(210) 822-2600

  • Covid 19 Update: Alamo Heights Counseling is currently providing both in-person and telehealth counseling.
    Please call us and speak to our staff about how we can best accommodate you.

    • Special Policies

    Our Team

    Cheryl L. “Cherie” Shulter, M.A. LPC-S

    Founder and Director of Alamo Heights counseling Cherie Shulter specializes in unique interventions including EMDR, hypnosis, and hypnoanalysis. Cherie believes that the causes of difficult emotions and problematic behaviors are rooted in early trauma and utilizes a combination of modalities to address both the present and the past to achieve healing of the whole person. Specializing in dissociative disorders, Cherie assists clients in exploring their internal world and many facets of self. She works primarily with adults between the ages of 18 and 35 who suffered significant abuse during childhood and any adults who have tried a variety of other therapies without success. She earned her master’s degree from UTSA in 2006 and founded AHC in 2010-2011. She was trained in EMDR by the EMDR Institute and in medical hypnoanalysis by the American Academy of Medical Hypnoanalysts, of which she is a member, Associate Board Member, and clinical resident level II.

    • Cherie accepts all major health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, EAPs, and Tricare.
    • Cherie schedules clients between the hours of 8 AM and 4 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
    • She is licensed in Texas and Pennsylvania and is also registered as a telehealth provider in South Carolina. (SC Telehealth Credential ID 1563. Click here to verify.) She provides services primarily in person but can provide telehealth when needed for remote clients.
    • Effective September 1, 2025, she is not accepting new clients. Please check back in November.
    • She does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability

    **Some services Cherie provides are not covered by health insurance. See our services page for more information on what is and is not covered.**

    Antoinette Allen, LCSW

    Antoinette is a licensed clinical social worker who joined the Alamo Heights Counseling team in June 2024. She describes herself as passionate about therapy and enthusiastic about internal healing. She believes that any individual can benefit from the power of therapy, as it helps people to face the challenges of this life and helps us grow. Antoinette has worked in a variety of settings before coming to Alamo Heights Counseling. She has experience in residential treatment centers, homeless shelters, a hospital, and in the foster care and adoption system. She has served all age groups over the course of the last decade and has provided individual, family, and group therapy to clients from a variety of ethnicities, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic backgrounds. She treats a variety of conditions but has the greatest amount of experience with depression, anxiety, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and PTSD. Antoinette says “My passion is providing care to youth and adult individuals of color who are in crisis. I love assisting my clients as they seek and obtain stability, and mental and emotional healing. I believe in providing a safe, unbiased, compassionate setting for each individual to explore their needs. I truly look forward to serving each client and believe it is part of my calling in life.”

    Antoinette is currently scheduling for Wednesdays and will be adding Tuesday, Thursday and Friday to her schedule once Wednesdays are full.

    • Antoinette is currently accepting Medicare, BCBS HMOs, Magellan Healthcare, United Healthcare, and clients referred through the DFPS Evaluation and Treatment Services contract. She also accepts private pay, sliding scale, and Aetna EAP clients. She is pending with Curalinc, ComPsych, Cigna, and BCBS and will be joining several other networks soon.
    • Antoinette schedules clients Tuesday through Fridays between 9 AM and 4 PM. Currently scheduling for WEDNESDAYS.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services via telehealth.
    • Antoinette is currently accepting new clients.
    • Antoinette does not provide assessments for FMLA and Disability
    Norma Arshad, LPC

    Norma is a licensed professional counselor who practices in both clinical and educational settings. She has over fifteen years of experience providing youth and families with academic and social support using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. She works primarily with adolescents and their families, helping them to improve their communication skills, coping skills, and relationships. She meets her clients were they are and challenges them to reach their full potential. Norma provides youth and their families the tools necessary for success in both school and life. Her counseling is trauma-informed, emphasizing how trauma affects the growing mind. She earned her masters degree in counseling from UTSA in 2002. Her past experience includes the Center for Healthcare Services and Communities and Schools.

    • Norma accepts most major health insurance, Medicaid, and EAPs. As an LPC, she is currently unable to accept Medicare but will be beginning January 1, 2024.
    • Norma schedules clients primarily weekday evenings.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Norma is not currently accepting new clients.
    • Norma does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability
    Rhonda Barnard, LPC

    Rhonda is a licensed professional counselor with several years of experience helping at-risk youth and families overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Georgia Southern University and is a member of the American Counseling Association. She has worked with youth and families from diverse backgrounds and with various concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem, and career transitions. She uses a person-centered approach and with empathy, works to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Rhonda uses a strengths-based approach to counseling, building on each young person’s existing strengths and skills to help them reach their full potential. She employs evidence-based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to help her clients recognize and process through their thoughts and emotions. She tailors her approach to each client’s unique needs and goals to help them achieve positive change and personal growth. In addition to her counseling work, Rhonda also works for a non-profit as an advocate for at-risk youth. She is passionate about helping young people overcome adversity and live successful lives. In Rhonda’s spare time, she is a wife and boy mom. She enjoys traveling and trying new things.

