Roxanna R. Alvarez

MA, LPC-S, CTRS
I am honored to walk along side you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. My passion, as a therapist, is to partner with you as you are working through your struggles, heal from your painful experiences, and to grow stronger in the process. Therefore, I truly believe in utilizing techniques that apply to the individual as a whole.
I am an Eclectic therapist and my main goal is to support you as you find the right tools to discover the best version of yourself and develop enriched relationships. Life can feel like you are on autopilot and it is difficult to pause. I am confident that we can find your personal and proactive path through the difficulties that you are facing. I believe that every individual has been given many unique strengths and we can collaboratively work towards your unique goal.
While I would never push my beliefs on anyone, I am a Christian and trained in spiritual integration of any beliefs. If you are searching for a spiritual component the focus could simply involve connecting the benefits of spirituality. I often find clients struggle with forgiving themselves or others, and I seek to help them reconcile this.
As a Recreational Therapist I also utilize physical activities to enhance the experience in therapy. I am able to use recreation to address the assessed needs of the individual as a means to psychological and physical health , recovery and overall well being.
I have been practicing therapy for 10 years, but spent over 19 years serving youth and families in various settings (ministry, under-served communities, substance use outpatient, and the mental health authority). I work with all ages, faiths, genders, and sexual orientations. My experience includes providing therapy to children, parents, adults, couples, and families facing different challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, marital conflict, OCD, ADHD, and behavioral problems.
LIC#70255

Julio Urbina

Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology , LPC-Associate
Hello there, my name is Julio Urbina Jr. and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M International University in December of 2021. I believe therapy is about providing a helping hand to those who are seeking growth and self-discovery. Life can throw many challenges at us, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed or lost during these hard times. It takes a lot of courage to open up about our struggles, but in doing so we may end up discovering just how truly strong we are. My counseling approach revolves heavily on person-centered therapy, with aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy also being incorporated. By working together, I am hopeful we can establish methods of coping that can assist you in overcoming these difficulties and in reaching your desired goals.
LIC#89149 Supervised by Roxanna A. Alvarez, MA LPC-Supervisor, CTRS

Liliana Cantu

Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology , LPC
My name is Liliana Cantu and I am currently working to become fully licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). As an LPC-Associate my goal is to gain as much experience working with the youth and adults of Laredo, Texas, in various areas that I care deeply about. I attended Texas A&M International University and graduated in December of 2021 with my Masters in Counseling Psychology. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation to healing, and I am honored to help build that with you, your family, or your friends. My approach is one that incorporates different aspects of different counseling theories, to best fit your needs and to help you achieve your personal goals towards happier and healthier living. I look forward to working with you soon!

LIC#88642

Mayra Pedraza

Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology, LPC
Mayra Pedraza holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in Texas. Previously, Ms. Pedraza worked as a correctional officer in a private federal detention center where she worked as a Shift Supervisor. Working in a federal facility, Ms. Pedraza gained knowledge in substance use and co-occurring disorders. Her interest in counseling grew and has now put it to work in providing the best care possible. She is in advocate for a local sexual assault program for survivors. She volunteers her time to help survivors obtain information about their rights and provide support. Ms. Pedraza would like to continue her education and obtain a doctoral degree in Developmental Psychology
LIC# 89152

Maria Teresa Valencia

Maria Teresa Valenica MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor TX 64813
My name is Maria Teresa Valencia and I graduated from Texas A & M International University August 2007. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 12 years. I have been in the mental health field for 15 years. My career began at non profit organizations working with familes, children and adolescents with trauma. I have also worked in Texas A & M International University working with student's with test anxiety and depression. I also worked with returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan with PTSD and issues of adjustment. My Holistic approach embraces the individual as a whole focusing on a person's physical, emotionl, social, and spiritual well-being. Implementing different techniques to discover you strengths and potential until you feel like the best version of yourself. Allow me to walk you through this journey of self-grow and self-discovery.
*LIC#64813*

Denisse Cavazos

Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, LPC-Associate
Hello! My name is Denisse Cavazos I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May of 2023. During Grad school I was able to gain a Bilingual Counseling Certificate that specified in using Spanish counseling skills. I believe through therapy you can achieve a better understanding of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I am honored to work with you in providing good mental health that contributes to strong relationships, communication skills and better health. My approach is using theories that best fit you and to support your personal growth. I am hopeful that we can work together to achieve the best version of yourself.
LIC#94912 Supervised by Roxanna A. Alvarez, MA LPC-Supervisor, CTRS

Abbe Leal

Abbe Leal M.Ed, LPCS, CTRS
Hi, I am Abbe (Abbey) Leal. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) for 20+ years and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) for 30+ years. I have worked with children/adolescents and young adults with mental health needs and/or behavioral and crisis risks. I am also certified as a Highly Qualified Teacher in Texas with certifications in Special Education, ESL and English. This has helped greatly to navigate school needs. I have worked in psychiatric hospitals, residential facilities, Texas Youth Commission (TYC), bootcamps, private practice, school districts, and at Mental Health facilities. I employ an eclectic approach to counseling focusing on teaching coping skills and changed thinking to deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger issues. I always utilize recreational therapy within the counseling forum. I am appreciative of all these years my clients know that they can trust me with their needs and of their families entrusting me with their child. I am very involved in my children’s lives, have several pets, enjoy cooking, exercising and traveling. I look forward to helping with your current struggles.
Abbe L Leal, LPCS license 17858, CTRS certification 11427

Alejandra Santos

Office Manager
Hello! I am currently a student at Texas A&M International University, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Biology. My goal is to continue into the Masters Program and obtain my LPC license. As any other college student, I love my free time! I will take advantage of any time I can get to spend it with my dog. My dog, Reign, is one of my biggest priorities. I will take her for runs at the park and spoil her with many gifts. I also really enjoy doing CrossFit style workouts and weightlifting!
I am here to help with any questions or concerns you may have and to guide you through our scheduling process! I am very excited to work with you all!

Gabriela Sanchez

Office Assistant
Hello! I’m Gabriela Sanchez, currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. My academic journey fuels my passion for understanding human behavior, with plans to continue on to a Master’s in Counseling.
Outside of academics, I have a deep love for travel and photography. I enjoy capturing the world through my lens and finding inspiration in new experiences and cultures.
I’m eager to bring my enthusiasm and skills to the Lifehouse team and assist you all in any way possible!

Bella

Bella is calm and reserved. She loves a quiet and peaceful environment. She is very observant and thoughtful and will consider your emotions. Her calm demeanor can reduce stress and improve productivity and focus.

Luna

Luna is overcome by adventure! Her desire for exploration and novelty will keep you guessing! She loves to seek excitement and new experiences. Her willingness to embrace the unknown with enthusiasm and courage will encourage you to do the same!

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are devoted companions providing vital comfort and solace to individuals navigating mental health challenges. Recognized for their unique ability to offer emotional support, ESAs contribute to a sense of well-being, offering unconditional companionship to those in need. Whether it's a gentle paw or a comforting presence, these animals play a crucial role in promoting emotional balance and resilience. Through the bond shared with their human counterparts, Emotional Support Animals become cherished allies on the journey to mental and emotional wellness.