Dr. Jennifer Norten
Licensed Psychologist
Sees Individuals ages 18 and up
Accepts Private Pay, BCBS, and Medicare
Telehealth Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have been practicing for over 20 years. I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology at Northwestern University and my graduate training at UNC, Chapel Hill. I worked at Duke University Medical Center in health psychology before moving to Texas in 2004. I have worked in university counseling for over 10 years and have extensive experience working with young adults. I also see adults across the lifespan. I have specialized training in treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma using cognitive-behavioral therapy. I have interests in adoption, coping with fertility issues and medical illness. I also work with medical students, residents, and fellows at Baylor College of Medicine.
I believe that how you think about yourself, the world and others profoundly influences how you feel. I encourage clients to develop a deeper understanding of how and why they think, behave and feel as they do. With this understanding, clients are then actively encouraged and supported in trying out new ways being. My job is to help you gain insight and to translate that insight into real change so that you can feel better and lead the life you seek.
I understand the pressures of modern family life and the challenges facing adolescents, young adults and their families. I can help you develop positive coping strategies for navigating a variety of distressing life experiences.
Liana Rivas, M.A.
Practicum Student
Supervised by Dr. Sunetra Martinez, LPC-S
Sees ages 3-13 & Families
Accepting Private Pay
Offering Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation
In Person & Telehealth
I am a current school counselor with a strong background in both education and mental health. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston–Victoria and my Master’s degree in Counselor Education from the University of St. Thomas. I am also pursuing a second Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Texas A&M–Victoria, where I am currently completing my practicum.
I have 8 years of experience working with children from early childhood through adolescence. My time as a classroom teacher, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted the critical importance of supporting students’ mental health alongside their academic growth. This experience ultimately guided me toward the counseling profession, where I am able to focus on fostering student well-being.
As a counselor, my goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every child feels seen and heard. I believe that a strong counseling relationship involves not only the counselor’s role in providing support but also empowering the client to actively participate in their own sense of safety and growth. My therapeutic approach continues to evolve and currently integrates techniques grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices. I am deeply committed to providing ethical, culturally responsive care to all clients.
Maggie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv
Sees Couples & Individuals ages 12 and up
Accepts Private Pay, BCBS, Aetna, United, UMR, Cigna, Oscar, Optum
In Person & Telehealth
Over the span of my career I have been fortunate to have served as a school counselor at all grade levels, a private practice therapist within the Greater Houston area, the Associate Chaplain at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL., and Resident Chaplain at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL.
I received my Bachelor’s degree in English and Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater. I earned my Master of Divinity degree from Garrett – Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. I earned my licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) in 2014.
I have enjoyed working with all age groups ranging from students through senior adults. Though each group is unique, all are ultimately bound together by the desire to grow toward a more healthy and fulfilled sense of self. Each client has challenged and enlivened me to the possibilities of the human spirit. My experience as a counselor, pastor, and therapist has provided me with a broad background which allows me to walk this path with you in a warm, accepting and non-judgmental manner. My professional relationships with people are built on strong counseling skills, respect, and the creation of a safe place to practice change.
I am grateful for the many opportunities I have had throughout my life’s work. I look forward to building new relationships with you at Sugar Land Counseling Center.
Gloria Ntela, M.A.
Licensed Psychological Associate- Independent Practice
Sees All Ages for Psychological Evaluations
Accepts Private Pay
In Person
Gloria is a Licensed Psychological Associate with independent practice authority who provides thoughtful, individualized psychological evaluations for ADHD, autism, learning differences, mood concerns, and a variety of other presenting issues.
Her clinical experience spans all age ranges, with a particular focus on administering psychological assessments. Gloria’s goal is to make the evaluation process approachable, empowering, and meaningful—providing not just answers, but also clarity, tools, and confidence for moving forward. Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, exercising, and dancing.
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Blessy Chacko
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Sees Couples and Individuals ages 13 and up
Offering Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation
Accepting Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, BCBS, United, UMR, Oscar, Optum
In Person & Telehealth
English, Malayalam, & Hindi
I am the type of person that brings a smile to everyone’s face. I will meet you where you are during your life crisis and help you feel whole, secure, and safe. Together we can build rapport and trust which will be the foundation to recovery. I believe each individual has a purpose in life and is born with potential.
Many of life’s circumstances can crush the spirit, the strength to rebound is inside you.
I believe in a wholesome approach and will tailor your sessions according to your needs. I will provide you with a safe space, where you can be yourself and be completely accepted which will move to a path of healing, peace, and restoration.
