About Me

I'm Max, a licensed psychologist in Austin, Texas, and the founder of MSH Psychotherapy, PLLC.

I didn't start in psychology. I spent years in neuroscience research at UT Health Science Center in San Antonio, studying the brain with MRI and EEG. That work taught me how to think scientifically about the mind, but it also showed me that interacting with participants was the part I cared about most. So I made the shift to clinical work.

I earned my PsyD from William James College and completed an APA-accredited internship here in Austin. During my training, I developed a focus on psychedelic preparation and integration psychotherapy, completing advanced training through the Ketamine Research Foundation and presenting research on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy at Psychedelic Science 2025 in Denver. Before graduate school, I spent a year in clinical trials where I administered Spravato (intranasal esketamine) and coordinated with medical teams on research protocols. I also provide collaborative psychological assessment using the Therapeutic Assessment model developed by Stephen Finn, PhD, helping clients answer specific questions about their personality, emotional functioning, and relational patterns through a structured evaluation process.

My approach to therapy is person-centered at its core. I believe the therapeutic relationship is what makes change possible. I also draw from CBT and exposure-based methods when structure and skills building are what a client needs. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Some people need space to explore. Others need concrete tools and a clear plan. Most need both at different points. I pay attention to what's actually working and adjust.

I grew up in San Antonio, and I'm originally from Monterrey, Mexico. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish. Outside of the office, I play guitar, go to concerts and comedy shows, and stay curious about nutrition and metabolic health, how the body and brain influence each other, and what the emerging science on psychedelics means for the future of mental health care.