New Leaf Counseling
Home
Specialty | Issues
About Us
  • The Team
  • Sylvia Chelf
  • Michelle Burkott
  • Nikole Gutierrez
Rates
Contact Us
Business Forms
Groups
New Leaf Counseling
Home
Specialty | Issues
About Us
  • The Team
  • Sylvia Chelf
  • Michelle Burkott
  • Nikole Gutierrez
Rates
Contact Us
Business Forms
Groups
More
  • Home
  • Specialty | Issues
  • About Us
    • The Team
    • Sylvia Chelf
    • Michelle Burkott
    • Nikole Gutierrez
  • Rates
  • Contact Us
  • Business Forms
  • Groups
  • Home
  • Specialty | Issues
  • About Us
    • The Team
    • Sylvia Chelf
    • Michelle Burkott
    • Nikole Gutierrez
  • Rates
  • Contact Us
  • Business Forms
  • Groups

Welcome to New Leaf Counseling

Welcome to New Leaf CounselingWelcome to New Leaf CounselingWelcome to New Leaf Counseling

  896 Ridgewood Street -Suite D

Sylvia Chelf (956) 224-9505

Michelle Burkott,Nikole Gutierrez, Associates,Interns

(956) 410-2424

Book an Appointment

Welcome to New Leaf Counseling

Welcome to New Leaf CounselingWelcome to New Leaf CounselingWelcome to New Leaf Counseling

  896 Ridgewood Street -Suite D

Sylvia Chelf (956) 224-9505

Michelle Burkott,Nikole Gutierrez, Associates,Interns

(956) 410-2424

Book an Appointment

COVID-19 Statement

Important Announcement:


On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization officially declared COVID-19 a Pandemic Crisis. New Leaf Counseling is closely monitoring the latest developments related to the Coronavirus outbreak. We understand the uncertainty you may be experiencing surrounding COVID-19. It is not uncommon to be experiencing a variety of reactions including (but not limited to) fear, anxiety, stress, confusion, isolation, uncertainty, and depression. We want to extend our support and commitment to our community as we navigate through this difficult time in which so many individuals and communities are being impacted by COVID-19.  


At New Leaf Counseling the safety and wellness of our clients is our main priority. In order to ensure your well-being and that of the community we will now be offering Telehealth online video or phone session services to our clients as an alternative to office visits. Some of our therapists at New Leaf will continue to offer face to face office visits unless otherwise advised by the local Public Health Department or the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Please contact your primary therapist to assist you with commencing telehealth sessions or if you have any questions.

To assist you with information and focused resources, New Leaf Counseling encourages you to follow updates issued by the U.S. Department of State, the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Photo Gallery

HOW WE SERVE THE COMMUNITY

NO ONE WILL BE DENIED ACCESS TO SERVICES DUE TO AN INABILITY TO PAY. NO ONE WILL BE DENIED SERVICES FOR ANY REASON INCLUDING RACE, COLOR, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, DISABILITY, RELIGION, AGE, SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY.

A discounted/ sliding fee schedule is available (dependent on client income & family size)

Insurance Plans Accepted

  • AETNA                                                                 
  • MAGELLAN
  • BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD                              
  • MOLINA
  • BEACON                                                              
  • MEDICAID                                                            
  • CIGNA                                                                  
  • SUPERIOR
  • COMPSYCH                                                        
  • TMHP
  • DRISCOLL                                                           
  • EAP (UTRGV)                                                      
  • UNITED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
  • Telehealth
  • Private Pay

Appointments

When Booking an Appointment

Direct Therapist Phone numbers to specific therapists are located on the main website page and under the "ABOUT US" and "THE TEAM" drop box. You may also find direct phone numbers under the "CONTACT US" section of this website. 


You may contact your 'preferred' therapist directly via text or by phone. If we do not respond, please leave a text or voicemail and we will get back with you as soon as we are able to. Please keep in mind it may take some time for our therapists to get back with you by phone or via text message since they are at times busy in session. Phone calls are returned in the order they are received. We appreciate your patience regarding this matter.


If this is your first time booking an appointment, make sure you request an initial consultation with your preferred therapist via their direct numbers. Please keep in mind that there are Three Licensed  Professional Counselors available at New Leaf Counseling. You have the right to choose your therapist, but please remember their appointment availability and insurance eligibility varies. 


Graduate interns are also available to see clients for individual and couple's counseling, please let our intake specialist know if you are interested. Remember that therapists are unable to guarantee you an appointment unless there is availability or if there is a cancellation. 


NO WALK INS are accepted since office hours vary for each individual therapist.

