Associations

• EMDRIA Member
• American Board of Sexology Certification
• American Academy of Medical Hypnoanalysts Member
• American Psychological Association Member
• Psi Chi National Honor Society of Psychology Member
• Golden Key International Honor Society Member
• International Association of Trauma Professionals
• Sexual Health Alliance Member
• American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists Member

Coach Ben Gonzales, BA

Executive Coach

Director of Business Operations

Coach Ben Gonzales is a public relations director with over 34 years of experience in journalism, public relations, marketing and event planning. Retired from the Air Force, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Excelsior University. He taught journalism at the highest level for new military public relations specialists, and was a sports coach for several years. He offers coaching in public speaking, interviewing skills, social skills, developing leadership skills, relationships, social media and e-mail etiquette. Coach Gonzales also mentored area disadvantaged youth for several years on leadership and developing into a successful young person. He is passionate about helping adolescents, teens and young people grow into responsible and respectable members of the community. He is also passionate about helping partners in committed relationships communicate more effectively. He offers one-on-one coaching as well as group coaching to assist clients in setting goals, decision-making, and developing into better individuals. His approach is to actively listen to clients and collaboratively develop processes to improve the lives of clients.

Jacqueline Aguirre Soto

Office Administrator

Our Therapists

Terri Lewis, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

My belief in the value of helping others and being in the service of others is rooted in my upbringing.  Helping, nurturing, and teaching others respect for oneself helps to promote common good, well-being and health in every community.  Being an effective counselor takes more than professional education.  It requires the ability to be able to interact with others and have a desire to be empathetic to others’ circumstances. Possessing this desire is key to being a person that can relate to others and effectively assist them in their time of need.

I use Person Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, grief therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and EMDR therapy to help explore and navigate alternative and constructive solutions to life’s ups and down.  Life is full of grey areas and when interacting with people one must be aware that what is good for one person may not work for another person. Counselors must meet the person they are helping without judgment, and by being an active listener and critical thinker.  I will help meet the person where they are, as this is important, as we assist them through their journey of becoming a better version of themselves.

Claudia Pozas, MA, LPC, PSC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Professional School Counselor

I am a bilingual therapist who has worked in the public education system for more than 15 years. I have experience working in several settings such as public schools, non-profits and corporations. I have earned a Master’s degree in Divinity, a Master’s degree in School Counseling, and a Master’s degree in Public School Administration. I currently work full-time as a school counselor in Laredo, TX, and have more than 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents to overcome school struggles. I have more than 10 years of experience working with women of all ages. In 2018, I was honored to receive a Congressional Award for my Inclusion work. I believe that everyone deserves a second chance. I am available for virtual sessions most afternoons and evenings.

Vanessa Romero, MSW, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Picture and Bio coming soon

Jennifer Powell, MA, LPC Associate

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate

Under the Supervision of Jennifer Yarbrough, MA, LPC-S

Hi! As a LPC Associate, I will work with you to help identify your desires and empower you to make positive changes in your life. I understand that making the decision to seek counseling can be difficult, so I will use an approach that is compassionate, direct, and non-judgmental to help create an environment where you feel supported in your counseling journey.

I began my journey working in the mental health field in 2008, where I discovered my passion is helping individuals rebuild their lives and reestablish relationships. I continued my calling by pursuing my education. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University- San Antonio and recently with a Master of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Mary’s University. To further my experience, I spent time working with children, adolescents, and adults in different capacities to learn how people interact, change, and grow.

My current interests are helping adolescents and young adults develop healthy coping skills to overcome anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, family changes, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. I use Narrative therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), therapeutic art, and currently training in EMDR.

Xochitl Rae Kladis, MA, LPC, LCDC-I

Licensed Professional Counselor

Licensed Chemical & Dependency Counselor-Intern

Professional School Counselor

Xochtil is accepting a limited number of clients at this time.

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) counselor with over ten years of experience. I hold a Master of Arts in School Counseling from Texas A&M International University. I have been a licensed therapist/counselor in the mental health field for over 12 years in educational and clinical settings. I work with diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups and offer virtual services. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive environment for all clients in my care using a person-centered approach. I have special training and an interest in working with trauma by providing EMDR therapy as a helping aid.

