Find a therapist in Texas — covered by insurance

My practice utilizes a blend of compassionate care and practical life coaching, helping individuals and couples unearth their authentic selves, cultivate healthy relationships, and foster emotional intelligence. I focus on guiding clients toward personal growth, self-awareness, and creating a balanced, fulfilling life.

Life often presents many challenges that can leave people feeling unequipped to cope. As a result, some feel they are only surviving instead of thriving. The good news is this does not have to be the case and I may be able to help. I have over 12 years experience in the area of counseling, 6 of them as a licensed professional counselor. I help people work through grief, depression, anxiety, symptoms of bipolar disorder, relationship issues & anger management, among other areas of concern.

I specialize in working with teens and adults who struggle with anxiety, social anxiety, challenges with friendships or dating, perfectionism, people pleasing, faith and spirituality, self-confidence, ADHD or neurodivergence, and identity or sense of self. I love providing premarital counseling and early-marriage counseling, and love to integrate client's faith journeys into their counseling if requested.

Shelena is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with individuals to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

I believe effective mental health care begins with trust, collaboration, and respect. My approach is empowering, compassionate, open-minded, and culturally sensitive. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where adolescents and adults feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care. I combine a holistic, whole-person perspective with evidence-based psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy to create personalized treatment plans that promote lasting wellness.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with more than 20 years of nursing experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, community health centers, and behavioral health settings. I treat a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, psychotic disorders, and other complex mental health concerns.

My career also includes international humanitarian work with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), where I cared for individuals affected by conflict and crisis. This experience strengthened my commitment to providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and patient-centered care for people from diverse backgrounds.

In addition to my clinical practice, I am the author of several mental health publications that reflect my dedication to education, evidence-based practice, and improving patient outcomes. I currently provide comprehensive psychiatric care through Oasis Behavioral Health and Elevated Behavioral and Transitional Health.

My goal is to partner with you to develop practical, individualized strategies that improve emotional well-being, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.

Clients should know that I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for healing and growth. With expertise in psychotherapy, neurodivergence, trauma, and vocational rehabilitation, I take a holistic and client-centered approach, tailoring each session to individual needs.

I believe in empowering clients by helping them develop self-awareness, resilience, and practical coping strategies. My work is rooted in evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). I am especially passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those facing life transitions, trauma, or career challenges.

Above all, I value authenticity, collaboration, and creating a non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey toward mental wellness.

I’m Perla Abeyta, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the founder of Strength Within Counseling. I work with teens, adults, and couples who are navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, chronic stress, and difficult life transitions. I have particular experience working with veterans and military-connected clients, but my practice is open to anyone who is looking for support in understanding what they’ve been through, developing healthier patterns, and moving forward with greater confidence.