Vanessa Castañeda: Student Counselor

Vanessa earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas and is currently pursuing her graduate studies in Clinical Counseling at the University of the Cumberlands. She has served as both a teacher and an Early Childhood Specialist, and her deep commitment to the well-being of children and individuals shines through in all she does.

Outside of her professional work, Vanessa enjoys spending time with her family, including her two children. Together, they love to travel, cook, and connect with close friends and their church community. She also enjoys crafting, running, and listening to audiobooks in her free time.

Vanessa welcomes individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, or major life changes. Her passion lies in mental health and emotional growth. Whether through play therapy, individual sessions, or creative activities, she utilizes a person-centered, cognitive-based approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She values the opportunity to connect with each person and to help discover what works best for them.

If faith is part of a client's journey, Vanessa is open to incorporating that into the therapeutic space. She is committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients can be fully themselves.

Vanessa would be honored to walk alongside those who are ready to take a step toward healing.

Services Offered

• Individual Adult Therapy
• Play Therapy
• Therapy for Children (Ages 3–18)

“Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.” — C.S. Lewis