Get to know us

Passion and commitment in transforming the mental health of the Hispanic and English-speaking community.

In 2015, driven by Arturo Ojeda’s passion for making a difference in Spanish- and English-speaking mental health, Bienstar Counseling Services was founded.

After working in different agencies, he noticed the lack of bilingual therapists, resulting in long waiting lists.

Discover
our clinics

We now have two clinics to provide you with services
that will help maintain your emotional well-being.

Our Therapists​

We have a team of professional therapists committed to providing you with the help you need.

Discover the therapists you can find at each clinic

Susana Cortes

LPC (LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR)

Hello, I’m from Mexico City, where I graduated as a psychologist in 1985. I’ve lived in Texas for 22 years. I earned a master’s degree in counseling and development in 2004 from Texas Woman’s University. I have 25 years of experience, and my passion for my work speaks for itself. I offer personalized intervention to children, adolescents, and adults who have emotional and/or behavioral problems. With professional help, these problems can lose their power, allowing individuals to lead happy and productive lives.

Jessica Skinner

LCSW (License Clinical Social Work)

Hello, my name is Jessica Skinner. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Social Work from Berkeley University and in 2006 with a Master of Social Work from Columbia University in New York City. I specialize in providing services to children and adolescents. I have been a licensed social worker in Texas since 2006 and have worked as a psychotherapist for the Dallas Independent School District since 2008. My preferred modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I have worked with children and adolescents with various diagnoses, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression, to name a few.

Arturo Ojeda

LPC (LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR)

Hello, I’m Arturo Ojeda. I’m from Mexico City, have lived in England, and have called Texas home for many years. I graduated from Texas Woman’s University with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in 2009. I have a genuine interest in helping my clients with their emotional growth by providing mental health services in Spanish and English to children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults. I have worked with children and adolescents for 11 years and with adults, couples, and families for 13 years. The therapy method I use is called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which I use to treat various mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, grief, and others.

Linesse Vega

MD Psychiatrist

Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist) Hello, my name is Dr. Linesse Vega. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I completed my residency in adult psychiatry at John Peter Smith University in Fort Worth, Texas. I then specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry at UTSW in Dallas, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication treatment for mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and developmental and behavioral disorders.

Jaylene Melendez

MSW/QMHP (Qualified mental health professional) and Office Manager

My name is Jaylene Melendez, and I am the office manager at Bienstar Counseling Services. My job is to maintain high-quality office services by organizing office operations and procedures. I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Texas A&M University. I provide psychosocial assessments for the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, coping skills, and skills training.

Michaelle Luce

QMHP (QUALIFIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL)

Hello, my name is Michaelle. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Amberton University in 2009. I have 10 years of experience. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults find healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. My therapeutic approach is primarily based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I provide a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By engaging in these practices, they will be able to manage the challenges that may arise in their lives.

Claudia Munoz

QMHP (QUALIFIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL)

(My name is Claudia, and I have worked for over 17 years in Santiago, Chile, in the social sector, intervening with individuals and groups at social risk, and in education as a kindergarten teacher. I emigrated to Dallas and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Liberty University in Virginia in 2017. I provide mental health services in Spanish to children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I work in the clinical setting treating diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, and anger issues, among others. My goal is to assess, understand, and alleviate the difficulties affecting my patients, guiding them toward achieving healthy stability in all areas of their lives.)

Yaileen Arroyo

Receptionist

My name is Yaileen, and I’m a receptionist at Bienstar Counseling Services. My job is to greet you at the clinic, answer your calls to help you schedule appointments, and provide you with information about our clinic and services. I’d be happy to help you with anything you need.

Jennifer García

Receptionist

Hello, my name is Jennifer, and I’m a receptionist at Bienstar. My job is to provide information and assistance to new and existing patients in the friendliest way possible. I handle the secure and confidential processing of each patient’s documents and personal information, and I’m responsible for managing patient and therapist schedules. If you need to schedule an appointment, I’d be happy to help.

John Wheeler

Head of Operations

Greetings! I’m John Wheeler, originally from Plano, Texas. I earned my Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas in 2014. My diverse professional background includes roles as a special education teacher and an IT project manager. As a special education teacher, I worked with students in grades 4 through 12, focusing on academic, social, and post-secondary transition goals. Transitioning to the IT field, I successfully managed large-scale enterprise projects at the intersection of information technology and business operations. Currently at Bienstar Counseling, I’m thrilled to combine my passion for mental health with organizational growth. I’m committed to contributing to the organization’s future success while fostering the personal and professional growth of everyone involved.

