Confusion, fear, and uncertainty. This is what the majority of our community, families, friends, and nation are currently feeling. Yet these are the same feelings that keep people from seeking mental health services. In this state, students are required to take Texas History along with regular History. The first thing we learned, the word Texas (tejas, tayshas, texias) had wide usage among the Indians of East Texas. The usual meaning was "friends," although the Hasinai applied the word to many groups-including Caddoan-to mean "allies."* Though there is now debate over the word as it was in old Spanish, referring to the sacred “yew” tree. That works too. Yew trees have roots, which are securely attached to the ground, have beautiful dark green leaves all year round, and are especially drought hardy which makes them “friendly” to Texas climate.
In times of uncertainty, fear, and confusion, many mental health providers will offer words of advice which include unplugging from social media, limit one’s watching of the news, and engaging in deep breathing. These are solid ideas and for the most part, I agree. However, not all the members of our community feel safe doing this. Turning off socials and/ or the news for a moment seems to produce more fear. Changes are happening within the blink of an eye and everyone else seems to know something new within minutes rather than days or hours. Engaging in deep breathing works great, for a moment. (I don’t discount how long or significant a moment is. This chaotic time we are in may feel bigger than a moment.)
Yew trees hold deep cultural significance, symbolizing death and rebirth, and their incredibly strong, durable wood was historically used to make bows and other durable items. When you feel fear and uncertainty, look for what or who is certain. Finding shade from the hard sun under the comforting branches of a tree is a certainty in Texas.
At Richland Oaks Counseling Center, we recognize the importance of being the strong and durable for those who need it. We celebrate the diversity of various trees across and within Texas and understand that each tree may need something different to feel safe, attached, and to see growth. We are allies to those in our space. We aim to instill hope within our community. Hope you will find courage to seek help when and where you need it.
We have immediate openings for in-person and telehealth. Clinicians who speak Spanish, French, and Farsi. We have sliding scale and take some insurance.
Dr. Kelleigh Head
*Phillip L. Fry, “Texas, Origin of Name,” Handbook of Texas Online, accessed October 06, 2025, https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/texas-origin-of-name.