
About Us
At Achieve Balance Counseling, we believe in the transformative power of connection, understanding, and empowerment. Explore the faces behind the expertise, where genuine care and professional excellence intersect to provide you with a comprehensive and enriching counseling experience. Your well-being is not just our mission; it's our collective commitment, and our team is here to accompany you on the profound journey to achieving lasting balance and fulfillment.

In the vibrant tapestry of Achieve Balance Counseling, our team stands as a diverse and skilled assembly of professionals, each driven by a shared passion for fostering mental and emotional well-being. Our counselors are not just experts in their respective fields; they are compassionate individuals committed to guiding you through transformative journeys.

Healing is about a conversation
of hope, empathy and a connection without judgement. We want to understand your story.

We utilize evidence based approaches, individualized to your needs, with the treatment you deserve. Treatment consists of a collaborative assessment of your current circumstances and a treatment plan. Together we will review progress, determine if modifications are needed and celebrate what progress looks like for you.

We'll put the pieces together meeting virtually, in person or in walk and talk sessions. We have a diverse and inclusive team with extensive experience.
Meet the Team
A group of seasoned professionals adept in a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Theory (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and more. Each member of our team possesses a unique set of skills and specialties. Together, we form a cohesive unit that collaborates seamlessly to tailor our approach to your specific needs. Whether you are navigating personal challenges, seeking to strengthen relationships, or fostering family unity, our team is dedicated to providing support and guidance at every turn.

M.A. LPC-S, PLLC, Chief Executive Officer
Victoria Yackevicz
I am a San Antonio native who graduated from John Jay H.S. and received my Bachelors degree from UTSA. I was in the US Army for 8 years and received my Masters of Counseling degree from Webster's University. I have had the amazing opportunity to serve as Clinical Director for San Antonio's only child advocacy center and as a Regional Director for a treatment foster care agency.
I believe the challenges we have been through help us along the path of who we can become. We each have the power and ability to make the necessary changes to feel better or to be better. I will be there to help provide you the tools and support to navigate those ups and downs, regardless of the things that may feel out of control. I am a Certified TFCBT therapist on the National registry.I have years of experience working with children-adults who have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, PTSD, grief, emotional abuse, neglect, anxiety and depression. I can help you navigate those intense feelings and help get you to a place of healing.

M.A. LPC-S, Chief Operations Officer
Patricia Sanchez
Patricia H. Sanchez is a licensed professional counselor who has been in private practice in San Antonio, Texas for several years. Although she has a certified specialization in a trauma-specific approach and greatly enjoys utilizing this to assist clients with issues that fall under this category, her educational and work history are both comprehensive and she enjoys working with clients with varied issues and concerns. She obtained her collegiate education and degrees locally at the University of Texas at San Antonio. She has been serving clients with mental health needs within the San Antonio community and surrounding counties for over 15 years.
A sampling of her work history includes serving as a clinical supervisor, a critical incident responder, working with clients on end-of-life processing, as well as, again, addressing a wide range of issues in the traditional clinical setting. Along with more formal techniques Patricia aims to assist clients gain balance by combining empathy and compassion with the person's needs, as a guide in their therapeutic journey. She is passionate about utilizing integrative care to facilitate and promote holistic care. She believes in utilizing some emotional wellness tools for her own life balance, including taking daily nature walks with her three dogs and spending time with her loved ones.

LMSW, LCDC, Contract Therapist
Kayla Culleton
Kayla completed her Master’s in Social Work degree from the University of New England while working as a behavior modification technician providing services to those dealing with the complex emotions of a health diagnosis. A sampling of her work includes serving as a mental health rehabilitation technician, program therapist, virtual therapist and director of therapeutic services for a transitional living program. Kayla has ten years of experience in the mental health field and her desire to help those to achieve their potential is prevalent in all her interactions.
Rather than adopting one methodology for all individuals and challenges, Kayla draws from a variety of methods to create a more individualistic approach for each situation. Some of the modalities she utilizes are cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered, solution focused techniques and motivational interviewing. She utilizes these modalities with a positive, caring and nonjudgmental approach to assist and with various personal challenges. Kayla believes that change happens when people are given the guidance and support, they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, joyful lives.

