Marisa Esparza, LPC

Marisa Esparza is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Texas who brings a decade of clinical experience and a strong foundation in mental health care. She earned a Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at El Paso in December 2015 and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Texas at El Paso in May 2011. Her training and roles across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings have shaped a practical, strengths-based approach to treatment.

In her recent role with El Paso Behavioral Health Systems she served as program manager for children and adolescent inpatient services and led adult, military, and adolescent outpatient groups. In these positions she collaborated closely with patients, families, and medical staff to conduct psychological and risk assessments, facilitate daily and family groups, and respond to crisis situations. She gained experience in verbal deescalation, safety planning, and coordinating with treatment teams to support stabilization and transition back to the community.

Earlier work on an Assertive Community Treatment Team involved providing psychiatric rehabilitative skills, crisis assessment and management, and community-based support services. That role included ongoing assessment and preliminary diagnosis of Axis I psychiatric and co-occurring disorders, plus coordination of social, educational, medical, and financial resources to enhance community tenure and reduce unnecessary hospitalization.

Marisa developed clinical skills through an internship focused on children and adolescents, where she applied reality therapy, led groups, completed assessments, and participated in family sessions. Her experience as a mental health technician involved patient admissions and discharges, monitoring vital signs and behaviors, and collaborating with nursing and medical staff. She has a deep commitment to working with adolescents, young adults, and families, and is an active LGBTQIA advocate who supports youth exploring identity while educating and engaging families.