Heriberto Pena Jr, LCSW

Heriberto Pena Jr is a licensed clinical social worker in Texas who helps people facing stress, anxiety, addiction concerns, relationship strain, and LGBTQ-related challenges. He focuses on practical steps people can use right away. He aims to make the first step less overwhelming and more doable.

He uses clear conversations to map out what feels most urgent. Sessions tend to focus on patterns that keep problems going and small changes that reduce their impact. He explains approaches in plain language and checks in about what feels helpful for each person.

Heriberto draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to spot and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. He also uses Motivational Interviewing to support readiness for change and Psychodynamic ideas to look at past patterns that show up now. These methods are mixed to match each person's needs and goals.

Clients can expect a straightforward, respectful tone in sessions. He pays attention to communication problems, caregiver stress, feelings of emptiness, shame, and issues tied to addiction and impulse control. He also addresses aging and geriatric concerns and experiences of prejudice and discrimination when they affect well-being.

Therapy is collaborative. Heriberto works with people to set clear, realistic goals and to track small wins over time. He supports self-compassion and practical problem solving so people can move toward a more stable and satisfying life.

How his approaches work for online therapy

Heriberto uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people identify unhelpful thoughts and try different behaviors. CBT often focuses on short-term steps you can practice between sessions to reduce anxiety or manage urges.

He also uses Motivational Interviewing to support people who feel unsure about change. This approach focuses on values and personal reasons for wanting a different path, which can be helpful with addictions or when motivation feels low.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work. He discusses options with each person and adjusts methods based on goals, comfort, and progress. That means sessions can shift over time as needs change.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is useful for a fuller conversation and visual cues. Phone sessions need less bandwidth and can be a good option during a busy day. Live chat or text can be used for shorter check-ins, brief skills practice, or when writing feels easier than speaking. These options make it simpler to fit therapy into a routine and keep momentum between sessions.