    • Rhonda accepts private pay clients and those covered by most major health insurance including Aetna (commercial and EAP plans), BCBS HMOs & PPOs, Carelon (formerly Beacon/ValueOptions) Cigna/Evernorth, Community First (both Medicaid and commercial plans), ComPsych, Curalinc EAP, ESI EAP, ESPYR, Health Advocates, Interface EAP, Magellan Health, Molina, 90 Degree Benefits, Oscar, Optum, Superior Medicaid, TMHP (traditional Medicaid), Tricare East/Humana Military, United Healthcare, UMR and Wellpoint (formerly Amerigroup). Effective January 1, 2024, she also accepts Medicare.
    • Rhonda is available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 PM to 9 PM (last client appointment begins at 8 PM) and on Saturdays between 8 AM and noon with occasional later appointments for established clients.
    • Rhonda is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of February 2024 Rhonda is has limited availability. Please call the office to inquire.
    • Rhonda does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability

    ***Rhonda is CANS certified and therefore able to provide Child and Adolescent Needs Assessments to children and adolescents in Foster Care when her schedule permits***

    Lauri Berkman, LPC-S

    Lauri embraces an innovative and enthusiastic approach to provide her clients with challenging exercises designed to elicit new patterns of thinking and to aid and support clients in taking action and moving forward. As a practitioner of Rogerian therapy, Lauri uses her skills and experience to provide a facilitative and empathetic environment for clients to grow and develop their own solutions. She provides clients with unconditional positive regard while still holding them accountable for their choices and actions. She says, “When people are supported in this way, they can really focus on their needs without fearing judgement or criticism.” Lauri’s education and professional experience working on issues of both the mind and the body (she has been trained as a massage therapist) give her a holistic approach to counseling that meets clients needs on many different levels. Lauri is always willing to meet clients “where they are” emotionally to help them on the road to a more fulfilling life.

    • Lauri accepts all major health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and EAPs.
    • Lauri schedules clients Tuesday through Friday beginning at noon and into the evening and on Saturday mid-day.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of August 2023 Lauri is not accepting new clients.
    • Lauri does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.

    **Lauri is fluent in ASL and is able to provide services to San Antonio’s Deaf community without the use of an interpreter. **

    Leonor Bermea, LPC

    Leonor Bermea is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, neurodiverse experiences, and the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Drawing from an eclectic therapeutic approach, she believes in meeting each client exactly where they are by offering a personalized, compassionate space for growth, healing, and self-discovery.

    Leonor’s work is informed by a deep respect for individuality and the understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all path to wellness. Whether incorporating evidence-based practices, creative strategies, or mindful reflection, she tailors each session to align with her client’s needs, strengths, and goals.

    As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community herself, Leonor is committed to providing affirming, identity-affirmative care that celebrates diversity and fosters belonging.

    Outside the therapy room, Leonor is an avid runner who has completed multiple races and uses movement as a tool for mental health and resilience. She brings the same dedication and perseverance from her running journey into her counseling practice. Leonor also cherishes her role as a wife and mother, values that inspire her empathy and commitment to helping others navigate life’s challenges.

    • Leonor will be welcoming new clients beginning in September 2025. She accepts Aetna EAP, Medicare, Medicaid through TMHP, sliding scale, and private pay. She is pending with many other health insurance companies and our DFPS contract.
    • Leonor schedules clients Monday through Friday beginning 7 AM and ending at noon (her final appointment of each day begins at 11 AM and ends at noon).
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Leonor is not specialized to documentation services for FMLA and Disability.

    **As of September 1, 2025, Leonor is accepting new clients**

    Nicole Bowker, M.S.Ed, LPC

    Nicole specializes in trauma informed counseling for adolescents and adults. Tailoring her therapy to the unique needs of her client, Nicole provides a collaborative, holistic approach to help clients achieve their desired goals. She believes in the power of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and considers starting the therapeutic journey a first step in a new direction. She works primarily with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and other issues interfering with daily life. Nicole is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a best-practice treatment modality for individuals with PTSD. Nicole also utilizes CBT, DBT, and trauma informed methods to best serve her clients and their needs.