M.S., LCSW, Contract Therapist
Lauryn McCord
Hi there! My name is Lauryn McCord, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. “Maybe you should talk to someone” is a statement many of us have heard at some point in our lives. Life can be filled with challenges and uncertainties: in our jobs, schools, relationships, and even within ourselves. At times, we all need a helping hand and support to navigate rough waters. That is where counseling can help. I began my career working in inpatient psychiatric settings while also gaining skills and experience in the medical field at a local medical hospital. I grew up an Army Brat and moved to the San Antonio area in 2021.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based practices and therapeutic approaches such as: CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, etc., and work with adults. I am here to come alongside you with an individualized approach to meet you where you are. I have years of experience working with adults in areas such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, life transitions, mood and personality disorders.
The first step is the hardest, but remember, you are not admitting defeat. You are taking back your life and embarking on a new journey. I look forward to assisting you in your goals and on your journey to self-discovery.

MS, LPC Associate
Nichelle Latham
Supervised by Felicia Stone, MA, LPC-S
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Providing a relaxed and safe environment is what I aim for every session. I personally enjoy utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy due to the use of mindfulness and how powerful it can be. Every client is different, which is why I believe each session should be person-centered and adapted to the needs of each person.
I have been in the mental health field within the San Antonio community for 5 years and have experience with crisis intervention, individual counseling, group counseling, and couples counseling - all while using evidence based practices. I genuinely believe that finding and using your strengths can be a major benefit to you and the process of working through a strenuous and heavy time. My goal is to support you to navigate hardships or difficulties in your life to promote growth. I am thrilled to be a part of your journey.

MS, LPC, NCC, LCDC, Contract Therapist
Heather Perez
My therapeutic style is to meet the client where they are in their journey and guide them in a way that promotes growth and helps manage any struggles along the way. I know that reaching out for help can be very difficult and scheduling counseling can be even harder.
I have ten years of experience treating mental health crises and substance use disorders. I specialize in assisting adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and related issues. I practice a person-centered approach to address the needs of the individual and to assist them in identifying manageable and achievable steps to reach their goals. I also utilize solution- focused interventions and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address the impact thoughts can have on our emotions.

MS, LPC, NCC, LCDC, Contract Therapist
Vincent Valadez
Vincent Valadez has practiced in the field of counseling, in addition to his pre-graduate training, for over a decade. In this capacity, he has worked in nursing and elder care homes, for a college counseling office, with companies that serve clients experiencing chronic and severe mental health issues, and in both a company and in his individual practice for over a decade providing individual, family, and couple’s therapy. He received his Master’s of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University – San Antonio in 2013.
Vincent enjoys utilizing Client-Centered therapy, which supports the goal of collaborating with the client to involve them in the process of creating lasting change, at their pace and by employing the client’s strengths or by building and reinforcing new ones, as well as by empowering them to see these genuinely.

M.S., LPC, Contract Therapist
Brianna Garcia
Brianna Garcia, LPC, is a dedicated therapist with a passion for enhancing mental and emotional well-being. With a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she offers a nurturing and safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. Brianna specializes in anxiety, depression, stress management, and self-esteem, using CBT, DBT, existential, and solution-focused techniques tailored to individual needs. Brianna is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Grief Informed Professional. Her client-centered approach empowers clients to achieve their therapeutic goals and foster resilience. Committed to inclusivity, Brianna ensures all backgrounds feel respected and understood in her counseling environment. Contact her for support on your path to improved mental health and greater fulfillment.

