Elizabeth Cortez, PhD is a Psychologist practicing clinical psychology at a local Austin, TX clinic. She is a registered provider with The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists and adheres to the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act). Clinical Psychologists at KellySearch.com are doctoral-level mental health professionals providing psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and diagnoses for a wide range of conditions like depression and anxiety, working collaboratively with primary care physicians when appropriate. Dr. Cortez serves all ages and is dedicated to providing comprehensive care in a supportive and understanding environment.
Dr. Elizabeth Cortez, PhD is a clinical psychologist in Austin, TX, committed to evidence-based practice and collaborative care. She believes in empowering patients and their families to make informed healthcare decisions. Her approach centers on creating a trusting environment where individuals feel heard and supported throughout their treatment journey. Prospective patients should call (512) 708-0101 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Cortez strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals of all ages. She focuses on developing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. While Dr. Elizabeth Cortez provides consultations primarily in English, she is dedicated to creating a welcoming and effective therapeutic experience for all patients.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Cortez is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Cortez provides comprehensive clinical psychology care, focusing on a collaborative approach with patients. She utilizes evidence-based therapies and detailed assessments to develop personalized treatment plans addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. Dr. Cortez values open communication and actively involves patients in their care, fostering a strong therapeutic alliance to promote optimal well-being.
By working together, you and Dr. Cortez can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Choice
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- BlueCard PPO
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- HealthyBlue Advantage
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Cortez offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Prescription Drug Abuse: Misusing or overusing prescription drugs, like painkillers or anxiety medication, is called prescription drug abuse; a clinical psychologist helps patients understand and change behaviors that contribute to this abuse through therapy and counseling.
- Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: Post-stroke cognitive impairment involves trouble with thinking skills after a stroke. A clinical psychologist uses therapy to help individuals manage these cognitive difficulties and improve their quality of life.
- Organic Mood Syndrome: Organic mood syndrome links mood disorders to physical health issues, and a clinical psychologist uses therapy to help individuals navigate the emotional and mental challenges this creates.
- Combat Stress Reaction: If you're struggling with anxiety, nightmares, or flashbacks related to a combat situation, a clinical psychologist can provide therapy and support to help you heal and manage these symptoms.
- Suicidal Ideation: Suicidal thoughts are a sign that you need support. A clinical psychologist offers evidence-based therapies to help you process these thoughts and develop skills to manage your mental health.
- Breathing-Related Sleep Disorders: Breathing-related sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, can affect mental health, and a clinical psychologist can help manage the resulting anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues.
- Opioid Dependence: Opioid dependence is a serious condition where someone feels compelled to use opioids despite harmful consequences, and a clinical psychologist can help manage the psychological factors contributing to this dependence through therapy.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Cortez offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- ADHD Testing: Through comprehensive testing, a clinical psychologist can diagnose ADHD, providing clarity and understanding of your challenges.
- Narrative Therapy: Narrative therapy helps you understand your life story and how it impacts your well-being, focusing on changing how you view and tell your experiences to improve your mental health.
- Imago Relationship Therapy: Imago Relationship Therapy is a type of couples therapy that helps partners learn how to communicate more effectively and resolve conflicts constructively.
- Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This psychological evaluation identifies any potential mental health issues that could complicate your bariatric surgery experience or recovery.
- Crisis Intervention: If you're in a mental health emergency, crisis intervention offers immediate support to stabilize your situation and develop a safety plan.
- Meditation: Meditation is a practice used to manage stress, improve focus, and promote emotional well-being, often incorporated into therapy to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Behavioral Activation: By gradually adding positive experiences to your daily life, behavioral activation helps lift your spirits and break free from negative patterns.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Cortez is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- By attending therapy sessions and developing coping mechanisms, a patient successfully managed their prescription drug abuse, reducing their reliance on medication and improving their overall well-being. This led to a significant decrease in stress and anxiety, allowing them to focus on their personal and professional goals.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their post-stroke cognitive impairment, improving their daily functioning and overall quality of life. Through consistent therapy sessions, they regained essential cognitive skills and learned coping strategies to effectively navigate challenges.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized therapy, a patient successfully managed their Organic Mood Syndrome, regaining emotional stability and a sense of control over their well-being. They now feel equipped to navigate future challenges with greater resilience.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
101 W 6th St Ste 705, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: (512) 708-0101
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Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Clinical Psychology care with Dr. Cortez:
- What is the main difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
- A psychologist (PhD or PsyD) specializes in psychotherapy and psychological testing, while a psychiatrist (MD or DO) is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. They often work together, with the psychologist providing therapy and the psychiatrist managing medication.
- What happens in a first therapy session?
- The first session is an intake to learn about your concerns, history, and goals. It's also a chance for you to get to know Dr. Cortez and see if she's the right therapist for you. This is a conversation, not an interrogation, and we will work together to establish a positive therapeutic relationship.
- What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that helps people identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. It's a goal-oriented approach where patients learn practical skills to manage their symptoms and problems, often used for anxiety and depression.
- Do you offer couples or family therapy?
- Yes, Dr. Cortez offers couples and family therapy. This type of therapy focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within relationships. Dr. Cortez helps all parties understand each other better and develop healthier ways of interacting to strengthen their family or partnership.
- What is psychological testing used for?
- Psychological testing uses a series of standardized tests and interviews to gain a deeper understanding of a person's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. It can help clarify complex diagnoses, identify conditions like ADHD, learning disabilities, or autism spectrum disorder, and inform treatment strategies.
- What is EMDR therapy?
- EMDR is a specialized therapy that helps people heal from trauma and difficult experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation, like eye movements or tapping, to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact.
- My primary doctor suggested I might have anxiety. Can a psychologist confirm this?
- Yes. A clinical psychologist, like Dr. Cortez, is expertly trained to perform a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. She will use interviews and potentially questionnaires to accurately diagnose an anxiety disorder and develop a non-medication treatment plan focused on therapy and coping skills.
- Do I have to have a serious mental illness to see a psychologist?
- No. While psychologists treat mental illnesses, they also help people with everyday challenges like stress management, grief, relationship difficulties, or transitions like career changes or divorce.
101 W 6th St Ste 705
Austin TX 78701
Phone: (512) 708-0101
Elizabeth Cortez, PHD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1861515777
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Elizabeth Cortez are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.