Bellwether Counseling
Who We Are
Leading the Way in Holistic Wellness
Who We Are
Bellwether Counseling is a boutique counseling center focused on improving the lives and relationships of our clients. We do this by offering tailored therapy aligned with best practices, cutting edge training, and focused on outcomes. We believe that healthy relationships are a cornerstone to a happy life and understand that sometimes, important relationships take work. We offer counseling for individuals, couples, and families, and welcome diverse genders, sexualities, and unique relationship dynamics.
Ashley Blu Staats
PhD, LMFT-S, CST-S
I am a seasoned professional with over a decade of dedicated experience, specializing in providing support and guidance to couples and individuals grappling with intimacy issues. As the premier Certified Sex Therapist in the vibrant Austin area, I have earned a reputation for my unwavering commitment to fostering healthier, more fulfilling relationships. My dedication to the field extends beyond my private practice, as I am also a renowned educator in the domains of sex therapy, ethics in mental health, and psychopathology. I firmly believe that every therapist inherently serves as a sex therapist, recognizing the profound impact of intimacy on mental and emotional well-being. In addition to my clinical and educational roles, I hold steadfast professional values that prioritize representation within the mental health field, champion equitable access to mental health counseling, and uphold the highest ethical standards within our profession. These values are not mere principles but are at the core of my practice philosophy.
I am also proud to be the founder of the TalkSex Institute, a school dedicated to advancing the field of sex therapy, sex education, promoting ethical standards, and providing comprehensive information and training to future mental health professionals. Through this institute, I aim to empower therapists and individuals alike to embrace a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. In all aspects of my work, I am driven by the belief that nurturing healthy relationships and promoting sexual health are fundamental to overall wellness. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, ethics, and inclusivity, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples thrive in their pursuit of a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
Nancy Basoah-Scott
LMFT-Associate; Supervised by Dr. Staats, LMFT-S
I specialize in couples and individuals dealing with infidelity, relational conflict, intimacy and communication issues, and intimacy and sex. Naturally, I am a sex-positive therapist. When working with me, you will get a therapist who is not only sincere, empathetic, and nonjudgmental, but also someone who will be direct. Know that the directness is coming from a caring place! I strive to build trust with my clients and create a safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring vulnerable parts of themselves as they work towards their personal growth and fulfillment. I validate and challenge my clients with new perspectives. Through our partnership, my goal is to help you feel seen and heard.
As a Ghanaian and a veteran of the United States Army, I understand the stigma that is placed on mental health. It can be difficult to reach out for support when you need it. If that’s you, then know that I will go slow and not push you too quickly. I am comfortable working with individuals and couples who are a part of the kink community, LGBTQ+ community, sex work industry, and ENM relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and currently a Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapist. In addition, I have received supplementary training in Gottman Method Affairs & Trauma, CBT, Intimacy, Infidelity, anxiety, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I’m currently working towards my Certification in Sex Therapy. Whether you are seeking therapy alone or with your partner, we will work together to help find your authentic self so that your relationship thrives.
Sloane Snyder
MA, LMFT-Associate; Supervised by Dr. Staats, LMFT-S
I am extremely passionate about how effective therapy can be for so many of the issues we face in everyday life. My specialty is in couples counseling, marriage counseling, sex therapy, fertility counseling, and individual therapy. My belief is that most people have created patterns in their lives that are no longer serving them in a positive way, and with my education, training, and experience I intend to help those people build more effective solutions to their problems. No matter what age, cultural background, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexuality, etc. that we affiliate with, we all encounter difficult times where we could use someone to talk to and the resources to lift ourselves back up.
I earned my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Houston Baptist University and am currently pursuing my certification in sex therapy. I use evidence-based approaches to help my clients work through all kinds of relationship issues. Whether it’s communication, trust, or intimacy, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their feelings and create positive changes. I believe that understanding yourself and your relationships is the key to success.
Krysten Aldape
LMFT-Associate, Supervised by Dr. Staats, LMFT-S
As a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate with 1.5 years of experience, I specialize in both individual and couples counseling. I bring a comprehensive understanding of the intricate familial and cultural dynamics within the Latinx community that significantly influence relationship and individual functioning.
My expertise lies in guiding couples through challenges such as infidelity, communication breakdowns, trust issues, and intimacy concerns. I also work closely with individuals to foster personal empowerment, establish healthy boundaries, and navigate the unique complexities of Hispanic culture.
Utilizing a strength-based and solution-focused approach, I am committed to helping my clients achieve satisfaction and fulfillment in their relationships and marriages. My passion for working with couples and young adults within the Latinx/Hispanic community drives my dedication to their well-being and success.
I am here to support you on your journey towards stronger, more meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of yourself within the cultural context. Let’s work together to create the positive changes you seek.
Frederick Fox
LPC
I believe that everyone can create the life they want. Sometimes, that means getting expert help in clarifying and creating a path forward. I have decades of experience in helping folks resolve career, family, and communication issues. I excel at helping my clients increase their sense of control and develop a positive expectation for your life. Sometimes change needs to happen quickly and other times, we have the luxury of time to figure things out. I match my pace to your needs and can go as fast or as slow as fits your current situation requires. I work primarily with adults over 25 who are committing energy towards achieving their goals and creating positive and lasting change in their personal life, career, and or relationships. I meet with clients both in person and virtually and am currently accepting new clients.
