Our Team
Our Practitioners are well-versed in trauma-informed care and bring qualities of inclusivity, innovation, thoughtfulness, and compassion.
We prioritize cultural competence and strive to establish meaningful connections with every patient, all in the service of enhancing our support to the San Antonio community.
Melissa Ortiz MA, LPC-s
Founder & CEO
Melissa Ortiz is the founder of Metanoia Counseling, established in January 2020 with the mission to provide accessible mental health services to the San Antonio community.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, she brings over 12 years of experience in counseling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. Melissa is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can confront their challenges, uncover their strengths, and embark on a journey toward personal growth, resilience, and transformative healing.
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Melissa holds certifications in EMDR, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy, Sound Healing, MARI (Mandala Assessment Research Instrument, Yoga and Zumba embodying her belief in holistic healing that integrates the mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is built on the foundation of cultural competence, ensuring that each client’s unique identity and background are respected and honored, particularly in trauma recovery. This approach not only fosters individual healing but also promotes generational wellness.
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Her extensive training includes advanced LENS biofeedback, Sand Tray Therapy, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Immigration Psychological Evaluations, and Play Therapy. Melissa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
Whether mentoring aspiring counselors, collaborating with professionals, or engaging directly with clients, Melissa’s objective is to inspire positive change and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives through culturally informed, holistic approaches to therapy.
Steven Balarin LPC, LCDC
Professional Counselor
Steven is a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) at Metanoia Counseling. He earned a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University-San Antonio. With over 14 years of experience, particularly in the criminal reentry field, Steven has developed a profound understanding of the complexities involved in personal and psychological growth.
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In his therapeutic practice, Steven specializes in helping individuals escape the emotional confines they perceive themselves to be trapped within. He adeptly employs cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, focusing on fostering a transformative therapeutic alliance through trust and mutual respect. His expertise spans a wide array of issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, behavioral issues, and anger management, enabling him to effectively support children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
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Steven is also trained in LENS biofeedback, a method that complements his clinical work by integrating advanced biofeedback technology. This holistic approach enhances his ability to facilitate significant emotional and behavioral changes, ensuring that each client receives personalized and empathetic care tailored to their unique needs.
Judy Villarreal, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Melissa Ortiz, LPC-S
Associate Counselor
Judy Villarreal is an Associate Counselor at Metanoia Counseling, holding a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M International University. With over 16 years of experience, Judy specializes in working with children and families, providing support and understanding the intricate impacts of mental health disorders on their lives. Her bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish enhances her ability to communicate effectively with a diverse client base.
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In her practice, Judy adeptly conducts individual counseling sessions and creates comprehensive treatment plans tailored for children, adolescents, and adults. She utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy, to address various issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. Her approach is culturally sensitive, ensuring that all clients feel valued and understood, fostering an environment where they can openly express themselves.
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Dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment that promotes healing and growth, Judy’s efforts significantly contribute to the improvement of her clients’ overall well-being. Her commitment to professional development and empathetic connection with clients establishes her as a valuable asset to the Metanoia team and a trusted resource for individuals navigating life’s challenges.
Monique Nadolny, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Melissa Ortiz, LPC-S
Associate Counselor
Monique is an Associate Counselor at Metanoia Counseling, holding a Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Counseling from Texas A&M University San Antonio. She is dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their journeys toward healing, growth, and mental well-being.
Monique’s ideal clients may include those managing grief, trauma, or relationship challenges who seek a safe space to be heard and empowered. Utilizing evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems, she tailors her trauma-informed approach to each client’s unique needs, fostering resilience and meaningful change.
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As a member of the American Counseling Association and the Texas Counseling Association, Monique is committed to creating a safe, culturally sensitive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Her strengths-based approach combines a variety of techniques for holistic healing. Monique is dedicated to supporting her clients on their path toward growth and well-being.
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Dominique Scott, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Melissa Ortiz, LPC-S
Associate Counselor
Dominique Scott is an LPC Associate at Metanoia Counseling in San Antonio, TX. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Dominique is known for her empathetic nature and efficient communication skills, which she leverages to deliver effective treatment and counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. Her therapeutic approach is characterized by a deep commitment to providing a healing environment, where she employs a variety of treatment modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Reality Therapy.
Dominique has a broad range of experience counseling individuals from diverse backgrounds, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, traumatic events, and substance use.​​
Determined and motivated to learn, Dominique continually seeks to enhance her skills and knowledge. Her goal is to create and maintain a safe, culturally sensitive space where all clients feel respected, heard, and empowered to achieve personal growth and well-being.
Leticia Villarreal
Student Intern with Metanoia Healing Initiative
Leticia Villarreal is a compassionate counseling intern with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Family, Marriage, and Couple Counseling at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, where she maintains a 4.0 GPA.
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Leticia has gained hands-on experience conducting intake assessments, facilitating therapy sessions, and maintaining case documentation under the supervision of licensed counselors. She prioritizes building trust through empathy, active listening, and clear communication, addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, and personal development.
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With a strong background in psychology, problem-solving skills, and bilingual fluency in English and Spanish, Leticia is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for clients. She is committed to fostering resilience and promoting mental wellness in the communities she serves.
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Leslie FLores
Student Intern with Metanoia Healing Initiative
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Leslie Flores is a compassionate and dedicated graduate student therapist at Metanoia Counseling, bringing over seven years of professional experience in education and five years of working directly with school-age children. Leslie is committed to creating a healing atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging, and supportive for all clients.
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Leslie's therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy to tailor care to the unique needs of each individual. With superb interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills, Leslie excels in fostering a positive and inclusive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and achieve personal growth.
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Leslie’s warm, enthusiastic personality and passion for helping others make them a valued member of the Metanoia Counseling team, where they strive to support the well-being and resilience of every client.
Nancy Jimenez
Hiring Specialist
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As a Hiring Specialist, Nancy Jimenez is passionate about fostering connections between clients and transformative holistic therapies that empower healing and growth. Holding an associate's degree from Palo Alto College in San Antonio and equipped with hands-on experience in case management with the San Antonio Housing Development, Nancy has refined her ability to provide meaningful support and resources to individuals navigating life’s transitions.
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Nancy is committed to building a dynamic team of professionals who share the mission of making a profound impact on clients’ well-being. By prioritizing emotional intelligence and alignment with a holistic approach, she ensures the team is equipped to deliver unparalleled care.
Beyond hiring, Nancy takes pride in creating a welcoming environment as the first point of contact for clients, setting the tone for their healing journey. Her work combines a belief in holistic care with an unwavering commitment to ensuring every client feels valued, supported, and ready to embark on their path to transformation.