Elena Aguinaga, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Elena Aguinaga is a Texas State Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor. She received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA). She has also worked in the mental health field for 2 years working with families needing services such as supervised visitations, parenting classes, reunifications, and general counseling services. Elena is working towards completing training in TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) as well as PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy). Elena received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Houston. Elena’s previous professional background includes working in career development in higher education at TAMUSA (Texas A&M University-San Antonio) as well as TLU (Texas Lutheran University). During time off, Elena enjoys hiking, playing cozy video games, running/training for marathons, as well as visiting new coffee shops and plant nurseries.
Stacy S. Aleman, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Stacy is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University earning both her bachelor’s degree (2011) and master’s degree (2013) in Social Work. Stacy earned her clinical license (LCSW) in 2023 and has been practicing as a social worker since 2011. Stacy’s career has been primarily focused on child and family services. Over the last 14 years of her career, she has held a variety of positions in areas such as community services, community outreach, case management, care coordination, crisis intervention, mental health awareness and therapeutic services. In Stacy’s current role, she provides mental health counseling and is certified as a YAM (Youth Aware of Mental Health) facilitator. Stacy is client-centered and takes an integrated approach when providing treatment to meet an individual’s needs and treatment goals.
Zachary Amador, MS, LPC-Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Pedro R. Gonzales, LPC-S
Zachary is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, earning both his bachelor’s degree in Biology (2018) and his master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2023). He has been working with kids and young adults since graduating and has experience providing counseling services in schools. Zachary strives to support both the patients and their families as they work toward their goals.
Naila Brown, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Naila Brown, M.A., LPC, is licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from UTSA and her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University. Naila is a bilingual therapist with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed care and has several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Somatic Interventions. Naila has provided care in a variety of settings, including private practice, community agencies, and college counseling centers. Her approach is culturally responsive, and she is passionate about supporting individuals from marginalized communities as they heal and grow.
Zina M. Busby, LPC-Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Pedro R. Gonzales, LPC-S
Zina Busby, M.S., LPC-Associate, earned both her bachelor’s degree in psychology and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Zina has worked with all age groups and enjoys supporting individuals through challenges related to anxiety, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, trauma, and life transitions. Her counseling style is person-centered emphasizing trust, collaboration, and respect for each person’s unique journey. She is trained in evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing. When she’s not working, Zina enjoys reading, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Erika Cash, MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Cash, MA, LPC, NCC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for working with children and adolescents. She earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Mary’s University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland, University College. Originally from Wiesbaden, Germany, Erika brings a multicultural perspective to her work.
She has extensive experience supporting young clients and their families, having served in roles at Clarity Child Guidance Center and as the Social Emotional Counselor at Compass Rose Public Schools (Legacy Campus) for students in pre-K through 8th grade. Erika specializes in helping children navigate emotional dysregulation, executive functioning challenges, and social or relational difficulties, with particular expertise in supporting those with ADHD, ASD, and OCD.
Erika incorporates a variety of evidence-based approaches into her practice, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Polyvagal-informed work, Somatic Experiencing, and both Child-Centered and Adlerian Play Therapy. She is proud to be part of the TCHATT team, having seen the powerful impact of these services during her time as a school-based mental health provider.
Martha Chichil-Zepeda, MS, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Clinic Manager
Martha Chichil-Zepeda, M.S., LPC-S completed her graduate work at Our Lady of the Lake University and has worked with children and adolescents for half of her professional career. She most recently worked with college-aged students at UTSA in the Counseling and Mental Health Services department. Her areas of interest are trauma-work, multicultural issues, LGBTQ+ DACA/Dreamer concerns, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and PTSD, to list a few. Martha is trained in TF-CBT, CPT, EMDR, SFT, CBT, and EMDR. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and has worked with families and children offering family counseling in both languages. In her free time, she enjoys reading, Zumba, lifting weights, gardening, and spending time with her family.
Claudia Cisneros-Tabares, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Claudia has been a licensed Social Worker since 2003 with a focus on children and adolescents. Through providing services with compassion, integrity and competence, she believes patients and families will be empowered to grow mentally and emotionally. Claudia works from a strengths perspective which helps support patients in reaching their goals.
