Our METAIRIE Team
Our always growing team utilizes tools and techniques refined over a combined 75 years of clinical experience, to offer care that is built around you and your specific needs. Whether you are looking to work through past trauma, build better relationships, or address anxiety and depression symptoms, we are here to help you reach your goals and achieve your best self.
Victoria Townsend
LCSW | Metairie
Victoria received her MSW from Southern University at New Orleans in 2017. Since receiving her degree, she has practiced in inpatient, outpatient, and community mental health settings. She works with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, mood disorders and postpartum concerns. She uses evidence-based practices to provide an affirming, non-judgmental and empathetic environment.
Heather Brooks
LCSW | Metairie
Heather received her Masters of Social Work at Tulane University in 2010. She has worked in the field of social work the past 12 years with adults in hospital, residential and substance abuse treatment facility settings and has provided resources to those in need through community outreach.
She has experience treating depression, anxiety, substance misuse, eating disorders, relationship issues, and trauma, as well as active military and veteran’s issues. Heather is a psychodynamic therapist and emphasizes mindfulness practice to establish a non-judgmental, honest, and strengths-based environment with her clients.
GAbriella Ortiz
LCSW | Metairie
Since receiving her Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 2014, Gabriella has worked with perinatal populations, those with pregnancy-related concerns, parents of children with special needs, those suffering from chronic pain, victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress. Gabriella utilizes a variety of approaches and modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, to empower clients to set and reach their goals.
elsa De Alwis
LCSW | Metairie
Elsa received her MSW from the University of Denver in 2012. She has practiced in a variety of settings, from inpatient clinics to community mental health and universities. She works with individuals experiencing family or relationship concerns, complex trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Elsa has experience and interest in working with the LGBTQ community, first-generation immigrants, and anyone creative. She utilizes Inernal FAmily Systems (IFS) with clients to facilitate growth and healing and has a passion for drawing on client’s unique strengths.