Meet Our Trauma Therapy Team

LaJuan “Juana” McKinney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Juana received her master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. Juana is no longer accepting new clients.

Juana utilizes evidence-based Trauma Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Certified Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychoanalytic Therapy, and incorporates mindfulness with all treatments.

Juana’s experience includes counseling sexual and domestic violence survivors, the LGBTQIA+ community, treatment for those needing support with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Her approach is trauma informed,strengths based, and client centered which provides a safe space for healing. She believes there is no one size fits all modality and tailor’s treatment to each
individual client.

Juana’s approach is guided and collaborative as she believes clients are the experts on their own lives. Juana is passionate about helping clients become the best version of themselves. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with family, and being outdoors.

Marissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Masters of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and bachelor’s in Social Work with a minor in psychology from Texas State University. She is currently virtual and accepting new clients.

With a wealth of experience, Marissa specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, college, and post-graduate students. Her expertise spans various challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem/self-worth issues, interpersonal relationships, boundary setting, and major life transitions.

Marissa’s mission is to create a therapeutic space that is safe, inclusive, empathetic, and supportive for all. Approaching therapy through a social justice lens, Marissa employs diverse therapeutic modalities such as Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. She is dedicated to forging authentic connections with her clients, fostering a collaborative environment where together they can explore coping mechanisms for navigating both traumatic experiences and the challenges of everyday life.

Outside of her professional role, Marissa finds joy in collecting plants, attending concerts, exploring art exhibits, and getting lost in a good book or TV show. She values time spent with friends and family, incorporates meditation and regular workouts into her routine, and delights in experimenting with new air fryer recipes.

Sol Hernandez (They/Them) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Associate with a
Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Edward’s University. Sol is currently under supervision from Dr. Alycia DeGraff, LMFT-S. They have a background in social work and crisis management. Sol is currently accepting couples and individuals in person and virtually.

In their free time, Sol enjoys hiking and camping with their partner and their three dogs. When
not exploring the outdoors, they can often be found at a local coffee shop, reading or playing
Pokémon Go.

Sol understands that life can be challenging but believes you don’t have to face it alone. They are
here to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and to help you process life events on your healing journey.

Sol specializes in geriatric counseling, life transitions, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. They offer a mindful, person-centered approach emphasizing empathy, presence, and non-judgment. Sol integrates various therapeutic
techniques, including Gestalt Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Family
Systems Therapy, to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs and goals.

They believe therapy is a collaborative process where clients can explore their inner worlds, build resilience, and develop healthier relationships. Sol creates a safe and supportive space where you can
uncover your strengths and work toward meaningful change. If you’re feeling overwhelmed,
stuck, or need support through a difficult time, Sol is here to help. “Let’s work together to find a
path that feels right for you.”

Orlando Parrales is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York and Texas. He
earned his Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) at Texas Tech University and his Master of
Science in Social Work (MSW) at Columbia University. He is pursuing his PhD in Social
Welfare at the University of California Berkeley. Orlando is currently accepting couples and individuals in person and virtually.

Orlando’s counseling approach is deeply rooted in the person-centered approach, which he
enriches with elements from strength-based and solution-focused perspectives. He is dedicated to
working closely with his clients, helping them recognize and utilize their internal strengths and
resources to navigate life’s challenges.

Orlando’s expertise extends to working with couples, aiding them in understanding each other better and enhancing their communication skills and relationships. He also has a wealth of experience in assisting individuals with a range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to complex trauma and substance use challenges.

Orlando’s professional journey has equipped him with a robust foundation in various therapeutic
approaches and techniques, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-
CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and
Motivational Interviewing. He is pursuing additional clinical training in the Gottman Method and
a Sex Therapist Certification through the American Association of Sexuality Educators,
Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).

Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and practices under the supervision of Earley Barnes-Ullrich LCSW-S. Emily is also currently working towards her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. Emily is accepting new clients.

Emily received her Masters degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin in 2019. Since then, she has gained experience working with individuals across the lifespan, including children, teens, adults, and families. She has experience working with trauma, mental health disorders such as
anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism.

Emily places an emphasis on creating safety and comfortability in the therapy space through use of humor and genuine connection with her clients. She takes a holistic approach to therapy and highlights the relationship between mental and physical health.
In the last four years Emily has worked in a variety of settings including schools and residential treatment. She is an eclectic clinician who utilizes aspects of Attachment Theory, Trauma Informed-Care and Strengths Based Approach to help guide her work. Additionally, she has experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), parent education, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Theraplay which utilizes play interventions to help strengthen the child and caregiver relationship.

In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with her friends, family and her dog, Ollie. She also loves trying new foods, baking, and being outdoors.

Melissa received her Master of Science in Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Melissa also received a Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the same university. Melissa is virtual and no longer accepting new clients.

Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is bilingual in Spanish and English. Her pronouns are she/her/hers. Melissa has spent most of her career working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, and childhood abuse and neglect. She has worked with individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral needs. Melissa has worked extensively with the Latinx/Latine community including immigrants and unaccompanied minors. She has also worked with clients who have migrated to the United States from a variety of different countries. Melissa works to create a safe space for people in BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. 

Among the therapeutic modalities that Melissa uses are Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Melissa holds a certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),.

Melissa is a native Texan who enjoys hiking at different trails around town and spending time in nature. Melissa engages in a variety of creative pursuits including jewelry making and painting. She also enjoys spending time with her friends and family. 

Melissa is passionate about supporting survivors of trauma in their journey towards healing. She believes in using a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions depending on what works best for each individual client. 

Sharon Leung (she/her) is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and currently under the supervision of Diana Anzaldúa, LCSW-S. Sharon received her BSW and MSW from The University of Texas at Austin. Sharon is currently accepting new clients virtually and in-person.

She is a LGBTQIA+ affirming clinician with professional experience in education, outpatient clinic, and non-profit settings. Having family from Hong Kong, Sharon is familiar with some Cantonese and Mandarin Chinese, as well as Chinese culture, and welcomes Asian and minority clients into the therapeutic space with a culturally mindful lens. 

Sharon incorporates a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach that honors people’s right to self-determination. For treatment options, Sharon offers Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness interventions. Though her professional experience has largely been serving adolescents, Sharon hopes to empower clients of any age and background in their journey towards a sustainability of hope, joy, and purpose. Sharon values a client’s sense of safety and hopes to hold a space of trust, acceptance, and healing. 

In her spare time, Sharon enjoys spending time in nature, with loved ones, and with a cup of boba in hand. Sharon loves to connect with new people and looks forward to working with you as your therapist. 

Jeneke (pronounced “Jen-ih-kuh”) A Licensed Clinical Social Worker. At this time, she is no longer seeing new clients. 

Jeneke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and offers her clients a compassionate, heart-centered approach. She has a gift for making people feel comfortable in her presence and stays attuned to their needs in a supportive and safe environment. She understands the value for people to arrive at their own solutions and serves as a gentle, patient guide each step of the way. Her focus is on client strengths and how to enhance and bring awareness to one’s innate abilities to improve an overall sense of well-being.

Jeneke received her Master of Science in Social Work degree from the University of Texas in Austin, Texas in 2015 and has 10 years of experience working with adults and adolescents in a variety of settings: individual/group therapy, outpatient and residential treatment, and community-based social work. Areas of expertise include: trauma (single event and complex; including sexual, emotional and physical abuse), addiction, anxiety/depression and other mood disorders, relationship issues, psychosis, self-harming behaviors and suicidality. Jeneke has experience working with the LGBTQ+ and transgender community. 

In her practice, Jeneke uses a variety of modalities tailored to individual needs: EMDR, TF-CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, Strengths-Based Approach, Mindfulness techniques and Nature-Based Therapy techniques. 

For fun, Jeneke enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, being outside in general, trying out new recipes and spending time with family and friends.  

I’ve been providing therapy to individuals for over 22 years. The person I’m feel best able to work with is someone that has dealt with significant trauma or serious difficulties in their life, due to chronic health or family issues. But they are now interested in working to overcome the impact of these issues on them and their life.

Since this person has made an active decision to begin the change process I want to be able to provide support and guidance to them in starting this process. I will work with them to support them in whatever direction they choose to go in their journey. I will also work with LPC-Associates to provide them with competent support, as they start their career.

I feel that transparency, honesty, and compassion are important in work I do with clients to build the trust with them to then provide the support they need in the way they can accept it. I work to be a person that any one can feel safe with in the work we care doing in the therapeutic process.

I have been in therapy several times over the years and understand the conflicting feelings that occur when you are considering starting change in your life. I can reassure you that if you approach this new path in life with sincerity and patience you will find that you will grow and develop in ways that you did not anticipate for yourself and your future.

I’ve spent much of my career in emergency crisis response and working with first responders. I look forward to working with you.

Rose Hernandez, LCSW-S

Rose Hernandez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board appointed Supervisor. I am currently virtual and accepting new clients.

Ms. Hernandez appreciates working with adults, children, teens, and young adults as well as their parents who face challenges in their current lives.

Ms. Hernandez’s expertise includes helping clients with relational difficulties, career frustrations, emotional repercussions of trauma, areas of attachment, depression, and anxiety. Rose has over 20 years experience working with traumatized populations in a variety of settings.

Her approach includes the development of a comfortable, nonjudgmental, and compassionate environment. Ms. Hernandez has experience with relational therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a Certified Trust Based Relational Intervention Practitioner and trained in Trauma-Conscious Yoga.