    • Nicole accepts all major health insurance, Medicaid, and EAPs. As an LPC, she is currently unable to accept Medicare but will be beginning January 1, 2024.
    • Nicole schedules clients between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday.
    • She is licensed in Texas and Illinois and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of August 2023, Nicole’s availability is limited, although she may be accepting new adult clients. Please call our office for more information.
    • Nicole does not provide documentation for FMLA and Disability.
    Marcia Castañón, LPC, CCST-T

    Marcia is a Certified Clinical Sandtray Therapist and counselor with nearly a decade of experience working in non-profits, educational, and juvenile justice settings. She combines therapeutic approaches based on client’s individual needs, using approaches including Sandtray, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. She says “I have a passion for working with children and teens and I have worked with individuals and families with a wide range of concerns and experiences including life changes, grief and loss, family conflict, and HIV/AIDS.” Marcia’s specialized training also includes DBT, Theraplay, Solution-Focused play therapy. Marcia earned her masters degree in counseling from Webster University in 2009. A former educator, Marcia has extensive experience in addition to her clinical work, including work with Communities In Schools, Juvenile Probation, Crisis Intervention, School Counseling & Guidance, and the Center for Healthcare Services.

    • Marcia accepts most major health insurance, Medicaid, and EAPs. As an LPC, she is currently unable to accept Medicare but will be beginning January 1, 2024.
    • Marcia schedules clients weekday evenings beginning at 5:30 PM and on Saturday mornings.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of August 2023, Marcia is not accepting new clients.
    • Marcia does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability
    Liana Hurley, LMFT, LPC

    Liana Hurley is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor with several years of experience helping families, couples and individuals find their unique strengths, overcome challenges, discover, and achieve their goals.

    Liana’s focus is helping couples to build and strengthen communication within their relationship and those who have experienced infidelity in their relationship. She strives to provide an open atmosphere to help couples build a new foundation that is based on Truth and Honesty so they can heal and move forward.  Helping partners compassionately navigate the challenging process of rebuilding a strong relationship by utilizing models such as Solution-focused therapy, Narrative therapy, Attachment theory, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.  In addition to working with families and couples, Liana provides counseling to those experiencing grief and loss, addiction, depression, and anxiety.  She is available to provide Christian counseling to individuals seeking therapy from a spiritual perspective. Although Liana serves primarily an adult population, she may be available to young adults ages sixteen and seventeen on a case-by-case basis.

    • Liana accepts most major health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and EAPs, including Aetna (commercial and EAP), BCBS (both HMOs and PPOs), Carelon (formerly Beacon), Community First (both Medicaid and University plans), ESI EAP, Espyr, Health Advocate, Interface EAP, Magellan, Molina, Ninety Degree Benefits, Oscar, Optum, Superior Medicaid, TMHP (traditional Medicaid), United Healthcare, and UMR. She is also accepting private pay and sliding scale clients.
    • Liana schedules clients Mondays through Thursday between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM (last appointment of the day begins at 2 PM).
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of April 2024, Liana is accepting a limited number of new clients, predominantly for couples counseling.
    • Liana does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.
    Patricia “Patty” Lozano, LPC

    Patty is a Licensed Professional Counselor who joined the team in June 2024. Patty says “As a licensed professional counselor, I enjoy providing to every client who chooses me an opportunity to come into their own autonomy, learn their own strengths, and find wellness and help to create a more fulfilling life.” Patty is bilingual, fluent in Spanish, and specializes in working with children, adolescents, and others who often feel overlooked because of their background or struggles with substance use, mental health issues, illnesses, and socioeconomic status. She takes pride in providing professional guidance and expertise during a person’s time of need. Her primary treatment modalities are narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy. Her specialty areas are anxiety and panic, recovery after domestic abuse and violence, personal growth and self-esteem, and women’s mental health. She helps individual of all ages, including children as young as five when clinically indicated.

    Please check back for more information about scheduling with Patty!

    • At AHC, in addition to private pay and sliding scale clients, Patty is currently accepting clients using Medicare, Aetna EAP, BCBS HMOs, Curalinc, Magellan, and United Healthcare, as well as clients referred through the DFPS Evaluation and Treatment Services contract. Her status is pending with Medicaid and several other health plans.
    • Patty is available only on Saturdays.
    • She is licensed in Texas as an LPC and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Patty’s schedule is somewhat limited. Please call to determine whether she is accepting new clients.
    • Patty does not provide assessments for FMLA or Disability determination.
    Faith Mamombe, LCSW

    Faith is a licensed clinical social worker who received her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Namibia and her Master of Social Work from Baylor University. She has worked with adolescents, children, and families for over ten years both locally and internationally in a variety of settings. She has experience treating depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders as well as working with individuals coping with life changes and other issues. She has experience consulting with other professionals on multidisciplinary teams in a variety of settings and working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. She utilizes evidence-based therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy and holistic therapy to empower individuals going through life challenges. Faith helps her clients to live in the moment, develop healthy means of coping with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. Faith believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship. She values the importance of building rapport with you and ensuring that she is a good fit for you and your journey based on your treatment goals and individual needs. She hopes to help you engage and enhance your capacity for introspection, reflection, and self-awareness to better understand and navigate your past, present, and future, allowing you to feel empowered and hopeful, despite any difficulties or hardships which may come your way.

