OFFICE (361) 946-2256
Saving Hope Counseling, PLLC
Professional Counseling Services
Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor
Owner of Saving Hope Counseling, PLLC
Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S, received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Sociology in 2008 and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling in 2011 from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She has over eighteen years’ experience providing counseling to families, children, couples, and adults. She is recognized as a Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. She offers weekly or as needed counseling to individuals in the Corpus Christi and the South Texas area.
"Since a young age, I have been passionate about becoming a counselor. I find deep fulfillment in working with couples and families, helping them navigate difficult life situations and create meaningful, lasting change. My husband, Jose Cantu, is a Certified Life Coach who collaborates with me in supporting couples through their journeys toward healthier, more balanced lives. Together, we are committed to providing guidance that fosters clarity, establishes boundaries, and empowers confident decision-making. In 2019, I founded Saving Hope Counseling to extend this mission to a broader community. We are dedicated to offering compassionate support and professional guidance to anyone seeking growth and healing. As a wife, mother and Supervisor, I am grateful to be living my lifelong dream of serving others in this deep and meaningful way.
I believe that everyone is worthy of loving the life they live, so I focus on mindfulness as well as staying active to encourage decent change. It is important to work together to see these changes impact your life in a way that produces resolution and purpose. I feel that discouragement can often lead to a downward spiral that can be hard to maneuver. It is so important to overcome unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior, so you can feel and be better. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Adlerian Therapy.”
Jose M. Cantu, CPC
Certified Professional Life Coach
Jose M. Cantu, CPC, is the founder of Cantu Life Coaching, LLC, in which he established in 2022 after his completion of the Certified Professional Life Coaching certification through Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. He is deeply committed to helping individuals cultivate a meaningful sense of happiness, purpose, and motivation in their lives.
His practice is rooted in delivering high-quality, professional, and compassionate support within a calm and welcoming environment. Jose utilizes a highly personalized approach, thoughtfully tailoring each session to align with the unique needs and goals of every client.
Through a collaborative process, he partners with individuals to clarify their aspirations and develop actionable pathways toward achieving them. Known for his empathetic and attentive presence, Jose creates a safe and supportive space where clients can openly explore challenges, gain insight, and build self-awareness. With an emphasis on mindfulness and present-focused growth, he guides clients in identifying and overcoming barriers that may be limiting their success and personal development.
Andrea Mendoza, M.S., LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Mendoza is a Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi doctoral student and a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (supervised by Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S). In 2023, she received her Master of Science in Professional Counseling, specializing in Marriage and Family Counseling, from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Andrea is also a National Certified Counselor. Her specialties include working with children, adolescents, couples, adults, and Spanish-speaking individuals. She offers play therapy-informed services for children and a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet the mental health needs of adolescents, couples, and adults. Andrea believes each client deserves a counseling experience tailored to their needs. As such, she believes therapy is a collaborative process that allows you to work on your goals in a safe therapeutic environment. Her approach is holistic, relational, integrative, and creative because therapy is not "one size fits all." She works with clients to help them create more authentic relationships with themselves and others and develop the skills, tools, and strategies they need to confidently navigate life challenges. Andrea is now accepting new clients for in-person sessions..
Samantha Martinez, MS, LPC-Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate
Samantha Martinez is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (supervised by Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S). Since 2017, she has passionately dedicated herself to the mental health field, working with individuals facing challenges such as autism, anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). She enjoys working with a diverse range of clients, including adolescents, teens, adults, and couples. She earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2025 and has since utilized therapeutic approaches like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She is committed to meeting clients where they are at in their journey by using a person-centered approach. Her focus is to prioritize the client and their unique experiences, ensuring you have a safe and welcoming space to explore your thoughts and emotions. She looks forward to assisting you to navigate your path and work towards your goals. She is now accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions.
Gloria Miranda- Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Gloria Miranda is a Counselor Student-in-Training with over 25 years of experience supporting individuals and families through trauma, crisis, and major life transitions. She specializes in working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, Spanish-speaking families, and couples, offering bilingual counseling in English and Spanish.
She earned dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) in 2002 and is currently completing her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University, with an expected graduation in May 2026.
Gloria has extensive experience in crisis intervention, trauma support, and mental health services, helping individuals and couples manage depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship challenges. She has worked with survivors of domestic violence, individuals coping with trauma, and families facing dementia-related difficulties. Taking a holistic approach, she integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to address the emotional impact of trauma while promoting stabilization, healing, and resilience, while also connecting clients to supportive resources for enhanced, coordinated care.
She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and a certified SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) assessment facilitator, equipping her to support both individuals and couples in strengthening their emotional well-being and relationships. She is also an active member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP), reflecting her dedication to mental health and aging-related care.
Gloria will begin seeing clients in May 2025 and is currently accepting English and Spanish-speaking individuals for her waitlist under the supervision of Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S.
Gabriela Reyes - Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Gabriela Reyes is currently a counselor in training who will be working under Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. Gabriela graduated in 2023 with her bachelor's in psychology and is actively working on her master's in professional counseling at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi. She is passionate in creating a safe therapeutic space for her clients from all backgrounds. Gabriela plans to utilize the different resources and tools available to her in order to create a positive impact for her clients. She is looking forward to working on what works best for you and your mental health.
Sarah Morrison- Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Sarah Morrison has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and has spent years in the accounting field. Having felt a nudge to pursue a career in mental health, Sarah entered the Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi. She is passionate about creating trusting therapeutic relationships and believes that trust is the key to walking with clients as they navigate their mental health challenges. She looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience to help clients meet their goals.
