The Counseling4Life Team
We are committed to supporting, providing therapy, and serving our clients with expertise, empathy, and in such an excellent way that our clients want to return to Counseling4Life over their journey of life.
***A $50 deposit is required to secure any sessions for new clients. If you opt to self-schedule you will be charged the deposit. The $50 will be kept on file until services are terminated if there are no outstanding balances the $50 deposit is then refunded back to you.***
Use these shortcuts to view therapists who specialize in these therapy types.
Use these shortcuts to view therapists at your preferred location.
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Jacques Benun, M.D., Pediatric Mental Health Provider
Dr. Benun is a medical graduate from the Universidad Central de Venezuela. Upon graduating, he moved to Boston, MA to complete his General Pediatrics Residency. After completing his specialty he worked as a pediatrician in private practice, community health centers and at an academic hospital affiliated to Brown University.
After 24 years in New England, he relocated to Austin, Texas in 2016. Dr. Benun has practiced general pediatrics with special interest in mental health for children, adolescents and college students (ADHD, Anxiety and Depression) with a unique skill to providing this specific care in a telehealth platform since Dr. Benun believes it is a more efficient and convenient way for patients and their families to address these concerns.goes here
Spring Branch/Bulverde
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Juliann Heye, Graduate Student
Supervised by Megan Patrick, LPC#19056
EMDR Trained
Juliannholds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from McMurry University. After spending 12 years in the banking industry, she chose to follow her passion for helping people. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Malone University and is set to graduate in December 2024.
Juliann is dedicated to helping others navigate challenges and achieve personal growth. She believes in the uniqueness of every individual and works collaboratively with her clients to help them reach their goals. Her goal is to create a judgment-free, safe, and comfortable space where her clients feel supported.
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Robyn Harrington LMSW-Associate
Supervised by Melanie Little, LCSW # 66579
Robyn earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from UTSA. She is currently a LCSW Associate. Robyn uses a holistic, client-centered approach, incorporating mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, Gestalt, and somatic therapy modalities in working with individuals and couples.
She believes that spirituality can be a key element of healing, offering a sense of peace. For individuals looking to heal from negative spiritual encounters, Robyn is certified in Religious Trauma Studies.
She offers evening and Saturday appointments to accommodate clients' schedules.
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Melanie Little, LCSW-S, LCDC
EMDR Certified
Melanie holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Liberty University and a master’s degree in social work from Our Lady of the Lake University.
Melanie specializes in addiction and trauma therapy and has worked with adults, young adults, and families. Melanie is EMDR certified, trained in Brainspotting, and has studied complex trauma and structural dissociation. Her therapy approaches also include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
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Lauren Esquivel, LMFT
Lauren received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Abilene Christian University.
Lauren works with children, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families as they work through issues of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, behavioral challenges, and enhancing parental skills. She is also a faith-based therapist.
Lauren is currently pursuing certification in ADHD Coaching for kids, teens, and adults.
Lauren has weekday evening availability.
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Robin Pritz, LPC
EMDR Trained
Robin became a Licensed Professional Therapist in Texas in 2004. In 2006, she moved to her home state of Kansas, then returned to Texas in August 2019.
Robin works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, couple and family issues. She has helped others cope with disabilities and severe and persistent mental health diagnoses.
Robin meets her clients on their journey with hope, a warm smile, and friendly words of encouragement; no matter how challenging their journey may be, or how "stuck" they feel, I am here to help you see there is hope and someone who cares.
Victoria
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Marisa Gonzales, LPC, Registered Play Therapist
EMDR Trained
Marisa received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston-Victoria. She began working as a forensic interviewer as part of a multidisciplinary team in the fight against child abuse at the children’s advocacy center (CAC) in her hometown of Victoria, TX. After relocating and working for over seven years in the Travis County CAC, she decided to return to Victoria and the University of Houston-Victoria to pursue her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology.
Marisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has experience helping children, adolescents, parents, and adults as they work through issues of abuse, anxiety, depression, family problems/separation, grief, life transitions, low self-esteem, trauma, and suicidal ideations.
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Shannon Zorn, LMFT Registered Play Therapist
Originally from Florida, Shannon spent her childhood in New Orleans. In 2010, she moved to San Antonio, Texas to pursue her career as a therapist.
