Our therapists provide family therapy in Waco, TX

Chloe Gibson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate 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!

LPC Associate Supervised by Traci Phipps LPC-S

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 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults in individual, group, and family settings. My clinical focus includes trauma, grief and loss, adverse life experiences, and emotional regulation. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and families involved in the foster care system, as well as individuals impacted by complex trauma and life transitions.

I earned my master’s degree in community counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio. My work is grounded in trauma-informed, holistic, person-centered, and CBT-based approaches that emphasize safety, trust, empowerment, and resilience. I have experience supporting clients navigating psychiatric treatment programs and juvenile justice systems.

Whether you are seeking healing, clarity, or support during a difficult season, you do not have to face it alone. I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative space where you feel respected and understood. When you are ready, I invite you to take the next step toward care, healing, and lasting growth.

Nikki Easter is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience. She began her career supporting individuals with substance use challenges, and later expanded her expertise to clients facing trauma, grief, anxiety, and identity-related concerns. Nikki has worked extensively with marginalized populations, including those experiencing chronic homelessness, domestic violence, and severe mental illness.

Nikki earned her Master’s in Community Counseling from Argosy University. She uses a trauma-informed, strength-based approach. She primarily uses CBT and integrates modalities like ACT, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and psychodynamic therapy to support healing and emotional growth in clients of all backgrounds.

Nikki believes healing isn’t linear. She creates a safe, judgment-free space for clients to work through fears, doubts, and emotional setbacks. Nikki’s compassionate approach helps you move forward with confidence and clarity when navigating trauma or life transitions.

Yeteast Ashley Green is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) who is in the process of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She has over 3 years of experience assisting teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking help in managing the effects of addiction, OCD, racial identity issues, low self-esteem, alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, and poor coping skills.

Yeteast received a Bachelor of Science in Biblical Counseling from the College of Biblical Studies—Houston in 2009 and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2011 from the University of Phoenix—Houston. She begin training for her license in chemical dependency in 2008, working part-time at a residential home for men. Yeteast graduated from Houston Baptist University with a Master of Art in Psychology. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), and more.

Partner together with Yeteast to address the concerns in your personal life that are affecting your mental health. She'll work with you to overcome your obstacles and achieve your goals and ambitions with newfound confidence and mental clarity.

Melissa Fogarty is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience. She started her career with children and adolescents at risk for mental health issues such as personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, abuse, depression, and anxiety. She soon discovered it is important to consider outside influences on behavior and began working with families as a system. This allows clients to share their stories and allows Melissa to put all of the pieces together for a better understanding. A passion for helping others live their best lives drives Melissa to be so dedicated.

Melissa earned her Master’s in Counseling from Amberton University. She uses a systems approach, including family systems, cognitive reprocessing therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy to help clients. The goal is to find the missing pieces to your puzzle. Families may be invited to help create a supportive environment.

Melissa takes an analytical approach. By seeing things through her clients' eyes, Melissa has an uncanny ability to completely empathize with her clients, meet them where they are without judgment, and create a safe space to work together on finding answers. Reach out today!

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 6 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through seasons of change, healing, and growth. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions, helping them build insight, strengthen communication, and develop healthier connections with themselves and others. My clients often come to therapy seeking peace, balance, and the confidence to live more authentically as we work toward meaningful, lasting change together.

I earned my master’s in secondary education and clinical mental health counseling from Alcorn State University. My approach is collaborative and grounded in empathy, using cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help clients identify unhelpful patterns, build emotional awareness, and foster sustainable growth.

I understand that reaching out for support takes courage, and I want my clients to know they don’t have to walk this journey alone. Together, we can create space for healing, self-discovery, and renewed hope—one step at a time. When you’re ready, I would be honored to walk alongside you in that process.

Dominica Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 5 years of experience working with all different populations, including adults, children/adolescents, and geriatric, while providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling. Dominica has also worked with clients who suffer from drug/alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, family/relationship issues, anger problems, communication problems, and severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), etc. She has helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse.

Dominica completed her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. She is easygoing, open, accepting, and flexible. Her counseling style is warm, collaborative, and welcoming. Dominica’s approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic, psychodynamic, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and rational-emotive counseling. She will tailor your dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. Seeking counseling can be a hard step for anyone to take. Dominica is here to support and empower you in your time of need, and she looks forward to working with you!

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 4 years of experience working with individuals ages 12 through 40+ who are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered as they work toward meaningful and lasting change.

I earned my master’s degree in counseling from the University of Texas Permian Basin. My work is practical and skills-focused, incorporating dialectical behavior therapy, internal family systems, and EMDR to address underlying emotional patterns, trauma, and somatic symptoms. I integrate psychoeducation to help clients better understand their experiences.

