About Us
We BELIEVE- That you matter; whatever your age, stage in life, gender or background. That despite your successes or failures there is always room for improving your quality of life through mental and emotional wellbeing.
We UNDERSTAND That life is complicated and that loss, trauma, divorce as well as the battles we face in our mind whether big or small can disrupt an otherwise satisfying and productive life.
We STRIVE To give you exceptional attention starting with our comprehensive, diverse, evidence-based approach to our collaboration with the finest mental health team in South Texas.
We PROMISE to listen, to accept you, to be compassionate and supportive in a safe and professional space. We will always honor your utmost privacy and confidentiality.
We WILL Put you first; by offering days and hours that suit your schedule, by creating a unique plan of care suited for your needs and goals and by giving you meeting options such as in person, virtual or group settings as well as Spanish speaking sessions.
Mental Health Professionals
Clinical Psychologists
Dr. Juan (Carlos) Castillo
Carlos Castillo, Psy.D, owner of The Groves, is Valley born and raised. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University. He acquired his Doctoral Degree at the Texas School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University-Dallas. Dr. Castillo has notable experience in psychological and neuropsychological assessments acquired while training at Richland Oaks Counseling Center, a large community based counseling center in the DFW area and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital-Dallas. Dr. Castillo utilizes an integrative approach to psychotherapy that combines Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Experiential, Interpersonal and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Dr. Castillo’s interests and experience include working with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety and depression. Additionally, he assists individuals with adjustment issues such as relationship problems, divorce, work problems and general stress.
Dr. Kim Villabona
Kim Villabona, Psy.D received her degree in Clinical Psychology in 1986 from Forest Institute in Chicago. She studied at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute and completed her clinical internship with the Chicago Bureau of Mental Health. She did post-doctoral work in forensic clinical neuropsychology at the Federal Medical Center and was adjunct staff at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Villabona was a senior forensic consultant to the Chief Judge of the Criminal Courts in Chicago. Dr. Villabona is certified in the treatment of complex trauma.
Dr. Villabona offers psychodynamic therapy, which is effective for those who desire lasting change through an examination of the roots of emotional problems, especially problematic relationship patterns and self-esteem issues. Dr. Villabona also provides brief psychodynamic therapy, a time-limited approach with a circumscribed focus.
Dr. Chris Carcamo
Dr. Carcamo is a first-generation-born American with parents born and raised in El Salvador. Throughout his life, he has lived in various areas within Texas, Michigan, and Virginia. Grateful for unique experiences and exposure to the constant balancing of being a first-generation-born American while preserving his Salvadorian culture, he navigates life in the U.S. academically, professionally, and personally. His interest in psychology stems from a fascination with the human experience and a variety of life experiences, motivating him to provide care, support, and education to those navigating life’s hardships, accomplishments, and transitions. Outside of work, he is a family man who spends time with his wife and two young boys. He enjoys listening to diverse music, dancing, specifically bboying (breakdancing), and cooking. Additionally, he considers himself a huge foodie, always seeking his next culinary adventure.
Describing his approach to therapy as strategically eclectic, he intentionally selects the most compatible and appropriate evidence-based psychotherapies for individual needs, often integrating aspects of multiple approaches. He specializes in both sex therapy and working with individuals with chronic pain and medical conditions. He takes a holistic, systems-based, relational approach, drawing from previous clinical experience in various settings. When engaging in therapy, he considers one’s unique diversity and values, acknowledging their invaluable assets in life’s journey. He also takes into account the various systems in people’s lives, such as partners, family, societal views, or laws and regulations. Exploring strengths, he uses them to achieve goals and highlights what clients bring to the table. Dr. Carcamo’s flexibility in the therapy room ranges from being warm and inviting to direct and thought-provoking, depending on the client’s preferences. His ultimate goal is that through the collaborative work, clients will learn to use their existing assets, develop skills, gain insight, and perspective, eventually reaching a point where they no longer need therapy, though his door is always open for those choosing to return.
