Alyssa Garcia is a dedicated and compassionate student therapist currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of St. Thomas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston – Main Campus in 2022.
Alyssa’s work is deeply informed by her commitment to supporting individuals facing life-altering experiences—whether navigating a cancer diagnosis, living with HIV, coping with profound grief and bereavement, or advocating for couples and caregivers within overwhelming systems. Through these experiences, she has learned to hold space for pain and uncertainty while honoring each person’s strength, identity, and voice. She brings that same compassion and advocacy into the therapy space, meeting clients wherever they are with empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to their healing journey.
Her professional journey includes advanced research in HIV and cancer care at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, and Harris Health facilities, contributing to both behavioral intervention and bilingual qualitative studies. Her current personal research focuses on how culture influences the development of personality disorders and attachment styles.
Alyssa is most interested in working with adults (18+) and couples, with a particular focus on clients navigating relationships, grief, trauma, identity-related stress, and life transitions. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals from marginalized backgrounds, including those impacted by systemic inequities and identity-based trauma.
Her clinical approach is grounded in evidence-based and trauma-informed frameworks, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Somatic Practices, Attachment Theory, and Systems Theory. Alyssa is deeply committed to fostering a space where clients feel safe, seen, and respected—where their story, culture, and personal journey toward healing are truly honored.