Elane Townsend

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate – Supervised by Michelle Melton

Hello, my name is Elane. I am a bilingual Associate Licensed Professional Counselor. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of themselves. I graduated in 2023 from Lamar University, where I earned my Master of Science in Counseling and Development with a specialization in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling. My counseling experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. My therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused techniques, and, at times, an eclectic approach to accommodate my clients’ needs. I work with individuals to address various life challenges, such as trauma, life transitions, and mood and behavioral disorders. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and pets.

Heidy Hernandez

QMHP

Hello, my name is Heidy, and I am a qualified mental health professional with Bienstar Counseling Services. I hold a Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in health from the University of Texas at Arlington and am currently working toward my Master of Social Work license. I am passionate about mental health and helping clients navigate and understand their individual diagnoses. My previous experience includes strengths-based training using an evidence-based curriculum that helps develop and build skills for children, adolescents, and adults to manage mental illness. I am committed to creating safe spaces for everyone, advocating for clients’ needs, and practicing cultural humility.

Denise Pina

Administrative Assistant

Hello, my name is Denise, and I work as an administrative assistant at Bienstar Counseling. I oversee various tasks and projects assigned to me for the clinic. I am currently a candidate for an associate degree in psychology at DCCD. To further my knowledge of mental health and obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology, I intend to transfer to Texas Woman’s University. I am committed to helping the clinic thrive in the future and to advancing my psychology career, especially in working with adolescents and supporting their well-being. I am dedicated to helping Bienstar by performing the various administrative tasks delegated to me so that Bienstar Counseling’s services run more smoothly.

Edwin Gonzalez

Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate, supervised by Diana Ham

Edwin is a Licensed Professional Associate Counselor (LPC-A) and is currently completing his full licensure studies under the supervision of Diana Ham. He earned his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce, class of 2024. With a passion for helping others that began in 2020, Edwin has developed a strong foundation in counseling through a year and a half of internships and practicums at the Irving Family Advocacy Center. He brings experience working with a wide range of age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults, and has worked in elementary, middle, and high schools. Edwin’s clinical approach is based on multiple evidence-based modalities, such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), reality therapy, and person-centered therapy. In addition to individual therapy, Edwin has led group therapy sessions, notably facilitating a trauma group and a parent group, each lasting three months. He is dedicated to creating a safe and empathetic environment where clients can grow and heal. Edwin lives by the motto, “Everything will be alright in time,” a reflection of his belief in resilience and the power of therapeutic support in the face of life’s challenges.

Cynthia Jasso

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

Hello, my name is Cynthia. I am a bilingual Master’s Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) dedicated to supporting individuals and families by building meaningful and authentic connections that foster healing and growth. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, with a concentration in mental health and substance misuse. My professional experience includes work in community case management, women’s rights advocacy, and outpatient therapy services, where I have had the privilege of serving diverse populations from an equity-informed perspective. My approach is grounded in warmth, respect, and cultural humility. I strive to meet each person where they are and help them recognize and strengthen their capabilities in a safe, compassionate, and inclusive space. My therapeutic style integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy to create a collaborative and supportive environment where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to make purposeful changes that contribute to their mental well-being.

Erick Willars

PMHNP-BC

Hello! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness with compassion and care. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD, using personalized, evidence-based approaches. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard and understood, working together to find the tools and treatments that are right for you. Let’s take this step together, one step at a time. Focus on Care: I believe that everyone’s journey to mental health is unique, so I work closely with my patients to create treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and goals. I combine evidence-based practices with medication management when appropriate, always focusing on a holistic view of wellness. My style is supportive and empathetic, encouraging patients to progress at their own pace as we work together toward positive and sustainable change. What to Expect in the First Session: In our sessions, patients can expect to feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help you better understand your mental health, develop coping skills, and feel empowered to handle challenges with greater confidence. Whether you’re here to explore new ways to manage stress, improve your mood, or work through past trauma, I’m here to help you feel stronger, more resilient, and more in control of your life.

Gibranna Munoz

LMSW

I am Gibranna Muñoz, a licensed social worker with a Master of Social Work (LMSW), passionate about supporting people on their journey of personal growth and emotional well-being. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, specializing in mental health and substance abuse. Throughout my professional experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adults facing a variety of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. My commitment is to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where everyone feels heard and understood.

Monica Mora

LCSW

Hello, and welcome. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. For over a decade, I’ve been honored to support individuals through some of life’s most challenging moments — from crisis and trauma to recovery and personal growth. My experience includes suicide prevention, crisis intervention, addiction treatment, emergency psychiatric care, and helping individuals navigate the effects of mental illness. For the past five years, I’ve worked within the police department as a Victim Services Counselor and Crisis Intervention Specialist, where I also served as a Peer Support member for law enforcement. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the power of compassion, connection, and resilience — and have inspired my commitment to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing. In therapy, my goal is to meet you where you are. I believe that healing happens in a space where you can be your authentic self — without fear of judgment — and feel supported as you work toward balance, confidence, and peace. I draw from several evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). Together, we’ll work at your pace to explore, heal, and move forward — one step at a time.

