Telese Pickens, LMFT

I’m not the kind of therapist who spends months skimming the surface before we get to the real heart of what’s going on.

My goal is for you to feel seen, understood, and hopeful about what’s ahead starting in our very first session.

We’ll get right to it, exploring what’s keeping you stuck and how it’s impacting your relationships and daily life. I’m direct and affirming, with space for honesty, compassion, and humor when it fits. I attune to what you need in the moment, but I also stay true to my authentic self—someone who will support you and challenge you in equal measure.

Therapy with me is a space for connection, insight, and action. You’ll leave with not only a deeper understanding of yourself but also tools you can carry into everyday life. For clients who wish to integrate their faith, I’m also able to offer Christ-centered therapy that weaves spiritual beliefs into the process in a way that feels authentic and personal to you.

What does the actual process look like?

We’ll start with a consultation call. This is where we talk about what’s bringing you in, what you’re hoping to change, and whether we’re a good fit for each other.

From there, we’ll schedule your first session. Together, we’ll define clear, concrete goals and start mapping out how to reach them. Sometimes we’ll stay focused on the present, and other times we’ll look at the past to understand how it may be influencing your patterns today.

Along the way, you’ll start to see yourself and your relationships through a new lens. You’ll start recognizing patterns, uncovering root causes, and learning ways to shift them. Depending on your needs, I may give you homework to try between sessions, because real growth often happens between our conversations.

Does it take work? Absolutely.

Is it worth it? More than you can imagine.

What do I use to help you make the transformation happen?

I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and attachment-based approaches. These evidence-based methods are proven to help people change the way they think, feel, and connect with others and I use them in a way that’s tailored to you.

My priority is to help you feel grounded, hopeful, and equipped to create lasting change.

Wondering whether now is the right time for therapy?

If you’re asking the question, you might already know the answer.

There’s rarely a “perfect” moment. The right time is often when you realize you’re ready to stop carrying everything alone and want to see what’s possible with the right support.

Therapy isn’t just about managing the hard moments—it’s about creating a life that feels more connected, intentional, and whole.

If you’re ready to start that process, I’d love to help.

How I got started in therapy…

I’ve always been curious about how the mind works and how our life experiences shape who we are. That curiosity grew into a calling to help people heal, grow, and uncover their own potential.

That calling led me to earn my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University and to dedicate my career to walking alongside individuals and couples as they navigate life’s challenges.

My background experience

• Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy – Abilene Christian University

• Clinical experience with couples, individuals, and families

• Ability to intergrade a Christ-centered approach for clients who desire faith to be a part of their therapy process.

• Special focus on millennial women navigating relationships, self-discovery, and life transitions

What do I do when I’m not doing therapy?

My happiest moments are with my family—spending time with my husband and daughters is my favorite thing in the world. I love traveling, finding new restaurants to try, and curling up with a good book.

Taking the first step

I know starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but if you’ve made it this far, you’re already closer than you think.

If what you’ve read here resonates with you, I’d encourage you to reach out—whether that’s to me or another therapist who feels right for you.

When you feel more grounded and connected, your entire perspective on life can shift. And I’d be honored to guide you through that process.

You can book your consultation below, and we’ll take the first step together.