Austin, TX Therapy, Psychiatry, and Counseling

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 9 years of experience supporting clients across all ages. I provide evidence-based care for autism, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, mood disorders, and adjustment disorders. I integrate psychotherapy, medication management, and personalized treatment planning to help each client strengthen daily functioning and move toward a healthier, more balanced life.

I earned my master's degree in nursing from Walden University. My approach is nonjudgmental, collaborative, and grounded in compassion. I focus on creating a safe, respectful environment where clients feel welcomed, heard, and supported. I pay close attention to details, honor each person’s strengths, and work to build trust throughout the treatment process.

I believe mental health impacts every part of life, and I am committed to helping clients create meaningful, lasting change. I support people from all backgrounds and encourage you to share your concerns openly. Together, we can explore your needs, build healthier coping skills, and take the next steps on your treatment journey.

I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals of all ages, supporting clients as they manage concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, and life transitions. My approach emphasizes building resilience, fostering self-awareness, and guiding clients toward strategies that empower them to thrive in their daily lives with confidence, balance, and clarity.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Midwestern State University, where I developed a strong foundation in psychiatric and family health. My practice focuses on client-centered care, using therapeutic approaches that strengthen coping skills, improve communication, and support meaningful personal growth.

I strive to create a supportive space where clients feel understood, respected, and motivated to reach their goals. By focusing on strengths and celebrating progress, I help individuals navigate challenges with renewed purpose and confidence. Together, we will work toward lasting change and overall well-being.

Raymond Obiajulu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He completed his master’s degree program at Walden University. After his introduction to the key areas of nursing, he found that psychiatry comprised the exact sort of comprehensive and holistic healthcare that he wished to practice. Raymond has experience treating a wide range of conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and dementia. He incorporates an evidence-based approach in his practice with a focus on holistic mental health treatment.

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, he serves as a patient advocate, providing continuity of care, managing total care, and attending to issues that affected his patients' physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Raymond looks forward to collaborating with his colleagues and other healthcare team members to provide the best patient care possible to our community, while they teach, learn, and build lifelong relationships with their patients and each other. He is passionate about serving mankind, as it has also been a part of his life's journey.

Raymond loves to extend the motto of helping his patients fulfill their needs, as it helps him fulfill his own. After all, as Mahatma Gandhi said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." He strives to create individualized treatment plans tailored to each unique individual and their life goals. His goal is for his patients to feel confident with their plan of care and know that together they will work together to achieve their goals.

Brandy Messiah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to foster a strong therapeutic alliance with the patient and/or family. Brandy began a nursing career in 2009 as a Registered Nurse (RN) and spent the next 10 years as a bedside nurse in emergency medicine, psychiatry (outpatient programs & inpatient hospitals), long-term intensive care units (ICU), step-down ICU/cardiac/telemetry, home-health, and hospice. 

Throughout her nursing career Brandy witnessed the many disparities in the delivery and approach to mental health issues. This led her to develop an intense passion for the mental health population and the specialty of psychiatry. She decided to pursue an advanced degree as a PMHNP to effectively contribute and reach her personal goal to enhance the delivery of the mental health care to assist patients/families in better management and outcomes associated with mental health conditions. 

Brandy thoroughly enjoys direct patient care and values the therapeutic relationship between patient/family and provider as the foundation to success in outpatient psychiatry. In this relationship, she will be able to provide you with the relevant education and resources, and better assist you in your own, unique journey in the recovery and healing process.

Ifeoma “Iffy” Menakaya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience delivering compassionate, high-quality mental health care. She takes an evidence-based, client-centered approach to help individuals manage depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, mood disorders, and adjustment disorders. Iffy is committed to empowering clients to reconnect with their strengths and achieve lasting stability and well-being.

Iffy holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of South Alabama. She integrates evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychotherapy into individualized care plans tailored to each client’s needs.

Iffy creates a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Her compassionate approach fosters trust and collaboration, helping clients develop practical strategies for coping, growth, and long-term mental wellness. She is dedicated to guiding clients toward fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Sue Wendelin is a Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist (LMFT) who has over 36 years of professional experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families with a wide variety of treatment needs. She specializes in assisting clients who are struggling with career-related issues, coping skills, family conflict, grief, mental stress, parenting, academic issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger issues, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, and more.

