
Adnil-Michelle Mulero Segui, PhD

Alina Khomenko, PsyD

Ayla Bridges, LMFT

Carissa Cerda, PhD

Emily Kindschi, PsyD

Jameeka Moore, PsyD

Jayne Gaddy, M.A.

Katy Rothfelder, LPC-A, RBT

Lauren Garfield, LMFT

Mary (Lexie) Low, PsyD

Meghan McMackin, PhD

Mehwish Shahid, PhD

Melina Cavazos, PhD

Misti Nicholson, PsyD

Rachel Luna, LCSW

Rebecca Athanason, LCSW

Rebecca Suffness, PhD

Samantha Myhre, PhD

Sara DeShaw, MA, LPC, LCDC

Victoria Nguyen, PsyD

Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow
Adnil-Michelle Mulero Segui, PhD
Dr. Mulero Seguí specializes in working with the general population, ranging from young children to adults from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Mulero Seguí enjoys providing services to English-and-Spanish speaking clients who experience disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Other areas of interest include crisis intervention and interpersonal difficulties.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Mulero Seguí focuses primarily on a warm and empathic therapeutic relationship while implementing a client-centered approach. Moreover, she adopts a collaborative and culturally sensitive approach to therapy with her clients. Dr. Mulero Seguí believes in using the client’s strengths and resilient factors to complete therapeutic goals while utilizing different evidence-based modalities and techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Emotion-focused Therapy (EFT).
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Mulero Seguí obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus. She then completed all degree requirements for her Doctorate of Philosophy in Psychology at Ponce Health Sciences University, Puerto Rico, for which the degree conferral took place in December 2021. During her training experience, Dr. Mulero Seguí worked with children, adolescents, and families in community mental health, hospital, clinical, and psychiatric settings. In addition to her clinical experience, Dr. Mulero Seguí worked in research studies that focused on cancer survivors who experienced trauma after a natural disaster. This experience led her to focus her dissertation on resiliency factors in patients with chronic illnesses after a traumatic experience.
Dr. Mulero Seguí completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department, where she gained broad experience working with the underserved general population. She provided individual and group therapy to individuals in the following populations: clients suffering from substance-use disorders, pre-school children, adults with disabilities, young adults working towards educational and occupational goals, and domestic violence and human trafficking survivors. Dr. Mulero Seguí primarily worked within a multidisciplinary team and engaged in consultation to provide the best services to each individual. Dr. Mulero Seguí is currently under the supervision of Dr. Hilberg and Dr. McHugh Dillon.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Dr. Mulero Seguí enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and video games. Moreover, she enjoys discovering new music bands and aims to take music classes.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Mulero Seguí provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Allandale and Round Rock offices. For more information about Dr. Mulero Seguí’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Alina Khomenko, PsyD
AREAS OF SPECIALTY
Dr. Khomenko’s primary clinical interests include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (including Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder), Tourette’s Disorder, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (such as hair pulling and skin picking). While she has had experience with clients across the lifespan, Dr. Khomenko primarily works with adolescents and adults.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Khomenko provides clinical supervision to postdoctoral fellows.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Khomenko brings compassion, empathy, and directness to her work with clients. Utilizing a collaborative approach, Dr. Khomenko works closely with clients in a supportive environment to identify their individual goals and needs. She utilizes a strengths-based approach in her work, empowering and guiding clients to move toward meaningful progress and values-based behavioral change. Additionally, Dr. Khomenko recognizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship in facilitating desired change and works on creating an atmosphere of acceptance, safety, and openness. Dr. Khomenko focuses on equipping individuals with skills to facilitate desired life outcomes. She is trained in and consistently utilizes evidence-based approaches to treatment, which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training (HRT). Additionally, she incorporates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into her work, particularly mindfulness-based and values-based interventions.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Khomenko received her Bachelor of Science degree from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She then obtained her Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in School Psychology from Brooklyn College and worked as a School Psychologist for several years in the New York City public school system. Dr. Khomenko then went back to school and obtained her Doctor of Psychology degree in School Psychology from the APA accredited Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP) at Rutgers University. Dr. Khomenko is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (38026).
Dr. Khomenko has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in various outpatient settings. Through her training at the Tourette’s Syndrome Clinic at Rutgers University, she acquired extensive experience working with individuals with OCD, Tourette’s Disorder, and anxiety disorders. These areas are of particular interest to her. Additionally, she participated in the Tourette’s International Collaborative Genetics study at Rutgers University, the largest sharing cell and genetics repository for Tourette Disorder.
Dr. Khomenko completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Southwest Behavioral and Health Services in Arizona, a community mental health agency, where she conducted individual and group therapy with a diverse population of adults facing a wide range of psychological challenges. She also collaborated with medical personnel, psychiatrists, and outside agencies to coordinate client care. Dr. Khomenko began her journey at AAAOCDS as a postdoctoral fellow in 2018 and continued on with the practice as a licensed psychologist thereafter. She also had the privilege of overseeing AAAOCDS’ training program as Director of Clinical Training from November 2020- February 2022. Dr. Khomenko has completed intensive training in OCD treatment through the International OCD Foundation’s Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) and is committed to ongoing learning and professional development.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
When not in the office, Dr. Khomenko enjoys traveling, hiking, exploring Austin, and wondering what her cat is thinking.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Khomenko provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Westlake office. For more information about Dr. Khomenko’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Ayla Bridges, LMFT
Ms. Bridges’ clinical interests include OCD, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, specific phobias, ADHD, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and externalizing behavioral concerns. Ms. Bridges is particularly passionate about helping clients and their families to manage their symptoms through new experiences, positive reinforcement and healthier coping mechanisms. Ms. Bridges is experienced in working with people across the lifespan and particularly enjoys working with children, young adults, and adults.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Ms. Bridges believes that experience is our best teacher. However, sometimes we need additional support to muster the internal and external skills one needs to face certain experiences. Ms. Bridges’ aim is to make her clients their own best therapist by warmly and collaboratively working with clients and their support network to develop tools and strategies to address their symptoms and face their fears. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients build insight and develop practical ways of approaching difficult situations. As well as exposure and response prevention (E/RP) to help clients systematically face feared situations. Ms. Bridges is also versed in parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT), and the COMBs model.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Bridges received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Sonoma State University in Psychology and Liberal Studies (The Hutchins Program). She earned a Master of Science degree in Child and Family Studies, with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northern Illinois University. Ms. Bridges has experience working with children, adolescents, parents, families, and young adults in non-profit and private practice settings, as well as in a Wilderness Therapy setting. After graduate school, Ms. Bridges worked as an MFT Associate at The Santa Rosa Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy where she received extensive training and experience in the treatment of all anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Insomnia, and Habit Disorders, including skin picking and Trichotillomania under the supervision of Litsa Tanner. After successfully completing the training program and gaining licensure in California in 2019. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas (204387) and the state of California (117144).
