OUR APPROACH
We understand that everyone's journey is unique. Our approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally competent, designed to support young people facing difficult life circumstances and transitions. We are committed to meeting the individual needs of our community, specifically those from diverse backgrounds who may not have had the same opportunities or head start as others.
We eliminate the barriers to mental health services that are common in Texas:
No insurance required.
Teletherapy available to help with transportation challenges.
THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
SA Youth currently provides free and confidential therapeutic services to students enrolled in the SOAR! program and YASS Center clients. Our licensed therapists work closely with each individual to promote emotional well-being, coping skills, and personal growth. Soon, we will be expanding our services to the wider community through The CALM Clinic, opening in Summer 2025.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Tailored to meet each person's unique needs, our one-on-one therapy sessions focus on emotional support, problem-solving, and building healthy coping mechanisms.Topics covered include: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, self-esteem, and more.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS
GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy offers a supportive environment where participants can connect with others facing similar challenges. Our therapists provide a collective of eclectic interventions geared towards discovery, insight, and growth.
Some of our group topics include:
-
Healthy Relationships:
Identifying and maintaining positive connections. -
Stress and Coping:
Building resilience in the face of challenges. -
Creative Expression:
Utilizing art and creative activities for healing.
OUR THERAPEUTIC SERVICES TEAM
.jpg)
Zach Harrelson
Therapeutic Services Intern
As a graduate student intern, Zach brings fresh perspectives to our team, specializing in working with youth and young adults, particularly in building coping strategies for stress.
Zuly Serrano, LCSW
Director of Therapeutic Services
With over a decade of experience in mental health and program management, Zuly is committed to empowering clients and providing leadership to our dedicated team.
Kristina Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over six years of experience in community mental health and a passion for walking alongside individuals on their path to healing. For the past two years, she has supported clients in our SOAR! program, offering compassionate, client-centered care to young adults working toward completing their high school diploma.
Kristina brings specialized experience in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, along with a background in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Her therapeutic style is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and trust. She strives to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood.
Kristina believes that you are the expert of your own life. Her role is to support you in exploring your experiences, understanding your emotions, and building on your strengths. Each session is tailored to meet your specific goals.
Jennifer De La Rosa
Licensed Professional Counselor
With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, Jennifer strives to create a safe, affirming, and empowering space for all individuals. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She works collaboratively with clients to help them navigate life transitions, heal from trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and build skills for emotional regulation and resilience.
Jennifer believes in honoring each person’s unique story, culture, and identity, and I strive to foster a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust, authenticity, and respect. Whether you're seeking support for past trauma, current challenges, or personal growth, Jennifer is here to work alongside you with compassion and clinical expertise.
Monica Draeger
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Supervised by Sarah Almendariz, LPC-S
With a unique background spanning healthcare and education, Monica brings a compassionate, whole-person approach to counseling. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, she integrates years of experience as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), high school teacher, and school counselor to support youth and young adults through life’s challenges.
Monica is passionate about helping individuals navigate transitions, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience. Her holistic approach considers the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of each client’s well-being. Whether addressing anxiety, identity exploration, self-worth, or academic and life pressures, she offers a supportive space rooted in empathy, respect, and authenticity.
Outside the therapy room, Monica finds balance and joy in spending time with her family, especially her son and their loyal dog, Himari, which means love and light. She recharges with nature walks at sunset and believes in the grounding power of simple moments. Her approach to counseling reflects this same belief—that healing begins with presence, connection, and the courage to grow.
.jpg)
Zach Harrelson
Therapeutic Services Intern
As a graduate student intern, Zach brings fresh perspectives to our team, specializing in working with youth and young adults, particularly in building coping strategies for stress.
THERAPEUTIC SERVICES IS SUPPORTED BY