Shannon received her master’s in marriage & family therapy with a concentration in play therapy from St. Mary’s University in 2012 and is completing her doctorate in marriage and family therapy. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and has a wealth of experience working with children and parents as a Registered Play Therapist. Her other areas of expertise and specialty are Twogether in Texas premarital counseling, Gottman Method-focused couples/marriage therapy, family therapy, issues of domestic violence, and using play (child-centered and sand tray) in therapy for ages 2-12.
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Stephanie McGill, LPC
Stephanie earned her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX, where she lived for over 20 years. After the birth of her twins, she moved to Victoria, TX to be closer to family.
Stephanie has been a fully licensed professional counselor for 9 years. While still in school, she began working with children and adolescents facing mental health and behavioral challenges, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma/abuse, and suicidal ideation. After school she provided care at a residential treatment center for children and adolescents, where she also guided parents and family members on how to support their loved ones through mental health struggles.
In addition to her work with children and adolescents, Stephanie supports adults dealing with chronic mental illness, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, family and marital conflicts, as well as trauma and abuse.
Stephanie is committed to meeting her clients where they are, treating them with respect, kindness, and compassion.
San Antonio
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Krista Brown, LSW Graduate Student
Supervised by Melanie Little, LCSW # 66579
Krista Mickelsen, a San Antonio resident since 2010, earned her bachelor’s in Psychology from Brigham Young University in 2006. She is pursuing a master’s in Social Work at UT San Antonio, expected to graduate in May 2025.
With experience in helping individuals of all ages manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, Krista offers a warm and supportive therapeutic environment.
Outside of work, Krista enjoys spending time with her blended family, dogs, and friends, and loves hiking, running, and exploring the outdoors
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Justine Casarez, LPC Associate
Supervised by Megan Patrick, LPC#19056 and Stephanie Richards LPC #649933
Justine holds a Master’s degree in Counseling and Development from Lamar University. With a diverse skill set and a passion for helping others, Justine specializes in providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children ages 3+ to adolescents, and adults.
With expertise in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, and sand tray techniques, Justine tailors her approach to suit the unique needs of each client to explore their story and express themselves.
Justine’s compassionate demeanor and empathetic nature foster a strong therapeutic alliance, empowering clients to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
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Robyn Harrington LMSW Associate
Supervised by Melanie Little, LCSW # 66579
Robyn earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from UTSA. She is currently a LCSW Associate. Robyn uses a holistic, client-centered approach, incorporating mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, Gestalt, and somatic therapy modalities in working with individuals and couples.
She believes that spirituality can be a key element of healing, offering a sense of peace. For individuals looking to heal from negative spiritual encounters, Robyn is certified in Religious Trauma Studies.
She offers evening and Saturday appointments to accommodate clients' schedules.
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Ashley Lyssy, LCSW
Ashley graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelors in Family and Child Development degree and a Masters in Social Work degree.
Ashley is passionate about empowering others to achieve their personal goals. She has clinical experience with individual adults, geriatrics, families as well as couples.
Ashley’s background includes inpatient psychiatry, helping unique individuals achieve and maintain stabilization. Experience with individuals with substance use, anxiety, depression, psychosocial stressors, neurocognitive disorders, caregiver support and life transitions.
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Jada Savas, LPC Associate
Supervised by Megan Patrick #19056
Jada Savas received her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Angelo State University.
Jada works with children, adolescents, young adults & older adults. She has experience working with (but not limited to) individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief & loss, stress, and relationship/family issues.
Jada is passionate in providing a safe and trusting environment for clients, as well as providing them with warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard throughout their journey in therapy.
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Vanessa Hoover, LPC Associate
Supervised by Michelle Mullin, LPC # 68914
EMDR Trained
Vanessa was raised south of San Antonio in Natalia, Texas. Vanessa received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from TAMUSA in May of 2022.
Vanessa has experience working with school age children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working with domestic violence issues, and educating on the cycle of control and violence.
Vanessa has also worked with those living with trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidality, anger, grief/loss and substance use. Vanessa believes that seeking help is the first step in the healing process.
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Drea Luster, LPC
EMDR Trained
Drea received her master’s degree in clinical mental health from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Additionally, she is EMDR trained.
Drea works primarily with adults experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, domestic/intimate partner violence, life changes, relationship issues, religious abuse, work-related stressors, and prenatal/postpartum issues. Drea also specializes in faith-based counseling.
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Jordan McGarrity, LPC Associate
Supervised by Megan Patrick, LPC#19056
EMDR Trained
Jordan McGarrity was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She has a background in working with college students in mentorship and accompaniment capacities, which led her to pursue a path in mental health. She ireceived master’s degree in counseling at Divine Mercy University.