Megan Cuellar, MS, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Cuellar is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Special Education in 2018 and later with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023. Megan has experience working in Eating Disorder treatment facilities, focusing on both Feeding and Eating Disorders and mental health disorders, crisis assessment, and family support. Megan is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. Megan utilizes Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower and support her clients. Megan enjoys spending time with her family, dogs, and friends, trying new coffee shops, restaurants, cooking, and training for marathons.
Annika De Anda MS, LPC-Associate, LCDC-Intern, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Christina Del Rio, MA, LPC-S
Annika De Anda is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in the state of Texas. She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Bachelor’s in Psychology in 2020 and later with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023. Annika has experience in working with dual diagnosis treatment facilities, focusing on both substance use and mental health disorders, crisis assessment, trauma, group therapy, family support, and horticulture. Annika is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Annika utilizes Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, dependent on the individual’s needs and goals. Annika hopes to continue to strengthen her professional development to further support individual needs. Annika enjoys spending time with her family and friends, taking care of her plants, working out, and traveling.
Christina Del Rio, MA, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Christina Del Rio, MA, LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Council-approved supervisor. She completed her Master’s in Community Counseling at the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2009. She has experience providing mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings to include non-profit and state organizations. Christina utilizes evidence-based interventions when providing therapeutic services to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Christina will tailor treatment to address an individual’s unique need.
Jezza Estrella, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Jezza became a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in November 2023. Before this, she worked as a registered nurse for over eight years in intensive care, specializing in transplant and cardiology, as well as organ donation. Her experience in these areas shifted her focus to the critical importance of mental health, particularly for children and adolescents. Jezza is dedicated to making a positive impact in the mental health field and is continuously expanding her knowledge and skills to provide the highest quality care.
Austin Garcia, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin is a dedicated mental health professional with over six years of experience in the field. He earned his master’s degree in counseling from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2023. Austin began his career on the front lines of mental health, working at a crisis hotline in a call center setting, followed by roles in case management and leadership. Passionate about personal and professional growth, Austin is committed to honing his skills and making a positive impact in the mental health field.
Valerie J. Gonzalez, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie J. Gonzalez is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a strong foundation in supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of children and adolescents. She earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master of Science in School Counseling from Texas A&M International University. Valerie brings valuable experience from diverse settings, including school-based environments and inpatient care, where she has worked closely with young individuals navigating a range of emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. She is skilled in utilizing various therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. As a bilingual counselor fluent in both English and Spanish, Valerie is committed to providing culturally responsive care and ensuring accessibility for Spanish-speaking individuals and families. She believes in fostering a safe, inclusive environment where every client feels heard and supported. Dedicated to continuous professional growth, Valerie is passionate about expanding her clinical knowledge and making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of the individuals and families she serves.
Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez, LPC-S, LCCA, RPT-S
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez is a dedicated and seasoned professional in the counseling field. With over two decades of experience, Pedro holds esteemed credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor & Supervisor (LPC-S), a Licensed Child Care Administrator (LCCA), and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S). Pedro’s expertise is complemented by his bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, enabling him to serve a diverse clientele. His approach is characterized by a unique blend of warmth and professionalism, allowing him to establish meaningful connections across cultural boundaries. Pedro employs a variety of evidence-based techniques tailored to individual needs. These include Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), AutPlay Therapy and Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). Pedro’s extensive background spans a variety of settings, including Adult Probation, Residential Treatment Centers, and both In-office and In-home services. This rich tapestry of experiences has equipped him with a deep understanding of human psychology, emotional resilience, and the pathways to personal transformation.
Larissa Gutierrez, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University, earning both her bachelor’s degree in psychology (2017) and master’s degree in psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (2019). Larissa has been a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas since 2020. Larissa’s career has been primarily focused on child and family services while also providing services to military families and active service members. Her areas of interest are trauma-work, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, adjustment issues, PTSD, grief/loss and others. She is trained in the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She joined UT Health San Antonio in January of 2025 and has extensive experience working with children and families in Outpatient Services, Inpatient Residential Services, and Non-Profit Organizations. In her free time, Larissa enjoys spending time with her family and traveling to new destinations.
