Welcome to SelfJourney Couseling

Bienvenidos! Thank you for taking some time to get to know me a little bit more. I am a wife and a mom of two energetic and loving boys. I was born and raised in Mexico. After finishing high school, I moved to Texas. I graduated from The University of Texas-Pan American (now The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology in 2009 and with a Master’s of Science in Social Work in 2011. In 2013, I obtained my License as a Clinical Social Worker.


I have experience working in community mental health and group practice settings. I also worked in the school system for almost 10 years. In 2021, I obtained the recognition as a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor, which means that I can provide clinical supervision to Licensed Masters Social Workers who want to pursue their clinical license. 


I have more than 10 years of experience working with teenagers and adults experiencing different difficult situations such as stress and worry, grief, loss and other life transitions, relationship concerns, self injurious behaviors, and trauma.  I offer a kind, warm, compassionate and caring therapeutic style.


Additional Trainings/Certifications: Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, Ace Interface Master Trainer, Dare to Lead Trained, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Trained in Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems Informed (attending Phase 1 training in the fall of 2023).

Welcome to SelfJourney Counseling

Bienvenidos! Thank you for taking some time to get to know me a little bit more. My name is Erika Alanis-Garcia, I am a wife and a mom of two energetic and loving boys. I was born and raised in Mexico. After finishing high school, I moved to Texas. I graduated from The University of Texas-Pan American (now The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology in 2009 and with a Master’s of Science in Social Work in 2011. In 2013, I obtained my License as a Clinical Social Worker.


I have experience working in community mental health and group practice settings. I also worked in the school system for almost 10 years. In 2021, I obtained the recognition as a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor, which means that I can provide clinical supervision to Licensed Master Social Workers who want to pursue their clinical license. 


I have more than 10 years of experience working with teenagers and adults experiencing different difficult situations such as stress and worry, grief, loss and other life transitions, relationship concerns, self injurious behaviors, and trauma.  I offer a kind, warm, compassionate and caring therapeutic style.


Additional Trainings/Certifications: Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, Ace Interface Master Trainer, Dare to Lead Trained, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Trained in Brainspotting (Phase 1 & 2) and Internal Family Systems (Phase 1).

My Therapy Style

I offer a unique and integrative therapeutic experience that goes beyond traditional talk therapy. My dedication lies in helping you uncover and heal from your deepest wounds by utilizing mind-body psychotherapies such as Brainspotting such as and Internal Family Systems. These methods allow you to process and release emotional and physiological pain, fostering profound healing and transformation.


My approach is both intuitive and structured, ensuring that each session is tailored to your needs. I emphasize the importance of the mind-body connection, using mindfulness and present-focused awareness to help you stay grounded and engaged in your healing journey. My sessions are marked by a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere, where you are encouraged to explore your inner world with curiosity and openness.


Working with me, you can expect to develop greater self-awareness and resilience as I support you in navigating life’s transitions, relationship challenges, and personal growth. My therapeutic style not only addresses immediate concerns but also empowers you to build a foundation for lasting well-being and self-compassion.

“Our brains are wired for connection, but trauma rewires them for protection.

That's why healthy relationships are difficult for wounded people” 

 - Ryan North

Experience & Education

LICENCSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Experience

With over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I have dedicated my career to supporting teenagers and adults through various challenging situations. My journey began in community mental health and group practice settings, where I honed my skills in addressing stress, worry, grief, loss, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-injurious behaviors, and trauma. I also spent nearly ten years working within the school system, providing critical support to students and their families. In 2021, I earned the recognition as a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor, allowing me to mentor and guide Licensed Masters Social Workers pursuing their clinical licenses.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology

  • The University of Texas-Pan American (now The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) - 2009

Master of Science in Social Work

  • The University of Texas-Pan American (now The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) - 2011

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

  • Obtained in 2013

Board Approved Clinical Supervisor

  • Recognized in 2021