- Client-Centered Therapy
- CBT techniques
- DBT skills
About Philip
Dr. Philip Townsend is a Texas clinical psychologist (TX Psychologist 21868) with 45 years of experience. He works with adults on stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, trauma, grief, eating concerns, ADHD and other life changes. He also lists work related to intimacy, parenting, self-esteem and LGBT concerns.
He uses straightforward conversation to identify strengths and practical goals. Sessions focus on building skills that help people manage symptoms and handle daily challenges. He draws on several evidence-informed methods to create action plans that fit the individual.
Townsend trained at the University of Houston and began his clinical work in the U.S. Army, including service at West Point and in Vietnam. After military service he developed adolescent psychological services with the Texas Rehabilitation Commission and later ran a private practice. He also consulted with public school districts for more than two decades.
In sessions he prioritizes honest communication and work that increases self-esteem. He combines client-centered listening with structured techniques to address thought patterns and behavioral skills. The aim is practical change rather than reassurance alone.
People seeking help for relationship strain, major life transitions, or persistent anxiety will find an approach that mixes supportive listening with concrete strategies. He asks for clear goals up front and focuses on tools clients can use between sessions to manage stress and move forward.
Approaches used in online sessions and what they do
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and understanding a person's perspective. It helps people clarify values and goals while the therapist reflects what they say and helps them feel heard.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at patterns of thinking and behavior. It teaches concrete skills to rethink unhelpful thoughts and change routines that keep problems going, useful for anxiety, depression and coping with life changes.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) emphasizes emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal skills. It can be helpful for strong mood swings, impulsivity, and relationship conflicts.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences and then recommend which methods to try. This is a collaborative process and can change over time as needs shift.
Confirm the exact session formats before booking since formats are not specified here. Online options can make it easier to fit sessions around work or study, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and avoid travel. Many people find remote sessions let them keep continuity of care through moves or busy schedules, and they can combine conversational and skills-based work in the same meeting.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
45+ years
Listed in
Texas
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy issues, addictions, trauma and grief among other concerns.
What is his therapy style like?
Sessions combine client-centered listening with structured techniques from CBT and DBT to build practical skills and clarify goals.
How long has he been practicing?
He has 45 years of clinical experience, including work in military settings, public programs, school consultation, and private practice.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is listed as TX Psychologist 21868 and practices in Texas.
Does he offer sessions in other languages or to international clients?
Sessions are offered in English and he is not accepting international clients.
What session formats are available?
Session formats are not specified here; please confirm the current session options before booking.
How does pricing work?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy through BetterHelp is for adults aged 18 and over and is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.