Valerie Hernandez, MS, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Valerie Hernandez has been a licensed professional counselor since 2014 and has been a board approved supervisor since 2022. Valerie has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adult patients in outpatient and residential settings. She helps clients who face challenges in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, substance use, grief/loss, and others. Valerie is a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. Valerie also specializes in solution-focused brief therapy in which she works to construct solutions for client’s difficulties based on client’s strengths and their unique life experiences. She uses additional tools such as cognitive behavioral therapy, unified protocol, and motivational interviewing.
Andrea Johnson, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Johnson holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from West Texas A&M University, a Master’s in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She brings a diverse and well-rounded background to her work in mental health services. Andrea has experience in private practice, supervision of Children’s and Adult Crisis Teams, and has worked extensively with children and adolescents in school settings. She has also worked in nonprofit organizations focused on early childhood education, where she supported young children and their families through a variety of developmental and behavioral challenges. Her combined background in psychology, criminal justice, education, and mental health gives her a unique, trauma-informed perspective. Andrea is passionate about helping individuals heal, grow, and build resilience across all stages of life.
Desaree Jones, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Desaree Jones is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology from Texas State University and a Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling from TTUHSC. Desaree has experience working with individuals of all ages and many different backgrounds. Desaree is certified in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Additionally, over the course of her career, Desaree has gained plenty of knowledge and experience utilizing different therapeutic interventions and hopes to continue expanding and growing as a professional.
Caitlin Macias, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Caitlin has been in the helping profession for many years and earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. Caitlin has had the privilege of working with all age groups, from children to geriatrics, but her work with children and families has always been her main focus. Throughout her career, she has worked with children in the school system, foster care system, juvenile justice system, inpatient psychiatric, medical hospital setting, and most recently private practice setting.
Caitlin has experience in treating persons with anxiety, anger, mood disorders, ADHD, crisis, and various behavioral disorders. She utilizes many different treatment modalities, more holistic in nature, which fit the unique needs of every child and family, including CBT, DBT, solution-focused, art therapy, play therapy, and cognitive processing therapy for teens. Caitlin prefers to use methods of self-discovery to find your inner strength and motivation for change.
Caitlin is also an animal lover and has a dog whom she absolutely loves. He gives her much peace and comfort, which is an important part of her self-care. She also grew up in a musical family, so music has been a very important part of her life, from playing in the band while growing up to attending concerts of many different genres. This also carries over into Caitlin’s professional life, where she sometimes uses music to teach relaxation and coping skills in sessions.
Sean MacKay, M.Ed., LPC-Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Christina Del Rio, LPC-S
Sean MacKay, M.Ed., LPC-Associate supervised by Christina Del Rio, LPC-S, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Baylor University in 2020 and attained a Master of Education in Counseling specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Christian University in 2023. He has experience providing mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings to include family resource centers, university, and private practice. Sean employs evidence-based approaches when providing therapeutic services to include Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Sean’s goal is to provide empathetic support and psychoeducation, as well as address the concerns of those he interacts with.
Kristen McElroy, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
Kristen is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Council-approved supervisor, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with experience in a variety of settings, including Community Mental Health, Crisis Assessment and Intervention, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Collegiate Recovery, and Managed Care. She completed her Master’s in Counseling and Development at Texas Woman’s University in 2015. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Luz Varela Morales, MS, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Luz Varela Morales is a certified bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor (NCC) based in Texas. She earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UTSA and has over 10 years of experience working in trauma-informed settings with children and youth from diverse backgrounds. Luz is certified in Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and United Protocol (UP) for children and adolescents. She has been trained in Multidimensional Grief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Luz has a deep passion for grief work and integrates cultural humility to treat anxiety, trauma, depression and stress related to social and systemic barriers.
Mary Nkwain, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Mary Nkwain is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing holistic, patient-centered mental health care. She specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, with particular expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions.