Administrative Assistant
Melissa Yackevicz
I currently call Austin, TX my home. I am married with two children. I graduated from UTSA with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I have worked in many medical offices and pharmacy settings. I recently received a certification in Customer Success Management (CSM). This has assisted me with a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental health therapy. I am committed to ensuring and fostering a supportive environment for both clients and staff. I am passionate about mental health advocacy and I am excited to support clients on their journey towards mental health wellness.

LMSW Associate
Jill Dunlap
Supervised by Christina Marshall, LCSW-S
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I am a licensed master social worker who has worked in the field of social work for over
20 years utilizing my skills in various ways whether that be in direct practice or in leadership. Most of my tenure has been working with children and families
dealing with trauma, helping the family unit navigate through a daunting time with support, guidance, and education. Helping individuals discover their strengths in the face of trauma by providing support and crisis intervention, resources and education has been my passion. Prior to joining Achieve Balance Counseling, I worked as a Program Director for a Child Advocacy center and as a trained forensic interviewer. I have also worked for a major hospital providing support and education after a child has experienced sexual abuse or neglect. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

LPC Associate, NCC
Ashley Taylor
Welcome! I’m Ashley Taylor (she/her/hers), and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and National Certified Counselor supervised by Vanessa Rosage MS, LPC-S. My passions are serving the community through compassionate counseling and engaging educational opportunities to expand people's mental wellness world. I want to support empowering you to achieve what you want most in life. I believe that we all have the equipment to build beautiful lives but sometimes we forget, or need guidance in discovering the tools that can help us get the job done. If you find yourself thinking you may benefit from collaboration at this chapter in your life, I want to support you!
I completed the Master of Arts program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. I have additional training in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Eidetic Imagery. Techniques are only as good as the connection they have with each client, so we will tailor treatment to meet you where you're at and compliment your strengths. My mission is to create a safe space for clients to explore their identities and to empower them to harness their own healing power. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders (life transitions, grief/loss), substance use disorders, and PTSD. If this summary resonates with you, I hope to see you in therapy soon!

LPC Associate, NCC
Christian Molina
Hi, I’m Christian Molina, LPC-Associate, NCC, and founder of Socorro Counseling. I help people
navigate life’s challenges with compassion, curiosity, and honesty. With a robust foundation in existential therapy, CBT, and person-centered approaches, I explore the deeper questions of life while also developing practical tools for growth. My journey into counseling began after pursuing music, an art form that taught me the power of expression and presence. I bring that same creativity and attentiveness to therapy, providing a safe space where individuals can explore, unlearn, and grow. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma, my goal is for every client to feel seen, heard, and empowered in their own process. I earned my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX, and I offer sessions in both English and Spanish. I am currently supervised by Dr. Tritia M. Finley, LPC-S, NCC, ensuring that I continue to refine my skills and provide the highest quality of care. I welcome clients from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community, young professionals, creatives, and high achievers. I’m dedicated to delivering thoughtful, empathetic care that meets the unique needs of every individual.

LCSW
Maryzuliana Serrano
Maryzuliana, known as Zuly, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over five years of clinical experience and a diverse background in program management, case management, and working with military personnel, underserved populations, and individuals in skilled nursing facilities. She specializes in helping individuals ages 16 and up navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, cultural identity challenges, grief, and life transitions.
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Zuly’s approach is rooted in brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), all within a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive framework. She works alongside clients to help them express and externalize their experiences in the most authentic way. Zuly’s therapy is creative and experiential, using techniques such as visualization, metaphors, and other expressive methods to foster healing, insight, and personal growth. As a grief-informed professional, Zuly also offers compassionate support for those navigating loss, helping clients process grief in a way that honors their unique journey.
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Fluent in both Spanish and English, Zuly is dedicated to providing a supportive and collaborative space where clients can explore their stories, gain clarity, and cultivate a deeper connection with their inner strength.

Connect with us!
Take the first step by booking a consultation with Achieve Balance Counseling, where our dedicated team is eager to guide you toward a path of self-discovery and empowerment.