Provisonally-Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Christian Crespo Rodríguez
Dr. Christian Crespo-Rodríguez is a provisionally-licensed psychologist from the Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico. I have different experiences that have prepared me to give a service of quality. I’ve worked in diverse environments that include: hospitals, schools, and interdisciplinary centers. Also, I have experience with different populations and mental health disorders such as mood disorders (depression, anxiety), personality disorders, and trauma. I use a holistic approach according to the client’s needs and capabilities. I have experience with different therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (short, long-term, trauma-focused, play therapy) and mindfulness. But my main approach in therapy is depth psychology (psychodynamic approach) and schema therapy.
My goal in therapy is to work with the client as a team to provide them with a place where they can feel safe and be themselves without fear of being judged. Also, help them rewrite their internal narratives. Finally, another important goal for me, is that as the therapeutic process goes by, my clients gain experience and independence.
Your pain is part of who you are but it’s not who you are. How you relate to your pain is what makes the difference.
Post-Doctoral Fellow
Dr. Eleyonzettah Bonilla
Eleyonzettah Bonilla believes that therapy is a profound journey of self-discovery and healing. It’s a space where individuals can feel seen, heard, and valued in their entirety, without judgment. She believes it’s essential because it offers a unique opportunity to work through personal challenges, understand and shift patterns that no longer serve us, and build resilience for the future. The therapeutic process is not just about alleviating symptoms; it’s about enriching one’s life, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and others, and nurturing an inner sanctuary of peace. Every individual deserves that kind of compassionate attention and care, which can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Recognizing that each person’s experience is as unique as their fingerprint, Eleyonzettah’s approach is highly personalized and empathetic. She strives to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where together, she and her client can explore their individual narrative at a pace that feels comfortable for them. As a listener and guide, she aims to deeply understand their perspective, offer insights, and arm them with practical tools to address life’s challenges. Integrating a range of evidence-based practices, she adapts their sessions to align with their specific needs and aspirations. The heart of her work is to empower her client to enact positive changes and to honor their journey towards growth and self-compassion with every step they take together.
Licensed Psychological Associates
Delia Villarreal, M.A.
Ms. Delia Villareal is an Independent Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA-I) with nearly ten years of experience providing the community with culturally sensitive, highly specialized, holistic, and empirically supported psychological services. She is a native from Monterrey, NL, Mexico and have lived in South Texas for 25 years. As a fully-bilingual psychology practitioner, Ms. Villarreal offer comprehensive and thorough Spanish, English, and dual-language evaluations, brief examinations, and long-term treatment for children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Her specialties are in pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), emotional disturbances, non-suicidal-self-injury and suicidality, adult personality disorders, anxiety and posttraumatic stress, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, conduct and behavioral disorders, intellectual disabilities, and learning disorders.
Andrew Dials, M.A.
Andrew Dials was born in Corpus Christi, TX and raised in McAllen, TX. He is a graduate from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley where he earned his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. He completed his internship at DHR Behavioral Health Hospital where he worked with various adult populations. He holds a License as an Independent Psychological Associate (LPA-I).
He has experience administering a range of assessments for adults, adolescents, and children, including neuropsychological, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disability, differential diagnosis evaluations, dyslexia and accommodations for college or exams.
In practice, Andrew utilizes an eclectic approach where he incorporates multiple therapy modalities to best meet the unique and specific needs of his clients. Andrew works with adults and adolescents. Andrew is supervised by Dr. Castillo.
Frida Prazaline, M.A.
Frida Prazaline was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley. She holds a master’s in clinical psychology from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). She is currently a Licensed Psychological Associate under the supervision of Dr. Juan Carlos Castillo.
Frida Prazaline completed her internship at The Groves Assessment and Psychotherapy, where she gained experience in counseling and assessment. She also has experience working as a life coach. During her time with the Groves Assessment and Psychotherapy, she has worked with young adults, adults, and couples dealing with mood disorders, body image issues, relationship issues, and trauma. She prefers to take an eclectic or integrative approach when working with clients, rejecting the notion of one-size-fits-all forms of treatment. Clients, in her perspective, are the experts in their unique lives. Together, she and her clients form a plan that suits them and the goals they wish to achieve. She believes that each individual can determine the direction of their own life, free from the chains of past traumas, current stressors, and the expectations of others. Through their collaborative work, they can explore, make connections, and take action toward building a meaningful and satisfying life.