I currently work with students and families for a school district as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Laredo, Texas. I have experience working with a range of populations in a variety of settings. I have worked with complex trauma, grief, co-occurring Substance Use Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Outside of work, I love trying out new restaurants with my girls and my husband, attending large family get-togethers, restoring my imagination through play with my special needs daughter, and exercising when I find the time! My future goal is to travel internationally at least once a year.

C. Chase, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Picture and Bio coming soon

Valerie Montgomery, MSW, LCSW-Intern

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern

Under the Supervision of Alexis Tarr, MSW, LCSW-S

Picture and Bio coming soon

Kim Ghezzi, MA, LPC Associate, PSC

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate

Under the Supervision of Dr. Bianca Goodrum, PhD, LPC-S

Professional School Counselor

I’m Kim and I believe you can empower yourself by embracing your life story and sharing it in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space. I will help you break free from limiting beliefs and unlock your true potential. In our work together, you can learn to believe in your ability to heal, grow, and live a fulfilling life. 

As an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas with over 20 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems Theory (IFS) to create a supportive and inspiring environment, honoring your unique strengths, values, goals, and needs and guiding you toward a path of personal growth and self-discovery. I am also currently training in EMDR.

I specialize in treating adults, teens, and couples, with a particular emphasis on helping my clients overcome anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, trauma related women’s issues and relationship issues. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Rachel Wilson, MS, LPC Associate

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate

Under the Supervision of Dr. Bianca Goodrum, PhD, LPC-S

Hi, I’m Rachel! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas with a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I believe you are capable of the change you want to see in your life. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and families find healing and embrace hope. Seeking help can be challenging. I will create a safe space for you to feel, grieve and explore your life; I will meet you with warmth, genuineness, and non-judgement. You deserve a secure place to be vulnerable and I hope to provide that place for you.

I practice trauma-informed care through a humanistic approach. Also, I am very passionate about providing neuroscience education so that you can better understand how your body and mind are reacting to your environment. I employ techniques such as mindfulness, guided meditation, expressive arts, and somatic healing. We will collaborate together to find the tools and skills that work best for you as an individual.

Laura Wells, MS, LPC Associate

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate

Under the Supervision of Dr. Bianca Goodrum, PhD, LPC-S

Hi there! My name is Laura Wells. I am a firm believer that you are the expert on your own life, and it is my joy and honor to be able to work with you in counseling to help you make sense of any mental health struggles you’re experiencing and help you make the best decisions for you and your life. As your counselor, it is my role to help you in self-exploration, to process trauma and grief, to express your thoughts and feelings fully, and of course, build healthy coping skills that work for you specifically.

I have a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through UTSA and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology through Our Lady of the Lake University. In counseling, I utilize person-centered therapy, humanistic and existential approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts techniques, and mindfulness-based techniques. I am also fully trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, assault, neglect, and grief. I also specialize in working with the neurodivergent community (ADHD, autism) and the LGBTQIA+ community.

As a counselor, I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults, adults and the elderly, families, and couples. My hope for all my clients is that this counseling office can feel like a safe, warm, and accepting space where you can fully express yourself and feel truly heard. I am excited to join you in your mental health journey of healing and self-growth.

Elizabeth Schram, MSW, LCSW-Intern

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern

Under the Supervision of Lauren Evenski, MSW, LCSW-S

Hello, I’m Elizabeth! I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development, my Master’s degree in Holocaust Studies, and my second Master’s degree in Social Work. I worked as the Director of the Holocaust Resource Center of Buffalo in New York for over 3 years where I became interested in intergenerational trauma and worked with Holocaust Survivors and their families. I also have experience working with elementary school students, focusing on the development of their social emotional learning and skills. In addition, I have provided treatment to several adolescents and adults who were experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, and PTSD, as well as relationship, communication, and self-esteem issues.

I am an empathetic therapist committed to offering trauma-informed care to promote client safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. I am trained in EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing. I am dedicated to supporting clients in navigating life’s ups and downs, gaining insight, building coping strategies, and achieving their goals. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you!

