Life doesn't always turn out the way we imagined. Loss, change, and unexpected challenges can leave us wondering how to move forward.
You don't have to find your way alone.
Hi! I’m Esmeralda, a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Associate and native of El Paso. I work with individuals of all ages to navigate grief and loss. My therapeutic style is person-centered, relational, and attachment based. My approach is informed by over two decades in childcare, past work in foster and adoption placement, and my personal experience with divorce and motherhood.
Sometimes in life we experience great losses or transitions that change the trajectory of our lives. These changes can make us feel like we are on an emotional roller coaster ride. My role as your counselor is to partner with you on your journey to navigate life beyond grief and loss.
I believe that everyone has a story to tell, that my clients should decide their own goals for therapy, and that everyone is the expert of their life. If you’re in need of a supportive environment that allows you the space to speak freely and express hard feelings you cannot share with others, I would be honored for you to share your story with me.
I offer in-person sessions in Northwest Austin and virtual sessions, as well. I offer sessions during the typical work day and on weekends.
I am out-of-network with insurance and can offer superbills to help you receive reimbursement.
“The desire to reach the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise.”- Maya Angelou
Expertise
Grief, Loss & Bereavement
Navigating the death of a loved one
Anticipatory grief & end-of-life experiences
Coping with chronic or terminal illness in the family
Processing complicated or unexpected loss
Supporting children and families through grief
Adjusting to life after loss
Finding meaning and connection while grieving
Divorce & Life Transitions
Navigating separation & divorce
Emotional healing after the end of a relationship
Co-parenting & blended family transitions
Supporting children through divorce and family changes
Rebuilding identity and confidence after major life changes
Navigating changes in family roles and relationships
Relationships & Communication
Conflict resolution in relationships
Building healthy communication skills
Understanding attachment styles & relationship patterns
Establishing healthy boundaries
Family of origin exploration
Rebuilding trust & emotional connection
Navigating difficult family dynamics
Faith & Meaning
Integrating spiritual or religious beliefs into therapy
Exploring faith during grief, loss, or major life changes
Navigating questions of purpose, meaning & identity
Processing changes in spiritual beliefs
Finding hope, connection & meaning during difficult seasons of life
Who I work with
Individuals of all ages navigating grief, loss, or major life transitions
Children and teens learning to understand and cope with grief, family changes, or difficult emotions
Adults navigating separation, divorce, or the challenges of starting a new chapter
Individuals adjusting to life after the loss of a spouse, partner, or loved one
People facing chronic illness, end-of-life concerns, or anticipatory grief
Adults 65 and older seeking connection, support, and a space to share their stories, experiences, and wisdom
Individuals working through relationship challenges, family dynamics, or communication difficulties
People seeking to rediscover their sense of identity, purpose, or direction after significant life changes
Clients who wish to incorporate spirituality or faith into their therapy work
Approaches I Use
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): We’ll work through painful memories and experiences in a way that helps them feel less overwhelming, so the past doesn’t have to carry the same weight in your present.
Trauma-Informed Care: I make sure our work honors your experiences and moves at a pace that feels safe, with no pressure to share more than you’re ready for.
Systems Lens: We’ll look at the bigger picture of your life, including family dynamics, relationships, and experiences that have shaped you, to better understand patterns and create meaningful change.
Solution-Focused Therapy: We’ll build on your strengths, recognize what’s already working, and find practical, manageable steps toward the changes you want to make.
Collaborative Care: I believe healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation. When helpful and with your permission, I’ll work alongside other professionals and supports in your life to make sure your care feels connected and comprehensive.
More About Me
Before attending graduate school, I spent 22 years working in childcare and early childhood education as both an educator and assistant director of an early childhood education center. Those years gave me a deep understanding of child development, the importance of early relationships, and how childhood experiences shape who we become.
While in graduate school, I worked for a foster placement agency for two years, gaining firsthand experience with complex family dynamics, childhood trauma, and the impact of a child's environment on their emotional and developmental well-being. I also conducted home studies for children being placed with relatives or prospective adoptive families. These experiences strengthened my understanding of the importance of connection, stability, and supporting families through difficult circumstances.
I also served as the Director of Bereavement for a hospice center, supporting individuals and families navigating grief, loss, and end-of-life experiences. This work deepened my understanding that grief looks different for everyone and that healing doesn't follow a set timeline. It reinforced the importance of meeting people with compassion and simply being present during life's most difficult moments.
My desire to become a counselor came later in life, after experiencing the benefits of counseling myself. I was amazed by how much I learned about myself and how that understanding transformed my parenting, strengthened my relationship with my children, and helped me navigate grief, divorce, and life's unexpected challenges.
I believe my personal and professional experiences have shaped the therapist I am today. I understand that life can be messy, relationships are complicated, and we all face challenges we never anticipated. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and meeting clients where they are. I strive to create a space where people feel safe, understood, and supported as they navigate life's challenges and work toward meaningful change.
EDUCATION
M.A. Counseling, St. Edward’s University, Austin, TX – 2022
B.A. Psychology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX – 2013
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Texas License #205719
