Miriam Ramirez, Adult OP Therapist at Motel

Miriam recently obtained her provisional license after earning a Master’s in Social Work from New Mexico State University, where she also completed her Bachelor’s degree. She completed internships at La Casa’s Domestic Violence Shelter and Adult Outpatient Program with La Clinica de Familia, gaining direct experience in crisis intervention, advocacy, and mental health services. Throughout her graduate studies, Miriam worked for four years in Treatment Foster Care, focusing on admissions. These diverse roles have deepened her commitment to trauma-informed care and culturally responsive support for individuals and families.

Joann Cooke, LCSW, Northern Outpatient Clinical Director
JoAnn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She attended the University of Texas at Austin where she received both her bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in social work. The first 5 years of her career were spent working with teenage boys dealing with substance use , anger, depression, and legal issues within a residential treatment center. She came to LCDF in July of 2018 as a clinical supervisor with adult outpatient where she maintained a caseload of adult clients and provided clinical supervision to other therapists. She transitioned to director role in August of 2022 where she has strived to create policy and procedure changes to best serve the staff, patients, and community. JoAnn still maintains a small caseload and specializes in working with clients with trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety. She is trained in a variety of approaches including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), collaborative management of suicidality (CAMS) , CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She is passionate about making LCDF an agency in which all patients feel safe and welcome regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, immigration status, or mental or physical ability.

DeAnna Jaramillo, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor
DeAnna, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. She attended New Mexico State University where she received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work. She joined LCDF in 2017 where she has been a part of the adult outpatient behavioral health therapist team. She is trained and utilizes a client-centered approach incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities based on client need including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness, Emotional focused therapy (EFT) and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR ) therapy. She has also facilitates an evidence-based parenting group for over four years at La Clinica de Familia. She views the trust that clients offer to her as a privilege and respects the opportunity to witness each person’s healing as a gift. She believes that therapy should be an enjoyable process, it is her intention to be a therapist who is welcoming of the full range of human experiences.

Eric Gomez, LMFT, Clinical Supervisor
Eric Gomez is a Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in marital, family, and Christian-based counseling. He obtained his Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University, and his Bachelor’s in Psychology from New Mexico State University. He enjoys studying theology and American history, and maintains the firm belief that every life matters and contains immeasurable value.

Edward Alvarez, LPCC, Clinical Supervisor

Erika Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor

Amanda Curry, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor

Ghirmay Haile, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Ghirmay Haile, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. He received his Bachelor Degree in Sociology and Social Works from the University of Asmara, Eritrea, a Master’s Degree in Sociology from the New Mexico State University and a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice with a specialization in Mental Health from New Mexico State University.

Prior to joining La Clinica de Familia, Dr. Ghebreslasse worked in psychiatric inpatient, (Adolescent, Adult and Geriatric) units at Mesilla Valley Psychiatric Hospital for 7 years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Technician and Psychiatric Nurse. He has also 5 years work experience as Adjust Professor at Donna Anna Community College, teaching Sociology classes to freshmen students.

Currently, Dr. Ghirmay Ghebreslasse is providing service for Adolescent, Adult and Geriatric clients both at Children Behavioral Health (Central) and Adult Behavioral Health (Griggs). He brings to clinic a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for patients.

Obi Chinyelu, LMSW
Chinyelu “Devine” Obi, LMSW, attended University of Nigeria where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work/Community Development. She received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at New Mexico State University. She currently provides Clinical and Behavioral Health services to Adult Outpatients at Las Cruces LCDF Behavioral Health Specialties. Her passion and goal is to continue her education in mental health with opportunities to work and impact lives domestically and globally. She would also love to establish a Non-profit that will cater to the overall mental health and basic needs of the under-served population.

Jade Jenkins, LMSW
Attended University of Texas at El Paso and earned a BA in Psychology. Went on to attend New Mexico State University and earned a Masters of Social Work. Currently providing outpatient therapy for adults with La Clinica Behavioral Health. I am pursuing a clinical license in social work and hope to continue a career in mental health as an independent clinician.

