Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Abilene, TX

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than ten years of experience, I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they work toward their therapeutic goals. My practice is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. I completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington and earned my Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Miami University in Ohio, and these foundations continue to shape my commitment to evidence‐informed, client‐centered care. Whether supporting individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, or personal growth, I strive to create a safe, non‐judgmental space where we can work together in meaningful partnership.

As a fully licensed professional counselor in Texas, I have had the opportunity to work with many populations. Victims of domestic and sexual violence, those struggling with substance abuse, and those managing ongoing anxiety and depression are those with whom I have spent the most time. I prefer to demystify the counseling process and allow clients to be who they are during sessions. I don't want to put you in a box; I want you to feel validated and connected to the world you're in. I can see individuals, adolescents (15+), couples, and families.

I’ve been where you are. As someone in long-term recovery, I understand the challenges firsthand and bring both empathy and 15 years of professional counseling experience to support you in finding your own path and developing your strengths. I work with adolescents, people struggling with substance use, and those facing anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma.

I specialize in working with individuals in recovery and LGBTQ+ clients, helping you build resilience, explore your goals, and discover practical strategies that fit your life.

My approach is collaborative and empowering—you set the pace, and I walk alongside you with understanding, guidance, and support as you create meaningful change and uncover the strengths you already have within.

I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 20 years of experience caring for patients across a wide range of clinical settings including cardio thoracic vascular surgical intensive care units, and coronary care units. This extensive background has shaped holistic understanding of health and allows me to approach mental health care with both clinical precision and genuine compassion. I am specialized in treating adults (ages 18 and older) with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, sleeping disorders, substance use disorders with a particular focus on treatment resistant depression. I have specialized training in advanced treatment modalities including ketamine infusions, Spravato, and Trans cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

I believe with a little help, you can be your own change.

I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (TX # 14678) and Licensed Professional Counselor (TX # 91644) I have more than 25 years of experience working in the criminal justice, mental health, substance use and addiction fields. I have experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal conflict and co-occurring conditions including addictions.

I am a Dual Licensed LPC and LCDC. I specialize in substance abuse disorders, anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues. I especially like working with individuals that are seeking counseling for the first time. It is my desire to help you discover new ways of thinking and acting so you can gain freedom from thoughts or patterns that are keeping you stuck.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, mood disorders, OCD, and substance use concerns. My background includes structured treatment settings supporting recovery, stabilization, and long-term mental health management.

I provide warm, practical, and judgment-free care where clients feel heard and supported. Many people come to treatment feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, and my goal is to simplify the process and provide clear direction forward.

I focus on thoughtful medication management and practical strategies that support lasting stability and meaningful progress.

I am passionate about helping people feel seen, heard, and supported as they navigate life's challenges and discover their inner strengths. My approach is to create an authentic and individual relationship with my clients so they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and hopes without judgment.

Karen Vargas, M.Ed., NCC, LPC

Karen Vargas is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Sam Houston State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Texas Tech University. She is also a National Certified Counselor with over 13 years of experience in education and school counseling, working closely with adolescents and families from diverse backgrounds.

Karen believes that every individual has the strength and potential to grow through life’s challenges. She strives to provide a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel safe to share their stories and begin their mental health journey. Her approach is collaborative and compassionate- focused on helping clients recognize their inner strengths and build healthy patterns of thinking and behavior.

Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, Karen helps clients manage and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, past trauma, relationship issues, ADHD, and pre-/postpartum transitions. Her goal is to help each client improve their overall quality of life by developing balance between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Bilingual in English and Spanish, Karen values connection and cultural sensitivity in her work, allowing her to reach and support a broader range of individuals and families.

Outside of counseling, Karen enjoys spending time with her husband of 14 years and their three boys. She loves running, being outdoors, and staying involved in her community. Her years working with at-risk youth and families-including those experiencing homelessness, foster care, and economic hardship- have strengthened her passion for helping others find hope, healing, and resilience.