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Mental Health Awareness Month: What is it and Why Should I Care?

by | May 1, 2026 | Blog

Mental health impacts us all—yet stigma and misinformation still get in the way of real support. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s replace myths with facts and promote mental wellness for everyone.”

Mental Illness and It’s Impact

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior or mood. These conditions deeply impact day-to-day living and may also affect the ability to relate to others.” Recognizing these conditions helps us grasp the real, multifaceted impact they have—physically, socially, and financially—on individuals and society.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month

Established in 1949 by Mental Health America, May is dedicated to educating the public, dispelling myths, and showing support for those affected. Awareness reminds people they’re not alone and reinforces the need for better, more comprehensive mental health care.

How Common are Mental Illnesses?

Here’s some fast facts about the prevalence of Mental Illness provided by NAMI:

  • Out of US adults each year, 1 in 5 experience mental illness, and 1 in 20 experience serious mental illness.
  • Each year 1 in 6 US youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder.
  • 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.
  • Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14.

What To Do If You Think You or Someone You Love Might Have a Mental Health Disorder

  • Get Help – Schedule an appointment with a counselor or other mental health professional to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. If you’ve received a new diagnosis, it’s especially important to talk to a professional so you can process any emotions and work together to explore best treatment options.
  • Ask Questions – If you meet with a mental health professional, don’t be afraid to ask any and all questions you have! Explore different treatment options and, if the first one doesn’t work for you, be open to trying different treatments. Everybody’s mental health journey is different so create a plan that fits your individual needs.
  • Get Support – Reach out to family and friends for a safe, nonjudgmental space during your recovery. Support groups, like those offered by NAMI, can also be helpful for both individuals with a new diagnosis and their loved ones. These groups provide a sense of community and understanding from others with similar experiences.
  • Do Your Research – If you or someone you love has received a mental health diagnosis, take time to learn about and explore stories from those with lived experiences. Reading and sharing stories can build connection, encourage healing, and offer support. Visit NAMI’s “Share Your Story” section to learn more: https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mental-health-awareness-month/

Dummy Data

I believe you are inherently resilient—even if it doesn’t feel that way right now. Therapy can help you reconnect with your inner strength and create meaningful change.

I offer an affirming space for individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or weighed down by self-doubt, depression, or relationship stress. If you’re used to holding everything together while feeling unseen or exhausted, you don’t have to carry that alone.

My style is warm, direct, and gently challenging. You don’t have to perform, minimize your experiences, or figure everything out on your own—this is a space where you can show up fully as yourself. If you’re ready to feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with who you are, I’d be honored to support you.

I have over 15 years in the mental health field. I hold a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of West Georgia and I'm fully licensed as a professional counselor.

Aaron Ballesteros

Aaron, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to support your journey towards mental and emotional well-being. He embarked on his career path, earning a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Mary’s University in August 2019, and has since been committed to guiding individuals like you on their paths to self-discovery and healing. Using a tailored combination of Narrative and Solution-Focused approaches, Aaron collaborates with his clients to facilitate self-awareness, promote personal growth, and craft individualized coping strategies. Together, as a dynamic team, Aaron and his clients set objectives and confront the challenges presented during each session. Aaron firmly believes that clients are the true experts of their own lives, and his approach empowers them to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, equipping them with the tools needed to make informed decisions and achieve their life goals. His areas of specialization encompass a wide range of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, communication and relationship struggles, grief and loss, and much more. Choose Aaron as your trusted partner on your journey to mental and emotional well-being. Together, you’ll navigate life’s challenges, uncover new perspectives, and work towards a brighter, more fulfilled future.

Mia R. Gozales

Mia is a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to providing affirming, individualized care for clients navigating complex emotional experiences. She specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health, personality disorders, and trauma-related conditions, offering a compassionate, evidence-based approach to healing. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Mary’s University and holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi.

Mia draws from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered, and strength-based approaches to help clients build emotional resilience, improve relationships, and create lasting change. Her integrative style encourages clients to explore their inner world, recognize patterns, and develop practical tools for self-regulation and acceptance.

Known for her authenticity, warmth, and direct-yet-supportive communication, Mia creates a nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and valued. She honors each person’s unique story while guiding them toward insight, self-compassion, and growth. Whether navigating identity exploration, recovering from trauma, or managing overwhelming emotions, Mia walks alongside clients as they reclaim their narrative with clarity, confidence, and strength.