Mary earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences in Utah and completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in psychiatric mental health at Walden University Minnesota. Her clinical training included rotations in both outpatient community mental health clinics and inpatient psychiatric facilities, where she gained valuable experience in psychopharmacology, crisis intervention, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
With over 13 years of nursing experience, Mary has worked across a wide range of clinical settings, including acute care, long-term care, and behavioral health. She has served in medical-surgical units, observation and step-down units, and has rotated in intensive care (MICU) settings. She has also cared extensively for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Her nursing career includes time at leading institutions such as Memorial Hermann Hospital and Methodist Hospital, where she gained broad and diverse clinical experience.
Mary currently practices in a multidisciplinary outpatient setting, collaborating closely with psychiatrists, therapists, and primary care providers to deliver comprehensive, integrated mental health care. She is deeply committed to fostering open communication, cultural humility, and empowering patients through education and shared decision-making.
Jennifer O’Hare M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer O’Hare M.Ed., LPC, licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. She graduated with a bachelor’s in political science and criminal justice from Our Lady of the Lake University and has a Master’s in Education in Counseling from Sul Ross State University. Jennifer uses evidence-based approaches with an emphasis on working with children and adolescents. She is trained in the following modalities; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Sand-Tray Therapy, and is a Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. She joined UT Health San Antonio in 2022 and has extensive experience working with children and families in Partial hospitalization, Private Practice, Local Mental Health Authority, Non-Profit Organizations, and School settings. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.
Christina Pantuso, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Pantuso is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in biology and psychology from St. Mary’s University and a Master’s degree in psychotherapy from Our Lady of the Lake University. Christina also completed the Psychological Services for Spanish Speaking Populations certificate. Christina has spent her career working with children and adolescents struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, school issues, family relationships, and trauma. She has experience working in a variety of settings to include community-based, private practice, unaccompanied minor shelters, and inpatient facilities. Her approach focuses on evidence and strengths-based practices, such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. Christina strives to help the family system in identifying strengths and encouraging growth.
Amber Parker, MA, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Amber Parker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting the well-being of children and adolescents. She received her master’s degree in social work from Baylor University in 2022. Amber is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, she has experience incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy into her practice. Amber has experience providing treatment to diverse youth in both residential and outpatient settings. It is her goal to help young people grow from their experiences and gain hope for the future by providing a supportive, empathetic space that fosters personal development and resilience. She supports advocacy, empowerment, and social justice.
Amber enjoys spending her free time reading and watching her comfort shows on the couch alongside her dog.
Alexa Philips, LPC-Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Christina Del Rio, MA, LPC-S
Alexa Phillips, LPC Associate, earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from North Carolina State University in 2021 and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Louisville in 2023. During her graduate studies, she worked primarily with children and adolescents in residential treatment settings. Alexa is a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. Her clinical interests include trauma, anxiety and depression. Alexa integrates techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt, and Solution-Focused Therapy within a person-centered framework, always adapting her approach to meet each individual where they are. She strives to create a collaborative, and nonjudgemental space where individuals feel understood, empowered, and supported in their healing process.
Steven Pliszka, MD
Medical Director
Steven R. Pliszka, MD is a Dielmann Distinguished Professor and was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio until 2023. He has been a faculty member at UT Health San Antonio since 1986, joining the Department of Psychiatry after completing his general and child adolescent psychiatry residencies at UT Health San Antonio. Throughout his career he has been involved in a wide range of administrative, research, clinical and educational activities. Prior to being Chair he served as Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from 1995-2015. His research has focused on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and related disorders. He has been involved with clinical trials for most medications used for ADHD. He currently uses functional magnetic imaging to try to understand the mechanisms of action of treatments for ADHD. He has been involved in several projects to integrate mental health services into pediatric primary care. Dr. Pliszka is the author of “Neuroscience for the Mental Health Clinician, 2nd ed.” and “Treating ADHD and Comorbid Disorders (Guilford Press). He has been very active in the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, authoring the academy’s practice parameters for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in 2007. Dr. Pliszka has an active clinical practice, caring for many children and adolescents with ADHD and other psychiatric disorders; he also serves as the attending psychiatrist for two residential facilities for children with severe behavioral and emotional disorders.