    • Faith is currently accepting Primary Medicare, Traditional Medicaid through TMHP, 90 Degree Benefits, Aetna EAP, Curalinc EAP, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, Tricare, and United Healthcare. She is also accepting new private pay and sliding scale clients.
    • Faith is available from 8 AM to 1 PM (last client beginning at noon) Monday through Friday.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides telehealth services to Texas residents.
    • Faith does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability

    **As of September 1, Faith is accepting new clients on a limited basis for telehealth services only.**

    Suzanne Martinez-Campos, LPC-S, NCC

    Suzanne Martinez-Campos, LPC-S is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working in various settings such as hospital, non-profit, managed care, and mobile crisis intervention. She has provided services to adults and children alike, including family and group therapy. Her areas of expertise include working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship conflicts.

    She utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities, including Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She believes that counseling is a collaborative process with the goal of building on your strengths, supporting you through challenges, and helping you achieve a renewed outlook, while working at a pace that is comfortable for you.

    She earned her master’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and her bachelor’s degree from the University of the Incarnate Word.

    • Suzanne is in-network with Aetna, BCBS, Cigna/Evernorth, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, and United Healthplans. She is also a participating provider with accepts traditional Medicare and Medicaid through Aetna Better Health, Amerigroup/Wellpoint, Community First, Molina, the Texas Medicaid Healthcare Partnership, and Superior. She can receive authorizations from the following EAP plans: Aetna, Cigna, Curalinc, and ESI. She accepts both self-referred and DFPS referred clients. For those who do not have insurance, private pay and sliding scale are available.
    • Suzanne is in office from 10 AM to 4 PM, taking her last client at 3 PM.
    • She is licensed in Texas and sees clients both virtually and in person.
    • Like all members of the AHC team, Suzanne does not specialize in documentation FMLA and Disability Determination; We recommend those who need this service find someone with special training in these areas.

    **Suzanne is currently accepting new clients**

    Andrea McClure, LCSW

    Andrea “Andi” McClure, LCSW joins the AHC team beginning in 2025. Although new to the AHC team, Andi brings nearly ten years of clinical and social service experience from her prior work in Idaho. Andi provides services to adults and children alike, especially those between the ages of 16 and 24 years old. Her approach includes client-centered counseling as well as dialectical behavioral therapy. Her complete professional biography will be posted soon. Please check back for more information on Andi’s clinical specialties.

    • Andi is in-network with Aetna, BCBS, Cigna/Evernorth, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, and United. She is participating with traditional Medicare and Medicaid (including Aetna Better Health, Amerigroup/Wellpoint, Community First, and Superior) and can receive authorizations from the following EAP plans: Aetna, Cigna, Curalinc, ESI, accepting private pay and sliding scale clients as well as the follow programs: Traditional Medicare, TMHP Medicaid, Aetna EAP, BCBS HMO, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, UMR, and United. She accepts self-referred private pay and sliding scale clients. She is approved in the DFPS Evaluation and Treatment Services contract and can accept DFPS-referred clients.
    • Andi’s availability is limited at this time.
    • She is licensed in Texas and Idaho. At this time, she provides services at AHC solely via telehealth.
    • Like all members of the AHC team, Andi does not specialize in documentation FMLA and Disability Determination; We recommend those who need this service find someone with special training in these areas.

    **As of September 2025, Andi is not accepting new clients**

    Melody Nait Sidenas, LPC

    Melody Nait Sidenas is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in private school system for 6 years. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the Samford University and my Master’s Degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in School Counseling. Most of her experience prior to joining the AHC team was working with children, adolescents, and their families as a school counselor, and she now serves these same populations in the private practice sector.

    Her counseling approach uses a variety of techniques and modalities, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy directly tied to the need of each client. She has experience working with a variety of challenges such as ADHD, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders and suicidal ideation.

    Melody says, “My philosophy in counseling is to meet people where they are in their healing journey. Therapy is a journey; some seasons will require more work with a lot to unpack and some seasons will be steady but my true passion is helping cultivate a sense of lifelong wellness. I want to inspire growth and empower change that helps each individual reach their personal goals. I truly value working with each individual and believe everyone deserves an opportunity to refocus, realign or rebuild despite the struggles they are facing in their lives.”

