Amanda Bustamante-Rivas

Hey there! My name is Amanda Bustamante-Rivas, and I am a Counselor in Training at the Texas
Counseling Center in Pearland, under the supervision of MA, LPC, Lizareli Bravo. I am currently pursuing
my master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. I received my bachelor’s
degree in psychology from The University of Texas at Arlington.

Before beginning my counseling career, I spent several years in healthcare, serving the pediatric
population and their families. This experience strengthened my skills in compassionate communication,
interdisciplinary collaboration, client advocacy, and maintaining confidentiality while supporting
individuals and families through challenging circumstances.

My professional interests include working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse
backgrounds. I am particularly interested in supporting clients navigating life transitions, grief and loss,
relationship concerns, family dynamics, and other mental health challenges. As I continue to develop as
a counselor, I plan to pursue advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
(EMDR), the Gottman Method, and nature-based counseling to further strengthen my work with
individuals, couples, and families. I strive to provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and
take an eclectic approach that integrates evidence-based practices while honoring each client’s unique
experiences, values, strengths, and goals. My aim is to foster resilience, healing, and meaningful growth
through a collaborative and personalized counseling experience.

My passion is creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard,
respected, and empowered. I believe that healing begins within a trusting therapeutic relationship, and I
strive to meet each client with empathy, curiosity, and compassion.

When I’m not pursuing my passion for counseling, I enjoy staying active through fitness, prioritizing self-
care, cooking with my husband, binge-watching the latest show, traveling in our RV, exploring new
destinations in our side-by-side, and all things true crime.

Fun fact: My husband and I compete in World Championship Barbecue Cookoffs, and I’ve even won first
place for my steak and mashed potatoes! We love competition, the food, and making memories
together.

Education

• The University of Texas at Arlington- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology-Minor in Spanish
• Capella University, Minneapolis-Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Services
• Capella University, Minneapolis- Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (student)

Memberships and affiliations

• American Counseling Association
• Texas Counseling Association
• President’s List at Capella University