Susana Cortes

LPC
(LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR)

Hello, I am from Mexico City where I graduated as a psychologist in 1985. I have lived in Texas for 22 years. I obtained a master’s degree in counseling and development in 2004 from Texas Woman University. I have twenty-five years of experience and a passion for my work. I offer personalized intervention to children, adolescents and adults who have emotional and/or behavioral problems. With professional help these problems can cease their power and with it have a happy and productive life.

Linesse Vega

Psychiatrist Doctor for kids, adolescents, and adults.

Hello, my name is Dr. Linesse Vega. I am a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Adult Psychiatry and Neurology child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I completed my residency in adult psychiatry at John Peter Smith Forth Worth, Texas. I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry at UTSW in Dallas, Texas. I perform evaluations, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment of mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, developmental and behavioral disorders.

John Wheeler

Chief of Operations

Greetings! I’m John Wheeler, originally from Plano, Texas. I earned my Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Texas in 2014. My diverse professional journey includes roles as a special education teacher and an IT Project Manager.
In my experience as a special education teacher, I collaborated with students in grades 4 – 12, focusing on academic, social, and post-high school transition goals. Transitioning to the IT realm, I successfully managed large-scale enterprise projects at the intersection of information technology and business operations.
Currently at Bienstar Counseling, I’m thrilled to merge my passion for mental health with organizational growth. I’m committed to contributing to the organization’s future success while fostering personal and professional growth for all involved.

Yaileen Arroyo

Receptionist

My name is Yaileen, and I am a receptionist at Bienstar Counseling Services. My job is to welcome you to the clinic, answer your calls to assist with scheduling your appointments, and provide information about our clinic and services. I will be happy to help you with anything you need.

Edwin Gonzalez

Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate, Supervised by Diana Ham

Edwin is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) currently working toward full licensure under the supervision of Diana Ham. He earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University–Commerce, Class of 2024. With a passion for helping others that began in 2020, Edwin has developed a strong foundation in the counseling field through 1.5 years of practicum and internship at the Irving Family Advocacy Center.

He brings experience working across a wide range of age groups, including children, teens, and adults, and has worked in elementary, middle, and high school settings. Edwin’s clinical approach draws from multiple evidence-based modalities, including Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
In addition to individual counseling, Edwin has led group therapy sessions, notably facilitating a trauma group and a parents group, each spanning three months. He is dedicated to creating a safe, empathetic environment where clients can grow and heal.
Edwin lives by the motto: “Everything is going to be okay with time,” a reflection of his belief in resilience and the power of therapeutic support through life’s challenges.

Gibranna Munoz

LMSW

I’m Gibranna Muñoz, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) passionate about supporting individuals in their journey toward personal growth and emotional well-being. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, with a concentration in mental health and substance abuse. Throughout my professional experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adults facing various emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. My commitment is to provide a safe, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space where each person can feel heard and understood.

Jessica Skinner

LCSW

Hi, my name is Jessica Skinner. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in social welfare and then graduated in 2006 from Columbia University in New York City with my master’s degree in social work. I specialize in providing services for children and adolescents. I have been a licensed social worker in Texas since 2006 and have worked as a psychotherapist for the Dallas Independent School District since 2008. My preferred modality is cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I have worked with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, and depression, to name a few.

Claudia Munoz

QMHP
(QUALIFIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL)

I am Claudia, I worked for more than 17 years in Santiago de Chile, my country of origin, in the social area, interventions with people, groups with psychosocial risk, and in education as a kindergarten teacher. I moved to Dallas and I graduated from Liberty University of Virginia with a bachelor’s in psychology in 2017. I provide mental health services in Spanish to children, adolescents, couples, and adults. I work in the clinical area treating problems such as depression, anxiety, anger management, among others. My main goal is to evaluate, understand, and alleviate the difficulties related to the patient’s state of discomfort and suffering, guiding them to achieve their wellbeing in all areas of their life.

Jennifer García

Receptionist

Hi my name is Jennifer, I am a receptionist at Bienstar, my job is to provide information and assistance to new and existing patients in the most friendly way possible. I am in charge of securely and confidentially processing documents and personal information of each patient and I am responsible for managing schedule of patients and therapists. If you need to schedule an appointment I will be more than happy to help you.

