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

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

 

Irani Urena

Masters of Education in Counseling, LPC-Associate

Hello! My name is Irani Urena I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I received my Masters of Education in Counseling from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in December 2023. If you are looking for a judgment-free zone to work through your emotions, identify the root causes of your problems, and create a plan to fix them, my counseling services are available for you. Whether you're going through a tough time emotionally, relationally, or just want to grow as a person, I'm here to help. Through exploring, processing feelings and experiences from one's formative years, I assist my clients in finding and overcoming obstacles that stem from their inner child. Gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and your emotions is the goal of this life-altering journey, which will pave the way for you to succeed with certainty and direction. Together, we can begin the process of healing.

LIC#96213 Supervised by Roxanna A. Alvarez, MA LPC-Supervisor, CTRS

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!

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.

Mila

Mila is very extraverted! She loves to greet and socialize with anyone and everyone! Her fun and hyper personality will light up your hearts!

The choice to enter therapy takes courage. I look forward to working with you. 

— Lifehouse team

take a peek at our office

take a peek at our office

take a peek at our office take a peek at our office

Art Mural

Roxanna and Alejandra

Therapy Room

Waiting Area

we are here for you

we are here for you

Roxanna and Liliana

we are here for you

we are here for you

Water Tree

we are here for you

we are here for you

Front Desk

Roxanna and Maria