COMMITMENT TO ONGOING EDUCATION
Ms. Bridges highly values education, and frequently seeks out training to deepen her clinical knowledge. Her professional affiliations include:
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (TAMFT)
Austin Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (Austin AMFT)
California Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
PERSONAL INTERESTS
In her spare time, Ms. Bridges enjoys spending time with her family, exploring Austin, walking, baking and playing board games with friends.
AVAILABILITY
Ms. Bridges provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Round Rock office. For more information about Ms. Bridges availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, Clinical Director
Carissa Cerda, PhD
Dr. Cerda specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. Her primary clinical interests include obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, generalized anxiety, school-related anxiety, depression and disruptive behaviors. Additionally, given her experience working as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP), Dr. Cerda possesses a thorough understanding of special education services within the public school system.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Cerda is guided by a developmental framework in her work with children and adolescents. She takes an integrative approach to therapy, which allows her to tailor therapeutic services to the unique needs of each individual child and family. Dr. Cerda incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, acceptance and commitment therapy, and systems theory in her clinical work. However, first and foremost, she remains approachable and accepting as she provides children and families with a trusting, therapeutic relationship. Her professional and personal experiences have reinforced her belief in resiliency and the importance of heeding the various, interconnected systems that impact children’s development. As such, Dr. Cerda values collaboration (e.g., with schools and other service providers) and the practical potential of utilizing a strength-based approach to therapy focused on providing protective factors (e.g., caring relationships) to foster success, as opposed to eradicating risk factors.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Cerda earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Texas A&M University in College Station, TX. She also received a Master of Education degree in Educational Psychology and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in School Psychology at Texas A&M University. She has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (T-F CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and parent child interaction therapy (PCIT).
Dr. Cerda has experience working with children and adolescents in outpatient, school, and medical settings. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the Texas Child Study Center and Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, Texas, where she gained experience providing evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Dr. Cerda completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Bastrop Independent School District where she conducted monolingual and bilingual evaluations of children for special education services. She also gained experience in providing school-based counseling services, conducting functional behavior assessments (FBA), consulting in the creation/implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIP), and participating in Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings. She is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (37492).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Dr. Cerda loves animals, especially horses and dogs. She is particularly fond of her beagle. Dr. Cerda’s favorite way to spend time is in the countryside with her friends and family. She also enjoys reading, creating art, exercising, and watching football.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Cerda provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Westlake and Round Rock offices. For more information about Dr. Cerda’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Emily Kindschi, PsyD
Dr. Kindschi’s professional passions and clinical expertise are in the treatment of anxiety disorders (particularly of obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder) as well as depression/mood disorders and trauma-related difficulties. She also specializes in treating people with perfectionistic struggles, self-esteem concerns, and challenging interpersonal dynamics. While Dr. Kindschi has provided care for individuals across the lifespan, she primarily works with adult individual and couples therapy clients.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
If you are considering Dr. Kindschi for a therapist, you can expect active, change-oriented therapy that incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion. Dr. Kindschi believes in meeting the person where they are at, and promoting progress through a strengths-based and consistent behavioral approach, emphasizing the acquisition of practical skills and acceptance. Throughout treatment she prioritizes the therapeutic relationship, creating a trusting and safe space for clients to share their experiences, and to provide educational and collaborative treatment. Within the relationship, Dr. Kindschi offers an open and affirming attitude when working with the individual to encourage meaningful growth and values-consistent behaviors.
She is committed to providing innovative and empirically-supported treatment, recognizing the importance of individualized care. Thus, Dr. Kindschi approaches therapy with a mindful intention of first assessing and understanding a client’s unique experience and goals for therapy, and then tailoring the treatment plan based on each person’s needs and level of readiness. As therapy involves an honest and collaborative relationship, Dr. Kindschi offers and welcomes person-centered and compassionate feedback throughout treatment. She is passionate about what she does and wants to help clients succeed in their various short- and long-term goals. As such, Dr. Kindschi is also available for consultation to help determine the best therapeutic fit.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Kindschi earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Sociology as well as a certificate in Criminal Justice at the University of Wisconsin—Madison. She received her Master of Science and Doctorate of Clinical Psychology degrees from the APA-accredited Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology in Milwaukee, WI. Throughout her academic training, Dr. Kindschi completed several clinical practicums working with children, adolescents, and adults by providing individual and group psychotherapy as well as psychological testing and assessment in numerous outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential programs. She completed her APA-accredited internship at La Frontera Center in Tucson, AZ, where she gained a breadth of experience working in various facets of community mental health by providing integrated outpatient care, treating university students with co-occurring learning and/or attentional disorders, and working with clients experiencing severe and persistent mental illness in a residential setting. Dr. Kindschi received further specialized training in treating OCD, anxiety, and mood disorders during her 18-month postdoctoral fellowship at St. Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute in their Center for OCD and Anxiety-Related Disorders IOP setting in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Kindschi is a clinical psychologist dually licensed in the states of Texas (38446) and Missouri (2018042717).
COMMITMENT TO ONGOING EDUCATION
Dr. Kindschi highly values education, and frequently seeks out training to deepen her clinical knowledge. Her professional affiliations include:
American Psychological Association
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
PERSONAL INTERESTS
During her free time, Dr. Kindschi enjoys spending time with her two cats, going to concerts, hiking outdoors, and being a true cheesehead at heart by continually cheering on the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Kindschi provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Westlake office. For more information about Dr. Kindschi’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Jameeka Moore, PsyD
