Meet Our Therapists

Bryant Howard is a Licensed marriage and family therapist here in the Sacramento area.

He is originally from the small town of Derby, Connecticut. Bryant has always had a natural gift of listening and supporting others in times of crisis. He was often who his friends and even acquaintances would go to for advice or support. Read More

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Counseling! I know it can be difficult to talk to someone new about your personal issues, but I’m thankful that you are taking a step towards personal growth, and I’ll be here to guide you throughout your journey to a better you! But first things first: Read More

Hi! My name is Monica. Thank you for your interest in me as your therapist. My goal is to partner with and empower my clients on their mental health journey. I see us all as people-in-progress, so rest assured that you are coming into a safe and judgment-free space. Read More

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Counseling. My name is Thelma, and I am a Bilingual English and Spanish speaking therapist. I am grateful that you took the opportunity to read my profile. Many things are happening in our world right now that can make us feel stressed, anxious, sad, or depressed. But you are not alone. One of the things I am grateful for is bringing my passion for helping others through my job. Read More

Hello! My name is Philana. I have professionally and personally come to an understanding that deciding to seek therapy can be an uncomfortable and unsettling decision. However, therapy can be a space for healing, personal growth, and self-empowerment. Read More

Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in supporting children of all ages, teens/young adults, parents and families in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, parenting and major family changes (divorce, blended families etc.). I also have experience working with performers, artists and athletes.Read More

Hello, I’m Veronica Villanueva, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Sacramento, California. With a master’s degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling. Read More

Hello! My name is Francisco Solis, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, ages, and sexual orientations, helping them navigate various life challenges and transitions. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to supporting my clients in their journey toward healing and personal growth. Read More

So glad you are reaching out! I have over 40 years of experience helping and healing. I got my start back in Jonesville, Michigan when I became a peer counselor as a freshman in high school to support younger students who were struggling with school and adolescence. This started a long history of helping as a youth and family advocate, a case manager, and a clinician. Read More

Taking your first steps into the world of therapy can often be an unfamiliar and uncomfortable process. Coming to terms with the fact that we need some form of support can be an important chapter in our lives. I’m here to show you that this part of your life story doesn’t have to be taken alone. Read More

My name is Darese Winston and I have a passion for helping others live the life they desire. I have faced many challenges in my life and overcome them through life changing help and support. Life happens to everyone and can be difficult at times. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) I offer you life changing help and support. Read More

Hi, I’m Jesse Keith. My diverse background has developed my interest in helping people feel safe and grow. I’ve worked decades as a manager, as well as five years in the prison system. These experiences have made me aware of the difficulties and challenges life presents, especially on relationships. My interest now is working with people and helping them enjoy better lives. Read More

Hello! My name is Emily and I am an associate marriage and family therapist. I enjoy working with people of all different backgrounds including teens, adults, and families who are experiencing life stressors and need some support navigating them. I specialize in areas such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. I also have basic training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Read More

First of all, I want to congratulate you for committing to starting therapy. I know the journey here was not easy but I am so proud of you for making this decision. My name is Aurora Aguilar, I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and I hope I can be part of your healing journey.

Welcome to Heart of The Matter Counseling. I am Erica, I am a client center and strength based Associate Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from CSU, Sacramento and a Masters in Social Work from CSU, Sacramento. I speak Spanish and English. Read More

Hi, I’m Hailey, and I’m glad you’re here! Recognizing the need for support can be challenging, but choosing to nurture self-awareness, compassion, and inner peace is a deeply rewarding journey. Congratulations on taking that first step! Read More

Hi! My name is Christina Owen, I am the administrative assistant here with Heart of the Matter Counseling! As one of the first people you will speak with I strive on making the onboarding process effortless and smooth for you. Read More

My name is Rory James (She, Her) and I will assist you in getting started with Heart of the Matter Counseling. I have the honor of getting to know you during our first call and helping you choose the therapist that will be best for YOU. We want it to be a good fit! Read More

Oh hey! My name is Vivian and I work in the administration and billing department here at HOTMC. I’m married to Bryant Howard, which means I’ve had the privilege of not only watching this practice grow with talented therapists, but also it’s positive impact on the community all around Sacramento. Read More

Meet Our Therapists

Bryant Howard

Rachel Sapozink

Monica Hefner

Thelma Zazueta

Philana Boyd

Francesca Arostegui

Veronica Villanueva

Francisco Solis

Robert Kesselring

Kyle Pettit

Darese Winston

Jesse Keith

Emily Frugoli

Aurora Aguilar

Erica I. Gomez

Hailey Slate

Christina Owen

Rory James

Vivian Howard

Schedule a Session Today