Sue has an eclectic approach with a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral methods (CBT), family systems techniques, parent-child interaction (PCIT) approaches, person-centered methods, play therapy, sandplay, and solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT). 

Sue will listen and create a safe space to help unburden the load of pain and struggles that are holding you down. The simplicity of having a warm, understanding, and actively listening ear can be healing during times of great stress. She wants to provide that outlet, and help you work towards emotional freedom. 

Dr. Denitrea F. Vaughan is a Licensed Professional Counseling-Supervisor (LPC-S) with almost 20 years of of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Dr. Vaughan is compassionate with a strong desire to walk through life with others to offer support and help in their healing process in their unique life challenges; so they might live more joyous and fulfilled lives. She specializes in anger management, mood instability, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and life adjustments/transitions.

Dr. Vaughan completed her Master's and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology with the Texas School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University of Dallas, Texas. Most of Dr. Vaughan's experience has been with juveniles in the juvenile justice system as well as the geriatric population in nursing homes and rehabilitation centers, with other various populations sprinkled throughout her years of working in the field. Her very versatile experience enables her to provide guidance and support to very broad and unique populations and settings. Dr. Vaughan utilizes various treatment techniques including mindfulness, brainspotting, and grounding exercises, as well as various exercises for processing grief, such as the empty chair exercise.

Her main theoretical orientation is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), with experience in motivational interviewing and certification in aggression replacement training (ART). Dr. Vaughan is eager to support and challenge you on your life journey through this process of life. She is excellent at offering new perspectives and techniques that assist in coping with these various life situations. If you are ready to be brave and embark on this journey of change and healing, schedule an appointment with Dr. Vaughan today!

Chloe Gibson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience. She enjoys assisting adolescents and adults with a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger, academic stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions. Before joining Thriveworks, Chloe worked in settings including university, partial hospitalization, crisis intervention, and community outreach. With an empathic listening ear, Chloe provides a safe place for clients to tell their stories. She focuses on strengths, not flaws, and how to use them to cultivate resilience.

Chloe received her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Angelo State University. She takes an eclectic approach to therapy and uses a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, emotion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and positive psychology.

Many people equate themselves with their issues, but Chloe encourages you to externalize the problem and write a new story. She views you as the expert and guides you through challenges while instilling confidence. If you are ready to better your mental health, reach out to Chloe today!

Alejandra Hayden is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas with 9 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Alejandra has worked with clients to help them navigate their trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and much more. 

After graduating from John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology in New York City, Alejandra decided to continue her education in Texas. Alejandra graduated with her Master of Arts in Family Therapy from the University of Houston - Clear Lake. 

When it comes to therapy, Alejandra utilizes ART (accelerated resolution therapy) relational, collaborative, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and Gottman approach to assist her clients in meeting their goals. Alejandra tailors her sessions based on the client’s needs by remaining consistent in her flexibility, creativity, and awareness as she helps individuals and couples discover and utilize their unique strengths. 

Alejandra understands that therapy can be intimidating at times. As such, she makes certain that she finds the right balance between listening and helping clients expand beyond their comfort zones by creating a safe, caring, and trusting relationship with each person. Alejandra ensures that she collaborates with you so that you are not only meeting your goals but also discovering your personal strengths, values, and desires to live your life to the fullest. 

Luz Ordaz is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, who is being supervised by Chris Hansen LPC-S, with 2 years of experience supporting diverse populations. With a background in both military and civilian sectors, Luz brings a broad skillset to help clients overcome emotional challenges such as addictions, parenting, and relationship issues. She supports clients dealing with anxiety and depression, promotes social justice, and upholds high ethical standards.

Luz earned her Master’s in Mental Health Wellness Counseling from Angelo State University. She is committed to building strong, lasting relationships that support her clients’ therapeutic goals. Luz values a compassionate, client-centered approach and encourages growth through validation, trust, and understanding.

Therapy with Luz empowers clients to gain insight, build resilience, and move forward. She believes expressing emotions fosters healing, deeper self-awareness, and stronger relationships. Luz is passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges while equipping them with coping skills for lasting emotional well-being.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 3 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults through life transitions, emotional challenges, and unexpected stressors. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, impulsivity, self-esteem concerns, and sexuality- and gender-related issues. I believe each client is the expert of their own life and work to empower individuals to build confidence, balance, and emotional well-being.