Veronica Flores Casanova - Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Veronica Flores Casanova is a longtime resident of Corpus Christi and a retired nurse with a deep commitment to service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in History and Mexican American Studies from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. Inspired by her work alongside the mental health department at a children’s shelter, Veronica is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with diverse communities. Veronica has a strong passion for the immigrant community. She advocates for better immigration policies and educates the community on their rights. Veronica is excited to offer counseling to a very diverse population. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, taking long walks—especially by the ocean—and volunteering with Miracle League, an inclusive sports organization.
Katie Feider- Student Intern
Teri Lynn Hodges, MS, LPC, CCATP, CTMH
Licensed Professional Counselor
Teri Lynn Hodges, MS, LPC, CCATP, CTMH has over twelve years’ experience providing counseling to individuals in need. She has experience with sexual assault/domestic violence victims, individuals with mental health backgrounds as well as individuals looking to find their passion and live out their dream. She can help maneuver through life struggles to accomplish long-term and short-term goals. She is a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional and a Certified Clinical Tele Mental Health Specialist. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Experiential Training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Couples and Building Self Esteem in Youth! She offers weekly or as needed counseling to individuals in the Corpus Christi and South Texas area. She is currently offering Tele Mental Health sessions.
Shae Ball, MS, LPC-Associate, LMFT- Associate
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist - Associate
Shae is an LPC-Associate and LMFT - Associate who is committed to providing therapeutic care and services to adolescents, individuals, families, and couples. Supervision is provided by Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. Some other populations she loves working with include those who are neurodiverse and in the LGBTQ+ community. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A & M University - Corpus Christi from 2021. In 2024, she earned her Masters of Education in Counseling & Development with a specialization in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lamar University. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing video games, and taking too many pictures of her pets.
Shae-Lynn is now seeing clients both in-person and through telehealth, so feel free to reach out to get on her schedule today! She believes it's important to meet the needs of clients, so she will utilize various approaches and techniques that best suit the clients involved. Call the office today to inquire about rates and scheduling opportunities.
Madelyn Placencio - Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Madelyn Placencio is a student counselor-in-training who is working under Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. Madelyn graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a bachelor's degree in 2023 and is currently working on her Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Texas A&M-University-Kingsville. She is passionate about providing therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and young adults. She will utilize various techniques depending on the individual needs of each client. She looks forward to collaborating with you and applying the right technique to benefit your mental health.
Nancy Le- Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Nancy Le is a student counselor-in-training, who will be working under the supervision of Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. She had prior experience in working with youth on the autism spectrum, and has also had experience in working to advocate for and provide resources to adults who had mental health needs and intellectual disabilities. Nancy received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, and is currently working towards a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Colorado Christian University. Nancy is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and will apply various theoretical approaches and techniques in order to help meet the needs of each client. She looks forward to collaborating with you, to empower and encourage you in facing the challenges that come your way.
Piper White - Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Piper White is a student counselor-in-training, who will be working under the supervision of Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. She has prior clinical experience in working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds experiencing mental health crises, supporting and advocating for the needs of children in foster care and providing neuropsychological evaluations for those with cognitive-related deficits and differences. Piper received her Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with minors in Psychology and Biology from University of Houston - Downtown, and is currently working towards a Masters of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi.
Piper is passionate about working with clients who identify as Neurodivergent and those who have experienced complex trauma. She takes into consideration social, family and cultural systems, and the impact they have on everyday problems and situations. She believes healing is relational and has a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to her clinical practice. Piper shows up with an authentic warmth that encourages her clients to shine and rise to their fullest, most empowered self. Through creative strategies and collaboration, Piper helps clients recognize their worth by deconstructing shame and embracing their truth.
Jordan Rodgers- Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Jordan Rodgers earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Texas State University, followed by a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology from Capella University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University as she works toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Jordan’s passion for counseling is rooted in her deep respect for the resilience of the human spirit and her belief that every person deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported. She has extensive experience working with families in crisis and within the court system, where she has walked alongside clients navigating complex emotional and legal challenges. She also brings significant experience working with children and adolescents through previous employment and community engagement, helping young people feel safe, understood, and empowered.
Jordan approaches the counseling relationship with warmth, authenticity, and compassion. She believes healing begins in a space built on trust, empathy, and genuine care. Guided by strong personal values of integrity, service, and hope, she strives to create a welcoming environment where clients can explore their stories, build resilience, and work toward meaningful change.
Lauren Chippas - Student Intern
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Lauren Chippas is a current graduate student at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, where she is pursuing a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology with a minor in human services from Sam Houston State University in 2024.
During her high school years, Lauren experienced significant anxiety and depression. Through her own counseling journey, she gained valuable tools and support that helped her navigate those challenges. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in the counseling field.
Lauren is passionate about working with children and adolescents, particularly those experiencing anxiety related to school, sports, or everyday life. As a former competitive gymnast for 13 years and a gymnastics coach, she understands the unique pressures young athletes face and brings that perspective into her work.
Her professional experience includes working as a long-term paraprofessional substitute in an adaptive education classroom, where she developed a deep appreciation for and commitment to supporting children with special needs.
She looks forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with clients and support them in their personal growth.
Student Counselor-In-Training
Supervised By Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S
Katie Feider is a student counselor-in-training, who will be working under the supervision of Gabriela V. Cantu, MS, LPC-S. She had prior clinical experience in working with foster care children at a residential treatment facility experiencing escalated behaviors and teaching effective coping strategies. Katie received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Business from Texas A&M University-College Station, and is currently working towards a Masters of Science degree in Professional Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling through Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Katie is passionately called to working with couples, families, and adults and views relationships as an essential component to thriving in daily life. Due to her upbringing in a military family, Katie strives to remain adaptable for clients and work in alignment with their personal values through compassion and openness.