Elane Townsend

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate – Supervised by Michelle Melton

Hello, my name is Elane, a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, I am passionate about helping others become the best person that they can be. I graduated in 2023 from Lamar University in which I obtained my master’s degree in Counseling and Development-Marriage Couple & Family Counseling. My counseling experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. My therapeutic styles consist of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused techniques and at times eclectic to meet the needs of my clients. I work with individuals to address various life challenges, such as trauma, life transitions, mood and behavioral disorders. On my free time I love to spend time with my family and pets.

Denise Pina

Administrative Assistant 

Hello, I’m Denise, and I work as the administrative assistant at Bienstar Counseling. I oversee a number of tasks and projects that are assigned to me for the clinic. I’m a psychology associate’s degree candidate at DCCD right now. In order to advance my understanding of mental health and earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, I intend to transfer to Texas Women’s University. I’m committed to helping the clinic thrive in the future and to advancing my psychology degree, particularly to work with teenagers and support their wellbeing. I’m determined to help Bienstar by carrying out the various administrative tasks that have been delegated to me in order to make Bienstar Counseling services run more smoothly.

Arturo Ojeda

LPC
(LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR)

Hi, I am Arturo Ojeda, I am from Mexico City, I have lived in England, but have made Texas my home for many years. I graduated from Texas Woman University with a master’s degree in License Professional Counselor in 2009. I have a genuine interest in helping my clients in their emotional growth by providing them with mental health services in Spanish and English to children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults. I have worked with children and adolescents for 11 years, and with adults, couples, and families for 13 years. The therapy I use is called Cognitive-Behavioral, to treat different mental problems such as anxiety, depression, anger management, hyperactivity / attention problems, grief, among others’ problems.

Michaelle Luce

QMHP
(QUALIFIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL)

Hello, I am Michaelle, I graduated in 2009 from Amberton University with a master’s degree in License Professional Counselor. I have about 10 years of experience. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults in finding healthy coping skills to reduce any symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. My therapeutic style is centered more on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I provide an environment that is safe for clients to be able to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By being able to provide these practices you will be able to handle challenges that may arise in your life.

Heidy Hernandez

QMHP

Hi, my name is Heidy, and I am a qualified mental health professional with Bienstar Counseling Services. I have a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in social work with a concentration in health and am currently working on becoming licensed at the master’s level. I am passionate about mental health and helping clients navigate and understand their individual diagnosis. My previous experience includes providing strengths-based training utilizing an evidence-based curriculum that helps develop and build skills for children, adolescents, and adults to help them manage mental illnesses. I am dedicated to creating safe spaces for all, advocating for client needs, and practicing cultural humility.

Cynthia Jasso

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

Hello, my name is Cynthia. I am a bilingual Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) dedicated to supporting individuals and families through building meaningful, authentic connections that foster healing and growth. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, with a concentration in mental health and substance misuse. My professional experience includes working in community case management, women’s advocacy, and outpatient therapy services, where I have had the privilege to serve diverse populations through an equity-informed perspective. My approach is grounded in warmth, respect, and cultural humility. I strive to meet each person where they are and help them recognize and build on their strengths in a safe, compassionate, and inclusive space. My therapeutic style integrates Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Person-Centered Therapy to create a collaborative and supportive environment where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to make purposeful change that contribute to their mental well-being. 

Erick Willars

PMHNP-BC

Hello there! I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner, here to support you on your mental health journey with compassion and care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD, using personalized and evidence-based approaches. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard and understood, working together to find the tools and treatments that work best for you. Let’s take this journey together, one step at a time.

Approach to providing care:
I believe each person’s mental health journey is unique, so I work closely with clients to create treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and goals. I combine evidence-based practices with medication management when appropriate, always focusing on a holistic view of well-being. My style is supportive and empathetic, encouraging clients to take things at their own pace while we work toward sustainable, positive change together.

What can client expect on first session:
In our sessions, clients can expect to feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help you gain insight into your mental health, build coping skills, and feel empowered to manage challenges more confidently. Whether you’re here to explore new ways to manage stress, improve mood, or work through past trauma, I’m here to help you feel stronger, resilient, and more in control of your life.

Do you want to know how we help our patients?

Visit us

Bienstar Counseling Services
LBJ Clinic

8111 LBJ Fwy, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75251
Phone: 214-682-7842 | Fax: 972-398-6864

Bienstar Counseling Services
Mockingbird Clinic

7929 Brookriver Drive, Suite 170, Dallas TX, 75247
Phone: 214-974-8821| Fax: 214-891-2085

Make an appointment.

Write to us

Visit us

Bienstar Counseling Services
LBJ Clinic

8111 LBJ Fwy, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75251
Phone: 214-682-7842 | Fax: 972-398-6864

Bienstar Counseling Services
Mockingbird Clinic

7929 Brookriver Drive, Suite 170, Dallas TX, 75247
Phone: 214-974-8821 | Fax: 214-891-2085