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MEET OUR TALENTED TEAM
Karina Duran (she/her)
University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, 2023
TX License: 110470
I work with: adolescents / adults
Hello, my name is Karina Duran, and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker under supervision in the state of Texas. I am a bilingual first generation Mexican- American. I am passionate about helping adolescents and young adults reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, while realigning them with their aspirations. In my free time I like to discover new food places and spend time with friends and family.
Specializes in:
- Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Abigaile “Abi” McGowen (she/her)
University of Houston, May 2023
TX License: 111187
I work with: adolescents / young adults (and potentially groups)
As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Abi specializes in providing compassionate and client-centered therapy for individuals struggling with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Abi graduated from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work in 2023 and is currently employed as part of the behavioral health team at a top-tier pediatric hospital in the Texas Medical Center, where she works closely with children, adolescents, and families.
Utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered, and humanistic approaches, Abi strives to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Commitment to meeting individuals where they are and collaboratively working towards their goals is at the heart of her therapeutic approach. By focusing on each client’s inherent strengths, she aims to help her clients overcome challenges and achieve their personal goals. She is dedicated to helping individuals build resilience, develop coping strategies, enhance self-esteem, and achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
Specializes in:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-Esteem
Estefani Reyes (she/her/ella)
University of Houston, 2020
TX License: 106591
I work with: children / adolescents / adults
I am Salvadorean American who is married and is a cat lover! I have 4 years of experience working in the education system and have worked with elementary aged children to graduating high school seniors! It’s my first year as a clinician, but I am very excited to talk to clients and be alongside their healing journey. In my free time you might see me singing karaoke, baking a new recipe, walking with my husband, and/or conversing with loved ones.
Specializes in:
I am trained in TGCT with a focus on adolescents.
Samantha Pehringer, LMSW (she/her)
Baylor University, 2023
TX License: 111693
I work with: adolescents / adults / families
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Yes, YOU. As your therapist, it is my greatest honor to join you on your journey to achieving wellness and creating your own joy! My priority is to build a safe space and be your confidant as we work together towards your unique therapy and life goals. I value a person-centered approach above all, and look forward to celebrating your personal strengths to rediscover and re-imagine a balance and purpose in life that is functional and healthy for you. I enjoy using cognitive, dialectical, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapies to meet your specific therapeutic goals.
I am a sister, proud auntie, behavioral health case manager, therapist, and a “cat/dog mom” of 3. My own mental health, educational, and spiritual journey have led me to my life calling of empowering others to recognize their own power and strength. I would love to accompany you on your healing journey as you take that next leap. Here is to you and your bright future!
Specializes in:
- Motivational interviewing
- Adolescence
- Women’s Issues
- Families
Joanna Cook (she/her)
University of Texas at Arlington, 2010
TX License: 112596
I work with: women who have experienced complex trauma, birth trauma, and developmental trauma, women experiencing postpartum issues that feel disconnected from their bodies.
Joanna sees and values people at their deepest core level and desires to guide them towards reconnection. Many people experience developmental trauma at a very young age and wind up with harmful patterns in adulthood, ultimately confused and disconnected from the truth and beauty of who they are. If you have experienced trauma and find yourself disconnected, with psychological and even physiological symptoms of anxiety and depression, Joanna is here to help.
Having struggled with her own disconnection, confusion, and pain, Joanna offers compassion and guidance towards reconnection and wholeness. She is passionate about guiding women towards embodiment and unity of mind, body and spirit, and honored to walk beside you as your story unfolds. Joanna has worked with children, adults, and families in the past. Though she, herself, experienced developmental trauma, she has found the spark and joy of reconnection and it has changed her life in unbelievable ways. Her approach to therapy is ultimately guided by the belief that you are your own healer. She utilizes nervous system regulation, somatics, and parts work to help guide you into this truth.
Specializes in:
Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist – Individual, Integrative Somatic Parts (in process) I specialize in working with people who have chronic pain, illness, autoimmune.
