Rev. (Dr.) George Gonzalez is a Catholic priest, licensed clinical counselor, educator, and mental health professional with over three decades of combined experience in pastoral ministry, clinical counseling, and higher education. He currently serves as the priest at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Harlingen, Texas, while also maintaining an active role as a clinical mental health counselor and educator in the Rio Grande Valley.
Dr. Gonzalez holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from The University of America (evaluated by NACES), a Doctor of Ministry in Christian Counseling, a Master of Theological Studies from Saint Meinrad School of Theology, and a Master of Arts in Religion/Counseling from Liberty University. His diverse educational background allows him to integrate theological principles with psychological practice, particularly in the areas of addiction recovery, trauma, and family counseling.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor in Texas and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maine, Dr. Gonzalez holds numerous professional certifications, including Certified Addiction Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor, Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner, and Board Certified Clinical Psychotherapist. He has served in various clinical capacities, including as Lead Clinical Mental Health Counselor for the Veterans Court in Brownsville, therapist at Palmer Drug Abuse Program, and chaplain at Knapp Medical Center. Since 2002, he has also served as Jail and Prison Chaplain and Director for the Diocese of Brownsville, providing pastoral care, sacramental ministry, and addiction counseling to incarcerated individuals across multiple counties.
In addition to his clinical and pastoral work, Dr. Gonzalez has made significant contributions to higher education. He has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in Psychology, Counseling, Addictions, Ethics, Pastoral Counseling, and English at institutions such as the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), South Texas College, Texas State Technical College, and Wayland Baptist University. His teaching emphasizes the integration of faith, ethics, and professional practice.
Throughout his career, Rev. (Dr.) George Gonzalez has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving vulnerable populations, promoting mental health awareness, and supporting individuals and families through compassionate, faith-informed care. His unique combination of spiritual leadership and clinical expertise continues to make a meaningful impact in both ecclesiastical and professional communities.