Dr. Jameeka Moore’s clinical interests include obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, specific phobias and mood disorders. She has experience working with clients across the age span and particularly enjoys working with adults.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Moore takes a team approach while working with clients. She strives to educate clients on factors contributing to and maintaining their symptoms, while working collaboratively to impact cognitive and behavioral change. Dr. Moore utilizes evidence-based approaches while working with clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Behavior Modification and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Moore is a licensed psychologist in Texas (38007) and Illinois. She attended Northern Illinois University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and graduated with special honors from the Psychology Department. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dr. Moore has trained with Dr. Arthur Freeman a recognized expert in the field and is a graduate of the International OCD Foundation’s Behavior Therapy Training Institute. She has also received training in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Behavior Modification and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Dr. Moore has experience applying empirically validated treatment approaches in her work with individuals, families, and couples. She has worked with clients across the age span in multiple settings including academic, inpatient psychiatric, community mental health, home-based, and outpatient group practices. Dr. Moore completed an APA accredited doctoral internship at a community mental health center servicing several cities in Northwest Indiana. She recently relocated to Austin from Chicago, where she was on staff at a group practice serving as the OCD and anxiety specialist.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Dr. Moore enjoys traveling, reading, and socializing around sports, music, and food.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Moore provides online video therapy sessions. For more information about Dr. Moore’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Jayne Gaddy, M.A.
Ms. Gaddy specializes in working with children, teens, families, and women of all ages. She has worked with clients with diverse backgrounds over the thirty-plus years as a therapist; various ages, races, socioeconomic statuses, educational levels, occupations, and genders. With client issues ranging from anxiety to sexual abuse to divorce recovery to grief to fostering and adoption, Ms. Gaddy provides a safe, caring relationship through the therapeutic partnership.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Ms. Gaddy uses a blended approach to therapy in that she chooses from various therapeutic methods to most benefit her client’s goals and needs. Some examples: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems, Art Therapy. The ultimate objective is to increase the understanding of thoughts and behavior patterns in order to help increase one’s functioning and well-being and to decrease the bothersome thoughts and behaviors that negatively impact day-to-day living. Depending on what the presenting issue is, Ms. Gaddy tailors her approach to treatment so that the client reaches the goal they are desiring to achieve. Anxiety also affects family relationships, so Ms. Gaddy finds it beneficial to include family members in treatment, when indicated.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Gaddy graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois with both her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology. She is licensed as a Professional Counselor (#10604) and also as a Marriage and Family Therapist (#3053). She has worked in multiple settings with children and adolescents: in-patient hospitals, residential treatment centers, a therapeutic day school, and many years in private practice. She most recently worked in Houston as a Clinical Director and therapist at an Anxiety Center where she assisted clients of all ages and diagnoses.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Ms. Gaddy’s primary interest outside of work is her family. She is a mother of four and grandmother of two. She and her husband prioritize pouring into their children’s and grandchildren’s lives more than any other chosen activity. Ms. Gaddy loves hiking, photography, and music; she finds ways to integrate them all with family time.
AVABILITY
Ms. Gaddy is currently accepting clients in Westlake and for teletherapy. For more information about Ms. Gaddy’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate
Katy Rothfelder, LPC-A, RBT
AREAS OF SPECIALTY
Ms. Rothfelder (she, her, hers) specializes in supporting individuals suffering with OCD and related disorders as well as neurodiverse populations. She also enjoys working with individuals and families experiencing behavioral challenges and/or life stressors such as grief and loss. Ms. Rothfelder believes that people of all identities and abilities, in all bodies, deserve equal access to quality mental health care. She strives to embody anti-discrimination, anti-oppression, anti-stigma, anti-racism, and ant-ableism.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Ms. Rothfelder believes clients and their families who have come to therapy have made courageous choices to seek services, and starts from a place of compassion to assess the needs of those she works with. She is passionate about helping her clients from an evidence-based, therapeutically supportive and collaborative stance with confidence and hope in their capacity to grow and thrive in the life most meaningful to them.
Strongly rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Ms. Rothfelder understands engaging fully in life means opening up to the full experience of being human. That means having unhelpful thoughts, feeling painful emotions and urges, and getting stuck in unworkable patterns from time-to-time. Just as she challenges herself to grow through these human experiences with empirically supported and mindfulness-based practice, she will validate your journey, while also challenging you to move boldly in the directions you care most about. Therapy with Ms. Rothfelder may mean looking at long ingrained patterns, heavy content, or staring fear in the face. Whatever the process may bring, she’ll be right there with you in the discomfort and joy of showing up for life.
Ms. Rothfelder is an advocate and cheerleader for compassionately tailored, evidence based practice including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and exposure response prevention (ERP). She commits to these empirically supported treatments with flexibility and curiosity for each client’s own journey, fitting treatment to address the values, cultures, and needs of each person. Further, Ms. Rothfelder celebrates diversity and strives to center the needs of people in marginalized bodies, identities, and communities.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Rothfelder earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from Southwestern University with a focus on interpersonal factors in disclosing and relating to mental illness. She earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University, where she gained clinical experience in school settings and amongst multi disciplinary teams for challenges related to anxiety and related disorders, neurodiverse populations, grief and loss, as well as other comorbid stressors. Ms. Rothfelder is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate currently working under the supervision of Dr. John Hart (64336).
She has completed a number of advanced trainings in Applied Behavior Analysis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ms. Rothfelder is also a SPACE Certified Provider through the Yale Child Study Center. Prior to beginning her graduate degree, Ms. Rothfelder worked for several years in the development and marketing of local nonprofits and provided ABA services to autistic learners and other neurodiverse populations. She is a published author on mental health narrative in one of the nation’s top rhetorical journals.
COMMITMENT TO ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Ms. Rothfelder provides upwards of 15 hours a week in volunteer service to numerous organizations such as the International OCD Foundation and OCD Texas, The Association for Contextual Behavioral Sciences, and the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. She believes advocacy to be a core part of her work as a clinician, and is committed to giving back to her community through dissemination of evidence-based treatments and increasing access to care. As such, Ms. Rothfelder attends multiple trainings a month, staying up to date on the most current and top treatments offered for those she works with.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