Stefanie Banda, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Stefanie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of the Incarnate Word and a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Since becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2012, Stefanie has dedicated her career to supporting at-risk youth and has amassed 19 years of experience empowering her clients. For the past 12 years, she has specialized in providing therapy to young people and adults dealing with issues such as low self-esteem, social skills, relationship challenges, family dynamics, stress, anger, self-harming behaviors, and suicidal ideation. Stefanie has also worked with individuals of all ages in behavioral health hospital settings.

Stefanie’s approach to therapy is compassionate, trauma-informed, and holistic. She primarily focuses on trauma, helping clients undo negative childhood messages that impact their current functioning. Additionally, Stefanie has trained educators to be trauma-informed and has led efforts in San Antonio to establish the first Trauma-Informed Certified High School and Stand-Alone Child Development Center in South Texas.

Stefanie is skilled in various therapeutic modalities, including Choice (Reality) Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Stefanie also incorporates faith-based conversations into her therapeutic practice when appropriate.

Above all, Stefanie is passionate about helping people in her community overcome obstacles and become healthy, productive adults. She believes that everyone is doing the best they can with the skills they have and that learning new skills with a compassionate guide can help individuals become the best version of themselves.

Clinical Supervisors

Dr. Jennifer Yarbrough, PhD, LPC-S

Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor

Jennifer Yarbrough is not accepting clients at this time.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) in the states of Texas and Mississippi. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field and in the process of obtaining my doctorate degree at St. Mary’s University. I have worked in a variety of settings including college counseling offices, mental health hospitals, schools and mental health clinics. I have experience working with a broad range of populations and experience working with individuals that deal with anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma as well as couples. I enjoy working with people from all different walks of life. I love the behavioral health approaches of CBT and DBT. I am also trained in EMDR.

I believe it is important to be open minded and non-judgmental. It is important to meet clients where they are at. I believe counseling is a collaborative relationship. I am not an expert, but you are the expert on your life and I am here to assist you on this journey. I believe we grow through the challenges we face in life and there is always a lesson to be learned at the end of the journey. Mental health matters just as much as physical health. I look forward to working with you.

Lauren Evenski, MSW, LCSW-S, LCDC

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor

Licensed Chemical & Dependency Counselor

Lauren is not accepting new clients at this time.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in History from Texas A&M University (Whoop!) and my Master of Social Work from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have served the San Antonio community over the last seven-plus years in several capacities, including at local non-profit agencies, in a psychiatric hospital setting, at the local mental health authority, and in private practice.

I specialize primarily in couples counseling, healing from trauma, attachment and inner child work, and substance use disorders. My modalities include EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, attachment theory, and components of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). I pride myself in being genuine, culturally-responsive, and an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community.

I believe that you are the strength of the therapeutic relationship, and my goal in therapy is to listen, empower, and accompany you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and achievement of the goals that you have in mind for us.

Graduate Level Interns

Ana Hinojosa, BA, MA Graduate Student

Under the Supervision of Dr. Jennifer Yarbrough, PhD, LPC-S

I am currently a graduate student at Our Lady of the Lake University in the Master’s of Arts in Counseling with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health. When working with clients, I use integrated counseling intervention including Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy, depending on the client’s needs. I also incorporate therapeutic art techniques when it benefits the client. Some of my areas of interest include anxiety, depression, cultural identity, self-esteem, and social anxiety.

I want to provide people with the space and support needed to  heal and discover their greatest selves. I enjoy spending my free time painting, reading, gardening and hanging out with my family. I look forward to working with you.

Patricia Saiz-Tapia, BS, MA Graduate Student

Under the Supervision of Dr. Jennifer Yarbrough, PhD, LPC-S

Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, has been a defining part of my life. From the Tex-Mex food to the warm and welcoming community, I have always been proud to call this city my home. From a young age, I was always interested in understanding human behavior and the factors that influence it. This fascination led me to pursue my career in Behavioral Health, and for the past 12 years, I have dedicated my life to helping others improve their mental well-being. In 2013, I married my husband and became a proud USMC wife. I am a mother to a son who has brought so much joy and fulfillment into my life. In my free time, I love spending quality time with my family and friends, and my two cats who make the perfect cuddle companions.

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