Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Las Cruces, NM covered by Cigna

I am a double board-certified Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience across the continuum of psychiatric care, including acute psychiatric emergencies, inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, geriatric mental health, intellectual and developmental disability services, and healthcare management. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and am currently completing my Doctorate, reflecting my ongoing commitment to clinical excellence, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning.

Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals and families navigating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from situational anxiety and depression to severe and persistent mental illness. My clinical experience includes extensive work with schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma-related conditions, and mood instability across the lifespan. I am particularly experienced in caring for geriatric patients, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and patients with complex medication regimens requiring careful evaluation, simplification, and long-term stabilization.

I also work closely with college-aged patients and adults who are navigating academic pressure, career transitions, family dynamics, identity development, and the cumulative stressors that can emerge during periods of high responsibility or change. Many of my patients are high-functioning individuals who appear “put together” on the outside but struggle internally with anxiety, rumination, intrusive thoughts, emotional dysregulation, or burnout. Others are managing chronic psychiatric illness while striving to maintain independence, relationships, and quality of life.

I’m a Latina psychiatric nurse practitioner working with children, adolescents, and adults. I’ve worked in both pediatric mental health and adult medical settings, which helps me take a more well-rounded, real-life approach to care.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker experienced in helping clients navigate anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and major life changes. I have a strong background in both mental health and addiction recovery, which allows me to meet clients with empathy, honesty, and real-world understanding.

My work is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. I use CBT, grounding techniques, and practical coping tools to support clients in building emotional stability, confidence, and resilience. I believe healing happens when you feel safe, heard, and empowered.

I specialize in Christian counseling, fatherhood/male issues, adolescent, trauma-informed parenting, and family counseling. I am a Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) practitioner and excel with coaching parents through challenging behaviors. As a committed member of the Christian community, Alonzo can also provide Christian/Biblical counseling to those who request it.

Dr. Victoria Benson, DNP, APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) with 17 years of experience in health care and 4 years of experience in psychiatry treatments.

I am an RN with over 18 years of experience in nursing, specializing in mental health care. I am also a PMHNP-BC, and I obtained my first degree from Grand Canyon University and my Masters from Walden University. I manage clients across the lifespan and use a holistic and patient-centered approach.