Christa Vento-Jones

Hello! My name is Christa Vento-Jones and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-Associate) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) supervised by Dr. Kirleen Neely, LPC-S. My passion for helping others is what brought me to the counseling field, and witnessing the power of healing is what invited me to stay.

Grounded in humanistic theory, narrative approaches, and evidence-based creative interventions, my style is warm, genuine, and catered to your unique experiences. I am here to match your energy, help you identify the patterns that no longer serve you, and meet you where you are with compassionate understanding. I believe counseling is a place where laughter and tears can coexist, and I look forward to helping you create space to explore what it means to be human and embrace all parts of your story.

I earned my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio and I am an incoming doctoral student in the Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D. program at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and individuals across different walks of life. With a growing foundation in academic knowledge, clinical skills, and research in the field of mental health, I am committed to providing you with quality care rooted in cultural-humility and ethical practice. Whether you are navigating a difficult life transition or simply seeking an empathetic ear, I would be honored to hear to your story.

Mia Salazar

Hi, I’m Mia Salazar. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin, and I’m currently working toward my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am currently supervised by Dr. Kirleen Neely as I continue to grow as a counselor here in San Antonio, Texas. I am dedicated to dismantling stigma surrounding mental health care, specifically with Latin populations.

I have a true passion for supporting people, and I want you to feel comfortable, accepted, and cared for when you step into my space. My goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can share openly, explore your feelings, and know that you’re not alone. I believe that therapy is about connection—walking alongside you as you face challenges, celebrate wins, and move toward the life you want. Together, we can build resilience, gain insight, and find meaningful ways to create positive change. I’m excited to walk this journey with you.

Rosalinda Rodriguez

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially when you’ve been carrying a lot on your own. My goal is to offer a space where you feel seen, respected, and supported. Where you don’t have to explain or defend who you are, and where we move at a pace that feels right for you. I strive to show up with warmth, curiosity, and honesty, holding space for both the hard moments and the lighter ones as we work together.

In our work together, I focus on helping you reconnect with your strengths, make meaning of your experiences, and build a sense of agency and self-trust. I care deeply about honoring your lived experience, cultural background, and the systems that have shaped your story. Rather than trying to “fix” you, I see therapy as a space to explore, reflect, and grow. I want to support you in developing insight, resilience, and more authentic connection with yourself and others.

I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio and am supervised by Dr. Kirleen Neely, Ph.D., LPC-S. I am committed to ongoing learning, ethical care, and showing up fully for the people I get to know.

Angelina Martinez

Hi, I am Angelina Martinez, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A) under the supervision of Dr. Kirleen Neely, LPC-S. I am passionate about mental health and believe in the uniqueness of each individual’s journey towards overall wellness. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of the Incarnate Word and a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University - San Antonio.

I am dedicated to helping my clients work towards being the best version of themselves by providing a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for healing. I have experience working with teens, young adults, and adults with an array of presenting problems from addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, LGBTQ+ challenges, and serve mental health disorders. Additionally, I have experience working with clients who have Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

As an electric counselor, I tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. I integrate techniques from the following modalities Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy to support clients in helping them reach their goals. I also include somatic and creative interventions as the mind-body connection can be beneficial to explore and develop to aid improve one’s overall wellness.

I am here to meet you where you are and empower you to explore, grow, and achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting with you!

Ria Melchor

Meet Ria Melchor, a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-A) passionate about mental health and decolonizing the therapeutic process to do her part in shaping a kinder society through work with clients and the community. Ria holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio and has experience working with teens and adults in many avenues, most importantly, counseling in Spanish, addictions, trauma, and sexual abuse with regards to human-trafficking.

Ria uses an eclectic and holistic approach, utilizing Relational-Cultural, Feminist, Multicultural, Social Justice, and Trauma-Informed theories to harness tools such as psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, solutions-focused interventions, and any other available resources and methods to work towards clients' goals. Ria is supervised by Adriana Gutierrez, LPC-S, and is dedicated to forming therapeutic rapport based on authenticity, warmth, and equal partnership.

Morgan Rodriguez

Morgan Rodriguez, a creative and empathetic Licensed Counselor with a dedication to assist you to find your path to cultivating your calm. Morgan has a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and has a background in Art as therapy, mindfulness based counseling, and a background in grief counseling. WIth this Morgan has an unique understanding of self expression and mindfulness and the unique qualities of how physical mediums and movement can assist in holding space for emotion in a therapeutic and non-therapeutic setting. Morgan became a therapist after a first hand experience of grief and utilizing art to process in conjunction to therapy.

