A Journey to Help Families Heal

Meet Erika Erickson, a Mental Health Counselor at The Counseling Center at PCHAS in Cypress, Texas. She spent years growing into her calling and brings a decade of experience — and a deep passion for people — to every session.

A Path Built on Purpose

Erika majored in Social Work at Hope College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2013 before obtaining her Master of Social Work degree from Grand Valley State University in 2015. She joined PCHAS that same year as a foster care case manager, stepping right into the heart of the work.

Over the years, she wore many hats. She served as a maternity and adoption services coordinator, earned her clinical social work license, and then helped launch PCHAS's counseling program in Texas — a milestone she's especially proud of. For the past several years, she has served as a therapist, walking alongside children, teens, adults, couples, and families as they navigate life’s ups and downs.

Her path wasn't a straight line. It was a series of purposeful steps — each one building on the last.

Every Day Looks Different

One of the things Erika loves most about her work is the variety. She sees clients of all ages and life experiences, and that means she gets to use a wide range of skills every single day.

"I have a lot of meaningful conversations with my adult clients," she says, "and I get to build trust and rapport with my child clients through play."

That last part matters a lot. Play therapy isn't just fun — it's a proven, developmentally appropriate way to help children process emotions and experiences they may not yet have the words for. Erika meets each client where they are, and she wouldn't have it any other way.

"No day or session is ever the same," she says with a smile.

In-Person or Virtual — Finding the Right Fit

One question clients often ask is whether to come in person or meet virtually. Erika has a thoughtful approach to that conversation.

For children, she believes in-person therapy is the better fit. Being physically present allows her to connect with young clients in ways that are natural and appropriate for how they learn and grow. For adults, she sees it differently — and thinks the choice should belong to the client.

"I think adults should feel empowered to choose what is most comfortable and convenient for them," she says. "Some people may feel more connected to a therapist in person, while another may feel less intimidated by a virtual session."

There's no wrong answer. What matters most is that people get the support they need in the way that works best for them.

You Don't Have to Wait for a Crisis

If you've been thinking about counseling but keep putting it off, Erika has something she wants you to hear.

"I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their life," she says. "It's important to normalize prioritizing our mental health just as we would with our physical health."

She's right. We don't wait until we're seriously ill to see a doctor. Mental health deserves the same attention — and the same care.

Whether you're working through something specific or simply want a space to process and grow, counseling can help. And with therapists like Erika on staff, you'll be in good hands.

Ready to take the next step?

The Counseling Center at PCHAS in Cypress, Texas offers in-person and virtual counseling for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Schedule an Appointment online or call (833) 208-3201.