Lydia Esther Hernandez holds licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); NM Approved Clinical Supervisor and School Social Worker, Level 3, NM PED. She graduated from Presbyterian Pan American High School, Trinity University, and Denver University. She grew up in an Air Force family station with the Strategic Air Command (SAC) from California to Massachusetts. 

 

Lydia maintained a vibrant private practice in Colorado Springs before joining the Highlands School of Social Work faculty in 1992. She has worked extensively with women, children, and families. She is dedicated to multi-generational, innovative, down-to-earth counseling. 

 

She enjoys fishing, hiking, gardening, and cooking with family, friends and at community events. (Resume and credentials available upon request.)

Valerie Maestas, a native of New Mexico, earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology and her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from New Mexico Highlands University. She specializes in adult trauma and uses an eclectic, client-centered approach tailored to individual needs.

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Valerie incorporates a spiritual perspective, encouraging clients to look within themselves to uncover answers and solutions. She is committed to creating a safe, inclusive space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can explore their experiences, heal, and grow.

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"I believe we are each a grain of sand of what exists, yet we hold the power of the whole universe within us."

Amanda has been providing counseling services since 2012 with a specific focus on families and childhood development. She is trained in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques and uses a variety of therapeutic intervention skills including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, multi-system therapy (MST), dialectable behavior therapy (DBT) motivational interviewing, and positive peer culture. Amanda also works with mental health disorders across the lifespan and is fluent in American Sign Language. She has completed a Hispanic Women’s Leadership Training in D.C. in 2016 to further her knowledge and skills.

 

Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, she worked at Taos Behavioral Health spending much of her time in the community in residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, prison systems, and privately as an adoption therapist.

Elissa is a skilled and intuitive Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 15 years of experience. She offers a sincere and authentic approach, providing clients with unique tools and inspiration to create a fulfilling life. Her passion for helping others is evident in her dedication to supporting clients emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

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Elissa has worked with diverse individuals, couples, and families in various settings, including private practice, schools, and churches, and has extensive experience collaborating with schools, lawyers, judges, CYFD, and other agencies. She is committed to improving lives and relationships by teaching effective communication and fostering resilience.

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Elissa's non-judgmental approach centers on meeting clients where they are, respecting their experiences, and collaborating with them to create new paths forward. She believes each client is the expert on themselves and their situation, and she supports them in achieving their mental health, life, and relationship goals.

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Elissa holds a BS in Biology from UNM and an MSW from NMHU, is CCSS certified, has training in multiple modalities, and is a member of NASW.

Bee Johnson is a dedicated Community Support Worker (CSW) with the Comprehensive Community Support Services team. She is currently pursuing a Psychology major and a Human Services minor at the University of New Mexico (UNM). Bee holds four associate degrees from Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) in Psychology, Sociology, Liberal Arts, and Integrated Studies.

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A passionate musician with nearly 20 years of experience playing the trumpet, Bee also enjoys cooking, crafting, solving puzzles, and juggling. She is eager to share her talents with her clients while discovering innovative ways to support and engage them. With a strong commitment to fostering meaningful connections, Bee strives to provide personalized care that empowers others to thrive.