I have a Bachelor of Science from Pennsylvania State University and Master's in social work from University of Houston. I love a relaxed atmosphere and will join you in your joys and sadness. Together we can embark on a journey that truly makes you the best you can be.
I am a clinician licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. Willing to work with all age groups 13 and above. I have experience working with teenagers, adults and the elderly. I have helped clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence building.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is open and interactive and includes CBT, DBT and strength based modalities in my practice. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage.
I am here to support you in the process of healing and becoming the best version of you.
Additional areas of focus: Abandonment, Communication Problems, Divorce and Separation, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Isolation / Loneliness, Life Purpose, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Post-traumatic Stress, Pregnancy and Childbirth, Self-Love, Self Esteem, Social Anxiety and Phobia, Workplace Issues,Trauma.
Dr. Sneha Desai
Licensed Psychologist
Sees Individuals ages 8 and up
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna, and BCBS
Telehealth Only
English, Gujarati, & Hindi
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose work involves the treatment and assessment of many types of psychological difficulties that includes but is not limited to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship conflicts. I also have extensive experience working with children with developmental and behavioral disorders including oppositional defiance, ADHD, and autism as well as issues related to giftedness.
I provide a warm, culturally sensitive, supportive therapeutic environment. From the time you step into my office until you leave, it is all about your healing and progress. I focus on helping you navigate through life's inevitable struggles using a cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and systems approach. I place a high value on each client's personal and unique experiences. Ultimately, my goal for therapy is to empower you and help you acquire the tools and insight you need to overcome your challenges and live a more meaningful life. I am open to individuals of all races, religions, ages, nationalities, sexual orientations, and genders.
I accomplished a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Michigan University, a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology at Wright State University, and have worked in private, university, school, and community clinic settings. I have been practicing in the State of Texas since 2010.
Kamau Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist
Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional
Sees Couples, Families, and Individuals ages 13 and up
Accepts Private Pay Aetna, United, UMR, Optum, Oscar, Cigna & BCBS
Telehealth
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience helping people deal with situations such as exploring career goals, managing grief and anxiety (including PTSD), handling addiction issues, improving communication skills and working together as a team or couple. My approach to counseling is a combination of Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I received my Bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Science degree from Tarleton State University. I have worked with a variety of clients from children to soldiers to couples with communication and connection issues. I am here to help you reach your goals.
Torresy Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
Sees teens and adults
Offering Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna, United, UMR, Cigna, BCBS, Optum, & Oscar
In Person & Telehealth
I am a licensed professional counselor and licensed chemical dependency counselor and have been practicing for the past 15 years. During my time as a counselor, I have specialized in working with adolescents and young adults while working with senior adults as well. During this time I have helped counsel high school, collegiate, and professional athletes struggling with co-occurring disorders. I enjoy working with athletes due to my personal experience as a college athlete and time as a division 1 collegiate football coach, and can help athletes with peak performance and sports psychology.
I also help facilitate anger management, processing substance use disorders, and a use of motivational interviewing to help the individual engage in the treatment process and facilitate positive change.
I earned my Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Washington University with a major in sociology. After completing my undergraduate degree, I completed my Master of Arts through the University of Liberty in professional counseling. I’ve used my LPC and LCDC at Menninger to help young adults identify alternative avenues to regulate emotions instead of utilizing maladaptive coping mechanisms.
We will be a good fit if you enjoy great home cooked barbecue and exercising your mind, body, and spirit. Together we can collaborate, identify, and tackle life issues that have been keeping you stuck and allow you to be your most optimal self.
Laura Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor
Sees Couples, Families, and Individuals ages 5 and up
Offering Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation
Accepts Private Pay, BCBS, Aetna, United, UMR, Cigna, Optum, Oscar
In Person & Telehealth
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health support to individuals seeking guidance on their personal journeys. Having a strong educational background and a passion for working with children and adolescents, I strive to create a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, challenges and navigate emotions with confidence.
Education
Houston Christian University - Licensed Professional Counselor Certification
University of Texas - Master’s in School Counseling
University of Houston - Bachelor’s in Humanities
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that each person is unique and deserving of personalized care. This person-centered approach allows me to use creative techniques to allow individuals to express themselves in ways that feel most comfortable to them. I collaborate closely with families to build a strong support system that nurtures growth and resilience.
With over 15 years in the education and mental health field, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through a variety of challenges, including anxiety, school-related stress, peer relationships, and more. I have worked with a diverse range of individuals, tailoring my interventions to the specific needs of each client and family.
