My name is Whitley Mercadel, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A)
at Texas Counseling Center in Missouri City, practicing under the supervision of Orlean Smith,
LPC-S. I hold a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in English Literature from the University of Louisiana
at Lafayette and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Southern
University.
As an avid reader from a young age, I have always been drawn to imagination, storytelling, and
understanding one’s personal narrative. In therapy, I believe envisioning who you want to
become is just as important as doing the emotional work to get there. Therapy is a space not only
for healing, but for clarity, reflection, and growth. My professional experience in community
mental health allowed me to work with clients facing a wide range of challenges, sharpening my
ability to meet people where they are, and appreciate the power of those unexpected “aha”
moments. I value the opportunity counseling provides to slow down, reflect, and create space for
intentional change.
I work with adults and professionals navigating the pressures of daily life, work, and selfexpectations,
as well as couples seeking to improve communication or engage in relationship maintenance. I also support teens experiencing social anxiety, depression, and the challenges that
come with growth and development. My therapeutic style is warm, supportive, and skills-based,
focusing on practical tools that help make life feel more manageable and compassionate.
I incorporate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness-based techniques,
and Gottman-informed interventions to support insight, strengthen coping skills, and improve
communication and connection. Therapy is collaborative and individualized, shaped by each
client’s goals, needs, and lived experience.
Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, I bring a sense of warmth, care, and familial
connection into my work. I am passionate about helping clients navigate life transitions, build
self-esteem, strengthen coping skills, and resolve internal or relational conflict in ways that foster
lasting change.
Specialties:
- Couples and family therapy (communication, blending families, marriage, divorce, and
conflict) - Life transitions
- Anxiety and stress
- Grief and loss
- Burnout, job stress, and work-life balance
- Self-esteem and social anxiety
