Meet Adriana | Founder and Mental Health Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adriana and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adriana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business came from realizing that the work I cared most about didn’t always fit neatly inside systems, policies, or limitations I couldn’t control. After years of working with children and families in different settings, moving into mental health therapy made me see how much more support people truly need beyond what is often allowed within traditional structures. I wanted the freedom to respond to clients as human beings first — especially in moments when short-term extra support could make a meaningful difference.

As a woman and a mother, maternal mental health became especially important to me. I saw firsthand how underserved this area is and how difficult it can be for women to find care that feels knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely supportive. Creating my own practice gave me the opportunity to focus my work where my heart naturally leads me: supporting women, children, and families in a deeper and more intentional way.

Being a Spanish speaker also shaped this decision. I understand how vulnerable it can feel to search for help and not find someone who speaks your language or understands your cultural background. I wanted to create a space where people could feel seen, understood, and comfortable expressing themselves in the language that feels most like home.

Owning my own business allows me to combine my professional background, personal experiences, and passion into work that feels authentic and meaningful.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Torres-Peña Therapy and Behavioral Solutions, PLLC is truly a labor of love. One of the things I am most proud of is the unique balance I have been able to create within my work. I have the honor of working as an employer-sponsored therapist, partnering with local corporations that are willing and eager to support their employees through on-site mental health services. Through this work, I am able to connect with both men and women from all backgrounds, including blue-collar and white-collar professions, and support people at many different stages of their personal journeys. I love being part of a growing movement of businesses recognizing the importance and value of mental health support in the workplace.

Working with these organizations a few days each week also gives me the flexibility to dedicate the rest of my time to working with women and children throughout Texas and Colorado. I offer services through insurance, self-pay, and sliding scale options because I believe mental health care should feel accessible and supportive, especially for those who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Supporting people who are ready to begin prioritizing themselves is one of the most meaningful parts of the work I do.

Getting to this point has not been easy. Like starting any business, there has been a major learning curve, especially coming from the stability of a traditional 9-to-5 job with benefits and PTO. I quickly realized that in addition to being a therapist, I also had to learn how to market myself, build a website, network, and manage all of the behind-the-scenes responsibilities that come with owning a business. At times, it felt overwhelming and even discouraging.

But through every challenge, I have learned more about myself, my purpose, and the work I love. There have absolutely been bumps along the way, and I continue learning every day, but I have never felt more certain that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

If there is one thing I want people to understand about me and my business, it is that life is not easy, and there is no quick fix for healing. But if you choose to work with me, I promise to meet you where you are and give you the very best of myself because you deserve compassion, support, and care throughout your journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I feel so lucky to live in the DFW metroplex because the options truly feel endless. No matter which suburb or area you’re in, there has been incredible growth and so many fun places to explore. These days, as a mom, I naturally gravitate toward places that are family-friendly — spots where my kiddo can have an amazing time, but where I can also relax, enjoy myself, and briefly feel like a normal adult too.

If I were planning a week-long visit for my best friend, I’d definitely want to give them a little bit of everything that makes DFW special: great food, family-friendly fun, entertainment, culture, and those laid-back local gems that make the area feel like home.

A few must-visit spots would absolutely include Halperin Park near the Dallas Zoo, which is such a fun and beautiful place for families, and the AT&T Discovery District downtown, where you can grab food and drinks, enjoy live entertainment, and just soak in the energy of the city. For food, I’d have to take them to local favorites like Chilangos Tacos or La Ventana because nothing says Texas quite like good tacos and a great drink on a patio.

I also love taking visiting friends and family to explore the different personalities of DFW neighborhoods — whether that’s walking around Bishop Arts, catching live music or local events, finding hidden coffee shops, or enjoying one of the many outdoor festivals happening throughout the year. There’s truly something for everyone here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I could go on and on with shoutouts. To my husband, who supported me through major career changes and encouraged me when I decided to leave the security of my job to pursue something more meaningful. To my mother, a single mom who raised two girls with limited resources but endless strength, resilience, and love. And to my son, who inspires me every day with his creativity, boldness, and ability to unapologetically be his authentic self.

But if I had to dedicate one shoutout in relation to my career, it would be to all the women, mothers, and caregivers who continue to give so much of themselves even when they are running on empty. The sacrifices they make often go unseen, yet they continue showing up with love, strength, and determination because they feel it deeply in their hearts.

I also want to recognize my clients, both past and present, who have trusted me with their stories and healing journeys. It takes tremendous courage to ask for help, confront difficult emotions, and choose to prioritize yourself. Their bravery continually inspires me and reminds me why this work matters so much.

Website: https://torrespenatherapy.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Adriana-Torres-Pena-LCSW/61587018113628/