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Welcome to Our Lives Counseling

At Our Lives Counseling, we believe that everyone deserves to live their truth in an environment that respects and celebrates who they are. We specialize in person-centered, affirming and inclusive therapy, creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can feel truly seen, heard, and understood. Our mission is to provide empathetic, knowledgeable, and respectful mental health care that goes beyond mere tolerance—offering a therapeutic experience where your identity is valued, and your well-being is our top priority.

We accept insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare-Optum. We are adding more insurance providers, so please check with us for yours.

Choose Our Lives Counseling

Choosing the right therapist is crucial for your mental health journey, and at Our Lives Counseling, we are committed to offering care that is not only effective but also affirming of your identity.

Allison L. Smith, M.Ed., LPC, RPT, NCC 

Allison L. Smith is a dedicated and highly experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at Our Lives Counseling, where she brings her extensive expertise to support individuals from all walks of life. As a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Allison has a deep commitment to providing inclusive, affirming, and person-centered care. With a background in education and counseling, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas Tech University and a Master of Education in School Counseling from Lamar University, along with advanced certifications in Clinical Mental Health.

Allison’s therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, acceptance, and a genuine desire to help her clients thrive. She is trained in a wide range of evidence-based therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), among others. Her diverse skill set allows her to tailor her approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

Specializing in LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, trauma recovery, disorder management, and executive functioning skills development, Allison works closely with her clients to foster personal growth and resilience. She is passionate about helping individuals build healthy habits, set and achieve meaningful goals, and develop effective strategies for managing stress and overcoming challenges.

Allison’s warm and inclusive approach ensures that every client feels truly seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re seeking help with character development, organizational planning, or positive conflict resolution, Allison is here to guide you on your journey to mental wellness. At Our Lives Counseling, she is committed to creating a safe space where you can explore your identity, heal from past traumas, and build a fulfilling, balanced life.

Ready to start your journey?

Whether you’re looking for individual therapy, couples counseling, or family support, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Specialized LGBTQ+ Expertise

Our therapist is trained and experienced in working with LGBTQ+ clients, offering specialized support that acknowledges the complexities of your experiences. We understand the impact that societal pressures, discrimination, and internalized stigma can have on your mental health, and we are here to help you navigate these challenges with compassion and skill.

A Safe and Non-Judgmental Space

We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where you can be your authentic self. Whether you’re seeking support for coming out, transitioning, or dealing with relationship issues, our space is one where you can speak openly and freely. We are committed to providing a non-judgmental, confidential environment where your privacy and safety are respected.

Holistic and Individualized Care

Every person’s journey is unique, and so is our approach to therapy. We tailor our therapeutic methods to meet your individual needs, offering personalized care that aligns with your goals and values. Whether you’re looking to explore your identity, improve your mental health, or strengthen your relationships, we work collaboratively with you to achieve your desired outcomes.

Comprehensive Services for All

Our Lives Counseling offers a broad range of services to support you at every stage of your life. From individual therapy to couples counseling, family therapy, and support for specific issues like trauma, anxiety, and depression, we are here to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.

Start Your Journey to Wellness

At Our Lives Counseling, we are dedicated to helping you live your best life. We believe in the power of affirming therapy to transform lives, providing not just a space to talk, but a space to grow, heal, and thrive. Your journey to mental wellness starts here—with a team that is committed to your well-being and respects every aspect of who you are.

Virtual Consultations and Sessions

Our top priority is to make quality counseling accessible to everyone. We proudly offer virtual counseling sessions, allowing you to receive the support you need from the comfort of your home. Whether you are in Austin or anywhere in Texas, our experienced therapists are here to help you navigate your journey to wellness.

Comprehensive Counseling Services

At Our Lives Counseling, we offer a wide range of comprehensive counseling services designed to support the diverse needs of the LGBTQ+ community. Our services are tailored to meet you where you are on your journey, whether you’re seeking individual therapy to explore your identity, couples counseling to strengthen your relationships, or specialized support for navigating significant life transitions. We understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including the impact of trauma, the need for gender-affirming care, and the struggle with anxiety. Our experienced therapists provide compassionate, affirming care in a safe and supportive environment, helping you build resilience, develop coping skills, and achieve your personal and mental health goals.

Individual Therapy

Explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a one-on-one setting with a therapist who truly understands the LGBTQ+ experience. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, identity exploration, or any other challenge, we provide the support you need to thrive.

Couples Counseling

Build stronger, healthier relationships with our specialized couples counseling services. We help LGBTQ+ couples navigate relationship dynamics, improve communication, and strengthen their bonds in a supportive and affirming environment.

Support for Life Transitions

Whether you’re coming out, transitioning, or facing other significant life changes, we offer support to help you navigate these transitions with clarity and strength.

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Many LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced trauma related to their identity. Our trauma-informed therapy is designed to help you heal from past hurts, build resilience, and move forward with confidence.

Gender-Affirming Health Care Letters

We provide compassionate support for individuals seeking gender-affirming health care. We understand the importance of accessible, affirming care and are here to assist you on your journey with the support and documentation required for medically necessary treatments.

Anxiety Coping Skills

Our tailored approach helps you understand and manage your anxiety, providing you with practical strategies to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance your overall well-being.

Start Your Journey Today

Join us at Our Lives Counseling, where your story is heard, your path is respected, and your well-being is our purpose. Take the first step toward a better life with our convenient virtual consultations and sessions.

Explore Our Blog: Your Resource for Personal Growth and Mental Wellness

Our blog is where we share valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tips to support your individual therapy journey. Whether you're looking for strategies to manage anxiety, ways to enhance your self-awareness, or inspiration for personal growth, our blog offers a wealth of information tailored to your needs. Join us as we explore the many facets of mental health and well-being, helping you navigate your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.