“Taking the first step to book an appointment can be scary and uncomfortable. By seeking help, one admits there’s an issue they’ve tried their best to deal with but ultimately feels out of their control. Furthermore, sticking to therapy means change, and even change that benefits individuals can be scary. For anyone beginning therapy or on the fence, my role is to help make that process easier. With time, I am confident individuals will realize investing in their mental wellness is one of the best decisions they can make.”
Licensed Professional Counselors
Amanda Chavez, M.A.
Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes working with children and adolescents. She received her Masters of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University, in Austin, TX. She has had the privilege of working in various clinical settings, such as hospitals, schools, behavioral centers, and nonprofit organizations, both in Austin and Houston, TX.
Amanda is a Registered Behavioral Therapist and has extensive knowledge working with individuals with special needs and their support systems. In addition, she is a trained Positive Discipline Parent Educator. She provides individual child and adolescent counseling, parent individual and group sessions, school observations, and social skills groups.
Venessa Lopez, M.A.
Venessa Lopez was born and raised in Rio Grande Valley. She completed her education at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for her Minor in Rehabilitation Counseling, Bachelor’s in Psychology, and her Master’s in Education with a focus on Counseling and Guidance. She holds a license as a Professional Counselor (LPC).
Venessa completed her internship at The Groves Assessment and Psychotherapy where she was able to gain experience with counseling and administration. She utilizes multiple therapeutic modalities unique for each patient. Some modalities she utilizes are Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal therapy. Venessa has focused her services on providing counseling for individual therapy and couple’s therapy. In couples therapy, a Gottman method approach and an Emotion-Focused approach are used in combination to improve the couple’s relationship.
Brianna Escobar, M.S.
Brianna was born and raised in the RGV and attended the University of Texas Rio Grande valley where she obtained her graduate degree in M.S. of Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. Brianna is an LPC with a background education in General Rehabilitation studies focusing on individuals with disabilities. During her undergraduate studies she had the privilege to work with nonprofit CASA of Hidalgo County where she advocated for abused and neglected children in the court of law. Throughout her graduate studies she has worked on extensive research to provide community resources for individuals with developmental disabilities. In 2019 she was awarded for her outstanding research on behalf of UTRGV College of Health Science.
Since graduation Brianna has had the privilege to work in the ORR setting focusing on the mental health needs of unaccompanied minors. Brianna has worked with adolescents who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and crisis management. Brianna has now shifted her concentration in children and adolescent therapy where she has become versed in clients with Mood dysregulation disorders, ADHD, Anxiety disorders, and Depression. Brianna utilizes multiple therapeutic modalities unique and tailored for each patient. Therapy modalities may include, play techniques, person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, she provides individual counseling and group counseling for children and adolescents.
“ As a born and raised native of the RGV I have seen first hand the need of my community when it comes to mental health. I am excited to provide my services to the next generation of trailblazers and provide the youth with the most appropriate techniques to leave their own mark on this community.”
Dani Cason, M.A.
Dani Cason is an LPC Associate who holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University. Born and raised in the Wisconsin, Dani has a rich history of community service, spending a significant part of her teenage years in Reynosa, Mexico, working with children. Her life path has taken her across various states, from the beaches of Hawaii to the busy streets of New York City. In June 2023, she relocated from Wisconsin to McAllen, Texas, with her family.
Dani specializes in working with teenagers who face emotional and behavioral challenges, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. Her approach to individual therapy integrates solution-focused, CBT, and DBT techniques. She also has a strong focus on family therapy, utilizing a systemic approach to address the complexities of family dynamics. In her work with couples, Dani also sees couples in premarital counseling, marital therapy, and betrayal trauma counseling.
Dani believes that every individual is the expert of their own life. She is committed to collaborating with her clients to set and achieve goals that enhance their overall well-being. Her empathetic and goal-oriented approach ensures that her clients feel supported and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Tania Torres, LCSW, EMDR-Trained, TCYM
Tania Torres is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is an immigrant and daughter of bakers. She is trained in EMDR and in the Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, both interventions focus on supporting individuals to process trauma. Tania acknowledges the importance of her Mexican identity and draws from the wisdom of mother nature and Latin American healing practices in her work. Additionally, her approach centers on Liberation Psychology, which is guided by values that emphasize social justice, equity, human dignity, and community. Tania has worked primarily with women who identify as BIPOC but she also works with men and older teens. Before the clinical setting, Tania worked with youth both as a Social Worker and as an Educator. Tania enjoys cooking, hiking, working out, and engaging in activities that connect her to her inner child.