I believe in fostering a space where individuals can explore their emotions and develop essential coping skills. By building a trusting and non-judgemental relationship, I empower them to find their voices, make sense of their experiences, and cultivate a positive
sense of self.
Dr. Sunetra Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
School Psychologist
Sees Families and Individuals ages 13 and up
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna, United, UMR, Oscar, Optum, Cigna & BCBS
In Person & Telehealth
English & Bengali
I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University and earned a Masters degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake in Clinical Psychology. Prior to that I graduated with a double Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Zoology from The University of Texas in Austin.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and School Psychologist. I have over 24 years of clinical experience working with children and adults. I also supervise interns. My pre-doctoral training and work experience include working at Texas Children’s Hospital, Small Steps Nurturing Center, Baylor College of Medicine and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. I completed my pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship at the Houston Independent School District doing crisis, consultation, counseling and conducting psychological and psycho-educational evaluations for children and adolescents with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and other mental health and learning difficulties.
In my perspective, therapy is an investment in your personal growth and a dedication to your overall well-being. I take a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy and help individuals explore and identify strengths and personal successes. I believe that understanding our past and our current life patterns helps to foster internal growth.
Dr. Jenna Turner
Licensed Psychologist
Supervisor of Psychological Testing and Assessment- ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, IQ, Personality, Differential Diagnosis
Dr. Jenna Turner is a licensed psychologist who has significant comprehensive psychological assessment and specialty forensic assessment experience.
Dr. Turner specializes in formal assessment related to personality and social/emotional functioning, intellectual/cognitive functioning, and academic functioning. She also has experience in fitness to proceed (FTP) evaluations, psychosexual evaluations, and the evaluation of neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Additional areas of interest include the therapeutic and formal assessment of childhood trauma and related interpersonal difficulties.
Dr. Turner received a doctoral degree in Health Service Psychology (clinical and school) from the University of Houston – Clear Lake in 2022. Previously, she earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Sam Houston State University in 2018. She has worked in outpatient, residential, inpatient, community, and forensic settings. Dr. Turner has published in peer reviewed journals, presented at conferences, and has completed undergraduate and graduate theses, as well as a doctoral dissertation related to childhood trauma, mental illness, and academic outcomes. Dr. Turner completed her predoctoral internship at Travis County Juvenile Probation Department completing psychological evaluations, psychosocial risk assessments, and treatment planning and intervention for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at Harris County Juvenile Probation Department completing psychological evaluations for at-risk and justice involved youth. Dr. Turner is currently pursuing a license to provide sex offender treatment (LSOTP) and receiving related training in the assessment and treatment of youth with problematic sexual behaviors (PSB youth).
Dr. Turner acts as a supervising psychologist for psychological testing of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other psychological testing.
Michelle Mitchell
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Sees Couples, Families, and Individuals ages 4 and up
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna, United, UMR, Optum, Oscar, Cigna, & BCBS
Specialties & Focus Areas: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Grief, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Anger, Stress, Self-Harm, Phobias, Career, Parenting, Relationships, Self Esteem, Financial Stress
In Person & Telehealth
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I find genuine joy in helping others discover, cultivate and nurture their unique gifts and personal strengths. With over 15 years of counseling and therapy experience, I treat all ages and backgrounds, and specialize in Couples/Family therapy and Individual therapy, all mood/depressive and anxiety disorders, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders/ Developmental Delays, and Trauma.
I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from San Diego State University in 2006, and my Master of Arts Degree in Marital and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego in 2008. My practicum was completed at UCSD's Family Medicine. My therapeutic approach utilizes Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Attachment theory, Psychodynamic Therapy, Jungian Theory, Bowen and Systemic Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Structural Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Logotherapy, and the Gottman Method. However, as each person, couple, and family are unique and complex, my overall approach is holistic and integrative.
Dr. Renata Nero
Licensed Psychologist
Sees Individuals ages 18 and up
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna & Medicare
In Person & Telehealth
Dr. Nero is a retired Professor of Psychology and Sharon K. Burrows Endowed Professor from Houston Christian University (HCU). During her twenty-five-year tenure at HCU, she served as the Chair of the Psychology Department and Director of Graduate Programs in the School of Behavioral Sciences. Currently, she is a licensed clinical psychologist and consultant in private practice.
