FRESNO STAFF

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.

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.

My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and affirming space to explore life issues, help you process difficult past experiences, and to provide you with the support and guidance to help you to not just survive the day-to-day, but to heal and thrive.

As a therapist, I utilize an integrative, eclectic approach based on each client’s needs. I have experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-focused techniques, humanistic approaches, and some somatic approaches. I am passionate about exploring the biological and physiological bases/responses of anxiety, trauma, depression, and emotional dysregulation to help you better understand what is happening in your brain and body when you experience symptoms.

I have prior experience working in a community mental health setting where I provided therapy to adults with severe mental health diagnoses across diverse populations, adults involved with CPS, Probation, and CalWORKS, clients on LPS conservatorships, and served as an advocate for inclusive practices at the agency.

In my spare time, I love to hike, travel new places, spend time my dog and cat, draw, and listen to live music!

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.