

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Pasadena with 2,510 licensed providers who bring affirming, open-minded care to support your mental health journey. Our network offers virtual and in-person sessions with flexible scheduling, often available within days, and accepts 70+ insurance plans to make therapy accessible.
Career counseling focused on mental health in the workplace is my specialization. I help college students, job seekers and working professionals who are feeling burned out, anxious, or overwhelmed reconnect with their strengths and bring their best selves to work or school. Many of my clients juggle high expectations, relationship challenges at work or college, and feel stuck, frustrated, or held back by negative self-talk. Together, we work on recognizing these patterns, challenging self-imposed limitations, and building healthier, more confident ways of thinking.
My name is Shelly-Ann Jmaes-Perelion, and I have over 20 years of experience in education and 12 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I served as a high school counselor for seven years and am currently in my sixth year as a Mental Health Intervention Counselor in the CFISD school district.
Welcome! I'm Kristen, and I'm pleased you're taking this step toward your healing and growth. With a background in psychology and clinical counseling, I offer expertise in behavior modification, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), anger management, group and individual therapy, and crisis intervention.
My experience spans a broad range of individuals, including children with special needs, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I also have specialized experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, veterans, women, individuals with disabilities, and incarcerated parents, as well as providing sex offender treatment.
I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.
I am a licensed psychologist with over fifteen years of experience providing therapy in both Spanish and English. I earned my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Indiana University and my doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. My doctoral program emphasized multicultural competence and using research to inform practice. Therefore, I use an evidence-based, cultural and trauma-informed approach in therapy. I have worked with Veterans, women and men diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, women diagnosed with breast cancer, and individuals experiencing substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I am licensed in the states of Texas and Iowa.
EMDR, Play therapy, trauma informed therapist, specializing in eating disorder treatment and kids
Empowering Growth Through Compassionate, Personalized Therapy
Welcome to Free Your Mind Counseling, where healing meets authenticity. My practice is founded on the belief that every individual deserves a safe and supportive space to heal, grow, and thrive. I provide personalized, culturally responsive therapy for trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and life transitions—grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration.
I specialize in existential, eclectic, and integrative therapies, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, and Experiential frameworks. This flexible, holistic approach allows me to meet clients where they are—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually—rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method.
My academic foundation includes a Master of Arts in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Juvenile Justice. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and bring over a decade of experience in the criminal justice system, substance use recovery programs, and diverse mental health settings.
I am also completing my Doctoral degree at Houston Christian University in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, majoring in Executive Mental Health and Human Services—a reflection of my commitment to advancing mental health leadership and community impact.
My philosophy centers on helping clients discover purpose, balance, and self-acceptance through integrative, trauma-informed care. I believe in engaging deeply—not just listening, but empowering transformation. My mission is to create a nonjudgmental space where healing isn’t just possible—it’s expected.
I have been working in the mental health field for many years and have had the privilege of supporting individuals through many of life’s challenges. Over time, I have seen firsthand the stressors and unexpected difficulties that life can bring. While we cannot always prevent these challenges—because life will continue to be life—we can learn healthier ways to cope, grow, and move forward.
My role is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences, develop practical tools, and gain insight into the patterns that may be affecting your well-being. I am here to offer guidance, encouragement, and support as we work together toward your goals and toward creating a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and manageable.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Texas. I work with adults and older adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, and stress. I have extensive experience with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in English and in Spanish, and have worked with vulnerable populations as a Social Worker for over 5 years. My approach to treatment is rooted in evidence-based practice that help clients identify and focus on their goals to change unhealthy ways into more productive habits.
Searching for the right therapist can feel overwhelming, and taking the first step isn’t always easy. I’m here to make that process feel a little less stressful. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, overwhelming emotions, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, we’ll work together in a supportive, judgment-free space where you can feel heard and understood.


Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Pasadena starts with looking for identity-affirming care. An affirming therapist may support concerns related to identity, relationships, family stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma. As you compare therapists, look for bios that mention affirmative therapy, experience with gender-diverse people, WPATH training, or LGBTQIA+-affirming care. Finding a therapist who fits your needs matters beyond credentials, and a detailed profile can help you understand how they approach care.
In a smaller city like Pasadena, the number of local LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists may be more limited than in larger metro areas. Virtual appointments can expand your options while still helping you find someone licensed in Texas. You may also want to compare appointment availability, therapy approach, therapist background, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Reading each therapist’s profile can help you see whether they clearly work with LGBTQIA+ people and how they describe their communication style.
Therapy in Pasadena can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you find therapists who match your preferences, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and offer upfront cost estimates before you book. You can browse profiles, compare availability, and book directly when you’re ready.
Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.