FRESNO STAFF

Yessica Avancena

Division Chief Executive Officer, MBA, LMFT,

Yessica Avancena, MBA, LMFT is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in children, adults and blended family structures. She is also the current Division CEO of Aspire Behavioral. Her work experience includes both private clinical practice and County Mental Health/Hospital roles where she was in leadership and management. She is a psychotherapist that is UCLA-trained in Mindfulness Application Practices which have been shown to be effective to treat ADHD, Anxiety and Mood Disorders as well as overall stress reduction. She has received additional training in the areas of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which utilizes awareness and mindfulness concepts along with progressive relaxation and guided meditation techniques for symptom reduction. Trained in alternative healing methods such as guided meditation, essential oils, and Reiki healing energy, she uses an empathetic and client-centered approach to change which meets the individual where they are for a holistic approach to healing. She is bilingual in Spanish/English and bi-cultural with extensive knowledge of Hispanic culture.

Toni Alvarez

Toni Alvarez

Executive Director, MSW, ACSW

Grounded by the belief that all people do their best with what they have, Toni meets all clients exactly where they are and works WITH them to determine treatment goals that can lead clients toward a healthy and joyful future. Toni received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Fresno Pacific University and earned a Master’s degree in Social Work through Walden University. Toni excels in applying her passion to normalize the conversation about mental health stigma and advocate for mental health services for all.

Toni Alvarez

Joanna Lewis

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Biography coming soon

Toni Alvarez

Sandy Serrano

Administration Assistant

Biography coming soon

Toni Alvarez

Cherie Armendariz

Clinical Manager

Hi! I’m Cherie, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Manager at Aspire Behavioral Health. I assist adults and adolescents in developing healthy coping strategies for mental and emotional challenges by providing compassionate, results-oriented, and solution-focused care. My focus is on building strong relationships with clients and staff, effectively meeting organizational needs through organized practices. I enjoy indoor gardening, a hobby introduced to me by my grandmother. I cherish all my plants; they create a calm and inviting space to relax. I have an 18-year-old Basenji named Mia, along with four cats and two German Shepherds. In my downtime, I cheer on the Boston Celtics, play board games, and watch movies with my kiddos and partner.

Toni Alvarez

Brittany Kiefer

CADC1

Brittany is a dedicated and compassionate Substance Use Disorder Counselor (CADC I) who understands firsthand the challenges of addiction. After overcoming her own struggles, she discovered her passion for helping others on their path to recovery. She holds an Associate of Science degree and specializes in Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder Counseling. With her expertise and personal experience, Brittany provides the knowledge, support, and encouragement individuals need to reclaim their lives. She is committed to making a positive impact and strives to create a safe, supportive environment where people can heal, grow, and build a healthier future.

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