    Melody works with individuals of all ages but specializes in working with adolescents and school-age children.

    • Melody accepts most health insurance plans including Aetna, BlueCross, Cigna, Magellan, Tricare, and United. She is also in network with all Medicaid providers and most EAP programs.
    • Melody schedules clients both in person and virtually Monday through Friday as follows: Monday & Tuesday 9 AM to 6 PM, last appointment starting at 5 PM; Wednesday & Friday 9 AM to 4 PM last appointment starting at 4 PM; Thursdays 9 AM to 1 PM, last appointment starting at noon.
    • She is licensed in Texas and services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of September 2025, Melody is accepting new clients.
    • Melody does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.
    Alicia Nielson, LCSW

    Alicia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who utilizes the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. She has extensive experience working with a wide range of clients, from inner-city youth navigating complex life challenges to older adults living with dementia.

    Her clinical work emphasizes connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. She helps clients develop practical tools to manage stress, improve emotional well-being, and foster resilience (while incorporating “real-life examples” from New Girl and Schitt’s Creek).

    At Alamo Heights Counseling, Alicia drives to continue to balance clinical skill and genuine connection by creating safe, engaging spaces for clients to explore thoughts, emotions, and goals.

    Alicia received her MSW from New York University where she received her clinical training working with teens and young adults in the South Bronx.

    In her free time, Alicia enjoys being the group chat’s “foodie” by testing out new restaurants, spontaneously buying flash-sale plane tickets to visit new countries, and winding down the day with Uber Eats and reality TV.

    • Alicia will be welcoming new clients beginning in September 2025. She currently accepts Aetna EAP, Medicare, Medicaid through TMHP, sliding scale, and private pay. She is pending with several insurance panels and our DFPS contract.
    • Alicia schedules clients in-office on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays during regular business hours. She may have additional availability virtually.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth
    • Alician is not specialized to provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.

    **As of September 1, 2025, Alicia is currently accepting new clients**

    Daisy Neito, LCSW-S
    Daisy Nieto, LCSW-S

    Daisy is a licensed clinical social worker who practices in both clinical and educational settings. Although she focuses primarily on adolescents and their families at this time, she has experience working with those experiencing homelessness, members of the elder community, teen parents, and those living with chronic medical conditions. Her past experience includes working in schools in community health clinics, in hospitals, and in private practice. Her specialty areas include grief and loss, homelessness and foster care, crisis response, parent education and psychoeducation, and trauma counseling. Daisy utilizes an eclectic approach including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy play therapy, crisis intervention, and academic/occupational counseling. Daisy received her BSW and MSW from Our Lady of the Lake University in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Although Daisy works with clients from all backgrounds and belief systems, she is able to provide counseling from a spiritual perspective to Christian couples and individuals.

    • Daisy accepts most major health insurance, Medicaid, and EAPs. As an LCSW, she is able to accept most forms of Medicare.
    • Daisy schedules clients primarily weekday evenings and Saturdays.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of January 2025, Daisy is not accepting new clients.
    • Daisy does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.

    **Although Daisy does not provide services exclusively in Spanish, she speaks Spanish conversationally and works extensively with bilingual populations**

    Dafne Oropeza, LMFT Associate, under the supervision of Bianca Vincent, LMFT-S, LPC-S

    Dafne is a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. She has a Master of Science in Psychology from Our Lady of the Lake University with an emphasis on Spanish-speaking populations. Therapeutically, Dafne has worked with individuals, families and groups. Dafne utilizes a collaborative approach with various techniques, making sure to meet each client where they are so that they can find their happiest, healthiest self. She strives to provide a safe and accepting environment for clients to facilitate their own growth and healing. She is LGBTQIA+-friendly and happily works with individuals, families, and those in relationships.

    • As an LPC Associate, Dafne is not yet able to accept Medicaid and most health insurance; she is able to accept Cigna/Evernorth and some EAPs. She is also accepting private pay and sliding scale clients.
    • Dafne is available to telehealth clients in the early evenings.
    • She is licensed in Texas as an LMFT Associate and provides services primarily via telehealth. All services performed by Dafne are under the supervision of her LMFT Supervisor, Bianca Vincent, LMFT-S, LPC-S.
    • As of August 2023, Dafne is currently accepting new telehealth couples and individual adult clients.
    • Dafne does not provide documentation services for FMLA and Disability.

