Meet Our Team of Therapists
in Raleigh, NC and Across North Carolina
Our team provides culturally aware, trauma-informed care grounded in inclusion, humility, and connection. Beyond affirming diverse identities and experiences, we focus on body-centered, bottom-up healing for those who have lived in survival mode or carry generational patterns of stress and responsibility. We strive to create spaces that feel safe and welcoming, where you can learn to understand your body, reconnect with yourself, and move toward thriving.
Our Clinical Team
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Ismael Santillano, LCMHCA
Currently Accepting New Clients
Telehealth Provider
Specialties: Bicultural Identity & Acculturation Stress, Immigration-Related Experiences, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma Recovery, First-Generation Adult Experiences, Intergenerational Family Conflict, Latino Men's Mental Health, Cultural Identity Exploration, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem & Personal Growth, Emotional Regulation, and Coping Skills
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Brittany Lucas, MSW, LCSWA
Currently Accepting New Clients
Telehealth Provider
Specialties: Anxiety & Depression, PTSD & Trauma Recovery, Self-Esteem & Confidence, Codependency, Relationship Challenges, Military & Veteran Mental Health, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Emotional Wellness, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
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Rodrigo Mendez, MSW, LCSWA
Currently Accepting New Clients
Available In-Person (Raleigh, NC) & Telehealth
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD, Neurodivergence Support, Anxiety & Depression, ADHD, Attachment & Relationship Concerns, Shame & Self-Worth, LGBTQ+, Substance Use Recovery, Person-Centered Therapy, Creative & Expressive Approaches, LGBTQ+ Affirming Care and Strengths-Based Coping Skills.
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Tamara Vazquez, MSW, LCSWA
Currently Accepting New Clients
Telehealth Provider
Specialties: LGBTQ+ Affirming Care, Depression & Mood Disorders, Trauma & Adverse Childhood Experiences, Abuse & Neglect, Substance Use, Behavioral Concerns, Military-Connected Individuals & Families, IDD-Affirming Care, Life Transitions, Emotional Regulation, and Coping Skills
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Teresa Merchán, Ph.D., LCMHC
Currently Accepting New Clients
Available In-Person (Raleigh, NC) & Telehealth
Specialties: Cultural Trauma, Immigration-Related Stress, Anxiety & Depression, Complex Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Grief & Loss, Women’s Mental Health, Racial & Cultural Identity, LGBTQ+ Affirming Care, Life Transitions, Emotional Regulation, and Coping Skills
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Jessica Garcia, MSW, LCSW
Limited availability for new clients
Available In-Person (Raleigh, NC) & Telehealth
Specialties: Generational & Cultural Trauma, Childhood Trauma & Attachment Wounds, Mother Wound Healing, First-Generation Experiences, Eldest Daughter Dynamics, Anxiety & Depression, Complex Interpersonal & Family Relationships, Boundary Setting, Racial & Cultural Identity, Life Transitions, LGBTQ+ Affirming Care and Holistic Coping Skills
We are here to remind you that you don’t have to be the strong one and carry it all by yourself. Now is the time to begin your journey to peace and balance.
You’re in the right place…
Our Support Team
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Estephanie Linares-Client Care & Administrative Support Coordinator
First-generation college student pursuing her bachelor's degree in Social Work at NC State University. Passionate about mental health and social justice, she volunteers with Healing Waves Therapy & Counseling, where she is inspired by the team's commitment to providing compassionate, accessible care and making a lasting impact in the community.
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Stephalie Canto, Creative & Social Media Director
Steph is passionate about authentic storytelling and believes that culturally responsive mental health care should be visible, accessible, and approachable for the communities it serves. Through her work, she helps share the stories, resources, and values that make Healing Waves a trusted source of support and healing.
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Juan Martinez, Medical Billing & Client Accounts Coordinator
Committed to making the financial side of therapy simple and approachable. He works closely with clients to navigate insurance, billing, and payment options, helping them feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their care.
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Future Team Member
Interested in volunteering or interning with Healing Waves Therapy & Counseling?
We love supporting future social workers and mental health professionals in their growth. If you’re interested in joining our team as a volunteer or intern, please contact Jessica Garcia, LCSW at jessica@healingwavestherapypllc.com.