JP Cardenas, LPC

Background and Clinical Approach

I’m JP Cardenas, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Austin, Texas. I’ve been practicing as a therapist since 2021 and have a decade of experience in the mental health field. My career began in community mental health, where I gained experience in various roles including case management, wellness services, crisis intervention, and supported housing.

Since 2021, I’ve focused my work in private practice, specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, BIPOC individuals, people of all body sizes, and those dealing with depression, anxiety, religious trauma, relational issues, and the intersection of these identities and challenges. I approach therapy with a holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed perspective, utilizing an integrative therapeutic approach to best support my clients. I’m deeply passionate about educating and training other mental health professionals, particularly around LGBTQ+ mental health, and I provide education and training to therapists and community providers.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Child Development from Texas State University in 2012 and my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University in 2019. After receiving my Licensed Professional Counselor Associate license in 2021, I fully upgraded to a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2024. While at St. Edward’s, I had the privilege of working with Out Youth, where I became their first mental health advocate volunteer. Through this role, I provided mental health education and resources, helping LGBTQ+ youth connect with counseling services and other community supports. I later completed my internship at Out Youth, where I provided individual and group therapy to youth experiencing issues related to their sexuality, gender identity, family of origin, depression, anxiety, and religious trauma. This experience solidified my commitment to specializing in LGBTQ+ mental health.

My path into mental health began in my own teenage years, when I struggled with my sexuality and gender identity, leading to challenges with depression and anxiety. I found hope when a school counselor recognized my struggles and connected me with group therapy. This experience helped me realize I wasn’t alone and gave me the tools to begin my healing journey. That school counselor’s support changed my life, and it’s why I’m committed to doing the same for others facing similar challenges.

Outside of work, I’m a native Austinite and a proud pet parent. I have a love for tattoos, piercings, and all things fantasy and sci-fi. As a Hufflepuff, I enjoy spending time with friends, going to the movies, and savoring a good chai latte. I’m also passionate about exploring my spiritual practices, reading more books, and immersing myself in music.