    **Dafne is currently accepting new private pay, sliding scale, and Cigna clients**
    **Dafne is bilingual and provides services in Spanish as well as English**

    Heather Perez, LPC, LCDC

    Heather has experience treating mental health crisis and substance use disorders. She specializes in assisting adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and related issues. She practices a person-centered approach to address the needs of the individual and to assist them in identifying manageable and achievable steps to reach their goals. She also utilizes solutioned focused interventions, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address the impact thoughts can have on emotions. Heather has nine years of experience, including working with first responders, military members, and their families.

    • Heather accepts all major health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and most EAPs.
    • Heather schedules clients between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
    • Heather is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of April 2024, Heather’s availability is somewhat limited. Please call the office to determine if Heather is accepting new clients.
    • Effective April 1, 2024, Heather does not provide documentation services for FMLA or disability determination.
    Kourtey Renteria, student counselor, intern from Angelo State

    Kourtney is a student counselor at AHC through her internship program at Angelo State. She will be at AHC for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 (August 2025 through May 2026).

    Kourtney completed her Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology at Southern New Hampshire University. She went on to graduate from the University of Arizona Global Campus with her Master of Arts in Psychology and received her Master of Arts in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education. Kourtney is currently enrolled with Angelo State University and will graduate summer 2026 with her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling.

    She takes an integrative approach to individual therapy primarily utilizing the humanistic theory combined with cognitive behavioral therapy. She provides individual counseling to children, adolescents and adults. She is also able to help couples and families in couples counseling or parent-child counseling.

    • As a student counselor, Kourtney is unable to accept health insurance however, she is part of our low-cost counseling program and the copayment is only $30.00 per session. See our “reduced cost counseling” page for more information:  ReducedCostCounseling – Alamo Heights Counseling..
    • Kourtney is available to schedule new clients in the mornings Monday through Friday beginning at 8 AM. Her last appointment of the day begins at noon and ends at 1 PM.
    • As a student, Kourtney is not yet licensed but practices through the practicum agreement between UTSA and AHC.
    • As a student counselor, Kourtney is not yet but practices through the internship agreement between Angelo State and AHC. Kourtney provides services both in person at our office and via telehealth within the State of Texas.
    • As a student counselor, Kourtney is not trained to provide FMLA or Disability determination services, therefore she cannot provide letters for employers, disability insurance companies or social security. Please do not ask her for this service.

    **As of September 1, 2025, Kourtney is currently accepting new clients**

    Autumn Rodriguez, LCSW

    Autum Rodriguez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that we all possess the instinct to to move towards growth and healing. Because of this belief, she’s passionate about utilizing a humanistic, client-centered approach to guide individuals towards a life that aligns with their aspirations and values. If you are seeking therapy for the first time, welcome, and if you are continuing your journey, welcome back! Autumn earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin in 2016 (HOOKEM!) and went on to pursue her Master of Social Work degree from Arizona State University, graduating in 2019. Autumn is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and enjoys using expressive modalities including art, play, and sand play to process experiences, reduce symptoms and decrease difficulties in everyday life. Autumn has spent most of her career invested in helping children and families, the military community and survivors of abuse and neglect work through major transitions and post-traumatic stress. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, spending time with her two dogs (Goose and Chloe) and training for her first half-marathon! If you’re motivated to start your healing journey and living a life with more intention, Autumn would love to work with you.

    • Autumn is new to the AHC team and currently accepts Medicare, Aetna commercial plans and EAPs, Cigna health plans and EAPs, BCBS HMO plans, Health Advocates, HealthSmart, Magellan, New Directions Behavioral Health EAP, Oscar, Tricare, and United Healthcare. She is still pending in Medicaid and several other plans.
    • Autumn has limited availability. Please call for information.
    • Autumn is licensed in Texas. She current provides to Texas residents solely via telehealth.
    • As of January 2025, Autumn’s availability is somewhat limited; she is accepting clients who are specifically requesting EMDR and TF-CBT.
    • Autumn does not provide documentation services for FMLA or disability determination.
    Jacob Rodriguez, student counselor, practicum student from UTSA

    Jacob is a student counselor at AHC through his practicum program at UTSA. beginning the Fall of 2025. He plans to complete his internship semesters here as well, so he will be here August 2025-August 2026.

    Jacob earned his Bachelor of Science in General Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UTSA, with an expected graduation in the summer of 2026. His academic journey has given him a strong foundation in understanding human behavior and the many challenges individuals face throughout life.

    Jacob’s therapeutic style is primarily person-centered. He believes that healing and growth begin in a supportive, empathetic environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their own strengths. He aims to meet clients where they are, providing a space that fosters trust and collaboration in the counseling process. Jacob has availability to assist the practice with individual, couples, and family therapy during the Fall semester.