Insurance

If you have Insurance, please disregard the prices listed on this site because they only apply to private pay clients. Please make sure you verify if your therapist accepts your insurance prior to booking an appointment with them. Insurances accepted for each therapist are listed under the 'rates' section. In addition, please make sure your insurance is up-to-date. You may need to contact your insurance provider directly to verify if your insurance is active, ask about your copay amount, and/or verify if you have met your deductible. Please bring your insurance card/s with you on your first appointment.

Waiting List

If you are unable to book an appointment at this time, we do provide an opportunity to be listed in our waiting list. Please leave your name and number via text with a request to be listed and we will add you to our waiting list. We will call you to schedule an appointment as soon as a space becomes available and in the order your message was received. Please keep in mind it may take some time for our therapists to get back with you since they are at times busy in session. We appreciate your patience as we are doing our very best to meet the needs of the community.

For Referrals: Please email selected therapist to request their personal fax number.

Who We Are

Our Practice

Who we are: We are a team of Licensed Professional Counselors who are highly committed to our client’s care.


We provide high quality counseling services at affordable rates because we believe everyone has a right to heal. We are committed to providing mental health services to anyone regardless of client's sex, race, national origin, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or disabilities.

Why Are We Different

We incorporate individualized and evidence-based counseling practices that help support the needs of our clients.


What can you expect: We provide a caring and collaborative counseling experience that focuses on the delivery of outstanding care.

Why You May Benefit from Our Services

Life in our fast-paced culture can be stressful, even under the best of circumstances. When painful experiences occur in our life that adds to our stress it is common for people to feel alone and overwhelmed. Seeking help from a skilled Licensed Professional offers you the opportunity to overcome and grow from these difficulties with confidence, freeing you to live a fuller, richer existence. We truly believe change is possible. Are you ready to ‘Turn Over a New Leaf’ today?   

Contact Us

Our Commitment

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

As each individual is unique, an eclectic approach is used. Counseling techniques and approaches used depend on the clients presenting problem, needs, and goals. Counseling approaches utilized include but are not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Narr

As each individual is unique, an eclectic approach is used. Counseling techniques and approaches used depend on the clients presenting problem, needs, and goals. Counseling approaches utilized include but are not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Humanistic, Integrative, Mindfulness-based (MBCT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing. 

Mission Statement

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

  

At ‘New Leaf Counseling’ we are fully committed to working together with individuals and families within our community focusing on their unique therapeutic journey to “Turn over a New Leaf” toward a more healthier & happier future. 

Client Focus (Ages)

Counseling Techniques/Approaches

Client Focus (Ages)

  

Our client focus: 

Children, Adolescents, & Adults


Modality: Individual Counseling, Couple's Counseling


Please note that each therapist sees different age groups. Please visit their individual page for details.

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

TYPES OF ADDICTION WE TREAT AT OUR FACILITY

At New Leaf Counseling, we provide practical care for substance use addiction. We believe sobriety is possible and we can help. Our evidence based substance use disorder treatment restores mental, emotional, and psychological health that promotes long lasting change. At New Leaf Counseling we have Master Level Clinicians who are Licensed in Chemical Dependency who can assist you in tailoring a treatment plan unique to your needs and who are skilled in treating clients with substance use disorders.

Evidence Based Treatment Options Includes:

•alcohol addiction

•cocaine addiction

•marijuana addiction

•prescription drug addiction

•opioid and heroin addiction

•benzodiazepine addiction

•methamphetamine addiction

•Polysubstance Use Disorders

WHAT TO EXPECT

At New Leaf Counseling, we understand how substance use disorders can affect an individual's life and their families. Our individualized approach is evidence based and customize treatment plans according to your age, lifestyle, current stressors, and challenges. Our professionals factor in your physical health, medical history, past trauma, duration of alcohol and drug use, and any co-occurring mental illnesses. 

Therapies You May Take Part In

Weekly Individualized Therapy Sessions

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy EMDR

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What can I expect from therapy?

All initial appointments will be between 45-60 minutes in which consent forms are signed and a bio-psychosocial questionnaire will be completed to gain a better understanding of the presenting problem. A treatment plan is generated by collaborating with the client to identify goals that will be worked on in therapy. Subsequent appointments will be between 45-60 minutes. Frequency of sessions will be based on the intensity of the client’s presenting problem. Consistent attendance is essential to evoke progress with your desired treatment goals. Therefore, after two no-shows (not letting your therapist know in advance you cannot attend) you will be terminated and will be referred to another mental health provider within our community to continue services.

How can therapy help me?

 Therapy can provide a myriad of benefits. Some of these benefits include but are not limited to; self-awareness, personal growth, modifying thinking patterns, improving self-efficacy and self-esteem, improving emotional regulation, developing healthy coping skills. In addition, therapy can provide a non-judgmental atmosphere that supports exploring your unique presenting problem and guide you in the direction of actual solutions.  

