosity, compassion.
Whether you're familiar with therapy or just starting out, I’m here to support you in making sense of what’s happening in your life. My work often centers around life transitions—the confusion, chaos, and growth they can bring. Big life shifts like a breakup, a move, a new diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one can shake the ground beneath us. Often, it’s these moments of change that spark anxiety, depression, or a feeling that things just aren’t quite right. My goal is to help you find your footing again. I take a person-centered approach, which means we’ll explore your experience together, with curiosity, compassion.
We can sometimes find ourselves in a position of dissatisfaction with how things are playing out for us. We feel that our life should be going differently, or that things just don't make sense anymore. When our life is in disarray we may deal with sabotaging coping skills, arguments with friends and family, and have a negative view of ourselves that controls how we view the world. Going on a healing journey is important in changing ourselves and the environment we are currently living in. Change can be difficult but it is such a rewarding experience. Therapy is a tool to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
We can sometimes find ourselves in a position of dissatisfaction with how things are playing out for us. We feel that our life should be going differently, or that things just don't make sense anymore. When our life is in disarray we may deal with sabotaging coping skills, arguments with friends and family, and have a negative view of ourselves that controls how we view the world. Going on a healing journey is important in changing ourselves and the environment we are currently living in. Change can be difficult but it is such a rewarding experience. Therapy is a tool to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
I'm a queer therapist specializing in work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach to therapy is warm, down to earth, and collaborative. Therapy can be difficult at times, but it can also be a space for curiosity, play, and laughter. The best therapy is a place where you are able to bring your full range of emotions and all of yourself.
As someone who has definitely wondered if feeling your feelings is really necessary, I understand how difficult it can be to sit with uncomfortable or frightening emotions. Together we can create a space that is safe enough and strong enough to hold whatever it is you might be experiencing.
I'm a queer therapist specializing in work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach to therapy is warm, down to earth, and collaborative. Therapy can be difficult at times, but it can also be a space for curiosity, play, and laughter. The best therapy is a place where you are able to bring your full range of emotions and all of yourself.
As someone who has definitely wondered if feeling your feelings is really necessary, I understand how difficult it can be to sit with uncomfortable or frightening emotions. Together we can create a space that is safe enough and strong enough to hold whatever it is you might be experiencing.
Accepting NEW clients in 2026! Life can bring unexpected challenges, and deciding to start therapy (for yourself or your child) can feel like a big step. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, and I believe therapy can be helpful for anyone, from ages 3 to 100. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, we all need extra support at times. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and accepting space where you or your child can feel comfortable taking the first steps toward growth and healing.
Accepting NEW clients in 2026! Life can bring unexpected challenges, and deciding to start therapy (for yourself or your child) can feel like a big step. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, and I believe therapy can be helpful for anyone, from ages 3 to 100. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, we all need extra support at times. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and accepting space where you or your child can feel comfortable taking the first steps toward growth and healing.
Welcome. I am a state board-approved LCSW clinical supervisor with over 10 years providing therapy, and trained in Parts Work, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and EMDR. But aside from all that, I believe what matters most is the connection we build.
I work with people who are tired of being perfect and pleasing, over-functioning, & achieving. Some things about it worked for you in the past—but it's left you anxious and worn out. You feel stuck in overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and disappointment in this intense, unjust world. Your highly sensitive nervous system is constantly attuning and appraising—“Is it safe for me to be me?”
Welcome. I am a state board-approved LCSW clinical supervisor with over 10 years providing therapy, and trained in Parts Work, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and EMDR. But aside from all that, I believe what matters most is the connection we build.
I work with people who are tired of being perfect and pleasing, over-functioning, & achieving. Some things about it worked for you in the past—but it's left you anxious and worn out. You feel stuck in overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and disappointment in this intense, unjust world. Your highly sensitive nervous system is constantly attuning and appraising—“Is it safe for me to be me?”
With 15 years of experience, and an eclectic blend of training and knowledge (including EMDR, yoga therapy, mindfulness, IFS, and more), I tailor my sessions to each individual. I feel honored to be witness to the pains, joys, and experiences of others. It's hard to sum up the deep work that my clients and I do, but overall, I like to help people increase self-compassion, gain deeper mind-body awareness, and connect to their own insight and growth. My experience is that this helps them to experience healing from trauma, see themselves with more clarity and acceptance, and feel more in control of and at peace in their lives.
With 15 years of experience, and an eclectic blend of training and knowledge (including EMDR, yoga therapy, mindfulness, IFS, and more), I tailor my sessions to each individual. I feel honored to be witness to the pains, joys, and experiences of others. It's hard to sum up the deep work that my clients and I do, but overall, I like to help people increase self-compassion, gain deeper mind-body awareness, and connect to their own insight and growth. My experience is that this helps them to experience healing from trauma, see themselves with more clarity and acceptance, and feel more in control of and at peace in their lives.