A previous college athlete, Ms. Rothfelder is a mover and a shaker in her free time! After work and on the weekends, she and her pup Thor are often exploring the city on foot or by bike, hitting up all the local coffee shops, or heading to the river to spend time with friends and family.
AVAILABILITY
Ms. Rothfelder provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Allandale office. For more information about Ms. Rothfelder’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Lauren Garfield, LMFT
Ms. Garfield has experience helping others with concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, parenting, grief and loss, building healthy relationships, and improving self-esteem. Ms. Garfield is particularly passionate about helping clients to decrease and manage anxiety, supporting parents and their children in building positive bonds, and helping individuals and families who are confronted with difficult life transitions. Ms. Garfield works with children, adolescents, parents, families, and young adults.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Ms. Garfield holds the belief that we are all able to cope with difficult experiences, but that sometimes a particular problem outweighs the internal and external skills and support to which we have access. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients build insight and develop practical ways of approaching difficult situations. Ms. Garfield also views individuals and families through a family systems lens, with a deep understanding of how relationships significantly impact each person’s beliefs about themselves and the world. Therapy certainly approaches challenges, failures, sadness, and fears, but Ms. Garfield also values celebrating successes, joys, and strengths.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Garfield received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in Psychology, with Honors, with a minor in Music. She earned a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. Ms. Garfield has experience working with children, adolescents, parents, families, and young adults in school, residential, and private practice settings, as well as the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara. Prior to beginning graduate school, Ms. Garfield gained research experience in the Life-span Development Lab at Stanford University where she assisted with studies examining motivation and emotion changes across the lifespan. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas (202903).
COMMITMENT TO ONGOING EDUCATION
Ms. Garfield highly values education, and frequently seeks out training to deepen her clinical knowledge. Her professional affiliations include:
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (TAMFT)
Austin Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (Austin AMFT)
California Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
PERSONAL INTERESTS
In her spare time, Ms. Garfield enjoys spending time with her family, exploring Austin, and cheering for the Golden State Warriors.
AVAILABILITY
Ms. Garfield provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Round Rock office. For more information about Ms. Garfield’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow
Mary (Lexie) Low, PsyD
Dr. Low’s clinical interests include obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, personality disorders, and other anxiety spectrum disorders. She has experience working with clients across the lifespan and particularly enjoys working with adolescents and adults.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Low approaches treatment with warmth, compassion, empathy, and humor. She fosters a collaborative relationship in therapy, encouraging clients to take an active role in developing their unique treatment plans and goals. Dr. Low utilizes a strengths-based approach in her work, emphasizing individual clients’ strengths and skills while providing new skills to accomplish therapeutic goals. She also appreciates learning what clients value and enjoy but may have avoided due to symptoms related to anxiety or depression. Dr. Low highly values authenticity, creating a safe environment and genuine relationship with clients. Dr. Low is also aware of and attentive to diversity, spirituality, sexuality, gender, and multicultural factors and incorporates these factors into treatment with her clients.
Dr. Low is trained in evidence-based approaches to treatment, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Dr. Low also incorporates Motivational Interviewing (MI) and mindfulness-based interventions into her work with clients.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Low earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. She earned a Master of Education degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. Dr. Low earned a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Regent University of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dr. Low has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community mental health, university, and Veteran Affairs inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Low completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the VA North Texas Healthcare System in Dallas, TX. At the VA, she gained in-depth experience working with Veterans in acute inpatient psychology and outpatient settings, including behavioral health, general mental health, and comorbid trauma/substance use clinics. Dr. Low is currently under the supervision of Dr. Khomenko (38026).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Dr. Low loves to rock climb, run, hike, and spend time outdoors. In her free time, she enjoys attending concerts, going to museums, and exploring restaurants in Austin. She also enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Steve Nash.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Low provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Westlake and Round Rock offices. For more information about Dr. Low’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Meghan McMackin, PhD
Dr. McMackin specializes in working with children, adolescents, parents/caregivers, and families. Her primary clinical interests include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), specific phobias, selective mutism, and eating disorders. Dr. McMackin’s specialization in school psychology has afforded her a thorough understanding of educational systems, including 504 and Special Education programming.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. McMackin is a warm and compassionate therapist who approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, emphasizing individual clients’ positive attributes and genuinely believing in their autonomy and ability to succeed. Dr. McMackin’s genuine compassion and care for clients creates a safe and trusting environment in which clients feel comfortable and at-ease participating in therapy as they work towards identified goals.
Dr. McMackin also approaches assessment and therapy from an ecological framework, considering the multiple environmental and cultural factors which impact development, treatment, and outcomes. To this end, Dr. McMackin works collaboratively with clients and parents/families to support treatment efforts. Dr. McMackin also consults and collaborates with educational professionals and other service providers to encourage wrap-around support to promote positive outcomes.
Dr. McMackin is trained in evidence-based treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), exposure therapy, family therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Dr. McMackin also has training in behavioral consultation with parents/caregivers and educational professionals to support positive child and adolescent behavior at school and at home.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. McMackin earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Wisconsin – Madison in Madison, Wisconsin. There, she earned a double-major in Psychology and Spanish. After earning her Bachelor’s degree, Dr. McMackin worked for four years as a case manager and family support specialist for an early literacy program. She then returned to the University of Wisconsin – Madison to receive her Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Educational Psychology.
Dr. McMackin has experience working with children, adolescents, and families in community mental health, school, and clinical settings. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District in Cypress, TX. Through internship, she gained experience administering evidence-based assessment and school-based counseling services to children and adolescents receiving special education services for a range of presenting concerns. She also consulted with educational staff and families, provided parent training, developed behavior intervention plans (BIP), and participated in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Dr. McMackin is currently under the supervision of Dr. Nicholson.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Dr. McMackin loves to travel, stay active, and spend time outdoors. She loves to explore parks and trails in Austin with her dog, Finnigan. She also loves cooking and trying new restaurants.

Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow
Mehwish Shahid, PhD
Dr. Shahid specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. Her primary clinical interests include social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), specific phobias, separation anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Additionally, given her training in School Psychology, Dr. Shahid is knowledgeable about the educational supports and accommodations provided to students via 504 and special education services within the public school system.
Approach to Therapy
Dr. Shahid is passionate about establishing strong, trusting relationships with her clients. She enjoys collaborating with clients not only to help them learn the evidence-based skills needed to cope with anxious thoughts and feelings, but to assist them in practicing those skills during challenging situations. Dr. Shahid utilizes a cognitive-behavioral orientation within an ecological systems framework, which considers the role of sociocultural factors in children and adolescents’ development. She has experience working with a diverse range of individuals, and she strives to deliver culturally sensitive services to clients.
Education, Training, and Experience
Dr. Shahid completed her undergraduate training at the University at Albany, SUNY, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She then went on to attend the University of Rhode Island, where she earned her Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Psychology, with a specific concentration in School Psychology. For her doctoral dissertation, she conducted a study exploring students’ attitudes and preferences towards seeking help for mental health concerns, particularly anxiety disorders.
During her graduate career, Dr. Shahid received training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention Therapy through the Child Anxiety Program at the University of Rhode Island’s Psychological Consultation Center. During this time, Dr. Shahid gained experience providing evidence-based treatment to children and adolescents struggling with a variety of anxiety disorders, including OCD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, and specific phobias.
Further, Dr. Shahid completed practica in several different school districts across the states of Rhode Island and Connecticut. In these practica, she received training in providing counseling to children and adolescents with a variety of needs and completing cognitive, academic, and behavioral assessments for special educations evaluations.
Dr. Shahid completed her predoctoral internship in the Bastrop Independent School District, where she provided school-based counseling to students with disabilities such as autism, depression, ADHD, and learning disabilities. She also completed evaluations for special education services. Additionally, Dr. Shahid provided consultation services to teachers and parents, conducted functional behavior assessments (FBA), contributed to the development and implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIP), and participated in Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings.
Presently, Dr. Shahid is completing her postdoctoral fellowship under the supervision of Dr. Nicholson (#36270).
Personal Interests
Dr. Shahid enjoys traveling, reading, and hiking. As a foodie, she also greatly enjoys exploring new restaurants around Austin.
Availability
Dr. Shahid provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Round Rock office. For more information about Dr. Shahid’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow
Melina Cavazos, PhD
Dr. Melina Cavazos’ (preferred pronouns: she/her) primary clinical interests include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship difficulties, and life transition difficulties. Dr. Cavazos enjoys working with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families. Additionally, Dr. Cavazos’ training in school psychology has also equipped her with an understanding of the school system and related services.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Cavazos understands that therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Dr. Cavazos uses warmth and empathy with her clients in building a strong therapeutic relationship, and aims to empower her clients in their journey for lasting change. Dr. Cavazos is fully committed to taking a collaborative approach, meaning that both Dr. Cavazos and her client are fully engaged in the therapeutic process, and that the outcome will be the product of their combined efforts both in and out of session.
Dr. Cavazos uses a trauma-informed and integrative approach in working with clients, primarily rooted in cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and systems, to best meets her client’s therapeutic goals. She also believes in building client strengths, and building other skills that could be helpful for the client. Dr. Cavazos also believes that working within the client’s system, such as teachers, medical professionals, and others, can also be beneficial when appropriate.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Cavazos earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX. She then earned her Master of Education in Educational Psychology at Texas A&M University in College Station, TX. Dr. Cavazos is in the final stages of her dissertation project, and has her Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology degree conferred from Texas A&M University on December 17, 2021.
Dr. Cavazos has varied experiences in providing consultation with parents and other professionals, and using evidence-based treatments in providing individual, group, and family therapy with persons of varying age ranges and diverse backgrounds. Dr. Cavazos is also equipped with providing psychological, psychoneurological, and psychoeducational assessment, as well as academic and behavioral interventions. Previous practica settings include community mental health clinics, schools, private practice clinics, and outpatient psychiatric clinics. Dr. Cavazos completed her APA-approved pre-doctoral internship at the Illinois School Psychology Internship Consortium (ISPIC), where she worked with at-risk populations within various settings in rural Illinois. Dr. Cavazos is looking forward to completing her post-doctoral internship at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists in her pursuit of becoming a licensed psychologist.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
In her free time, Dr. Cavazos enjoys spending time with her husband, trying new foods, drinking boba tea, playing video games, and playing with her (mischievous) dachshund, Pancake.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Cavazos provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Allendale and Westlake offices. For more information about Dr. Cavazos’ availability or to schedule an appointment, please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Director, Licensed Psychologist
Misti Nicholson, PsyD
Dr. Misti Nicholson is a licensed psychologist and director of clinical services at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists (formerly Austin Anxiety and Behavioral Health Services) in Round Rock, Central Austin, and West Lake Hills, Texas. Dr. Nicholson founded Austin Anxiety and Behavioral Health Services in 2012 in response to a need for greater access to evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders in the Austin area. Dr. Nicholson is also the co-founder of Hill Country OCD Treatment Center, which provides intensive outpatient treatment for patients with severe OCD.
AREAS OF SPECIALTY
Dr. Nicholson specializes in treating anxiety disorders, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), phobias, panic disorder, and selective mutism. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Nicholson recognizes that anxiety often affects relationships and the family as a whole, so she also enjoys working with parents and families.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Nicholson brings warmth, sensitivity, gentle humor, and over a decade of experience to her work with clients. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help clients learn new ways of responding to anxious thoughts and feelings. Dr. Nicholson helps clients identify and integrate their existing strengths with new coping skills to live a more meaningful and value-driven life without the heavy weight of anxiety.
Dr. Nicholson works collaboratively with clients and families to clearly define treatment goals, develop an individualized treatment plan, and regularly review progress. As a mother of three boys, Dr. Nicholson understands the difficult task of balancing family, career, and other demands. Her firsthand knowledge of the challenges of parenting an anxious child allows her to approach her clinical work and relate to parents with a unique insider’s perspective. She values collaboration and also works closely with schools, physicians, psychiatrists, and other treatment providers.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Nicholson earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She earned her Master of Arts and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon. Dr. Nicholson completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Cherokee Health Systems in Knoxville, TN, where she gained valuable experience working with patients in a pediatric primary care clinic, an outpatient day treatment program, and an outpatient behavioral health clinic.
