Melissa Venegas, LPC Associate

I want to applaud you in your initiative for self-advocacy. Taking the first step in seeking therapy can be overwhelming and intimidating to say the least. Life is full of surprises, challenges and curveballs. It can be difficult to process it all. You are not alone, I am here to support you in your journey with mental wellness. Prioritizing time for your mental health will help navigate and allow you to adapt appropriately to your circumstances.

My Professional Experience

I am a Texas native, born and raised in a small border town where I was fortunate to learn to communicate in both English and Spanish languages. Growing up in a bilingual home with my only Spanish speaking grandmother as my caretaker inspired me to pursue my first degree in Spanish in turn it gave me the opportunity to work as a High School Spanish Teacher for 7 years. Meanwhile I continued my education and pursued my Masters in Counseling and have had the opportunity to work with adolescents and their families as a High School Counselor for 8 years.

I bring forth my life experiences of; loss, grief, divorce, career transitions, co-parenting, life of a single mom, coping with an autoimmune disease, forgiveness, rebuilding trust, individual and couples therapy together with my professional experience of working with teens and their families through; anxiety, depression, trauma, immigration, crisis, academics, post-secondary planning and transitions to name a few. I understand how impactful our childhood helps shape who we are. I also believe in our ability to gain knowledge, learn new skills, unlearn bad habits, break generational traumas, heal and evolve to create the life we want now for the betterment of ourselves and family.

I am a mother of two preteen boys, a daughter, a sister, a cousin and girlfriend. I have three dogs and together with my life partner Joe we manage our own small family business. I love to travel and consider myself a big foodie who enjoys trying new restaurants and experiences. I enjoy concerts and a good self care day that may include anything spa and pampering. I love a good novel and reading autobiographies. I am fascinated by true stories and people's life experiences of trials, tribulations and successes. I have a passion for mindfulness and I try to practice it daily whether it be through meditation, yoga, and or good health and wellness podcasts. I believe mind and body go hand and hand so I try to exercise regularly, go on walks and I also play on a coed softball team.

Women empowerment is near and dear to my heart serving as your therapist, I look forward to working with you in providing a safe space for vulnerability, growth and flexibility to unpack your individual needs.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” –Maya Angelou