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At Desta Therapy, we believe in the transformative power of joy. The word “Desta” means joy in Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia. Read more about our story below.
Our story
A Joyful Mission
Desta Therapy's mission is to help individuals reclaim joy and live fully in the moment by offering accessible counseling services at affordable rates.
Founded by Jimmy and Rachel Gross, Desta Therapy was born from a deep commitment to emotional healing and human connection.
Our story began in Ethiopia, where Jimmy and Rachel led a nine-year child reunification project, reuniting missing and trafficked children with their families across the country. Our slideshow captures those powerful moments of joy and reconnection, moments that continue to inspire and guide our work every day.
Our Mission
Our Mission:
Reclaim Joy. Embrace the Present. Live Fully.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or seeking a more meaningful life, we are here to walk alongside you.
At Desta Therapy, we offer compassionate, culturally attuned mental health services that empower individuals to:
Heal from trauma and life transitions
Boost physical health
Develop coping strategies
Improve relationships
Strengthen emotional resilience
Increase self-awareness
Cultivate mindful presence and authentic joy
Why choose desta therapy
More Than Therapy. A Brighter Tomorrow.
We’re here to support you with compassionate care, meaningful connection, and a deep commitment to your well-being.
A Family-Owned Counseling Practice in San Antonio
We're a family-owned therapy practice rooted in San Antonio, Texas, with a heart for helping people reclaim joy and live life to the fullest.
In-Person & Online Therapy Throughout Texas
In-person counseling in San Antonio and virtual therapy across Texas, seven days a week, with flexible appointments.
When We Care for Our Clinicians, We Care for You
We deeply value and support our therapists, creating a team committed to providing thoughtful, compassionate, and personalized care.
Your Story Matters. Your Strength Deserves Respect.
Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage. We honor your resilience, respect your unique story, and meet you with compassion — not judgment.
A Mission of Joy, A Commitment to Accessible Care
Our mission is to help people reclaim joy, live in the moment, and access affordable counseling through our nonprofit, Desta Provisions.
Accessible care
Explanation of fees
We are in-network with these insurances and are contracting with other insurance companies as well.
Insurance - Per Session
+12
People behind the care
Team Desta
Our counselors are dedicated to upholding Desta's mission and receive regular training and consultation services from licensed mental health professionals to ensure the delivery of exceptional care.
Explore blog posts and watch videos written by our Desta Team!
LaShondra Giles
Senior Clinician - Licensed Professional Counselor - *EMDR Trained - *Play Therapy Trained
Lizet Ortuño
Bilingual Licensed Master Social Worker - (English/Spanish)
Amaranta Penate Marty
Senior Clinician - Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor - (English/Spanish)
Amaranta Penate Marty
Senior Clinician - Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor - (English/Spanish)
I have extensive training in trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood and personality disorders, as well as grief and substance abuse. My ability to connect with both North American and Hispanic cultures has deepened my insight into how language and cultural differences can influence relationship dynamics...
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Adey Abeba · A symbol of growth
A symbol of hope
Desta and the Flower
The flower associated with the name is the Adey Abeba, symbolizing transformation and growth.
While living in Ethiopia, Desta founders Jimmy and Rachel Gross would purchase these flowers from street vendors, using them as a reminder that the rainy season was ending and spring was on the horizon.
Just like the Adey Abeba, the journey of healing and rediscovering joy is gradual, unfolding and blooming beautifully over time.
Reclaim Joy, Live Fully.
Google Reviews
Hear from the clients and families who have walked with Desta.
Yes , it will be Jimmy Gross - Co-Founder of Desta Therapy or Rachel or Ava Gross. Jimmy, along with his wife Rachel, co-founded Desta Therapy with the mission to provide accessible, compassionate mental health care. With years of experience in healthcare administration, Jimmy plays a crucial role in ensuring that the therapy process at Desta is personalized, client-centered, and grounded in empathy. His approach focuses on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore challenges and work toward healing and growth.
We are in-network with these insurances and are currently contracting with other insurance companies as well.
Private Pay session costs range from $55 - $175, depending on the provider. You may also ask Desta to provide a 'Superbill,' which you can use to seek potential reimbursement for out-of-network insurance benefits. If you have any questions at all, reach out to us today!