Morgan is passionate in assisting clients find their form of expression and developing coping skills that work in a practical manner for each individual. While the creative process is a passion of Morgans, she utilizes Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Narrative therapy, and Mindfulness Based CBT. Morgan is committed to assisting clients of all populations and ages and has experience working with child and adolescents, young adults, adults, and couples.

Working with Morgan she will assist you in navigating what it means to curate your own space for process as well as assist you in developing a better understanding of yourself so that you may tread forward into your life as a more authentic and present you.

Adriana Levine

Meet Adriana Levine, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the expert supervision of Dr. Kirleen Neely. Adriana is passionate about guiding individuals on their journey toward enhanced mental health and emotional well-being. Hailing from the vibrant city of San Antonio, she holds a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio.

With a wealth of experience, Adriana has supported individuals across various age groups, from teens to adults, navigating through a spectrum of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, college readiness, self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, and stress management. Regardless of life’s complexities, Adriana is committed to meeting you exactly where you are.

Adriana employs an integrative counseling approach, blending person-centered, mindfulness, trauma-informed, creative, and talk therapy techniques. Recognizing that expression can sometimes be challenging; she embraces creative tactics such as music and art to facilitate communication and healing.

Choose Adriana as your companion on the path to improved mental health and emotional well-being. She is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive space for all individuals. Together, you will collaborate towards achieving your goals and cultivating a more fulfilling future.

Candace Benavidez

Candace earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baylor University and went on to complete a Master of Science degree in Family, Couples, and Individual Psychotherapy from Our Lady of the Lake University. She has over 10 years of experience providing trauma-informed care and integrates evidence-based approaches such as Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).

Candace values a collaborative therapeutic relationship and works closely with clients to understand their goals and needs, always maintaining a trauma-informed lens. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and believes that collaborative work with individuals and families fosters meaningful, systemic change.

Brittney Lopez

Brittney Lopez is a highly regarded, fully licensed Professional Counselor renowned for her extensive experience and exceptional expertise within our practice. Clients consistently laud her as one of the finest counselors they've ever worked with, praising her distinctive blend of directiveness and compassion, as well as her mastery of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.

Having earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University, Brittney also holds an undergraduate degree from Baylor University in 2017 with a major in Neuroscience. These educational achievements have endowed her with a profound understanding of the intricacies of mental health, laying a robust foundation for her professional endeavors.

Brittney is deeply committed to offering compassionate guidance to individuals grappling with mental health challenges. She steadfastly endeavors to assist her clients in discovering effective coping strategies and attaining enhanced mental wellness in their daily lives. Drawing from an extensive toolkit of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, and a psychodynamic approach, Brittney empowers her clients to navigate life's complexities adeptly, addressing a spectrum of issues such as anxiety, depression, and beyond.

Dr. Kirleen Neely

Dr. Neely has worked in the mental health field for over twenty years and has been the chief executive officer of Neely Counseling Center, PLLC, since 2001. She has enjoyed serving in an array of capacities throughout her career, including psychotherapist, professor, consultant, and counselor supervisor. Working with a wide variety of populations and diagnoses has given her a wide breath of experience in the mental health field. She has appeared on national radio and television shows as a guest expert speaking about confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship satisfaction.

Dr. Neely’s children’s’ book titled Straight Talk was published in 2014 and has won the prestigious Indie Excellence Book award, finalist division. This book is a culmination of Dr. Neely’s groundbreaking qualitative research in the area of hair shaming and self-esteem for girls of color. She has also published numerous articles on this topic.

In 2017 she joined the University of Texas Health Science Center Medical School as a behavioral health consultant. In that role, she speared headed an effort to combat the epidemic of physician suicide and implemented the medical school’s first physician counseling program.

Dr. Neely currently manages the day to day operations of her counseling center and serves as an adjunct professor for St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. She spends a large portion of her time writing, teaching, and speaking to an audience on issues related to self-esteem and anxiety.

Dr. Neely is licensed by the Texas State Board of Professional Counselors and is an approved Counselor Supervisor. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Sam Houston State University, a Master’s degree in Counseling from Prairie View A & M University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from St. Mary’s University. She is supported by her husband and two beautiful daughters.