Therapy with me is a collaborative process where you can feel safe, supported, and understood. We will work at a pace that feels right for you, building insight and practical tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and capable in your daily life.

Frank Ogbanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in helping professions for over 30 years. Frank has treated adolescents, young adults, and adults in various settings including homes, prisons, outpatient programs, and in schools. He treats concerns like anxiety, depression, bipolar, interpersonal issues, trauma, relationship issues, communication in couples, low self-esteem, life transitional issues, grief & loss, sex offenses, and suicidal ideation/self-harm. His compassionate, goal-oriented approach shows his clients his positive regard, person-centered philosophy, and collaborative style from the initial session.

Frank has a bachelor's in economic education, a master's in educational psychology, a master's in mental health counseling, and a Ph.D. in epidemiology. He uses cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, internal family systems, positive psychology, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.

Frank believes that everyone has what he calls a "life backpack" of events, and he explores it to find solutions to present situations. Frank fosters a multicultural environment to enable his clients the freedom of expression. Frank has experienced some matters of life such as abandonment, neglect, and grief and loss—building empathy comes to him naturally.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, anger management, and life transitions. My work includes supporting men managing intense emotional responses, couples who feel disconnected, and individuals who feel stuck or overwhelmed by circumstances that make it difficult to move forward.

I earned my master’s degree in counseling from Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth. My clinical experience includes work in a behavioral health hospital serving individuals with significant emotional and mental health challenges. I primarily use narrative therapy, helping clients explore how their life experiences have shaped their current challenges.

Together, we will examine the stories that have been shaping your thoughts, emotions, and decisions. I help clients identify strengths, reconnect with personal values, and build clarity around what matters most to them. My goal is to support you in moving forward with renewed purpose, confidence, and direction in your life.

Victor Taylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience. He specializes in anxiety and depression and helps clients navigate the complexities of these mental health challenges. Victor’s ideal client feels overwhelmed by persistent feelings of worry and sadness and is seeking a supportive and understanding environment to explore these symptoms. They may struggle with daily functioning, experience difficulty in relationships, or find it hard to enjoy activities they once loved. The primary goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly discuss their thoughts and feelings.

Victor received his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Old Dominion University. Through evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices, Victor works with clients to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and build confidence.

Victor’s goal is to empower others to regain control over their lives, improve their emotional well being, and achieve a greater sense of balance and fulfillment. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of anxiety and depression, clients will move towards a healthier and more hopeful future.

Lisa Wilson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 years of dedicated experience in the mental health field and a profound commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of addiction, anxiety, depression, and grief, empowering them to reclaim their lives and achieve meaningful growth.

Lisa has a Master’s in Counseling from Wayland Baptist University. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and internal family systems to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, identify strengths, and foster healthier perspectives and behaviors.

Lisa is adept at creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and validated. She believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change and strives to empower clients to harness their resilience and innate strengths. Schedule an appointment with Lisa today!

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 7 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and major life transitions. I work with clients who are seeking emotional resilience, balance, and greater self-awareness. My goal is to create a safe, culturally sensitive space where healing, growth, and confidence can flourish through compassion, creativity, and evidence-based care.

I earned my master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Lamar University. I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential techniques, and creative expression to help clients understand emotions, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build practical coping skills. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and empowering.

I believe healing is not about perfection but about progress and self-compassion. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore, heal, and rediscover peace and purpose. When you’re ready, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward growth and emotional well-being.

Jacquelyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). She has over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling to cope with conditions or concerns related to family conflict, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Relationships, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, poor coping skills, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, and sexual trauma. 

Jacquelyn Shair began her mission in the area of rehabilitation in January 2010, when she accepted a job working within the area of corrections as a case manager. She went on to pursue her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, obtained her license as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and branched out to continue that passion in private practice. Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the New York Institute of Technology.

Work together with her to address the areas of your life that require healing and attention. With your willingness to grow, and Jacquelyn's professional expertise, you can start making better mental health a reality. 

Jennifer Porter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience. She works with children, teens, adults, and families. Jennifer specializes in treating issues related to family dynamics, relationship issues, stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting issues, children's behavioral and academic issues, and more.

Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University, and is a Registered behavior therapist (RBT). She also incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), applied behavior Analysis (ABA), play therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and more.

Jennifer looks forward to helping you to incorporate mindset changes—she hopes to be there when the light goes on and you can see and feel the change. Schedule your session with Jennifer today.

NOTE: Please be aware that Jennifer does not see any client 12 and under via tele-health only schedule in person.

