Gisela Esteva, PhD, LPC, NCC

Dr. Gisela Esteva earned her undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and completed postgraduate studies in Venezuela before continuing additional training in the United States. She received her master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, completed advanced training in Play Therapy, and earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision at Sam Houston State University.

With extensive experience in assessment and psychotherapy, Dr. Esteva works with children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning differences, executive functioning challenges, anxiety, and depression. She also provides care in a rehabilitation hospital setting, supporting individuals recovering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and other conditions resulting from sudden life changes that affect both physical and emotional well-being. In her clinical practice, Dr. Esteva thoughtfully attends to the intersecting cultural experiences that may contribute to exclusion or acculturative stress, adapting treatment to honor each individual’s unique needs.

Dr. Esteva serves as an Adjunct Professor and enjoys teaching courses in multicultural counseling, assessment methods, and therapeutic interventions. She is also an editor for Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Her research focuses on autism spectrum disorders and social anxiety, and she actively participates in advocacy efforts aimed at expanding access to services for adults transitioning into higher education and the workforce.

Guided by a humanistic approach, Dr. Esteva integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and neurocounseling within a collaborative and culturally responsive framework. She is deeply committed to working with neurodiverse individuals and families, honoring their cultural journeys and lived experiences while fostering emotional resilience and holistic well-being.

Memberships: International Society for Autism Research (INSAR-member and cultural ambassador); Association for Counseling Ed. and Supervision (ACES); Association for Play Therapy (APT)