    Outside of his professional and academic work, Jacob lives an active and adventurous lifestyle. He competes in the sport of CrossFit, enjoys the challenge and focus of rock climbing, and makes time to stay connected with family and friends. Beyond fitness and adventure, he takes great joy in being a dog dad to his loyal German Shepherd and black lab. These passions reflect the balance he strives to maintain between hard work, meaningful relationships, and personal well-being.

    • As a student counselor, Jacob is unable to accept health insurance but he is part of our low-cost counseling program and the copayment is only $30.00 per session. See our “reduced cost counseling” page for more information:  ReducedCostCounseling – Alamo Heights Counseling.
    • Jacob is available to schedule new clients on Mondays from noon to 4 PM (last appointment begin at 3 PM) and Wednesdays from 1 PM to 5 PM (last appointment begins at 4 PM).
    • As a student, Jacob is not yet licensed but practices through the practicum agreement between UTSA and AHC. Jacob provides services both in person and via telehealth within the State of Texas.
    • As a student counselor, Jacob is not trained to provide FMLA or disability determination services, therefore he cannot provide letters for employers, disability insurance companies or social security. Please do not ask him for this service.

    **As of September 1, 2025, Jacob is currently accepting new clients**

    Brandi Smith, LPC Associate, under the supervision of Bianca Vincent, LMFT-S, LPC-S

    Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate who previously completed her internship experiences here at AHC. Brandi is a graduate of Lamar University’s the Marriage, Couples, & Family Counseling program. She also has a Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling with a specialization in marriage and family from Liberty University. Her main focus and specialties include anxiety, depression, working with unconventional couples, pre-marital/married couples, and families to help build better communication, accountability, and honesty. Brandi works with both adults and children and provides both individual counseling and relational counseling for parents and their children as well as for siblings. Brandi provides services at AHC in the evenings and on weekends. Her schedule is currently full, but she hopes to be accepting new clients again in late February or early March.

    • As an LPC Associate, Brandi accepts primarily private pay and sliding scale clients, although she is also accept to accept Cigna/Evernorth and Aetna.
    • Brandi schedules clients on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings beginning at 4:30 PM. She also has daytime availability on the weekends, both Saturday and Sunday!
    • Brandi is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As an LPC Associate, Brandi is unable to provide FMLA or Disability determination services.
    Chatoné Strickland, LCSW

    Chatoné (hear name pronounced) has over 10 years’ experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential facilities, nursing homes and shelters. She has worked with individuals, children/adolescents, and families. Chatoné’s approach to therapy depends on the client and includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, with the understanding every client is different and benefits from a different style. She is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post-traumatic Stress disorder. Chatoné says “I enjoy the process of helping people discover a path to a better life. Therapy with me is a collaborative process. We work together to identify strengths and motivations to help you live a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I appreciate that life is both light and dark and our task is to balance coping and finding meaning during difficult times.

    • Chatoné accepts most major health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and EAPs.
    • Chatoné’s schedule is currently full.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of January 2025, Chatoné is no longer accepting new clients.
    • Effective April 1, 2024, Chatoné does not provide documentation services for FMLA or disability determination.
    Sandra Urzua, LPC

    Sandra joins AHC through a doctoral internship experience at Walden University. Although Sandra is already a fully licensed counselor in practice, she is gaining additional experience at AHC in anticipation of the completion of her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Walden University. Sandra holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and A Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Her therapeutic approach is largely client-centered, although she draws for a wide variety of other modalities as well. Her areas of focus include relationships, sexual concerns, self-awareness and conflict management. Sandra says, “I encourage you to challenge yourself to grow as an individual. My passion is to help you identify your goals and ways to help you achieve them!”

    Please check back soon for Sandra’s clinical biography and availability.

    Please also note that because Sandra is already fully licensed for independent practice, even though her work here is part of an internship, she IS able to accept health insurance!

    • In addition to private pay and sliding scale clients, Sandra is able to accept Medicare, Medicaid through TMHP, BCBS HMO, BCBS PPO, Community First, HealthSmart, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, Tricare, and UMR, and United Healthcare. She is also part of the Velocity National Provider Network and also accepts new clients referred by DFPS when their caseworker provides a 2054 authorization and 2036 referral form.
    • Beginning on February 27, Sandra is available to see clients in person on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM (final client beginning at 1 PM). She also sees AHC clients on Fridays virtually from 1 PM to 5 PM (last client appointment begins at 4 PM).
    • She is licensed in Texas and Colorado and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Like all members of the AHC team, Sandra does not specialize in documentation FMLA and Disability Determination; We recommend those who need this service find someone with special training in these areas.

