I respect the dignity of my patients and their families. I have been practicing for more than 20 years and continue to look forward to helping others find the proper course of treatment to meet their needs.

I understand that my patients have unique strengths, and I am committed to providing genuine, caring, and confidential care for professionals, families, and children. I am a firm believer in change and hold an optimistic view in helping others. It has been my experience that people have often gone without mental health care for various reasons, but I am here to help them find the appropriate path that is meaningful to themselves and their families.

I utilize various approaches to treat individuals who are neurodivergent, including those with Autism Spectrum, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, and other neuropsychiatric presentations. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation and PTSD. I have successfully treated young athletes, rising college students, young and established professionals and people who have just become “stuck” in a situation that requires a psychiatric medical consult. I integrate various professional resources in my network and regularly work with various physicians, psychologists, therapists, advocates, and local supports to assist in providing optimal care for my patients.

Biography: Dr. Vela is a native of South Texas and has been serving the rural and fast-growing Hill Country for 14 years. She values service to families in her community, the importance of connection to nature, and the significance of spirituality and well-being. She graduated from UTMB at Galveston Medical School and completed specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Vela received training from leading experts in treating children with depression and various “difficult to treat” mood disorders. She continues to practice with an understanding of the unique needs of her patients and the virtues of a humanistic approach to the practice of Psychiatry.