Doctoral Residents
Teresa Juarez, M.Ed.
(Doctoral Practicum Student)
Ms. Teresa Juarez is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Fielding Graduate University, an APA-accredited program. Teresa is an active member of APA Division 55, The Society for Prescribing Psychology, and has been elected the Student Representative for 2025-2026. She is originally from Hawaii and has lived overseas as a military-connected family member. She plans to work with the military population upon graduation.
Teresa primarily provides cognitive behavior therapy and is working towards her BECK certification. She is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Tim Hollinger, M.A.
(Doctoral Intern)
Tim Hollinger, M.A. has dedicated his life to serving others, recently pursuing education and training to serve the community of the Rio Grande Valley as a mental health professional. Born and raised in the RGV, he has a wealth of experience working with diverse populations. Tim received a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University and is working on the dissertation and internship requirements as a PhD student in Clinical Psychology at Walden University. Here at The Groves, Tim provides therapy through a number of approaches that include psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy and conducts psychological evaluation and assessment.
With a focus on helping others live life more abundantly, Tim aims to use his knowledge and skill to work with individuals who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, and many more process and overcome the hurdles in their lives.
Life Coaches
Lorena Houghton
Lorena Hoguhton is a Master’s student in the Clinical Psychology Program at UTRGV, completing her practicum under the supervision of Dr. Felicia Garcia. Lorena is from McAllen, Tx and graduated with her B.S. in psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2022.
Lorena’s interests include eating disorders, women’s issues, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, and learning disorders. At The Groves, Lorena helps conduct psychological evaluations for foster children and bariatric patients and provides therapeutic services using an integrative approach which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy.
Masters Residents
Office Staff
Maria Cruz
Operations Manager
Maria Cruz is a seasoned healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience in the industry. With an extensive background in healthcare management, she has led teams, streamlined operations, and contributed to the improvement of patient care across various healthcare settings.
Originally from South Texas, Maria brings a unique perspective shaped by her roots and enriched by her travels throughout the United States. Her journey across the country has allowed her to gain valuable insight into diverse healthcare systems, practices, and patient needs, making her a well-rounded and highly knowledgeable leader in her field.
Rebecca Castillo, B.A.
Community Outreach Coordinator
Rebecca Castillo has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for community engagement throughout her life. Her early experiences, such as volunteering at the George Brown Convention in Houston, actively participating in serving meals to the community on Thanksgiving mornings, have left a lasting impression. Upon relocating to the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), Rebecca was determined to continue her commitment to community involvement and support.
In her role as Community Outreach Coordinator, Rebecca actively oversees and collaborates on various events and donation initiatives aimed at bolstering our community. Her dedication to fostering community connections and facilitating support underscores her valuable contributions to our organization.
Nancy Garza
Billing Specialist
Nancy Garza serves as the Billing Specialist at The Groves, where her commitment and dedication shine through in every task she takes on. Known for going above and beyond to ensure exceptional customer service, Nancy brings a high level of care and professionalism to her role.
Originally from the Rio Grande Valley, she carries with her a strong work ethic and a passion for helping others. Now, Nancy is excited to embark on a new journey as she expands her career into the field of Mental Health, continuing her mission to make a positive impact in the lives of those she serves.
Crystal Peguero,
Administrative Assistant
Crystal is a valley native who was born and raised in McAllen, Texas. She has always had a passion for helping others, and spent her spare time volunteering with various organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity and Southwest Key. She dreams of becoming an early childhood educator, and making a positive impact on the lives of the children in her community. Crystal is a compassionate, dedicated, and inspiring person who strives to make the world a better place.
Albert Limon, Administrative Assistant
Therapy Dogs
Pavlov "Pav"
Pav is a Bernedoodle, half Bernese Mountain Dog & half Poodle. She is certified as a therapy dog. She is available to sit in on therapy sessions upon request. Pav has a soothing way about her and she is helpful in elevating your mood. You’ll find her happily roaming our office. Be sure to say hello.
Luna
Luna is a hypoallergenic rare breed Coton du Tulear that was trained from a pup to be a therapy dog. Luna often accompanies Dr. Villabona in her consulting work and is always eager for attention.