Ana Arellano, Red Apple
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
My name is Ana and I believe that health embodies the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. We often struggle with balance when trying to make changes: stop drinking, start binge eating; end a toxic relationship, begin isolation; make more money, lose family time. This is often because we are addressing only one aspect of our health problem; during our first session, I will take inventory of your mental, physical, and emotional health to treat the root cause—not just the symptoms—and find a method that aligns best with your unique needs.
My name is Ana and I believe that health embodies the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. We often struggle with balance when trying to make changes: stop drinking, start binge eating; end a toxic relationship, begin isolation; make more money, lose family time. This is often because we are addressing only one aspect of our health problem; during our first session, I will take inventory of your mental, physical, and emotional health to treat the root cause—not just the symptoms—and find a method that aligns best with your unique needs.
Therapy with me is a collaborative process—we’re co-explorers, working together to understand the stories, emotions, and patterns shaping your life. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and relationships (monogamous and non-monogamous), creating a space of emotional safety and curiosity.
Grounded in systemic training, I draw from collaborative therapy, attachment theory, feminist theory, and emotion-focused therapy. These approaches help us explore how cultural, generational, and relational dynamics influence your present-day challenges.
Therapy with me is a collaborative process—we’re co-explorers, working together to understand the stories, emotions, and patterns shaping your life. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and relationships (monogamous and non-monogamous), creating a space of emotional safety and curiosity.
Grounded in systemic training, I draw from collaborative therapy, attachment theory, feminist theory, and emotion-focused therapy. These approaches help us explore how cultural, generational, and relational dynamics influence your present-day challenges.
Are you longing for deeper connection but feeling stuck due to past wounds, trauma, or major life transitions? You may struggle with communication, self-worth, desire differences, or intimacy. Many clients seek support while navigating parenthood, opening a relationship, polyamory, kink, or redefining connection. You want relationships that feel authentic, secure, and fulfilling—and a therapist who offers a safe, affirming space to help you get there.
Are you longing for deeper connection but feeling stuck due to past wounds, trauma, or major life transitions? You may struggle with communication, self-worth, desire differences, or intimacy. Many clients seek support while navigating parenthood, opening a relationship, polyamory, kink, or redefining connection. You want relationships that feel authentic, secure, and fulfilling—and a therapist who offers a safe, affirming space to help you get there.
It is such a privilege to sit with people as they explore who they are, what they’ve been through, and where they want to go. My style is down-to-earth, collaborative, and rooted in genuine care.
In our work together, we might look at how your body and nervous system respond to stress, untangle the stories you tell yourself, or explore the parts of you that hold pain, wisdom, or resilience. I draw from approaches like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness, but more than anything, I listen and tailor therapy to what actually feels helpful for you.
It is such a privilege to sit with people as they explore who they are, what they’ve been through, and where they want to go. My style is down-to-earth, collaborative, and rooted in genuine care.
In our work together, we might look at how your body and nervous system respond to stress, untangle the stories you tell yourself, or explore the parts of you that hold pain, wisdom, or resilience. I draw from approaches like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness, but more than anything, I listen and tailor therapy to what actually feels helpful for you.
Life has a way of leading us into patterns that once made sense but now feel unhelpful. Maybe you're navigating relationship difficulties, wrestling with anxiety or depression, feeling disconnected, or standing at a crossroads. Or perhaps you simply sense there's more depth and satisfaction waiting for you. I offer a supportive, genuine therapeutic relationship where we can explore what's keeping you stuck and discover what becomes possible when you move forward. I work with individuals and couples seeking to understand themselves more fully and create relationships—with others and with themselves—that feel authentic and nourishing.
Life has a way of leading us into patterns that once made sense but now feel unhelpful. Maybe you're navigating relationship difficulties, wrestling with anxiety or depression, feeling disconnected, or standing at a crossroads. Or perhaps you simply sense there's more depth and satisfaction waiting for you. I offer a supportive, genuine therapeutic relationship where we can explore what's keeping you stuck and discover what becomes possible when you move forward. I work with individuals and couples seeking to understand themselves more fully and create relationships—with others and with themselves—that feel authentic and nourishing.
I'm glad you're here.
At my core, I believe in liberation- on a collective and individual level; freedom from all systems of oppression, and freedom from the ghosts of trauma that haunt us.
My clients are often those who have been told they are "too much," feel like the black sheep, or are leaders, creatives, or generational curse breakers. The bulk of my clients are neurodivergent people of color, highly sensitive, or live somewhere on the spectrum.
I'm glad you're here.