    **As of September 2025, Sandra is not accepting new clients**

    Bianca Vincent, LMFT-S, LPC-S

    Bianca’s experience includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups and in a variety of settings including inpatient treatment facilities, senior facilities, educational settings, and juvenile facilities. She practices from a strength’s based approach with an integrative and holistic counseling style which incorporates various therapeutic methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, depending on client needs. Bianca says “my purpose as a therapist is to assist individuals and families with identifying problems and finding solutions to solve them. Collaboratively, we will strategize to create a personalized plan to overcome obstacles, identify strengths, and develop effective coping skills. It is important for me to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment that allows for personal growth and healing, regardless of what brings you to therapy.”

    • Bianca accepts all major health insurance, Medicaid, and EAPs. As a dually licensed LMFT/LPC, she is unable to accept Medicare but will be beginning January 2024.
    • Bianca schedules clients during the week beginning at 5:30 PM and on Saturday mornings.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Bianca anticipates being on leave mid July through mid October and will be accepting new clients upon her return.
    • Effective April 1, 2024, Bianca does not provide documentation services for FMLA and disability determination.

    *Bianca is currently accepting LMFT Associates for supervision**

    Lorelei Voronin, LPC, ATR

    Lorelei’s professional background includes extensive experience in trauma and art therapy across various mental health settings for children, teens and adults. This diverse experience has equipped her with the skills to address a wide range of mental health challenges. Through her experience with professional counselor and art therapy, she has curated a specialty in integrating trauma informed care with creativity. She says “I am passionate about the transformative power of trauma-focused art therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and fostering resilience. Through engaging in the creative process and reflection, you can discover new perspectives and pathways to healing. You don’t have to be an artist to gain the benefits of art therapy!” Although her specialty is in trauma, she can also help with a variety of other mental health disorders. She works collaboratively with her clients to develop a plan to meet each client’s unique needs. She says, “When you leave a session, you will feel empowered, creative, and centered.”

    • Lorelei plans to accept all major health insurance and is currently in the following panels: Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna (EAP & commercial) BCBS (HMOs and PPOs), Community First, Curalinc EAP, First Health, Health Advocate, Interface EAP, Magellan, Optum, Oscar, TMHP, United Healthcare.
    • She is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • Lorelei is available on Sundays from noon to 7 PM (last appointment begins at 6 PM) Mondays from 10 AM to 7 PM (last appointment begins at 6 PM) and Tuesday mornings from 9 AM to noon (last session begins at 11 AM).
    • Lorelei does not provide documentation services for FMLA and disability determination.

    *As of September 2025, Lorelei is accepting new clients and has several Thursday openings**

    Richard Zello, LPC

    Rick is a retired USAF Master Sergeant with over thirty years’ experience in the mental health field first as a USAF Mental Health and Addiction Specialist, then as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and finally as a Licensed Professional Counselor. He holds an MA in Counseling from Webster University (2013) a BS in Occupational Education (1999) and three AAS degrees including Allied Health Care Sciences with Mental Health Specialization (1993). Although Rick has specialized in working with military and law enforcement personnel and their families for many years, he works with all individuals and families coping with PTSD, addiction, and mood disorders, regardless of their background. Rick approaches treatment in a trauma-informed manner and tailors treatment to clients’ individual needs while drawing from a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and 12-step work. He has worked in a variety of capacities, including in-patient programs and at treatment centers. Originally from rural western Pennsylvania, Rick served in the United States Air Force as an Air Force medic and a team leader at nine different locations worldwide including two deployments in support of the Global War on Terror. He retired in 2008 with 21 years of military service. He is the father of three and has been married for thirty years. He has presented on Chemical Dependency in the military at St. Mary’s University, the San Antonio Vets Council, and local mental health facilities. Rick’s unique and convenient office hours are weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons, which accommodates therapy clients with weekday obligations such as work, school, or childcare.

    • Rick accepts Traditional Medicaid, Aetna Medicaid, Aetna Commercial plans, Aetna EAP, Amerigroup Medicaid, BCBS PPOs, ComPsych, ESI EAP, Espyr, HealthSmart, Interface EAP, Molina (Medicaid and commercial plans), Tricare, and Wellpoint. Effective January 1, 2024, he is able accept MedicareHe is approved by the Department of Family and Protective Services to provide services to clients under the Evaluation and Treatment Services Contract.
    • Rick schedules appointments on weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
    • He is licensed in Texas and provides services both in person and via telehealth.
    • As of April 2024, Rick is accepting new and returning clients.
    • Effective April 1, 2024, Rick does not provide documentation services for FMLA and disability determination.

    **As of September 2025, Rick is accepting new clients for Sunday afternoons**