I firmly believe that people desire to improve. I am convinced that with the right environment, clients can evolve into a better version of themselves. If a child can embrace their identity, they can thrive in all aspects of their life. I hold that the therapeutic relationship is essential for aiding children and teenagers.

My perspective on counseling is rooted in Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach. Since children and teenagers are all unique, a one-size-fits-all counseling approach is ineffective. As I learn more about your child/teen, I will tailor my techniques by incorporating various theatrical methods suited to each child/teen. These may include child-centered play therapy, person-centered therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I will continue to learn in order to help my clients.

 

In a supportive counseling environment, it becomes more feasible for someone to improve their situation. Personal development is an ongoing concept. Counseling aims to provide pathways for individuals to gain a healthy understanding of their emotional and behavioral states, helping them reach their life aspirations. Given the various life stages and transitions a person experiences, it's easy to fall into unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors. When assisting others, it's crucial to examine their past and explore any early traumas or neglect that may have influenced their development. Analyzing the different developmental stages from infancy through adolescence, along with understanding how an individual has navigated these phases, will enable a counselor to gain deeper insight into their thought processes and behaviors. Supporting individuals in cultivating logical thinking and witnessing tangible changes in their thoughts and actions empowers them to feel more in control of their future.

 

I firmly believe that people desire to improve. I am convinced that with the right environment, clients can evolve into a better version of themselves. If a child can embrace their identity, they can thrive in all aspects of their life. I hold that the therapeutic relationship is essential for aiding children and teenagers. 

 

My Philosophy 

Confidentiality 

Every adolescent is entitled to privacy during counseling sessions. I request that caregivers grant their children this privilege. I will disclose information that is significant and requires breaking confidentiality. This is further detailed in my informed consent. 

I do encourage your child or teen to communicate openly with you. This process takes time and patience. 

We learn so much from each other if we truly listen. 

Responsibility 

As a counselor, I am committed to continually enhancing my skills to support my clients more effectively.

If I believe that a particular technique could be more beneficial for your child or teenager, I will suggest seeking a counselor who has greater expertise in that approach. 

I may also strive to gain more experience in that technique, so that if your child or teenager wishes to return, I will be able to provide more effective support for them.

Structure 

As I embark on establishing a new counseling practice, sessions will be conducted via telehealth. As my practice begins to expand, I will introduce in-person sessions. Further details will be included in the informed consent.

Mandatory Reporting

As mandated by law, I am classified as a mandatory reporter. This indicates that any information revealed by a child or teenager regarding any form of abuse must be reported. More information is included in my informed consent.

Incidents will be reported to the appropriate authorities.  

 

My Hope for My Clients

 My hope is that they realize we are stronger together than alone.

My hope is that they find peace in the world around them

 My hope is for them to see that they are stronger than they could possibly know.

 My hope for them is that they realize that our rough starts, our traumas, our experiences, do not define who we are. We are more than the pain and heartbreak.

 My hope is that one day they will be able to see how beautiful they really are. 

Sonya Holguin
LPC-A Supervised By Gizelle Alvarado - Hoy

At the beginning, I was unsure about my life’s path; all I knew was that I wanted to help children and teens. I was raised in the foster care system and struggled with my mental health after being adopted. If it had not been for my caseworkers, my mental health professionals, and the unconditional love of my adoptive parents, I cannot say where I would be today. Throughout my teenage years, I was often in a crisis state, which has resulted in a lack of memories from that period. However, I do remember the importance of being able to talk and having someone who truly listened to me. They were not trying to change who I was but were focused on guiding me toward a day when life would not seem so hopeless.

 

After completing my psychology degree and attending an orientation on counseling, I decided counseling was the route I wanted to take. During my studies, I learned about various theories, including the person-centered and child-centered approaches. Both approaches believe that we have the tools to navigate through trauma, and this can be achieved through a strong therapeutic relationship. I have witnessed the difference that a strong therapeutic relationship can make and continue to believe in its significant impact. My calling has always been to help others, and I have a unique gift for connecting with children and teens. I want to share my knowledge and use my gifts to help children not just survive but truly live.

Reasons I Became a Counselor

Check out My Credentials At 

https://bhec.texas.gov/verify-a-license/

 

CLICK: Online Search/Verify a License

Search by Name

(Sonya Holguin)

 

Can be found on

Psychology Today

Therapist.com

Open Path Psychotherapy Collective

 

Experiences

2025 - today

Self-employed LPC-A supervised by Gizelle Alvarado - Hoy

 

2022 - 2024

Compassion Counseling Center

2025 - today

Open Path

2024 - 2024

Meridell Achievement Center (Adolescent Psychiatric Facility) 

 

I have worked with a wide range of issues including:

 

 

  • Behavioral Issues
    • Aggression and Violence
    • Truancy
    • Fights 
    • Delinquency 
    • Lying
    • Bullying
  • Anxiety 
    • Social Anxiety 
    • General Anxiety
  • Depression 
    • Self-harm
    • Suicidal Ideations
    • Attempted Suicide 

 

  • Adoption Issues
  • Foster Case Issues
  • Grief
    • Caregiver Loss
    • Sibling Loss
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Physical Abuse 
  • Low Self-Esteem
  • Addiction 
  • Eating Disorders 

LETS TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME


Let's work together, to build a better tomorrow

 

If you think your kid/teen needs a little extra help, please feel free to get in touch with me. 

Remember finding a therapist should be like shopping, you might have to try a few before finding the right one. 
 

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