Her experience serves to assist the client in developing healthy connections with life, others, and self. She is bi-lingual and bi-cultural (LatinX) and goes by she, her, and ella.

Kathryn Wortz Ph.D. is a seasoned clinical psychologist who has practiced over many years. She’s worked not only in private practice but also in University and Collegiate training settings. Dr. Wortz is available to see new clients virtually.

Her work has focused on treating survivors of trauma, particularly those who were abused as children. With her warm style and blend of solid psychotherapeutic traditions, she sees the role of therapist as compassionate witness and collaborator, gently guiding, as well as “walking alongside” the client through the process of healing the past and embracing the present. 

Kathryn is bilingual in English and Spanish. Kathryn uses Emotionally Focused Therapy along with Exposure therapy and Gestalt Theory for a here and now approach. She also uses a DBT approach to help with treating mood disorders and self-harm. Dr. Wortz is currently being trained in EMDR as of 2024.

Dr. Wortz received her BA degree from the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA)  before coming to Texas where she attained the PhD in Clinical Psychology at Texas Tech. Dr. Wortz is clinically licensed in Texas and Maine.

She has been licensed in Texas for nearly 30 years. She practiced for 20 years in West Texas before moving to East Texas to work for the University of Texas Health Science Center in Tyler. She now continues to serve others at ATTC.

Veronica is a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Veronica enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. Veronica is no longer accepting new clients.

Veronica assesses clients’ concerns and provides guidance while empowering the client in their healing. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR in English and Spanish) and incorporates techniques used in play therapy, client-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused, motivational-interviewing, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) as well as creative and expressive arts (art, dance and music). 

She has experience working with individuals who have been impacted by sexual violence, domestic violence, community violence, family separation resulting from divorce, deportation, incarceration, and removal by child protective services as well as those who are working to overcome depression, anxiety and trauma from either recent events or from childhood.

Veronica also advocates and provides therapeutic support for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities so that they are able to heal and repair their internal being and relationships with others.

Veronica spends most of her free-time balancing her physical and emotional health by being active and finding ways to have meaningful connections with family and friends. She is always prepared for good conversations and others perspectives. Veronica is Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Tania Flores is a Bilingual Licensed Master’s Social Worker in Austin, TX. Tania will be fully licensed in Summer 2024. I work under the supervision of Jessica Reynolds, LCSW-S. Tania is hybrid and no longer accepting new clients.

I’m a bilingual therapist who can hold warm, compassionate space for adults (18+) and elders. I support people to navigate stress, feel seen, heard, and understood. Most importantly though, I can help you face the unique challenges and pressures you may be facing at this time.

In the past, I’ve provided care for those struggling with grief,depression, life transitions, generational trauma, domestic violence, parentification, anxiety and work/school stress. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, I’m committed to providing inclusive care by supporting bodies of culture, Latinx 1st gen and 1.5 gen identities… if you know, you know.

Seeking therapy involves strength and vulnerability. Together we can create a safe space to explore your experiences and move collaboratively towards your goals. As a therapist, my approach is person centered and I draw from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I’m dedicated to your healing journey. You are important to me.

Outside of the therapy space, I enjoy exploring new cities whenever possible, and spending time with my family and friends. I find joy in cycling, pilates and nature.

Soy una terapeuta bilingüe y puedo brindar un espacio cálido y compasivo para adultos (mayores de 18 años) y personas mayores. Apoyo a las personas a navegar el estrés, a sentirse vistas, escuchadas y comprendidas. Sin embargo, lo más importante es que puedo ayudarle a enfrentar los desafíos y presiones únicas que pueda estar pasando en este momento.

 Mi experiencia ha sido con atención a quienes se enfrentan con el duelo, las transiciones de vida, el trauma generacional, parentalización , ansiedad y el estrés laboral/escolar. En Austin Trauma Therapy Center, estoy dedicada a brindar atención inclusiva apoyando a personas diversas e, identidades latinx de 1. generación y 1.5 generación.

 Buscar terapia  requiere fortaleza y vulnerabilidad. Juntx podemos crear un espacio seguro para explorar tus experiencias y avanzar de manera colaborativa hacia tus metas. Como terapeuta, estoy dedicada a tu sanación. Tu eres importante para mi.

Fuera del espacio de terapia, disfruto explorar nuevas ciudades y pasar tiempo con mi familia y amigxs. Algunos de mis pasatiempos son andar en bicicleta,  pilates y la naturaleza. Trabajo bajo la supervisión de Jessica Reynolds, LCSW-S. 

Hadley Heckmann is a Licensed Master Social Worker and is currently under the supervision of Diana Anzaldúa, LCSW-S. Hadley received her master’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Hadley is no longer accepting new clients.

