Ben Cardenas, LPC, SPT

Meet your Therapist Ben Cardenas LPC, SPT holds over fifteen years of experience in public education, primarily as a school counselor for nine years. During this tenure, he collaborated closely with parents, teachers, and administrators to implement academic interventions and therapeutic strategies within the school environment. For the past two years, Ben has operated a private practice, providing counseling services to children as young as three and adults. Ben earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and his Master’s degree in Counseling from the same institution. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors and is a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist. Our Approach Ben is committed to helping individuals rediscover themselves and take a significant step toward prioritizing their mental health and wellbeing in their lives. He believes in taking a proactive approach to help clients reach their goals. His hope is that individuals accept and explore themselves and contest debilitating thoughts, beliefs, or perceptions of themselves. He looks forward to being a resource for parents and working with young children through therapeutic model of synergetic play therapy, use of sand tray, and art to confront emotional, behavioral, and relationship issues. To find out more about synergetic play therapy please visit: https://synergeticplaytherapy.com/ Individual Counseling The therapeutic setting offers a confidential and supportive space for clients to explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Here, clients embark on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing under the guidance of a trained therapist. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach, therapists work with clients to identify goals, develop insight, and implement effective strategies for overcoming challenges. Whether addressing issues related to mental health, relationships, trauma, or life transitions, individual counseling provides a tailored and holistic approach to fostering positive change and enhancing overall well-being. With compassion, empathy, and expertise, therapists empower clients to navigate life's complexities with resilience, authenticity, and a renewed sense of hope. Play Therapy Children are resilient explorers navigating the intricate landscapes of their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Within the safe and nurturing environment provided by therapy, they find a space to express themselves authentically, uninhibited by judgment or fear. Through the language of play, children express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment facilitated by a skilled therapist. Each child brings their unique story, challenges, and strengths, and it is within the therapeutic relationship that they discover the tools to navigate life's complexities. Through play, art, conversation, and various evidence-based techniques, therapists guide children on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. Together, therapist and child cultivate resilience, coping skills, and a sense of empowerment, laying the foundation for a brighter and more fulfilling future.