"We Improve Lives"
MID-VALLEY
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
& PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC
700 N. Veterans Blvd.
Suite E
San Juan, TX 78589
956-685-5377
956-685-5357
100 S. Bridge Ave.
Weslaco, TX 78596
Hablamos Espanol
Our Practice
Our practice emphasizes behavioral health for several important reasons. Behavioral health encompasses behavioral factors in chronic illness care, care of physical symptoms associated with stress rather than diseases, and health behaviors, as well as encompassing mental health and substance abuse conditions and diagnoses. The term “behavioral health” may be less familiar to some audiences than the term mental health but carry similar and complimentary goals. The intention with the emphasis on behavioral health in our practice is to be broad and inclusive in thinking about the role of behavioral health clinicians in medical settings and in the treatment of physical, as well as mental health issues.
We provide our patients with the best practices currently used in the field of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. All services provided align with federal and state mandates for privacy, confidentiality, and patient rights.
THE PRACTICE
Latest Clinic News:
News This Month
August 1st, 2024
Our practice is providing small group counseling for grief .
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Meet Our Leader: A Visionary in Mental Health Care
With over two decades of dedicated service in the mental health field, Dr. Puente brings a wealth of experience from diverse sectors including hospital, judicial, and educational systems. This extensive background has equipped him with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges and their remediation.
Educational Background:
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DePaul University, Doctorate of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
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University of New Mexico Health Science Center, APA Approved Internship
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The University of Texas-Pan American Master's degree, Hispanic School Psychology
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University of Notre Dame, Bachelor's degree, Psychology/Pre-Medical Studies
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Fogarty Fellowship in research at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico
Clinical interests:
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Chronic, trauma-based anxiety disorders
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Non-medication methods for managing common psychological difficulties
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The role of lifestyle on medical and psychological outcomes
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Environmental modifications that promote the development of adaptive ideas and support emotional wellbeing.
Our Staff
Meet Mrs. Cantu: A Dedicated Counselor at MBHPS
Experience:
With an impressive 16 years of experience in school counseling and six years of direct teaching experience, Mrs. Cantu brings a wealth of knowledge and a profound understanding of the educational and psychological needs of her clients. Her extensive background allows her to provide compassionate and effective support to children, adolescents, and adults, helping them navigate their unique challenges.
Educational Background:
Mrs. Cantu holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Texas-Pan American. She is currently furthering her expertise as a doctoral clinical psychology student at California Southern University. Her ongoing commitment to education ensures that she remains at the forefront of psychological research and therapeutic practices.
Clinical Interests:
Mrs. Cantu is passionate about addressing a range of psychological issues, with a particular focus on:
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Trauma and Anxiety-Based Problems: Helping clients manage and overcome the impacts of trauma and anxiety, fostering resilience and emotional wellbeing.
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Directive and Non-Directive Play Therapy: Utilizing play therapy techniques tailored to the needs of her clients, whether through structured or more open-ended therapeutic play.
Approach to Therapy:
Mrs. Cantu’s therapeutic approach is both versatile and client-centered. She adopts a versatile and client-centered approach to therapy. She combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and problem-solving strategies to meet the unique needs of each client. This integrative method ensures that clients receive personalized and effective care, empowering them to achieve their therapeutic goals.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Mrs. Cantu uses CBT to help clients understand and change negative thought patterns that influence their behavior and emotions.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): she is trained in a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. This process helps the brain reprocess the trauma, reducing its emotional intensity and altering how the memory is stored.
Solution-Focused Therapy: By focusing on solutions rather than problems, she helps clients identify their strengths and resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Problem-Solving Techniques: Mrs. Cantu equips clients with practical strategies to address and resolve specific issues they encounter in their daily lives.
Lifestyle Behavioral Health: By focusing on the impact of lifestyle choices on overall health and wellbeing, Mrs. Cantu integrates behavioral and psychological strategies with lifestyle modifications to prevent and manage chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life.
Commitment to Client Wellbeing:
Mrs. Cantu’s dedication to her clients’ mental health is evident in her empathetic and supportive approach. She creates a nurturing environment where clients feel safe, valued, and empowered to achieve their therapeutic goals. Her extensive experience, combined with her ongoing education, ensures that she provides the highest standard of care.
Join Mrs. Cantu at MBHPS and embark on a journey towards improved mental health and wellbeing. With her expertise in trauma, anxiety, and play therapy, you’ll find the support you need to overcome your challenges and thrive.
Violeta Cantu, M.Ed., LPC
Vittorio T. Puente, PhD, LSSP
Our Social Media & Marketing Strategist
Our Office Manager
Noemi Arjona, M.Ed., LPC-A
Meet Ms. Arjona: A Dedicated Counselor at MBHPS
Educational Background:
Ms. Arjona brings a rich educational foundation to her role at MBHPS. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Language Arts from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Development from Lamar University. Her academic journey has equipped her with a deep understanding of human behavior and effective communication, essential skills in her counseling practice.
Clinical Interests:
Ms. Arjona is passionate about helping clients navigate various psychological challenges. Her clinical interests include:
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Anxiety: Assisting clients in managing and reducing anxiety through tailored therapeutic approaches.
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Depression: Providing support and strategies to help clients cope with and overcome depressive symptoms.
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Empowerment: Fostering a sense of strength and self-efficacy in her clients.
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Life-Transition: Guiding individuals through significant life changes with resilience and adaptability.
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Self-Esteem: Helping clients build and maintain a positive self-image and confidence.
Approach to Therapy:
Ms. Arjona adopts a versatile and client-centered approach to therapy. She combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and problem-solving strategies to meet the unique needs of each client. This integrative method ensures that clients receive personalized and effective care, empowering them to achieve their therapeutic goals. She also integrates directive and non-directive play therapy methods, allowing her to adapt to the specific needs of each child. This approach ensures that clients receive personalized care that promotes healing and growth.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Ms. Arjona uses CBT to help clients understand and change negative thought patterns that influence their behavior and emotions.
Solution-Focused Therapy: By focusing on solutions rather than problems, she helps clients identify their strengths and resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Problem-Solving Techniques: Ms. Arjona equips clients with practical strategies to address and resolve specific issues they encounter in their daily lives.
Directive Play Therapy: Ms. Arjona uses structured play activities to guide clients towards specific therapeutic goals, providing a safe space for them to express their emotions and work through their challenges.
Non-Directive Play Therapy: She also employs non-directive play therapy, offering clients the freedom to explore and express themselves at their own pace, facilitating a deeper understanding and resolution of their issues.
Commitment to Client Wellbeing:
Ms. Arjona’s approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to her clients' wellbeing. She creates a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Her dedication to continuous learning and professional development ensures that she stays current with the latest therapeutic techniques and best practices.
Join Ms. Arjona at MBHPS and embark on a journey towards improved mental health and wellbeing. With her expertise and compassionate care, you’ll find the support you need to navigate life’s challenges and achieve your personal goals.
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