Hadley a creative, collaborative, and attuned therapist passionate about working with queer clients as well as youth, young adults, and couples. She has a background in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders, and substance use, as well as ADHD, autism, gender dysphoria, family of origin issues, isolation, conflict, and significant life transitions.

They use a trauma-informed, humanitarian approach to create a supportive environment for you to move through what is present, past, or on the horizon of your life and will stay beside you in whatever comes up.
Adaptability, a strengths-based and person-centered approach, and the client-therapist relationship are integral to her social work practice.

Their techniques include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), play and art therapy, internal family systems (IFS), attachment-based therapy, and mindfulness techniques. She strives to incorporate play, creativity, and honesty in sessions alongside the
harder moments.

Ashley Daly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and practices under the supervision of Leticia Jimenez, LCSW-S. Ashley Daly holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Social Work from Texas State University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. Ashley is accepting new clients.

Throughout her professional career, Ashley has worked with diverse populations by assisting in case management services, crisis assessments/interventions, and support through empathic counseling.

Ashley has extensive background in working with clients who are experiencing symptoms related to grief and loss, complex trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, personality disorders, and anxiety/depression. Ashley has also had experience working with individuals suffering from substance abuse, experiencing homelessness, and incarceration.

Ashley’s therapeutic approach is integrative utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused methods. Ashley values the importance of creating a therapeutic environment that focuses on empowering clients to identify and maximize their unique strengths to reach their desired goals.

Ashley supports and teaches clients tools to practice healthy coping skills, so they can make the necessary changes to live a happier and healthier life. It is Ashley’s passion to advocate, support, and walk alongside clients in their therapeutic journey because she believes change is possible.

Ashley is an Austin native who now resides in San Antonio with her husband and goldendoodle, Sophie. In her free time, Ashley enjoys painting, traveling, going for bike rides, and spending time at the river. Ashley finds the outdoors to be most important in maintaining healthy self-care practices.

Antonia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over five years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings. Antonia provides services in both English and Spanish. Antonia is no longer accepting new clients.

Antonia is a Mexican-American woman raised on the Texas border. Antonia uses the pronouns she/her/ella. Antonia was raised both bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural.

Antonia completed a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Spanish at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. Antonia went on to complete a Master of Science in Psychology specializing in Family, Couple, and Individual Psychotherapy while also completing the Psychological Services for Spanish Speaking Populations certification at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.

Antonia has extensive experience working with survivors of sexual abuse, victims of human trafficking, immigrants, and individuals on the Autism spectrum. Antonia believes everyone has the ability to achieve their goals. In her work, Antonia emphases collaboration and frequent feedback.

Antonia’s approach is systems based and incorporates principles of Narrative Therapy, MRI, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Antonia believes strongly in strengths based, client centered, and social justice focused interventions.   

Diana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Austin, Texas. Diana is virtual and currently accepting new clients.

Diana received her Master of Social Work degree from Texas State University, and a bachelor of psychology degree from Wellesley College in Massachusetts. 

Diana has extensive background in leading therapy groups in in-patient hospital settings and also provides individual counseling focused on implementing new coping skills post-hospital treatment to help clients ease back into life’s journey, safely.

Diana uses strategies and principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Neuroscience. She uses these approaches to help clients lessen the effect of life stressors and heal deep-rooted trauma. 

Diana assists clients gently through the healing process as they develop new awareness and discover inner strengths that lead them to inner peace and mental clarity.

She uses a variety of therapeutic approaches in her work including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBTp, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Trauma Focused CBT, Mindfulness. These modalities are proven to help patients cope with a variety of life problems and crises. Diana is trained in TF-CBT and has a EMDR certification.

In her free time Diana enjoys trying new recipes and spending time with her cat and dogs.

Mariana Marquez-Vega is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Mariana is fluent both English and Spanish. Mariana is no longer accepting new clients.

Mariana started her career as a case manager at a behavioral clinic that allowed her to transition to Clinician for teenage boys at an immigrant shelter were she was able to conduct anger management groups and individual therapy. Marina has extensive experience working with teens struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, aggressive outbursts, teens transitioning out of juvenile facilities. Children and Families involved with State agencies.

Mariana is trained in TF-CBT as well as EMDR in psychiatric care and counseling services with toddlers, adults, and geriatrics. Mariana uses a trauma-informed client-centered psychodynamic approach to help her clients heal.

Through a strengths-based, relational therapy, her goal is to create a safe space for clients to be seen, heard and valued. Mariana looks forward to working with you in your healing journey, identifying where you would like to go and figuring out how you can get to that place from where you are now. 

In her free time, Mariana enjoys spending time with her family.