Merry F. Anderson, MA, LPC

Merry has been part of the Gateway community since 2002 serving in different roles throughout the years. Most notably she worked on staff as the Gateway U Director from 2005-2007, and still participates as part of the Spiritual Formation team at Gateway. Merry has a Masters in Professional Counseling and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001. Her passion is to see people encounter the freedom and joy that is found in Christ and will gladly meet you wherever you are along the path.

Contact Merry – [email protected]

What is Biblical Counseling?

Counseling is a process of discovery, learning, healing and growth done in the context of a relationship between a counselor and someone seeking counseling. My aim, as the counselor, is to help a person know and become more the person God created them to be – whether that be by learning relationship skills, finding emotional healing and resolution, or growing in their spiritual life. Everyone is different in what they bring into counseling and what they leave with – but my hope is to see everyone find greater self-awareness and understanding, heart-felt healing and hope, and deeper faith in God and in themselves. I come from a biblical perspective and, when appropriate, can incorporate spiritual elements into counseling.  If your faith is central to your life, this type of counseling can help you grow spiritually, as well as emotionally and relationally.

How often do I come?

Counseling is for you, so the pace is largely determined by you. Some choose to come weekly, while others come every other week. The average length of time in counseling may be anywhere between 6 months to 2 years, but some may find what they need in just a few sessions. You can choose what is right for you. Keep in mind that counseling is most effective, regardless of length of time, when you are committed and focused.

Areas of Expertise

I help people find healing and growth in areas related to, but not limited to:

  • Anxiety & Depression
  • Grief & Loss
  • Trauma & Abuse Recovery
  • Addictions
  • Boundaries
  • Conflict
  • Codependency
  • Relationships & Marriage
  • Personal & Spiritual Growth
  • Vocational & Career Issues
  • Stress & Burn-out
  • Physical Health Issues

I provide references to other Christian counselors in the community for counseling with children, adolescents, parenting and for traditional family counseling.

Hours

Counseling appointments are typically 50 minutes long. However, appointments can also be 80 minutes depending on your preference or need. The fee is prorated for longer sessions. Counseling sessions are generally available between the hours of 9:00 AM & 6:30 PM Monday through Friday.

Fee

My standard fee is $90 for a 50 minute session. I also provide a sliding scale that is based on combined family gross income and size. More information about the sliding scale is available upon request. For payment, I accept check or cash. Sorry, no credit cards at this time. For those with health insurance, I am an out-of-network provider. What that means is that you would pay the full fee, and then I would give you a receipt to file with your insurance for reimbursement. Check with your insurance company for clarification of your counseling benefits.

Location

I am located half a mile from Gateway Church on the northbound 183 access road just south of McNeil drive. Going northbound on 183 exit McNeil, and while on the access road turn at the first driveway just beyond the KNLE 88.1 radio station sign. At the driveway there is a sign that says “Large Oaks Plaza.” (If you are heading south on 183, exit Oak Knoll, take the turnaround, and follow the directions above.) My address is: 12741 Research Blvd., Bldg. 300, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78759.

Your Initial Appointment & Cancellations

Plan to arrive 15 minutes early on your initial visit to fill out paperwork and review policies. A clipboard will be left for you in the waiting room. If you cannot make your appointment, notify me as soon as possible and at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a late cancellation fee.

Contact Merry – [email protected]