Our Mission
Our mission at Cross City Counseling is to provide the Las Cruces community and surrounding communities with compassionate and competent mental health services. We strive to be professional and warm in our services and hope to create a supportive and inclusive space where individuals and families can achieve personal growth, understanding and positive mental health outcomes.
OUR
TEAM
Jared J. Gonzales, Ph. D
Owner
Jared J. Gonzales, Ph. D., is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of New Mexico. He was a school psychologist for six years, where he completed school based counseling and evaluations for children and adolescents. He has worked with the adult population as a result of completing three years of doctoral clinical practicum at the Center Through the Looking Glass and Mesilla Valley Hospital. During this time, he conducted individual and group therapy in both inpatient and private practice settings. He collaborated with his supervisor and conducted numerous types of psychological evaluations. He completed his pre-doctoral internship in a school district in Phoenix Arizona, where he focused on Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations. He conducts the following psychological evaluations: Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder evaluations for children adolescents and adults. Psychological evaluations required for individuals being considered for bariatric surgery. Evaluations for individuals seeking to clarify DSM-5 mental health diagnoses. Dr. Gonzales maintains a small therapy caseload, he utilizes an integrated approach to therapy and tries to match interventions with the unique needs of the individual.
Amanda Barela, LCSW
Amanda Barela has been a social worker for Las Cruces Public Schools in various capacities since 2013. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, and an EMDR certified therapist. Amanda is an experienced therapist treating trauma, addiction, relational issues, and all other mental and emotional health concerns. She primarily works with adolescents and adults. Amanda has also taught as an adjunct professor in the School of Social Work for NMSU for over a decade and currently teaches at Burrell School of Osteopathic Medicine. She is passionate about farm birds, snowboarding, camping, her family, and adventure.
Erin Boyd, LMSW
Erin Boyd is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with four years of clinical experience supporting both children and adults. With two decades in social services and master’s degrees in Sociology and Social Work, Erin blends a deep understanding of human behavior with practical, community-based expertise. She is passionate about strengthening her community, fostering meaningful connections, and meeting new people while helping individuals and families achieve lasting well-being.
Cynthia Carrasco, LCSW
Cynthia Carrasco is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Supervisor in New Mexico. She practices from a trauma-informed, client centered foundation and integrates CBT to support insight, growth, and meaningful change for children, adolescents, and adults. Cynthia is trained in evidenced based interventions including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma Focused CBT and Circle of Security (Parenting Program). She is committed to providing culturally responsive care and is bilingual in English and Spanish. Cynthia has experience treating trauma related disorders, including PTSD as well as anxiety, depression, and adjustment related challenges.
Martin Greer, Ph.D.
Dr. Martin Greer is a licensed psychologist with over 30 years in independent practice. He has worked in special education, early intervention, and psychiatric settings. Dr. Greer specializes in psychological evaluations for adults with neurocognitive concerns, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and complex mental health diagnoses. He also conducts evaluations for bariatric surgery candidates. Dr. Greer accepts referrals from individuals, families, medical professionals, and agencies, and is committed to delivering thoughtful, thorough assessments that inform personalized care.
Samantha Gomez, LMSW
Samantha Gomez is a Licensed Master Social Worker with experience supporting adolescents and adults. She works with clients facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance use. Samantha uses an evidence-informed, personalized approach that emphasizes each client’s strengths and goals. She is committed to providing a safe, inclusive space where individuals feel seen, heard, and encouraged to grow through life’s challenges.
Cynthia League, M.A., LPCC
Clinical Director
Cynthia League, M.A., LPCC is an LPCC-S (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor) in the State of New Mexico. She received her Master’s Degree from (UNTD) University of North Texas at Dallas in 2015. She has 10 years of experience working with children and adolescents, with a variety of presenting issues, including trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and anger. During graduate school she completed an emphasis in Play Therapy, which gives her more tools to work with young children. She has also been trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing, a treatment identified for trauma) since September 2019. Cynthia is passionate about supporting families and individuals in their mental health goals and growth.
Dhalea Macias, LMHC
Dhalea Macias is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s in Addiction Psychology from Arizona State University. She supports children (ages 8+) and adults, focusing on trauma, substance use, co-occurring disorders, and anger. Dhalea uses a blended approach, including CBT and Person-Centered Therapy, to guide clients through healing. She fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment where clients feel safe exploring their well-being and discovering meaningful paths forward.
Erica Money, LMHC
Erica Money is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with four years of clinical experience supporting children (ages 3+) and adults. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, anger management, and substance use disorders. Erica uses evidence-based, individualized approaches to help clients heal and grow. She is dedicated to creating a safe and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their journey toward improved mental health and well-being.
Jacquelyn Pavia, LMHC
Jacquelyn Pavia is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with three years of experience supporting clients through meaningful personal growth and emotional healing. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from New Mexico State University and a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of New Mexico. Jacquelyn is currently working toward independent licensure. Jacquelyn's therapeutic approach is primarily person‑centered, grounded in the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives. Jacquelyn draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approaches, along with Motivational Interviewing, to help clients build insight, develop practical coping skills, and create sustainable change. She also has specialized experience in trauma‑informed care and career counseling. Jacquelyn has supported clients navigating depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, domestic violence, and career‑related stressors. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to move toward their goals at a pace that feels right for them.
Rachel Pena, LMSW
I currently have my LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in the State of New Mexico. I received my master’s degree from New Mexico State University (NMSU) in 2022. I have a background of over 3 years within clinical social work, specializing in children and adolescents. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse population presenting with a range of clinical needs, including emotional regulation, communication enhancement, problem-solving skills, development of coping strategies, treatment of specific mental health conditions, promotion of overall psychological well-being and recovery, as well as safety planning and crisis intervention. I believe in creating a space where individuals can share their stories freely, without fear of judgment. I’ve seen the powerful impact that understanding, connection, and healing can have on a person’s life. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or the effects of trauma, we will work together to uncover and address the root causes affecting your well-being. My approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to your unique experiences. I integrate evidence-based practices—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)—while honoring your personal journey. Together, we'll build a safe and supportive space where you can gain clarity, heal, and move forward with strength and confidence. I am committed to continuing my professional development to provide the best care possible. I currently offer a hybrid schedule, allowing for both virtual and in-person sessions for greater flexibility.
Madison Roth, LMSW
Madison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Mexico who has been supporting children of all ages since 2021. She holds a master’s degree from Ball State University and works with individuals experiencing trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, and family conflict.
Thomas Sanchez, LCSW
I am an LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) in the State of New Mexico. I received mymaster’s degree from (NMSU) New Mexico State University in 2014. I have 10 years of experience working with children of all ages, who present with a variety of needs, includingtrauma, ADHD, substance use, and defiance. I am a registered play therapist and work to engage children in the natural language of play to help meet their emotional needs.
Balenda Towolawi, LMSW
Balenda Towolawi is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of New Mexico and Texas, with 4 years of clinical experience supporting children, adolescence, and adults. Balenda is a retired combat Veteran, and she specializes in treating military trauma, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management. She practices from a trauma-informed, client centered foundation and integrates CBT to assist clients, couples, and family systems with the healing and growth process. She is dedicated to creating a safe space for clients, couples, and family systems to flourish. Balenda is currently pursuing her LCSW to expand her clinical practice, and continuing to provide individualized, couple, and family-focused care.
_edited.jpg)