Dr. Nicholson completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Austin Center for the Treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Austin OCD) where she also served as Director of Child and Adolescent Services. While at Austin OCD, Dr. Nicholson received extensive training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP). She is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (#36270). Dr. Nicholson is a graduate of the International OCD Foundation’s Pediatric Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI). She has also completed specialized training through the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
COMMITMENT TO ONGOING EDUCATION
Committed to staying current on research and providing the most up-to-date treatment interventions available, Dr. Nicholson regularly attends anxiety and OCD trainings and conferences. Dr. Nicholson’s professional affiliations include:
International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
Texas Psychological Association
Capital Area Psychological Association
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Outside of the office, Dr. Nicholson enjoys hiking with her husband and sons. She also enjoys reading, baking, and traveling.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Rachel Luna, LCSW
AREAS OF SPECIALITY
Ms. Luna specializes in helping clients with anxiety disorders, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder. She also enjoys working with clients on relationship issues and life transitions. Ms. Luna works primarily with adults, but she also has significant experience with adolescents.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Ms. Luna’s primary approach to therapy is building a strong therapeutic relationship based on compassion and collaboration. She combines cognitive behavioral therapy with integrative wellness practices such as mindfulness and meditation. For clients with trauma, Ms. Luna utilizes cognitive processing therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Luna earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. She trained in cognitive behavioral therapy in an intensive outpatient program in Austin. Ms. Luna has worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric units, veterans’ services, and in the criminal justice system. She received her training in cognitive processing therapy and EMDR while managing an outpatient mental health program for veterans. She also has significant experience working with clients with co-occurring substance use disorders.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Ms. Luna enjoys spending time with family, hiking, swimming, reading, and traveling.
AVAILABILITY
Ms. Luna is accepting clients in Round Rock and for teletherapy. For more information about Ms. Luna’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Rebecca Athanason, LCSW
AREAS OF SPECIALTY
Ms. Athanason’s clinical specialties include teletherapy, obsessive
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Through her compassionate, action-oriented approach to therapy, Ms. Athanason maintains a safe, trusting environment to help her clients reconceptualize and better understand their experiences. She provides clients with a conceptual framework to help them understand the neurological processes that lead to their mental wellness struggles and equips them with practical skills to put into action. She uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in her work with clients. She also works from a Health at Every Size (HAES) perspective. Valuing the importance of taking the client’s whole environment into perspective, Ms. Athanason works closely with parents, schools, physicians, dietitians/nutritionists, and other treatment providers.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Ms. Athanason received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and earned her Master of Science degree in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with adults (including seniors and active duty/veterans), adolescents, and children in outpatient, residential, and inpatient treatment settings. Ms. Athanason worked at the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry department in Gainesville, Florida, where she gained valuable experience in researching and implementing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques working with patients experiencing anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, trichotillomania, and mental health disorders exacerbated by physical health diagnoses. She received diverse training experiences throughout her educational career. Ms. Athanason worked with children and families at Easter Seals of Central Texas, with a focus on managing behavioral symptoms both at home and at school. During this time, she also received training in trauma focused-cognitive behavioral therapy for children and adolescents. At the Central Texas VA she worked in both inpatient hospice and the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Clinic, where she received training and experience in CBT and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
Post-graduation, Ms. Athanason worked with senior citizens and veterans in Austin, Texas, with an emphasis on end-of-life issues, grief, dementia/Alzheimer’s disease, and depression. She also worked with clients with acute psychiatric illness (child and adult), PTSD, eating disorders, and substance abuse (civilian, veteran, and active duty) in an inpatient and residential setting. She became a Certified Provider in CPT and received training in ACT. She also has extensive training and experience in using mindfulness and meditation for mental health issues. She is a licensed clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas (56552).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
When she isn’t in the office, Ms. Athanason enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and being outdoors, traveling, yoga, cooking, sewing, and playing with her two dogs.
AVAILABILITY
Ms. Athanason provides online video therapy sessions. For more information about Ms. Athanason’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Rebecca Suffness, PhD
Dr. Suffness specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families, with a particular interest in working with pre-adolescents and adolescents. Her primary clinical interests include depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, generalized anxiety, and other anxiety disorders. Additionally, Dr. Suffness completed her pre-doctoral internship in the school system, which provided her with experience with and knowledge of special education services within the public school system.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Suffness prefers to utilize evidence-based forms of therapy, but she also values personalization in order to provide the best form of therapy for each individual’s needs. As such, Dr. Suffness incorporates components from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention, and other evidence-based treatments in her clinical work. These forms of therapy require a collaborative relationship with the clients and families, so Dr. Suffness prioritizes building rapport and ensuring that therapeutic plans are discussed at the start of treatment and as treatment progresses. Additionally, based on her experience in the school system, Dr. Suffness recognizes the importance of the time spent in school for children and adolescents, so therapy is customized to assist children and adolescents in all domains in which they are seeking help.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Suffness earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with a minor in English, at Duke University in Durham, NC. She also received Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) in Greensboro, NC. She has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), and exposure and response prevention (ERP). She also has experience leading evidence-based group therapy in outpatient, inpatient, and school settings.
Dr. Suffness has experience working with children and adolescents in outpatient, inpatient, school, and medical settings. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS), where she gained experience providing school-based therapy to children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of concerns that were having an academic impact for these students, including providing therapy through a program for students with severe emotional disabilities. Dr. Suffness completed evaluations of toddlers, children, and adolescents for special education services; completed threat assessments; and assisted with district-wide crisis interventions. Additionally, she participated in meetings to assess eligibility for a disability as well as meetings to discuss and implement in-school interventions for children having difficulty with emotions, behavior, and/or academics. Dr. Suffness is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (38044).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
While Dr. Suffness is adamant that she is not a “cat lady,” she will openly discuss her fondness for her blonde tabby named Oscar Wildecat. Dr. Suffness enjoys various movies and TV shows, reading fiction, and eating excellent food. As a Dallas native, she is a fan of the Dallas baseball, basketball, and hockey teams. Additionally, as a Duke alumna, she is a fan of Duke basketball. Dr. Suffness also loves to travel, both abroad and domestically, and she has a goal to visit all 50 states.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Suffness provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Westlake office. For more information about Dr. Suffness’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

