Alexis Baker

MS, LPC, CTP

LPC, Texas Licence #86283

Certified Trauma Professional

Master of Science in Counseling, Cal State Long Beach

Bachelor of Arts, UC Santa Barbara

My initial interest in cults and coercive control began many years ago when I found myself asking, “why do people join cults?”. Through listening to countless stories and coming into contact with enough people and situations that could be considered “culty”, it became clear to me that people do not, in fact, “join cults”. They join a movement, they join a group. They want to improve themselves, they want to improve the world.

Through researching the work of modern trailblazers such as Janja Lalich, Steven Hassan and others, my academic interest in the topics of cults, high-control groups and coercive control grew. Understanding there is an urgent need for mental health professionals who are informed and competent on this topic, I founded Breakaway Therapy to help people break away from situations that harm and abuse.

I have a special place in my heart for folks who identify as LGBTQ+. Since becoming a founding member of the Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) as a high school sophomore at the age of 16, I’ve always considered allyship to be a cornerstone of my work as a Counselor and Therapist.

The name of my practice comes from the Kelly Clarkson song “Breakaway”. With it’s themes of freedom and finding independence it speaks to the freedom I hope to help my clients discover in this new chapter of their lives.

I now live with my husband, two young children and one very good dog.

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking, outdoor exercise and the occasional episode of bad reality television.

Memberships

International Cultic Studies Association, member since 2023

I am listed on the ICSA website as a counseling provider for those recovering from cultic experiences.

Texas Counseling Association (TCA), member since 2019

Texas Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities (TxSAIGE), member since 2019