Desta Therapy’s counselors are equipped to meet a variety of needs, ensuring there’s a counselor for everyone seeking services. You can learn more about our team in the "Team Desta" section on our website. If you're unsure who would be the best fit for you, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re happy to help you find the right counselor to support your journey toward healing and growth.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is a skilled mental health professional trained to provide therapy, counseling, and support for individuals, families, and groups. LCSWs are licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions and typically work in private practice, hospitals, or community agencies. With expertise in both clinical techniques and social systems, LCSWs help clients improve their emotional and psychological well-being, fostering overall growth and healing.
A Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) is a professional with a master’s degree in social work, licensed to provide support, advocacy, and case management services to individuals, families, and communities. LMSWs work in diverse settings such as healthcare, schools, and social service agencies, often providing clinical services under supervision. Their focus is on helping clients navigate life’s challenges, access vital resources, and enhance overall well-being.
A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a trained mental health professional specializing in diagnosing and treating emotional and psychological issues within relationships, including couples and family dynamics. Using evidence-based therapeutic techniques, LMFTs help clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build healthier connections. To practice, LMFTs must meet rigorous education, training, and licensing requirements.
A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who is licensed by a state to provide counseling services to individuals, couples, families, or groups. They are trained to help people manage and overcome mental, emotional, and behavioral issues through talk therapy and other therapeutic techniques.
A Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) is a provisionally licensed counselor who has completed a master's level counseling program, passed national exams, and is gaining practical experience under supervision to achieve full licensure. LPCAs provide counseling services while working toward completing the required supervised clinical hours for full licensure.
A Counseling Intern is a therapist-in-training working towards their postgraduate degree and completing a practicum or clinical internship. Under the supervision of a licensed clinical supervisor, they receive ongoing guidance and participate in regular training with licensed psychologists and mental health professionals at Desta Therapy. Though still in training, Counseling Interns are competent to provide counseling services, often at reduced rates.
A Life Coach is a professional who assists individuals in identifying and achieving personal and professional goals. Through guidance, support, and accountability, Life Coaches help clients overcome obstacles, improve their mindset, and create actionable plans for success and growth. They focus on helping clients unlock their potential and reach their fullest capabilities. Jimmy Gross, Co-Founder of Desta Therapy, offers Life Coaching services. You can read about him in the "Team Desta" section of our website.
At Desta Therapy, we've intentionally designed our counseling spaces to provide a warm, welcoming, and homey atmosphere. With an eclectic, bohemian vibe that reflects the uniqueness of each individual, our space features Moroccan rugs, plants, and the soothing scent of essential oils. You'll find antique furniture, unique tapestries made by Co-Founder Jimmy's aunt, and hand-crafted pottery for sale that supports Desta Provisions. Our office is a place where you’ll feel safe, accepted, and at ease.
You may ask Desta to provide a 'Superbill,' which you can use to seek potential reimbursement for out-of-network insurance benefits.
Desta Therapy is conveniently located in San Antonio, near the original Longhorn Cafe on Blanco Road. We’re situated between Blanco/Bitters and Blanco/1604. You can easily find our office using Google Maps for precise directions.
Desta Provisions, founded by Desta Therapy’s Jimmy and Rachel Gross, is a non-profit dedicated to providing access to essential counseling services at reduced rates or no cost. Discover the inspiring history and mission behind this impactful organization at www.desta-provisions.org.
At Desta Therapy, part of our mission is to provide exceptional support to our counselors. All of our counselors have worked with, or currently work with, experienced clinical supervisors and receive training and consultation from highly skilled licensed clinical psychologists and other mental health professionals on an as-needed basis. In addition, our group of clinicians supports one another, creating a collaborative environment where knowledge and expertise are freely shared. This approach ensures that our team remains at the forefront of effective therapeutic practices.
Absolutely! At Desta Therapy, we celebrate diversity and welcome all individuals, including the LGBTQ+ community. We believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, supported, and respected in a safe and inclusive environment. Your courage and unique identity are embraced here.
Yes! At Desta Therapy, we offer virtual (telehealth) therapy services across Texas, including Houston. No matter where you're located in Texas, we're here to support you!
At Desta Therapy, we pride ourselves on being a personal, genuine company. Our mission is honest and sincere — we truly care about each client and their journey. Unlike larger, impersonal practices, we treat our clients as individuals, not numbers. Our goal is to help you reclaim joy and live life to the fullest, with compassionate support every step of the way. Check out our Google Reviews for testimonials.
Yes! Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven, evidence-based therapy, particularly effective for treating trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR helps individuals process and reframe distressing memories through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. Numerous clinical studies and reputable organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), recognize EMDR as a validated therapeutic approach.