Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Dr. Alma Castaneda

LPC, 26 years of experience

Intelligent
Warm
Virtual
Next available on

I am originally from San Antonio, TX. I was born to working class parents and attended the public school system. I speak English and Spanish. I attained 3 degrees overtime to include a bachelor's degree, master's degree, and doctorate. I have been a licensed therapist for several years. Having worked in a variety of settings, I am well networked, resourceful, and experienced. In addition, to counseling and therapy, I also have university teaching experience. I get along with others and generally have a positive outlook. In my spare time I enjoy reading, gardening, and cooking. Additionally, I love animals, spending time with family, and the outdoors.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Therapy with me is a safe, judgment-free space where you can exhale, feel heard, and start unpacking what’s been weighing you down. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. We’ll start by understanding what’s keeping you stuck—whether it’s perfectionism, unprocessed stress, or people-pleasing patterns. Then we’ll develop realistic, doable strategies to calm your mind, set healthier boundaries, and reconnect with your values. I integrate evidence-based methods like CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy so you get both insight and action steps.

The treatment methods and tools I utilize

Many treatments exist but everyone is different as is their needs so I take an eclectic approach to therapy. I often draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, and experiential approaches just to name a few. In addition, I utilize smart goals to help move progress along at a good pace. My treatment approach is always customized to your specific needs.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I excel at treating major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, life transitions, adjustment issues, and Tourette's Syndrome. Breaking things down to smaller, easier steps is one of my niches as is the use of reframing to reduce anxiety. Not many practitioners have formal training in treating Tourette's Syndrome but I do. I use that training to help sufferers live fuller lives. After a few sessions, clients often tell me they feel: More grounded and able to handle challenges without spiraling Clearer about their needs and how to honor them Lighter and more hopeful about the future You don’t have to live in constant overdrive. You can feel like yourself again.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

Do you feel like you’re constantly “on” but never really present? You push through the day, meet everyone else’s needs, but when it’s finally quiet, you feel drained, restless, and disconnected from yourself. You might lie awake at night replaying mistakes, worrying about tomorrow, or wondering if this is all life will be. Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals who seem “fine” on the outside but are struggling with: Anxiety that never really turns off Overcommitment and lack of boundaries A constant feeling of pressure or “not enough” Loss of joy in things that used to excite them I work with: Adults 18-99 All lifestyles and orientations All races and ethnicities Everyone who needs my help!

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings
This provider hasn’t received any written reviews yet. We started collecting written reviews January 1, 2025.

About Dr. Alma Castaneda

Appointments

Virtual