Be kind to yourself.

-Lifehouse Team

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

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

Denisse Cavazos

Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, LPC-Associate
Hello! My name is Denisse Cavazos I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. 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
LPC, MS

Angela Benavides

As a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, I bring extensive clinical experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life’s challenges and difficult transitions. My approach with compassion is rooted in creating a warm, supportive, and judgment-free environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse clinical and community settings, providing individual, family, and group counseling, crisis intervention, mental health assessments, and case management services. My experience includes working with at-risk youth, individuals struggling with substance abuse and dependency, survivors of domestic violence and trauma, and individuals experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges. I utilize therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic and Integrative Therapy, to help clients recognize unhealthy thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, strengthen emotional resilience, and build confidence in their ability to overcome obstacles. My goal is to meet each individual where they are, recognize their unique strengths, and empower them with the tools and support needed to achieve personal growth, healing, and an improved quality of life.

License # 80483

LPC, MS

Daniela Salinas

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

Hello, my name is Daniela Salinas. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Texas. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in 2019. I also hold a double bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Communication from Texas A&M International University, which I earned in 2016.

Advocacy and helping others have been passions of mine since I was 15 years old. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for those I serve. I enjoy working with clients and witnessing their growth and progress.

I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to work with all of you.

Supervised by Vanessa Ibarra, LCSW-S, TX License # 66204

Daniela Salinas LMSW, TX License # 107480

Cristian Tovar

bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S, LCDC)

Hi my name is Cristian Tovar I have years as an educator in Mexico and training in school counseling and mental health at Texas A&M University in Laredo. This foundation allows me to bring a culturally informed perspective and a deep understanding of family systems, development, and life transitions to his clinical work.

My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, grounded in evidence-based practices that support healing and lasting change. I specialize in grief and loss, adolescent and young adult concerns, cultural and family transitions, and relationship issues, including infidelity and rebuilding trust.

Clients often describe me as warm, grounded, and direct—always compassionate. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where clients feel heard, empowered, and supported as they work toward clarity, resilience, and personal growth.

License # 78953

Karen Morales

Hi! My name is Karen and I graduated from Texas A&M International University with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in May of 2025 and became a certified Spanish-English bilingual counselor. I have provided mental health services to adolescents and adults in the community of Laredo, TX, and used a variety of therapeutic approaches. I have experience with person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Although I enjoy practicing humanistic therapeutic models, I prefer to tailor my therapeutic approach to my client’s needs.

My hobbies include creating artworks like paintings, embroidery or colored pencil drawings and giving them as gifts to my loved ones. I also enjoy watching comedy TV series, suspense films and reading thriller books. My favorite memories always involve being surrounded by my friends and family. I consider myself a life-long student, as I am always open to learn from others. As a counselor, I strive to instill a sense of self-compassion and determination in my clients. I am grateful to my past clients for opening their hearts and letting me accompany them in their life’s journey. Every counselor has their own therapeutic style and am hopeful that our work together will be fruitful.

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

LPC-Associate

License # 100696

Ana Rivas

Hello!! My name is Ana, and I graduated from the University of Houston with a major in Political Science and Public Relations in May of 2025. I’m part of the team behind Lifehouse Professional Counseling, and I’m passionate about creating a space where mental health feels approachable, understood, and free of judgment.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the movies, spending time with my family, reading, listening to music, and caring for my pets; I also love finding creative ways to bring fun, connection, and self-expression into everyday life.

I believe that life is about more than just getting through the hard days, it’s about finding the little things that make us happy, growing through our experiences, and creating meaningful connections along the way.

I hope to share mental health information, helpful tips, personal insights, and reminders that you don’t have to have everything figured out.

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.

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.
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!
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!