Selina Angel, LMSW

Oscar Alvarez, LAMFT
I was born and raised in Leon Guanajuato, Mexico. In a large family, typical from the 70s. Raised Catholic, like everybody in Mexico. I graduated from the Universidad de Leon and a couple years after I had the opportunity to continue my education in the NMSU in the master’s program for Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual and after living in Las Cruces since 2010, I have become bicultural. I play videogames since I was 8 years old and I am developing a taste for old movies. Having the opportunity to work with children, families, individuals and couples gave me the chance to learn so much about the diversity we have in this area. My main approach is CBT, but I am very flexible when it comes to therapy. Living in the present moment is crucial to foster a sense of wellbeing. We can learn from the past and we can plan for the future, but our place is in the present. Remember that feelings can be overwhelming, but keep in mind that feelings are real, but they are not reality. You don’t have to do this alone, give us the opportunity to help you.

Maria Bagwell, LCSW, LADAC

Madison Smith, LCSW

Brittney Ramos, LPCC

Corina H. Preciado, LAMFT, LSAA

Alondra Suarez, LMSW

Francisca Serrano-Flores, LMSW

Adam Hunt, LMSW

Nichole Dowell, PLMSW
Nichole and received her Bachelors and Masters of Social Work from New Mexico State University completing her education in the spring of 2023. She obtained her PLMSW shortly thereafter and is continuing to work towards obtaining her LMSW. Nichole has a long history of working with others in a variety of settings and has completed internships at a Dual Diagnosis Rehabilitation Center for Substance Use Disorders and completed her second internship in outpatient therapy services at La Clinica de Familia treating a variety of mental health concerns for individuals with a large variety of backgrounds. Nichole offers services including individual therapy, couples counseling as well as leading a relapse prevention group. 

Jaclyn Berger, LMSW
Greetings, I’m Jackie, a devoted champion for mental health, and I take pride in my journey as a graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso, holding both a Bachelor’s of Science and a Master’s in Social Work. Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a heartfelt commitment to comprehend and respond to the intricate facets of mental health. My path has been shaped by a diverse array of experiences in partial hospitalization, inpatient behavioral health, and specialized programs designed to address challenges related to anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

In the course of my professional endeavors, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the profound and uplifting effects of comprehensive care on individuals facing profound mental health struggles. This includes those within the LGBTQIA+ community, whose unique experiences have enriched my understanding and deepened my dedication to fostering an inclusive and affirming approach to mental health care.

Sandra Hernandez, LPMSW
I received my Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from NMSU in 2015. Having worked with children in different capacities for over 7 years, I decided to pursue my Master’s of Social Work from the same university. Coming from a family who imigrated to the states, I understand the barriers faced, from language to being underprivileged. My goal is to empower everyone I come across as they rediscover their purpose and realize their full potential.

Brenda Gonzalez, LAMFT

Diamond Ogodo, DNP, PMHNP
My name is Diamond Ogodo, born on March 26th, 1969, in Nigeria. I attended six elementary schools as my father was in the Nigerian Army and moved around quite a bit. After completing high school, I attended the University of Calabar, Nigeria where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History. I worked for Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) for 3 years before relocating to the United States in 2004 when my wife was selected to come to the US through the visa lottery program.

On getting to the shores of the United States, we stayed briefly in West Virginia, before relocating to Florida where I worked for Burger King Restaurant, Center for Comprehensive Services, Hillsborough Kids, and Eckerd Kids until I started nursing school. My experience majorly included running background screening checks on prospective foster parents, adoptive parents, and placement options. I also gained experience as a supervisor at some point supervising as many as twelve employees. I obtained a Master of Business Administration from Ashford University in 201 O while working at Eckerd Kids.

My love for helping people resulted in my decision to go to nursing school and obtained my Associate of Nursing in 2018. I was hired as a registered nurse at Mesilla Valley Hospital in September 2018 and have worked for this facility since then. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2020 and got accepted into the Doctor of Nursing program at NMSU in 2021. I graduated with a doctorate in 2024 with a specialty in psychiatric mental health nursing.

I am joyfully married with three children, two of whom are adults in college. Our youngest child is a freshman in high school. We have lived in Las Cruces New Mexico since the fall of 2017. We love it here, as the people are very friendly, genuine and loving. I cannot conclude this brief autobiography without a mention of God’s immeasurable love for me. He has been the sustainer of my entire life. I would not achieve anything in life without His grace and strength.