At my core, I believe in liberation- on a collective and individual level; freedom from all systems of oppression, and freedom from the ghosts of trauma that haunt us.
My clients are often those who have been told they are "too much," feel like the black sheep, or are leaders, creatives, or generational curse breakers. The bulk of my clients are neurodivergent people of color, highly sensitive, or live somewhere on the spectrum.
Whether your child is facing something specific or just not feeling like themselves, therapy can be a space where they feel seen without pressure, understood without needing to explain everything, and supported without needing to be "fixed." My approach weaves together attachment, trauma-informed care, and body-based healing. I believe healing happens in relationship, and that includes your relationship with your child, with yourself, and with your past as a family.
Whether your child is facing something specific or just not feeling like themselves, therapy can be a space where they feel seen without pressure, understood without needing to explain everything, and supported without needing to be "fixed." My approach weaves together attachment, trauma-informed care, and body-based healing. I believe healing happens in relationship, and that includes your relationship with your child, with yourself, and with your past as a family.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here! Reaching out for help and finding the right person can be challenging & there are many reasons that might have brought you to look for outside support; whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma, or just a big life change- I’m here to help! I bring a gentle, warm, and collaborative approach to supporting you with genuine care & interest. I offer evidence based strategies to help you make sense of the past, gain insights, find relief, & reconnect to yourself and those around you. I support you to explore deeper and help you gain clarity on your next steps. Reach out today, I look forward to hearing from you!
Hi, I’m glad you’re here! Reaching out for help and finding the right person can be challenging & there are many reasons that might have brought you to look for outside support; whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma, or just a big life change- I’m here to help! I bring a gentle, warm, and collaborative approach to supporting you with genuine care & interest. I offer evidence based strategies to help you make sense of the past, gain insights, find relief, & reconnect to yourself and those around you. I support you to explore deeper and help you gain clarity on your next steps. Reach out today, I look forward to hearing from you!
Perhaps the shame, low energy, avoidance, upsetting repeating habits or flashbacks are getting too heavy to carry alone. Even though you have loved ones or friends, you don't want to burden them with your struggles. You may find yourself overusing distractions or substances to experience relief but it's not enough to feel good long-term. Same with medications and other therapies. You are getting tired of feeling lost, unmotivated, or sad when you're alone, and you're drained by the unrest in your closest relationships. You would like to try therapy (again); perhaps, a deeper approach to psychological healing is appealing to you.
Perhaps the shame, low energy, avoidance, upsetting repeating habits or flashbacks are getting too heavy to carry alone. Even though you have loved ones or friends, you don't want to burden them with your struggles. You may find yourself overusing distractions or substances to experience relief but it's not enough to feel good long-term. Same with medications and other therapies. You are getting tired of feeling lost, unmotivated, or sad when you're alone, and you're drained by the unrest in your closest relationships. You would like to try therapy (again); perhaps, a deeper approach to psychological healing is appealing to you.
Are you looking to connect more fully to yourself, develop more fulfilling relationships, & experience your values & actions in alignment?
I offer psychotherapy for adults in Texas, on a sliding fee range.
My style is warm, direct, gentle & collaborative.
Rather than advising or pathologizing, I offer trustworthy connection & support as you move through pain, overwhelm, and uncertainty, & grapple with existential questions.
Are you looking to connect more fully to yourself, develop more fulfilling relationships, & experience your values & actions in alignment?
I offer psychotherapy for adults in Texas, on a sliding fee range.
My style is warm, direct, gentle & collaborative.
Rather than advising or pathologizing, I offer trustworthy connection & support as you move through pain, overwhelm, and uncertainty, & grapple with existential questions.
Dana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nine years of experience in mental health and a deep commitment to social justice. Her work began with survivors of domestic violence and families experiencing homelessness, where she provided crisis intervention and ongoing mental health support. After serving in the Peace Corps, Dana earned her degree from New York University and went on to provide therapy for foster children, adolescents, and families at the Coalition for Hispanic Family Services. She has also worked as a therapist at Austin Oaks Hospital and the Eating Recovery Center. Dana joined Ellie Mental Health 3 years ago.
Dana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nine years of experience in mental health and a deep commitment to social justice. Her work began with survivors of domestic violence and families experiencing homelessness, where she provided crisis intervention and ongoing mental health support. After serving in the Peace Corps, Dana earned her degree from New York University and went on to provide therapy for foster children, adolescents, and families at the Coalition for Hispanic Family Services. She has also worked as a therapist at Austin Oaks Hospital and the Eating Recovery Center. Dana joined Ellie Mental Health 3 years ago.
