Laurie Pena

I hold a Master of Science in Counseling with a specialization in Addictions from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, which I earned in 2015. My career in counseling began in an inpatient setting, where I gained my first experience providing both individual and group counseling services to adolescents—males and females—struggling with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. From there, I expanded my expertise by working with adult males in individual and group treatment programs focused specifically on substance use recovery.

Over the years, my professional experience has continued to evolve with a strong focus on outpatient services, where I have provided substance use and mental health counseling for both teens and adults. This diverse background has equipped me with the skills to support individuals across different life stages and treatment needs, blending evidence-based approaches with compassionate care to help clients build healthier and more sustainable lives.

Some of the therapeutic approaches implemented during sessions include: Psychoanalytic/Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Counseling, Person-Centered Therapy, and quite often Integrative/ Eclectic Therapy.

I aim to provide a comfortable, welcoming, and non-judgmental atmosphere where I can provide support, guidance, and growth as we all navigate through this journey of life. I meet you where you are and focus on collaboratively working with you in overcoming challenges and towards your life goals. You are the expert in your own life, and you are the captain of your own boat. I am merely a map towards your destination and a guiding light on your journey.