Tionna Hernandez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Tionna Hernandez, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides outpatient care for adults at La Clinica de Familia. She is licensed in both New Mexico and Texas and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Tionna has over seven years of nursing experience, including four years in ICU and progressive care, and three years working in psychiatric settings. Before joining La Clinica, she worked as a nurse manager in an acute psychiatric hospital, where she cared for individuals in crisis and helped lead a team focused on stabilizing and supporting patients with complex needs.

She treats a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and co-occurring substance use. Her approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, with a focus on building trust and creating treatment plans that reflect each individual’s goals and lived experience.

Tionna is committed to providing accessible, respectful mental health care to underserved communities and helping patients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their recovery.

Keenon Sherrell, LMSW, Clinical Supervisor

Hoyden Callaway, LPCC

Ruth Housman, LPCC

Kaitlyn Mead, LMHC
My name is Kaitlyn Mead. I grew up in Albuquerque and came to Las Cruces for college and stayed for graduate school and really enjoyed the community and have enjoyed continuing to live here. I have my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from New Mexico State University. I’ve worked at La Clinica de Familia as a therapist for several years and I enjoy helping clients work towards feeling like their best selves and use a trauma-informed empathetic approach to empower my clients to reach their goals.

Faith Mahoney, LPCC

Venessa Monge, LMSW

Dorcas Gyamerah, LMSW
I received my Bachelors degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Ghana, Legon and my Master’s degree in Social work from New Mexico State University. I completed an internship with Child Protective services where I supported vulnerable populations and developed a strong passion for mental health advocacy particularly because mental health support was not always accessible to me growing up. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and meeting clients where they are. My clinical approach often integrates a client centered therapy, DBT, CBT, Narrative therapy and a Solution Focused therapy. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where clients of all backgrounds feel heard and respected. Outside of clinical work, I enjoy baking and cooking; just as every little ingredient contributes to the final product, I believe that every detail of a person’s life shapes their unique identity and story. A quote that guides my life is by Eleanor Roosevelt; “To handle yourself, use

Cristina Apodaca, LMHC
Attended the University of Texas at El Paso and earned a BS in Psychology. Attended New Mexico Highlands University and earned a MA in Guidance and Counseling. Worked at a Methadone clinic in Espanola, Outpatient in Deming, Treatment Foster Care in Las Cruces and is currently at LCDF as an Adult Outpatient Therapist. I value having high moral in the workplace, and I enjoy spending time with others as they discover who they are.

Karina A Aguirre Torres, LMSW

Raven Smith, LMSW
I received my bachelor’s (2014) and master’s (2024) degree in social work from New Mexico State University. I aim to support individuals who are impacted by societal and/or systematic barriers and have a passion in supporting BIPOC population, with a special interest in supporting women of color. I have experience working with school aged children and adults who have experienced sexual/physical abuse, disabilities, anxiety, and depression. I believe in supporting every individual in recognizing the power and choice they have in determining the path of their life.

Sarah Bert Templeton, MA, LSAA, MT
Sarah Templeton holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a focus in substance abuse treatment from University of North Carolina Wilmington. She has worked extensively throughout the Caribbean and United States with youth and adolescents focusing on both prevention and treatment. Sarah is a strong believer in the body/mind connection and has spent most of her career exploring the ways in which the body maps the trauma and unprocessed pains of the human experience. Sarah believes strongly in a client-centered approach, meeting clients where they are and intuitively calling on various modalities to aid the entire system back into equilibrium. She works therapeutically from a mindfulness-based perspective employing various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy, as well as movement and breath-based therapies. Sarah believes in the inherent power of the human spirit and is constantly reminded of what a privilege it is to aid others on their journey.

Bernadette Sanchez, LMSW

Vanessa Medrano, LMSW
My name is Vanessa Medrano, and I have recently graduated from UTEP’s Master of Social Work program and have received my Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) license in New Mexico and Texas. I am working towards receiving my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both New Mexico and Texas in the next few years as well. I was born and raised in the borderland and am so proud to call this region my home. I attended UT Austin for a degree in Human Development and Family Sciences with a minor in Psychology. I have worked in a private practice setting for counseling and have also worked at different school districts in El Paso, Texas. I have been passionate about mental health for much of my life, and look forward to working with and empowering adolescents and children as they learn and decide how that looks for them.

