Hi! My name is Zuni A. Ortega. I am a bilingual Licensed Master Social Worker with a Master of Science in Social Work with a concentration in Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups from the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley. 

​

I worked as a high school teacher for two years and a forensic scientist (drug and alcohol) for almost 8 years. During my time as a forensic scientist, I volunteered on the Regional DPS Crisis Intervention Response Peer Support Team providing emotional support to co-workers that experienced a crisis or traumatic event for over 4 years and fell in love with mental health and helped others in crisis. During graduate school, I focused on learning about mental health as related to trauma service providers such as first responders, nurses, therapists, etc. Since then, I have worked with youth (4 to 18+) dealing with cultural adjustment, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress management, self-esteem, anger, and self-harm. 

​

While working together, you can expect unconditional support in exploring, identifying, and/or achieving your goals. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and my role is to facilitate the process of change to improve your overall wellness. I will do this by using a holistic, person-centered approach that primarily includes principles from cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution- focused therapy.

​

Although each client has individual goals, my overall goals as a mental health clinician for all my clients is to instill self-empowerment, self-compassion, and general mental health education demystifying normal reactions and feelings during this journey we call life. Self-empowerment will give you the tools and confidence to know you can overcome the difficult circumstances in life. Self-compassion will remind you to that self-improvement is not always linear. And psychoeducation will help normalize and validate the different thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that we experience even after our therapeutic relationship comes to an end.

​

Outside of the office, I am committed to practicing what I preach with regards to self-care. Enjoying time with family and friends by playing board games, having movie nights, going out to nature, and cookouts are essential. Additionally, some of my favorite solo pastimes include hiking, reading, baking, and journaling. 

​

Favorite Quotes: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

“These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb” -Najwa Zebian

“Grace means that all of your mistakes now serve a purpose instead of serving shame.” – Brene Brown

​

Populations: Children, Teens, Adults, Family 

Bilingual Counseling (Spanish)

Forms of Payment: Reduced Private Pay Fee (Can't Bill Insurance)

​

​

​

​