Welcome, and thank you for visiting. My hope is that this website helps you get a sense of who I am, how I work, and the services I offer. If you’re thinking about starting therapy, or just have questions, I’d be happy to talk. You can reach me at 512-569-0506 or by email at rhea@pledgertherapy.com.
I’ve been a therapist for over 15 years, working with individuals, couples, and groups. Before going into full-time private practice, I gained experience in a variety of settings, including Waterloo Counseling Center, the University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center, and Austin Recovery Center. I have been in private practice since 2009.
Group therapy is a particular passion of mine. I study modern group leadership at the Center for Group Studies in New York City and stay active with the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) and the Austin Group Psychotherapy Society (AGPS.) I’m also a Certified Group Psychotherapist, a designation that reflects both my training and commitment to this work.
Beyond my clinical work, I’ve enjoyed taking on leadership roles in the professional community. I’ve served as co-chair of AGPA’s Special Interest Groups for clinicians who specialize in LGBTQ work and as Treasurer of AGPS. Currently, I sit on the board of the Group Foundation for Advancing Mental Health, which supports the mission of AGPA through fundraising and education.
Before becoming a therapist, I majored in Finance at Texas Tech University and served as a Community Development Volunteer in the Peace Corps, where I became fluent in the language of Cape Verdean Creole. I also spent time volunteering at McLean Psychiatric Hospital outside of Boston; an experience that helped inspire my path into mental health.