IOP Coordinator, Licensed Psychologist
Samantha Myhre, PhD
Dr. Myhre’s clinical interests include anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias, and separation anxiety), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression and self esteem. She has experience working with clients across the lifespan and particularly enjoys working with adolescents and adults.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Myhre places a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship in her work with clients. She works to ensure that her clients feel safe to express themselves and that the process of treatment is both collaborative and educational. Dr. Myhre is also attentive to diversity and multicultural factors. She approaches her work with a gentle demeanor and humor. Dr. Myhre has a passion for evidence-based treatments and enjoys educating clients and families on why a specific treatment was selected.
Dr. Myhre works primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) lens while maintaining the importance of the relationship with her clients. She has training in and experience providing traditional CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Behavioral Activation (BA), Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Dr. Myhre also incorporates Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) into her work.
Dr. Myhre strongly values collaboration with families, schools, and other treatment providers to ensure that clients receive whole-health care.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Myhre earned her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education from Jamestown College (now University of Jamestown) in Jamestown, ND. She earned her Master of Science degree in Psychology and doctorate degree in Psychological Clinical Science from North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND. Dr. Myhre has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community mental health, university, and psychiatric research settings. Dr. Myhre completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at AspenPointe in Colorado Springs, CO where she gained a breadth of experience working in various facets of community mental health including adult outpatient services, child and adolescent testing and assessment, integrated care in a primary care clinic, and crisis and acute inpatient settings. Dr. Myhre completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists under the supervision of Dr. Misti Nicholson, where she gained additional training in the treatment of anxiety disorders and OCD-spectrum disorders. She is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (#38475).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
During her free time, Dr. Myhre enjoys traveling, live music, being outdoors, playing and watching sports, the Austin food scene, and spending time with her partner and family.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Myhre provides online video therapy sessions and also sees clients at our Allendale office. For more information about Dr. Myhre’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara DeShaw, MA, LPC, LCDC
Sara is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor who specializes in providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. Over the past 11 years, she has helped clients of diverse backgrounds and ages struggling with anxiety and other related issues. She is excited to bring this experience to the clients of Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialists.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Sara is passionate about delivering evidence-based counseling to her clients so that they are able to achieve their goals and experience positive outcomes. In her approach to therapy, she uses a variety of modalities, such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered, and Solution-Focused, that are tailored specifically to her clients’ needs. She also incorporates elements of mindfulness and creative therapy.
Additionally, she provides her clients opportunities during therapy to explore self-discovery and to develop interpersonal awareness. She strives to build trusting relationships and has unconditional positive regard for her clients. She believes therapy is an opportunity to experience a significant relationship in a safe and supportive environment where authentic change is possible.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
A graduate of Texas A&M University, Sara holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University and is licensed as a Professional Counselor (#67965) and a Chemical Dependency Counselor (#12146). She has 11 years of experience in mental health counseling and case management in both the nonprofit and education sectors. Most recently, she worked in schools where she advocated for and helped implement behavior intervention support for children and adolescents with mental health needs. She also became a certified practitioner of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI).
PERSONAL INTERESTS
In her free time, Sara enjoys gardening and working on projects around her home, as well as visiting local coffee shops and restaurants. She loves spending time with her twin sister, friends, family, and her two cats. She also enjoys walking, hiking, and practicing pilates, mindfulness, and a daily meditation practice.
AVAILABILITY
Sara is currently accepting clients in Westlake, Allandale and for teletherapy. For more information about Sara’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.