If you are feeling stuck, anxious about the past, or worried about the future- it may be time for a change. Maybe you don't even know where to start or it feels too overwhelming. Stress, anxiety, and depression can get in the way of your dreams or living life on your own terms. I believe that you have the ability to live the life you want. Together, we can work through the difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions that are holding you back. Although life can be complicated and messy, we can start to untangle it all and find solutions for healing.
If you are feeling stuck, anxious about the past, or worried about the future- it may be time for a change. Maybe you don't even know where to start or it feels too overwhelming. Stress, anxiety, and depression can get in the way of your dreams or living life on your own terms. I believe that you have the ability to live the life you want. Together, we can work through the difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions that are holding you back. Although life can be complicated and messy, we can start to untangle it all and find solutions for healing.
You have tried everything to feel fulfilled—in your family, career, and relationships. Yet beneath it all, there’s still an emptiness you can’t ignore.
On the outside, you may look like you have it all together, but inside, you feel lost.
You might be overwhelmed, exhausted from carrying the weight of everyone else’s expectations, including your own. Maybe you feel unheard, misunderstood, and increasingly resentful in your relationship. You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, and longing for more than just coping—you want to feel alive again.
Change is possible if you’re willing to do the work to make it happen.
You have tried everything to feel fulfilled—in your family, career, and relationships. Yet beneath it all, there’s still an emptiness you can’t ignore.
On the outside, you may look like you have it all together, but inside, you feel lost.
You might be overwhelmed, exhausted from carrying the weight of everyone else’s expectations, including your own. Maybe you feel unheard, misunderstood, and increasingly resentful in your relationship. You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, and longing for more than just coping—you want to feel alive again.
Change is possible if you’re willing to do the work to make it happen.
Hello! I’m Alex, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience working with adults, emerging adults, and adolescents in individual, group, and family settings. I am a queer-identified, neurodivergent therapist who is HAES aligned, neurodiversity affirming, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. In our space, it is my goal to provide a warm, compassionate, and welcoming place where you can feel safe to share about whatever is coming up for you. I’m passionate about working with women, LGBTQIA+ adults and adolescents, neurodivergent individuals, young adults, and Highly Sensitive People (HSP).
Hello! I’m Alex, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience working with adults, emerging adults, and adolescents in individual, group, and family settings. I am a queer-identified, neurodivergent therapist who is HAES aligned, neurodiversity affirming, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. In our space, it is my goal to provide a warm, compassionate, and welcoming place where you can feel safe to share about whatever is coming up for you. I’m passionate about working with women, LGBTQIA+ adults and adolescents, neurodivergent individuals, young adults, and Highly Sensitive People (HSP).
See more therapy options for Austin
Nearby Secular and Non-Religious Therapists Searches for Austin
- Buda
- Cedar Park
- Dripping Springs
- Georgetown
- Hutto
- Kyle
- Leander
- Lockhart
- Pflugerville
- Round Rock
- West Lake Hills
- Wimberley
Secular and Non-Religious Therapists
What is a secular and non religious approach in therapy?
Secular or non-religious therapy is a theoretical orientation used by many therapists and describes a therapeutic approach that does not rely on any specific religious or faith-based beliefs in the therapeutic process. Secular counselors will often approach therapy with an emphasis on evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients, instead of relying on religious practices, such as prayer or belief in God.
Is secular therapy primarily for non-religious people?
Both religious and non-religious individuals can benefit from secular therapy. People exploring their religious or spiritual beliefs may find it especially useful to work with a secular therapist who is unbiased toward any specific religion. While religious individuals might value the connection and familiarity of seeing a counselor who shares their beliefs, secular counseling can offer them the chance to develop coping skills independent of their religious practice, which can be beneficial in various aspects of their lives.
Can a secular approach to therapy help with religious trauma?
One major reason clients may seek a secular therapist is to process previous religious experiences, including religious trauma. Secular therapists can help clients manage symptoms of the trauma through practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). They can also encourage clients through talk therapy or psychodynamic approaches to explore the roots of their religious trauma. Since secular therapists do not have any predetermined religious beliefs, they can be particularly helpful for clients looking to explore their own religious beliefs following a history of religious trauma.
What does non religious marriage and premarital counseling involve?
Marriage and premarital counseling typically involves a couple meeting with a therapist to discuss topics such as planning for marriage, navigating a new marriage, addressing relationship challenges, and developing better communication and conflict resolution skills. Non-religious therapists assist couples in achieving these goals without adhering to specific religious beliefs or frameworks, often emphasizing inclusivity and non-judgment, especially for "nontraditional" couples. However, seeking couples therapy from a non-religious counselor does not mean religious topics are off-limits. In fact, non-religious couples from different religious backgrounds may benefit from a secular therapist who remains neutral toward the beliefs of each partner.