Desiree Reyes, MS, LPC, C-DBT
Licensed Professional Counselor
Desiree is a graduate from the University of Texas El Paso earning her Bachelor’s Degree in (2012) and Master’s Degree from Grand Canyon University in (2018.) Desiree began her career as an elementary school teacher teaching English Development courses to refugee students in Phoenix, Arizona. She then transferred to San Antonio, Texas where she taught students with diverse learning needs. While teaching, Desiree began pursuing her License in Professional Counseling while working simultaneously at the Children’s Bereavement Center and Sage social services. During this time, Desiree gained experience in grief counseling, marriage counseling and working with children in CPS custody. Throughout her LPC career, Desiree has worked with children and families in multiple settings, shelters, private practice and hospital settings. Desiree is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, has earned a Women’s Health Specialist Certificate and has received training in TF-CBT. Desiree’s theoretical approaches include CBT as well as SFT. In addition to her role as a therapist, Desiree enjoys nature and spending time with family.
Leticia Reyna, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Leticia is a Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience working with children and adolescents. Leticia is a graduate of the University of Texas A&M International University, earning her bachelor’s degree (2018) in psychology and her master’s degree in counseling psychology (2020).
Leticia has extensive experience working with diverse populations in both private practice settings and inpatient hospital settings. Leticia is a bilingual counselor who can offer mental health support to her Spanish-speaking community. Leticia utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Leticia hopes to continue expanding her skill set and growing as a professional.
Kelly Sopchak, PhD, LSSP
TCHATT Clinical Director
Dr. Kelly Sopchak is a licensed Psychologist who has served with the Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine (TCHATT) program since March 2020. With extensive experience serving children and adolescents across diverse settings—including schools, residential treatment centers, and juvenile facilities—Dr. Sopchak brings a wealth of expertise to her role at UT Health San Antonio. Prior to joining our program, Dr. Sopchak served as Education Director for the Texas A&M Health Telehealth Institute and Assistant Director of the Telebehavioral Care program. Her leadership experience includes directing the crisis response team for one of the nation’s largest school districts, where she developed specialized skills in risk assessment and crisis intervention for youth experiencing significant psychological distress. Dr. Sopchak’s research focuses on optimizing user engagement and healthcare delivery across digital and telehealth platforms. Her recent work examines provider training within virtual healthcare settings and the efficacy of tele-supervision. She is deeply committed to enhancing the telehealth experience for both patients and providers. Dr. Sopchak holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Houston, and a Postdoctoral Master of Science in Psychopharmacology from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Gerardo X Torres, MS, LPC-Associate, LCDC-I, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, Supervised by Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez, LPC-S
Gerardo X. Torres is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern, and a Certified Bilingual Counselor. He earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bilingual Counseling Certificate from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Gerardo has experience working with individuals facing substance use challenges and co-occurring mental health disorders. He currently provides therapy to children and adolescents navigating depression, anxiety, substance use, and other life stressors. Gerardo utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and is a certified Unified Protocol (UP) clinician. He also incorporates a person-centered approach, tailoring treatment to the unique needs, strengths, and goals of each individual he works with.
Frances “Bailey” Wong, MA, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Frances “Bailey” Wong, MA, LPC-S, is recognized as a Licensed Professional Counselor – Supervisor in the State of Texas. She graduated with a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Texas State University and a Master’s in Counseling from St. Edward’s University. Bailey has over 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings to include the school system, juvenile probation, and private practice. Bailey’s emphasis is in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life changes, with an emphasis on school refusal behaviors in children. Bailey utilizes a person-centered and strengths-based approach in working with clients, strongly emphasizing client autonomy and collaboration. In addition to her role as a therapist, Bailey enjoys spending time with her family, drinking coffee, and being by the water.
Jose Yakin, DNP, APRN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Jose Yakin is a bilingual Spanish speaking first generation Mexican American and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He completed his graduate studies at UT Health San Antonio in August 2022, receiving his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with high honors. Directly afterwards, Jose became board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in September 2022. Prior to this provider role, Jose’s work experience includes practicing as a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 8 years. His last 6 years as a RN, he worked at a local pediatric and adult emergency department. Jose’s time in the emergency setting has given him a clear understanding of the importance of mental health and that of early life behavioral interventions.