She graduated magnum cum laude from Fisk University where she was selected for membership in the Phi Beta Kappa Society. As an undergraduate, she was awarded a scholarship to Oxford University where she studied medieval literature and history. She later earned a Master of Arts degree in Afro-American Studies from the University of California at Los Angeles and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She completed pre and postdoctoral internship training in clinical psychology at Baylor College of Medicine. Her research interests include examining the following areas: the relationship between forgiveness and mental wellness; fostering resilience in adolescents and adults; stress and coping among African Americans; multicultural competence in counseling.
Additionally, she is currently on the Board of Directors for the Harris Center Foundation. Dr. Nero is a former president of the Southwest Region Board of Directors for the Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS). She currently chairs the Executive Board of Directors for the Ashley Jadine Foundation -- a suicide awareness and prevention organization. For the past two years, she has been invited to serve as the Distinguished Faculty in Wellness for the Annual Biomedical Researcher Faculty Summit. She has received numerous awards and recognitions and, as a psychologist, gives back to the community by facilitating workshops and consulting with private and public institutions on various mental health topics. Since 2014, Dr. Nero has coordinated an annual lecture series as part of the educational outreach for the Ashley Jadine Foundation. The lecture series addresses critical issues in mental health through workshops and panel discussions.
Dr. Kiran Mishra
Licensed Psychologist and Coach
Sees Individuals ages 18 and up
Accepts Private Pay, Aetna, & BCBS
Telehealth
I have been a licensed psychologist since 1999 and received my doctorate degree (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas in 1998. I attended the University of Texas in Austin for my undergraduate training, and graduated magna cum laude with special honors in psychology. I am proud to be a Sugar Land native, and graduated from Dulles High School.
I have 29 years of counseling experience. I began private practice in Sugar Land in 2006. Prior to that, I worked as faculty at Stanford University Medical Center in California, and I was also on staff at Stanford Hospital. In addition, I enjoyed working with producers in Los Angeles, doing psychological evaluations for the award-winning, reality show 'Intervention'. I have been a guest psychologist on radio programming in Houston, and have published articles in academic journals.
Nikki Holmes, M.Ed.
LPC Associate
Supervised by Dr. Sunetra Martinez, LPC-S
Certifications:
Trust Based Relational Interventions
Grief Recovery Specialist
QPR Certified Instructor for Suicide Prevention
Certified Solution Focused Counselor
Sees Families and Individuals ages 3 and up
Offering Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation
Accepts Private Pay
In Person & Telehealth
I am a former school counselor and earned my bachelor’s degree in Academic Studies from Sam Houston State University. I later earned my master’s degree in counseling education from Sam Houston State University.
I have experience working with children and adolescents for the past 19 years, providing individual and group counseling. I have had the opportunity to work with children that have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, or have experienced trauma. I work to help children develop coping skills, social skills, emotional regulation, and enhance self-esteem. I also have worked with adults experiencing grief utilizing the Grief Recovery Method.
As a counselor, it is important for me to build a trust-based relationship and create a safe space for the client. I believe trust and safety must exist for a positive therapeutic experience. My therapeutic approach is eclectic; involving techniques (but not limited to) client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and art therapy.
Dr. Kumar Venkatachalam
Certified Hypnosis Practitioner
Sees Adults
Accepts Private Pay
In Person- Flexible availability
With decades of experience in both medicine and psychological wellness, Dr. Kumar brings a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and holistic understanding to every session. Originally trained and licensed as a physician (MD) in India, Dr. Kumar also completed a residency in Psychological Medicine (DPM) and spent many years working with individuals to overcome a wide range of challenges, including fears, depression, obsessions, smoking, weight management, and other medical, psychological, and psychosomatic concerns.
Dr. Kumar is not a U.S. licensed physician or licensed therapist. He practices as a certified hypnosis practitioner. He holds many qualifications and maintains the highest standards of professional training through annual continuing education. He is a:
Certified Member of the National Guild of Hypnotists
Member of the American Academy of Medical Hypnoanalysts
Member of the American Academy of Pain Management
Member of the International Society for Hypnosis
Life Member of the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (India)
Dr. Kumar offers hypnotism services focused on empowering you to unlock your own inner resources for positive change. His approach is rooted in the belief that you are not broken—you already possess everything you need to resolve your challenges. Acting as a coach, educator, and facilitator, he guides you through proven hypnotic and self-hypnosis techniques to foster personal growth.
Sessions with Dr. Kumar are confidential, respectful, and tailored to your unique needs. He is committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where you can explore solutions. Take the next step toward a healthier, more empowered you—book a session today and discover how hypnosis can help you reach your fullest potential.
Russel
Practice Manager
