Dr. Lilia Varela-Rios

I am Dr. Lilia Varela-Rios, the Director of Growing Generations of South Texas. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I lead a team of Licensed Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselors who have served the Rio Grande Valley (Texas) since 2009. I specialize in providing comprehensive treatment for mental health and substance abuse needs across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and individualized, ensuring a safe environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve self-fulfillment, independence, and happiness.

My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, utilizing modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, REBT, and Interpersonal Therapy. Together, we will identify goals that are meaningful to you and develop a plan that fits your individual needs. Whether we are working on emotional regulation, coping skills, relationship dynamics, or processing traumatic experiences, my goal is to help you build on your existing strengths. I believe therapy is a process of gaining greater insight and developing the necessary tools to create meaningful, sustainable change in your life.

In our first session, we will begin by identifying your specific goals and developing a personalized treatment plan. As a clinical psychologist, I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, adults, and special populations, including individuals with disabilities and juveniles involved in the legal system. These evaluations are designed to identify factors interfering with your ability to think, behave, or regulate emotions effectively, and can assist in predicting behaviors or performance. Whether you are here for counseling or an evaluation, my goal is to ensure you feel understood and supported as we establish a clear path toward your personal growth and well-being.