Cheryl Clansy is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), trained Mediator, and Life Coach with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Cheryl is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges, resolve conflicts, and live more fulfilled lives. She specializes in anxiety, grief, relationship issues, school issues, and major life transitions.

Cheryl completed her doctoral degree at Grambling State University. She has professional experience in public education, postsecondary education, and the nonprofit sector. This, coupled with her preparation as a mediator and life coach enables her to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. Cheryl uses multiple treatment approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.

We all can learn ways to handle the challenges of life and build to success. Cheryl is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today!

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 11 years of experience providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy across diverse clinical settings. I support clients working through depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral concerns, self-esteem challenges, grief, loss, and major life transitions. My approach is grounded in compassion and a client-centered focus, and I strive to ensure every person feels safe, seen, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change.

I earned my master’s degree in social work from Eastern Michigan University. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths-based work, mindfulness-based strategies, motivational approaches, and emotion-focused techniques. I tailor treatment to each client’s goals while supporting emotional awareness, resilience, and long-term growth.

I remind clients that therapy requires honesty, patience, and openness, and that healing is a powerful process of rediscovery. My goal is to help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence while offering steady support along the way. Growth takes movement, and I would be honored to help you move toward where you want to be.

Jayme Lyon is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 15 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and families. She offers a structured, skills-based approach to help clients manage intense emotions, strengthen relationships, and cope with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, and family conflict to build a more fulfilling life.

Jayme earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from St. Mary’s University. She has advanced training in comprehensive dialectal behavior therapy and supports clients through evidence-based, compassionate care. Jayme is committed to guiding individuals toward stability, emotional resilience, and long-term well-being.

Jayme blends warmth with structure, helping clients feel seen and equipped with tools they can use in everyday life. Whether someone is in crisis or seeking change, Jayme meets them where they are and walks alongside them toward greater stability and purpose. She encourages you to reach out!

Traci Phipps is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) in the state of Texas with 19 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, depression, family conflict, difficult life transitions, dysfunctional relationships, sexual abuse, and much more.

Traci earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Tulane University and her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Midwestern State University. Traci seeks to align with every client using a person-centered approach to identify the changes the client wishes to make in their own lives and the barriers or obstacles preventing those changes. Traci helps clients by crafting small, attainable steps that can be taken to move towards those desired changes.

She believes in meeting each client where they are in terms of skills and interpersonal relationship style while remaining person-centered, strengths-based, and continually focused on progress. Traci wants to establish an open, honest and supportive relationship with you while helping you maintain direct communication and encouraging assertiveness in your relationships with others.

I am a licensed psychologist with 9 years of experience providing culturally responsive therapy to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Many of the clients I work with are seeking a supportive space to better understand their experiences, strengthen relationships, and develop practical tools to improve their emotional well-being.

I earned my doctorate in counseling psychology from Texas A&M University. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw on evidence-based practices to help individuals, couples, and families build insight, strengthen coping skills, and improve communication and relationships.

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel difficult, but you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I strive to create a supportive and respectful space where you feel heard and understood. If you’re ready to begin working toward greater clarity, healing, and growth, I would be honored to support you.

Cherese Kelley is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience. She specializes in supporting individuals ages 6 through 45 who are experiencing behavioral issues, mental stress, ADHD, adoption, depression, anxiety, domestic abuse, complex trauma, narcissism, and women’s issues. Cherese’s ideal client is open and ready to journey through healing and shows up even on the hard days!

Cherese holds a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Houston Baptism University and a Bachelor of Science from Florida A&M University. She uses Christ-centered therapy, attachment theory, Christian counseling, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, theraplay techniques, and trust-based relational intervention.

If you are looking for a chance to experience real healing through a partnership that will change your feelings of being stuck, anxious, confused, embarrassed, insecure, or lost, Cherese is waiting for you! Reach out to schedule your first appointment today.

*Appointments for children 10 and under will need to be scheduled for in-person only

Melissa Isaacks is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 7 years of experience treating a plethora or counseling goals, including ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, anger management and transitional disorders. She takes great care to treat children, adolescents, adults, and family clients with a warm and caring attitude. 

Melissa graduated from Texas Tech University with her Bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), reality therapy, and play therapy techniques as well as other treatment modalities in her sessions. Melissa believes in fostering the parent-child relationship when counseling children and families while creating a safe and trusting environment where open expression thrives. 

Melissa provides a non-judgmental environment where clients can feel comfortable being themselves and are encouraged to make changes to develop their best selves. She works with clients ages 3 and over and creates an individualized treatment plan for each client to reach their counseling goals.