I earned my master’s degree in counseling from Sam Houston State University. My background includes work in educational and clinical settings, which allows me to bring a developmentally informed and collaborative approach to care. I use integrative, experiential techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs.

I recognize the courage it takes to explore your emotional world. In our work together, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and encouraged as you move toward healing, growth, and greater resilience. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

I am a Resident in Counseling with 5 years of experience supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I specialize in helping individuals facing depression, anxiety, work stress, and addiction. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, build resilience, and foster growth. My goal is to empower clients to manage stress, improve relationships, and overcome patterns of self-doubt so they feel more balanced, confident, and connected in their daily lives.

I have a Master’s in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. I integrate evidence-based practices such as dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. I tailor therapy to meet each client’s needs, ensuring that every person feels understood, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.

I believe everyone deserves a safe place to feel heard and supported. Life’s challenges can be heavy, but you don’t have to face them alone. Through warmth, compassion, and care, I help clients find healing, balance, and hope while working together at a pace that feels right for them.

Sue Wendelin is a Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist (LMFT) who has over 36 years of professional experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families with a wide variety of treatment needs. She specializes in assisting clients who are struggling with career-related issues, coping skills, family conflict, grief, mental stress, parenting, academic issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger issues, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, and more.

Sue has an eclectic approach with a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral methods (CBT), family systems techniques, parent-child interaction (PCIT) approaches, person-centered methods, play therapy, sandplay, and solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT). 

Sue will listen and create a safe space to help unburden the load of pain and struggles that are holding you down. The simplicity of having a warm, understanding, and actively listening ear can be healing during times of great stress. She wants to provide that outlet, and help you work towards emotional freedom. 

Meghan Paravi is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 5 years of experience. She treats clients of all ages who are struggling with life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and grief, among other concerns. Meghan strives to look at each client individually, as they are the expert on their life. Her practice is rooted in the belief that individuals possess inherent strength and resilience. Meghan is committed to creating a collaborative and empathetic therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.

Meghan earned her Master’s in Counseling from Loma Linda University. She collaborates with clients to develop effective strategies and techniques tailored to their unique needs, promoting personal growth and positive change. Meghan uses approaches including exposure response prevention, experiential therapy, expressive arts, and psychoanalysis.

Meghan partners with clients to discover life beyond “existing” or “surviving” in broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. She will walk alongside you, empowering you to discover hope, healing, and happiness to reach your fullest potential.

Dr. Denitrea F. Vaughan is a Licensed Professional Counseling-Supervisor (LPC-S) with almost 20 years of of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Dr. Vaughan is compassionate with a strong desire to walk through life with others to offer support and help in their healing process in their unique life challenges; so they might live more joyous and fulfilled lives. She specializes in anger management, mood instability, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and life adjustments/transitions.

Dr. Vaughan completed her Master's and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology with the Texas School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University of Dallas, Texas. Most of Dr. Vaughan's experience has been with juveniles in the juvenile justice system as well as the geriatric population in nursing homes and rehabilitation centers, with other various populations sprinkled throughout her years of working in the field. Her very versatile experience enables her to provide guidance and support to very broad and unique populations and settings. Dr. Vaughan utilizes various treatment techniques including mindfulness, brainspotting, and grounding exercises, as well as various exercises for processing grief, such as the empty chair exercise.

Her main theoretical orientation is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), with experience in motivational interviewing and certification in aggression replacement training (ART). Dr. Vaughan is eager to support and challenge you on your life journey through this process of life. She is excellent at offering new perspectives and techniques that assist in coping with these various life situations. If you are ready to be brave and embark on this journey of change and healing, schedule an appointment with Dr. Vaughan today!

Chloe Gibson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience. She enjoys assisting adolescents and adults with a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger, academic stress, low self-esteem, grief/loss, trauma, and life transitions. Before joining Thriveworks, Chloe worked in settings including university, partial hospitalization, crisis intervention, and community outreach. With an empathic listening ear, Chloe provides a safe place for clients to tell their stories. She focuses on strengths, not flaws, and how to use them to cultivate resilience.

Chloe received her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Angelo State University. She takes an eclectic approach to therapy and uses a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, emotion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and positive psychology.

Many people equate themselves with their issues, but Chloe encourages you to externalize the problem and write a new story. She views you as the expert and guides you through challenges while instilling confidence. If you are ready to better your mental health, reach out to Chloe today!