Orihopecounseling

11/10/2025

Today marks 250 years since a handful of men gathered in Tun Tavern and started something that outlived them all. The Marine Corps wasn’t just born out of necessity, it was built from grit, stubbornness, and a belief that “impossible” is just another word for “give it a shot.” To the men and women of the Corps: past, present, and those waiting for their chance, you are part of that legacy. You’re what makes the Marine Corps more than a history book or a headline.
I’m proud and grateful to have worn the uniform, to have been shaped by the same traditions, the same challenges, and yes, the same black coffee and bad chow. But I’m even more thankful that my journey didn’t end at EAS. As a Marine Corps veteran, I get to keep serving, this time, by supporting my brothers and sisters with their mental health. The fight doesn’t end when we hang up the boots; sometimes, it just changes shape. And I’m honored to stand with all of you in this next battle watching out for each other, making sure no one gets left behind.

Happy 250th birthday, Marines. Semper Fi! Ohh-rahh!!

11/04/2025

Para mas informacion llamanos al 346.946.5639.

10/17/2025

As a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and Licensed Mental Health Therapist, I know firsthand the toll uncertainty and financial stress can take, especially during a government shutdown.

At Ori Hope Counseling, we’re offering 10 FREE counseling sessions to active-duty service members and their immediate family impacted by the shutdown.

Whether you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, you don’t have to face it alone.
We’re here to serve those who serve us — to offer hope, healing, and a safe space to process what you’re going through.

📍 In-person and virtual sessions available
🗓️ Limited spots — contact us today to reserve your session!

✨ Because even the strongest need support. ✨

10/04/2025

(From a therapist’s perspective)
1. Practice Gratitude with Intention
Write down three ways you’ve seen God’s goodness this week, even in small moments. Gratitude rewires the brain to notice hope instead of despair (Philippians 4:8).

2. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness
Keep a “Faith Journal” where you record past answered prayers or seasons where God carried you through. When anxiety rises, reread those pages, they serve as evidence of His steadfast love (Lamentations 3:22–23).

3. Anchor in Scripture
Meditate daily on verses that reveal God’s goodness, Psalm 27:13 or Romans 8:28. Let Scripture become a grounding tool during emotional distress, bringing your mind back to truth over fear.

4. Engage in Worship as Emotional Regulation
Worship can calm the nervous system, much like deep breathing. Singing, praying, or simply sitting in silence before God reminds the body and mind of His presence and peace (Psalm 46:10).

5. Reframe Pain Through a Redemptive Lens
When facing hardship, ask: “How might God be working this for my growth or healing?” This doesn’t dismiss pain, it helps integrate faith with psychological resilience.

6. Seek God in Community
Surround yourself with believers who reflect His goodness through encouragement and accountability. Healing often happens in connection (Hebrews 10:24–25).

At Ori Hope Counseling, all our counselors are Christians who are open to integrating biblical truths into the therapy process helping clients find emotional healing while deepening their faith. 💛
hristianCounseling

09/21/2025

💬 Conflict doesn’t have to pull you apart. it can bring you closer.
Every couple disagrees, but it’s what you do with conflict that determines whether it weakens or strengthens your relationship.
✨ Here are some tips to turn conflict into connection:

1️⃣ Pause before reacting – Take a breath, calm your nervous system, and choose your words intentionally.
2️⃣ Listen to understand, not to win – Lean in with curiosity instead of defensiveness. Ask, “Help me understand how you’re feeling.”
3️⃣ Use “I” statements – Share your experience without blame. Example: “I feel hurt when I don’t feel heard.”
4️⃣ Look for the need under the argument – Often, conflict is really about wanting love, respect, or safety.
5️⃣ Repair quickly – Don’t let resentment grow. Even a small “I’m sorry” or “I love you, let’s figure this out” goes a long way.

❤️ Healthy conflict can become an opportunity for growth, intimacy, and deeper connection.

👉 Save this for the next time you and your partner need a reminder.

09/17/2025

09/17/2025

This month, we celebrate nuestra cultura, nuestras raíces, y la fuerza de nuestra comunidad 💛. But también es tiempo de hablar de algo importante: cómo romper barreras en mental health.

🚫 Barrier: “La terapia no es para nosotros.”
✅ Truth: Therapy es un recurso de amor propio y fortaleza.

🚫 Barrier: “Si hablo de mis emociones, soy débil.”
✅ Truth: Hablar = sanar. Sharing tu historia es brave.

🚫 Barrier: “La familia no entiende.”
✅ Truth: Al cuidar tu mente, también inspiras a tu familia y creas nuevas generaciones más libres.

Let’s honor our heritage by breaking stigmas, buscando ayuda cuando la necesitamos, y creando un legado de healing. 💫

09/16/2025

NEW BLOG!
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Supporting the Hispanic/Latino Community with Counseling and Immigration Evaluations in Cypress and Houston - Ori Hope Counseling

Every year, September marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. In Cypress and Houston, this month is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the importance of accessible and culturally sensit...

09/12/2025

Meet Our New Intern Student Lauri: Affordable Counseling Now Available at ORI Hope Counseling
As part of their advanced training, we are now offering low-cost counseling services for children 8 years & up, teens, along with adults both in person and virtually.
Whether you're facing stress, relationship challenges, or just need someone to talk to, our Intern student is here to offer support in a safe, confidential setting. This is a great opportunity to access quality care at a reduced rate, while also supporting the next generation of counselors. LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Ready to get started or want to learn more? Contact us today to schedule your first session!
www.orihopecounseling.com

09/05/2025

What to say if someone tells you they have suicidal thoughts?? 😯When someone shares they have suicidal thoughts, the way we respond can make a big difference in whether they feel supported and safe. Here are some practical tips on what to say and what not to say:

✅ What to Say:
“Thank you for trusting me with this.” → Validates their courage to share.

“I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. You’re not alone.” → Shows empathy and connection.

“I care about you and want to help you stay safe.” → Reinforces support.

“Can you tell me more about what you’re going through?” → Invites them to share at their own pace.

“Would you like me to sit with you while we find some support together?” → Offers practical help without taking control.

❌ What Not to Say:

“Don’t say that” / “You shouldn’t feel that way.” → Minimizes their pain.

“Other people have it worse.” → Invalidates their struggle.

“You just need to be stronger / pray more / think positive.” → Oversimplifies a serious issue.

“Are you serious? That’s crazy.” → Stigmatizes and shames.

“You won’t really do it.” → Dangerous assumption that could increase risk.

REMEMBER‼️

Stay calm and listen more than you talk. Silence can be powerful.

Ask directly if they have a plan to hurt themselves. (This doesn’t “plant the idea,” but it shows you care.)

Encourage professional help. Offer to call or go with them if needed (988/Nearby Hospital)

Don’t promise to keep it a secret. Safety comes first.

💚 Your words can save a life.
Let’s break the stigma and be a voice of hope.

08/27/2025

Grateful for the opportunity to tell my story🙏and how Ori Hope Counseling was born.❤️

https://voyagehouston.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-anggie-pedraza-watson-of-ori-hope-counseling-pllc?fbclid=IwdGRzaAMbO3JjbGNrAxs7bmV4dG4DYWVtAjExAAEeUb_LRmBU_X1UPAPo2TG47-YUSnwyoDZH6UvmvEY28YhYaBMJJZtY5CG-mEg_aem_RRxfe9XnnmQ_WNFKTA48-g

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anggie Pedraza-Watson. Anggie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?I was born in Venezuela to a 17-year-old mom who had left Peru, following the love of her life. My parents were together until I was a...