How can group counseling help me?

Group sessions are led by either a Graduate Student Intern, Licensed Professional Counselors, or Licensed Professional Counselor Associates. Group sessions consist of both teaching and processing time. Processing may revolve around an issue one member of the group is working on with time for feedback and reactions by group members. This group dynamic is a very powerful environment for growth. During sessions, an individual can share as much or as little as they would like.

What is an LPC?

To become an (LPC) Licensed Professional Counselor an individual has completed a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in counseling or related field. After completion of a Master’s degree one must take the NCE exam and obtain a passing score to become an LPC Associate. Once becoming an LPC-Associate 3,000 counseling hours need to be completed under the supervision of an LPC-Supervisor to gain full licensure as an LPC. Additionally, to maintain licensure LPCs need to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

What is an LPC-Associate?

To become an (LPC-Associate) Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate an individual has completed a bachelor's degree and a Master degree in counseling or related field. After completion of a Master degree one must take the NCE exam and obtain a passing score to become an LPC-Associate. Once becoming an LPC- Associate the individual works on completing 3,000 hours under the supervision of an LPC-Supervisor. 

What services do we provide?

At New Leaf Counseling, we provide individual, family, and group counseling. However, please note each counselor provides distinct modalities of counseling treatments and interventions. Thus, when scheduling an appointment, please specify the type of counseling you are seeking to ensure the therapist can offer your specified modality in treatment.  See tab under “specialty issues” for details on presenting problems we treat. Please be aware that we do NOT provide crisis intervention services. If you are in a crisis please go to your nearest emergency room or call the local mental health crisis hotline (Cameron and Hidalgo County) at 1-877-289-7199.

Contact Us

We're Here for You

If you reach our voicemail, please leave a detailed text message.


Sylvia Chelf, M.Ed., LPC, LCDC, NCC

Owner, Licensed Therapist

Telephone (956) 224-9505 


Michelle Burkott, M.Ed., LPC-S

Owner, Licensed Therapist

(956) 508-2700


Nikole Gutierrez, M.Ed., LPC-S, LCDC, NCC

Owner, Licensed Therapist

(956) 752-1849


Daytime, evening, 

Saturday & Sunday appointments  available.

(Depending on therapist availability)

Se Habla Español


LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS SUPPORT NUMBER: 

(1877-289-7199)

New Leaf Counseling

896 Ridgewood Street- Suite D Brownsville, Texas 78520

Send Message

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Cancel

Mental Health Crisis Hotline (Cameron and Hidalgo Counties)

Hotline: 1877-289-7199 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988

LGBTQI+ SUPPORT GROUP

JOIN US WEEKLY AT NEW LEAF COUNSELING!

THIS GROUP WILL PRESENT AN OPPORTUNITY FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO IDENTIFY WITHIN THE LGBTQI+ COMMUNITY TO EXPLORE LIFE CHALLENGES TOGETHER. THIS INCLUDES AN INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT THAT ADDRESSES A VARIETY OF ISSUES (COMING OUT, RELATIONSHIPS, SELF ESTEEM, ETC). SOME GOALS OF THE GROUP INCLUDE REDUCING ISOLATION, FINDING SUPPORT, AND MAKING POSITIVE CHANGE. THIS GROUP IS LED BY UTRGV COUNSELING GRADUATE STUDENTS ANDF IS OPEN TO ALL ADULTS. 

FRIDAYS AT 6 PM

NEW LEAF COUNSELING

896 Ridgewood Street

Brownsville, Texas 78520

FREE! However, donations are welcome. All proceeds go to fund internships for UTRGV Counseling Stude

10 -SESSIONS STARTS MARCH 10, 2023


If you are interested in joining, Please Call 

(956) 410-2424 or 

(956) 302-5028 

Reduce Stress and Anxiety Group

Virtual Meetings

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 pm 

Starting January 31, 2023

Invite Link

TINYURL: https://tinyurl.com/trstressgroup
Zoom Information:Topic: Stress/Anxiety Group
Join Zoom Meetinghttps://utrgv.zoom.us/j/89393039768?pwd=a09CcW5PaHRzVDdPV1JjVnYyeWt5UT09
Meeting ID: 893 9303 9768Passcode: 956956
Join by Skype for Businesshttps://utrgv.zoom.us/skype/89393039768

Join us weekly to learn tools to control stress and anxiety!

Group is led by counseling students and is open to all adults.

Benefits of Group Therapy

1. Provides a safe place for people to share

2. Reduces feelings of isolation

3. Ability to help one another

4. Improves Social Skills

Copyright © 2023 New Leaf Counseling - All Rights Reserved.

  • Groups