Jordan is a current LPC Associate gaining experience in working with a variety of populations. Alongside her school work, Jordan has received additional education to prepare her to work with various types of trauma using EMDR, including sexual trauma, domestic abuse, and compassion fatigue.
Jordan also specializes in faith-based counseling.
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Ashley Villarreal, LPC
Ashley received her Master’s degree in Community Counseling at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Ashley works with children, adolescents, and adults as they work through issues of anxiety, depression, life transitions and adjustments, family issues, grief, relationship issues and women’s issues.
She also specializes in helping both new and seasoned parents navigate parenthood and all that comes with it, as she found herself that there is not enough support available for new parents.
Ashley believes in the power of therapy and encourages clients and parents to be patient with the process.
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Ana Maldonado, LPC- Associate
Supervised by Michelle Mullin, LPC # 68914
EMDR Trained
Ana Maldonado is a proud Guatemalan and first-generation American who settled in San Antonio in early childhood. Ana received her master’s degree in counseling from Divine Mercy University in August 2022.
Ana maintains a holistic approach to healing and is equipped to work with multiple facets of trauma, including grief and loss, sexual trauma, and EMDR.
She believes we are wired for love, belonging, and connection. Ana believes counseling can offer a space for those challenges to be explored, met with compassion, and resolved.
Ana also specializes in faith-based counseling.
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Sydney Chamness, LPC
Sydney was born in Colorado, but has lived in Texas the majority of her life. She received her master’s in therapy at The University of Texas at San Antonio in December of 2013. She has experience helping children, adolescents, and adults as they work through issues of anxiety, depression, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Sydney provides play therapy services for children and adolescents, as well as support for their parents. Sydney also specializes in faith-based counseling.
She strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and judgement-free zone.
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Anessa Vargas, LPC
EMDR Trained
Anessa was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. Anessa received her master’s degree in clinical and mental health therapy from The University of Texas at San Antonio in 2015.
Anessa works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She also has experience working with individuals living with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional/physical abuse, behavior issues, grief and loss, and trauma. Anessa is EMDR trained.
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Robin Pritz, LPC
EMDR Trained
Robin became a Licensed Professional Therapist in Texas in 2004. In 2006, she moved to her home state of Kansas, then returned to Texas in August 2019.
Robin works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, couple and family issues. She has helped others cope with disabilities and severe and persistent mental health diagnoses.
Robin meets her clients on their journey with hope, a warm smile, and friendly words of encouragement; no matter how challenging their journey may be, or how "stuck" they feel, I am here to help you see there is hope and someone who cares.
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Heather Pullen, LCSW
Heather Pullen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has been an educator and later worked in child welfare for Child Protective Services. It was there that Heather gained her love for Social Work. She earned her Masters degree in Social Work from UTSA in 2013.
Heather works with clients who are processing a wide variety of different issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional/physical abuse, behavior issues, grief and loss, and trauma.
TeleHealth/Virtual
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Michelle Farrey, LPC & LMFT
Michelle received her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. She is passionate about couples, family, and marriage therapy. Michelle has a particular heart and experience for military families. She has experience working with adults with behavior issues, anxiety, depression, sexual identity, grief, and trauma.
Michelle has gained knowledge working with active duty military experiencing combat trauma, non-combat trauma, and military sexual trauma.
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Stephanie Dziuk, LPC
Stephanie graduated with her Master from The University of Texas at San Antonio in 2011. Prior to starting work in the therapy field, Stephanie worked in preschools for over seven years.
As a therapist, Stephanie has experience working with young children, adolescents, and adult populations, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, Bipolar Disorders, Mood Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.
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Michelle Mullin, LPC-S/LCDC
EMDR Certified
Michelle has worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life struggles and mental health challenges such as domestic violence, grief and loss, addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. She also has experience working with couples struggling with communication difficulties, infidelity, and emotional distance. Michelle is certified in EMDR Therapy to promote healing and help clients build lives full of authenticity, purpose, and meaning.
Michelle holds a master’s in counseling, and she is both a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor.
What People Are Saying
“Thank you Stephanie for helping me untangle my thoughts.”
— Client feedback
“Ana is an excellent therapist… she built rapport and trust with my kids right away.”
— Client feedback
“Jada is amazing! She dives deep into my kid’s needs and has built amazing rapport.”
— Client feedback
“Jordan is such an excellent therapist to work with and made me feel comfortable the whole time.”
— Client feedback