Angelica Picado
LCSW, CST- Candidate
I’m a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping individuals and couples, navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and professional expertise. In my practice, I offer a supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely.
My approach to therapy is holistic, integrating physical, emotional, and mental health, and client-centered, focusing on your unique needs and personal growth journey. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, or the impact of trauma, I am here to provide a safe environment where healing and transformation can occur.
Through a blend of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Gottman’s Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, we will work together to uncover the root causes of your challenges, develop coping strategies, and build a stronger, more resilient self. My goal is to empower you to make meaningful changes, find greater fulfillment, and enhance your overall well-being.
I am dedicated to supporting you in uncovering your strengths, achieving your goals, and improving your life quality. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please feel free to contact me.
Michelle Mower
LMFT, LPC, CST
As a counselor, Michelle guides you on your journey of self-discovery. The answers you need are inside you. Sometimes your vision is clouded by trauma, self-doubt, distorted thinking, or other challenging life experiences. Michelle will help you obtain clarity and rediscover yourself. Although we are influenced by our past, the past doesn’t define our future. When you work with Michelle you will experience a safe environment and a caring individual who listens carefully to your thoughts and goals, making observations and identifying patterns throughout the counseling process. Michelle is genuinely invested in your personal and relational happiness and success.
Michelle earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Houston-Victoria. During her master’s program she pursued a specialty in marriage and family therapy as well as individual therapy. As a marriage and family therapist Michelle observes interpersonal dynamics and assists couples and families to create unique relationships that work for them. She can help you navigate relational issues such as communication, emotional connection, parenting, sexual concerns and forgiveness. Michelle uses a variety of techniques. These include narrative, existential, and solution-focused therapeutic processes which are tailored to each individual, couple, or family. Her clinical experience includes working with at risk adolescents and their families addressing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anger, self-esteem, body image, parent/child dynamics and communication. Michelle is currently pursuing a PhD in counselor education at Sam Houston University to further her therapeutic skills and understanding of the counseling process.
Michelle is certified in both levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Institute’s Method Couples Therapy, is a National Certified Counselor, a member of the Texas Counselor Association and the Texas Association of Marriage and Family Counselors.
Waju Sulieman-Long
LPC
I know life these days is not easy at times; trying to balance family, friendships, home life, and more. Many of today’s generation struggle to do those things while living with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress or trauma. My goal is to help you and your family overcome these difficult times by connecting and walking alongside you in your journey toward growth and change. I can help if you are seeking help for yourself or a family member. I work with people to reach their goals in a safe, non-judgmental environment. You are not broken. You don’t have to heal alone. We can do this together!
Channan Burns
Marriage and Family Therapy Intern – Supervised by Dr. Staats
Not currently accepting clients
Channan is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Syracuse University. Channan is passionate about collaborating with couples and families on their goals and journeys towards growth. She is interested in using a variety of approaches to meet each client’s needs. Channan is thrilled to work together to navigate obstacles and find strengths within relationships. When she is not in class or seeing clients she is traveling, reading, or running on a trail. She was born and raised in Houston, Texas, which is where she currently resides. Channan offers sliding scale sessions ($30-50 per session) via telehealth. All of her cases are overseen by Dr. Staats.
Shannon Fortenberry
Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, Supervised by Dr. Staats, CST-Candidate
Life will always surprise us with unexpected changes. Its perpetual and transformative nature urges us
to place importance on adaptability, growth, and resilience to encounter the forever-changing
landscape of our existence. Yet, you don’t need to go through it alone.
I am a certified yoga coach working on my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National
University. I specialize in connecting the mind and body, teaching clients how to master their nervous
systems through movement meditations, helping them find clarity, uncover negative thought patterns,
and set attainable goals.
I draw from several schools of thought, including attachment theory, mindfulness, narrative therapy,
and energetic alignment. I understand how the body processes chronic stress, repressed emotions, and
fearful thoughts and how these impact our relationships. I challenge clients warmly yet directly to
address areas of their lives that no longer serve them or their intimate relationships. I am a clear
communicator who actively listens to the details and excels at having difficult conversations that drive
growth.
With a client-centered approach, I meet individuals and couples exactly where they are, working
collaboratively to meet their unique needs. I will ensure your voice is heard, your goals are
acknowledged, and your truth is celebrated. Whether you are single, in a long-term relationship, or
navigating a non-traditional relationship structure, I provide support and validation to your life
experience.
Change is here. Let me help you navigate it.
Addie Blinder
LMFT-Associate, Supervised by Dr. Staats, LMFT-S
Therapy is a powerful tool for anyone who wants to see change in their life, better understand themselves, or gain clarity about their pathway forward and I want to support that. I am experienced in working with individuals dealing on body image issues, building self-worth, and fostering healthier relationships. I also enjoy helping couples work to improve their communication, increase intimacy and joy in the relationship, and create safe boundaries. This includes couples who choose ethical non-monogamy.
I believe in the power of therapy and firmly hold that an ethical therapist is one who’s doing their own therapeutic work. I believe it makes a better therapist and allows me to better help you in your therapeutic journey. I strive to create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space between myself and my clients. Doing so, can lead to profound rewards for the client. I trust you as the expert on your own life and see value in creating goals in therapy that center around the change you want to make.
I’m here for you and your relationship to help make things better.