Mayra Alvarez-Bernal, CCSS Clinical Supervisor

Graciela Ponce, LMHC

Nancy Y. Lopez LPC, LPCC – Southern Clinical Director
Nancy Y. Lopez (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) in the state of New Mexico and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. Nancy attended University of Phoenix in Santa Teresa, NM, where she received her Bachelor’s degree in the Science of Human Services and her Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling of Mental Health. Nancy is currently the Southern Clinical Director for our Anthony and Sunland Park Behavioral Health services locations as well as the Comprehensive Community Support Services program.

Rosalva Blanco LCSW – BHS Clinical Supervisor
Rosalva Blanco (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Mexico. Rosalva attended the University of Texas at El Paso where she received her bachelor’s degree in Social Work and her master’s degree in Social Work. She is the clinical supervisor at the Sunland Park location and continues to provide outpatient services to the community.

Leticia Castillo, LMSW IBH Provider

Katya Compian, LMSW

April Cervantes, PLMHC
April Cervantes, PLMHC (she/her), earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and her Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling of Mental Health from the University of Phoenix. She has worked extensively with both adolescents and adults in providing individual, group and family therapy for a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges. April takes a client-centered approach to care, drawing from a variety of therapeutic methods to meet each person’s unique needs. She believes in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their healing process. With a strong background in case management, April brings valuable insight into the complex needs of underserved and vulnerable populations, offering compassionate, culturally responsive care every step of the way.

Isabella L. Duran, LMSW
With a Master’s in Social Work and hands-on experience in behavioral health and crisis intervention, I strive to create a safe, supportive space for healing and personal growth. My background includes working with children, adults, families, and diverse populations across clinical and community settings. I’m passionate about helping clients build resilience and reach their goals through compassionate, client-centered care.

Amelia Furrow, LCSW – BHS Clinical Supervisor
Amelia Furrow is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She completed her Master of Social Work degree from The University of Texas at El Paso. Amelia began working at La Clinica de Familia as an Outpatient Therapist at Anthony Behavioral Health Specialties in 2020. In 2022 she became the Clinical Supervisor for Anthony Outpatient. Amelia is dedicated to helping provide high-quality mental health services to every member of the community.  

Marva Fonseca, Therapist
Marva Fonseca, LMHC, attended Park University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Psychology: Clinical & Abnormal and her Master’s Depress in Mental Health Counseling. She currently provides integrated Behavioral Health services to adults in Anthony, New Mexico LCDF. Marva hopes to advocate for better quality of life while providing strength, hope and rehabilitation for people struggling with mental illness and substance abuse.

Angel Hernandez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Angel Hernandez, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry. Angel received his Master of Science in Nursing from MidWestern State University with Honors and has been working in the mental health field since 2000. Angel currently assesses and treats children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient care.

Angela Anaya (P)LMSW
Angela is a Clinical Social Worker, serving the community as an outpatient therapist. She earned her education in social work from the University of Texas at El Paso. She has gained experience working with diverse populations including children, adolescents, and adults utilizing person-centered approaches and evidence-based practices to address the mental health needs. Angela is dedicated to increase the quality of life and well-being of individual through advocacy and delivery of quality services.

Eva Gonzalez-Lewis
Eva Gonzalez-Lewis is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with extensive experience in providing therapeutic support to families, children, teenagers, and adults. Throughout her career, Melinda has worked in a variety of settings, including clinics, hospitals, and shelters, where she has developed a strong background in mental health interventions. She is skilled in utilizing approaches such as play therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help her clients address and overcome emotional challenges.

Eliseo Cisneros, LMFT

Linda Enriquez, LMHC IBH Provider

Jocelyn Moore – LMSW

Marva Fonseca, LPCC

Angela Anaya, PLMSW
Angela is a Clinical Social Worker, serving the community as an outpatient therapist. She earned her education in social work from the University of Texas at El Paso. She has gained experience working with diverse populations including children, adolescents, and adults utilizing person-centered approaches and evidence-based practices to address the mental health needs. Angela is dedicated to increase the quality of life and well-being of individual through advocacy and delivery of quality services.

Leasette Hernandez, LCSW
Leasette Hernandez, LCSW attended University of Texas at El Paso where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and University of Texas at Austin where she received her Master of Science in Social Work Degree. She currently provides Integrated Behavioral Health services at LCDF Chaparral Clinic. As an IBH Provider, Leasette provides walk-in crisis services, individual, family, and group counseling service. Leasette’s goal is to provide the community with safe and supportive care, and continue to work towards reducing the stigma against mental health.