Licensed Psychologist
Victoria Nguyen, PsyD
Dr. Nguyen’s clinical specialties include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression, and other mood disorders.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
Dr. Nguyen values the importance of collaboration and views her work with clients as a partnership. She approaches therapy with an intention of first clearly assessing and understanding a client’s experience and goals for therapy. She then works mutually with clients and families to establish an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of the client. Dr. Nguyen’s clients and colleagues describe her as caring and attentive. They also appreciate her sensitive yet direct approach to therapy along with her strong sense of humor.
Dr. Nguyen takes an integrative approach to her clinical work and relies on research supported interventions. Her treatment specialties include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Dr. Nguyen understands the importance of consultation and collaboration. Consistent with her comprehensive approach to care, she works closely with psychiatrists, physicians, teachers, and other mental health providers.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Nguyen received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has a Master of Arts in Human Development with a focus in Child Development from Teachers College at Columbia University and a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University in California.
Dr. Nguyen has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient, university, and hospital settings. She completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Florida State University Counseling Center in Tallahassee, Florida where she gained experience providing evidence-based individual and group therapy to young adults within a college setting. Prior to moving to Austin, Dr. Nguyen worked as a staff clinician at Mississippi State University-Student Counseling Services in Starkville, Mississippi where she provided individual and group therapy to college students.
Dr. Nguyen is a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas (37806) and has received training in cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure and response prevention while at Austin Anxiety and OCD Specialist. She has also completed training in cognitive behavioral therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder through a partnership between the International OCD Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital’s Psychiatry Academy. In addition, she has also completed a bootcamp and 16 week long training in Acceptance Commitment therapy.
PERSONAL INTERESTS
During her free time, Dr. Nguyen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, yoga, trying new foods, and watching college football.
AVAILABILITY
Dr. Nguyen currently resides in Arizona and she provides telehealth sessions to adult clients located in Texas. For more information about Dr. Nguyen’s availability or to schedule an appointment please call (512) 246-7225 or visit our client portal.