Dr. Cisco Gonzales, PhD, NCC, LPC
(Founder)
Born and raised in St. Bernard Parish, Cisco Gonzales has experienced many tragedies, natural disasters, and other adversities to help him recognize the value of his Catholic Faith and mental health. Upon graduation from a local Private Catholic High School, he majored in Psychology at Louisiana State University where he became heavily involved at Christ the King Catholic Church on campus leading bible studies focusing on Love and Mercy by Julie Holden, which were part of the healing journey for many. He earned his Masters Degree at the University of New Orleans in Clinical Mental Health Counseling while teaching at his alma mater. His practicum & internship was completed in the field of substance use, which gave him exposure to the Higher Power connections of Alcoholics Anonymous. After graduation, he was hired on at his internship site as a counselor. Shortly after, Cisco returned to the field of education as a School Counselor at a local Catholic High School while working towards his licensure. Not only did Cisco work in Catholic environments, he also lives in accordance with the Catholic Church. Annually, Cisco is invited to the local seminary to speak about addictions. He has also spoken at and led many retreats. Cisco and his family are parishioners at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church where he sat on the pastoral council and advocates for the Church to be more connected and open to speaking about mental health issues. Cisco is the owner of Neutral Ground Counseling, LLC (dba Neutral Ground Behavioral Health Solutions).
Kacie Hoerner
(Intern)
Kacie is a counseling intern from Divine Mercy University, and she is dedicated to offering counseling services to individuals in all walks of life, from childhood to adulthood. She strives to recognize the uniqueness and sacredness of each person and his or her journey. Kacie utilizes a person-centered approach and collaborates with clients to develop and implement therapeutic goals that lead to flourishing.
Prior to entering the counseling field, Kacie worked for the past fifteen years both in the nonprofit industry and in education. She holds a master’s degree in Religious Education from Loyola University New Orleans and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Louisiana State University. She has a special interest in working with individuals suffering from anxiety and depression due to grief, postpartum challenges, career/vocation discernment, and infertility.
Kacie believes that meaningful change and whole-person flourishing stems from a focus on the body, mind, spirit, relationships, and community. Kacie draws inspiration from the words of St. Teresa of Calcutta, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier” and looks forward towards growing as a counselor here.
Michael Armbruster, LMSW
(Counselor)
Michael is a licensed master social worker providing therapy in the New Orleans area. He was born and raised in Metairie, attended Brother Martin High School, and completed both his undergraduate and graduate education at Louisiana State University. As a member of the local Catholic community, Michael brings a strong appreciation for faith, service, and the inherent dignity of every person into his work.
Michael works with individuals seeking support with emotional well-being, stress, life transitions, and personal growth. He welcomes clients from a wide range of backgrounds and strives to create a therapeutic space that is safe, respectful, and grounded in compassion and trust.
His therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while also taking a holistic view of well-being that recognizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit. With a background in kinesiology, Michael is attentive to how stress, emotions, and thought patterns can manifest physically, and he works with clients to develop practical tools that support both mental and physical health.
Michael views therapy as a collaborative process and seeks to walk alongside clients on their journey toward healing and growth. He is committed to supporting individuals as they explore challenges, strengthen coping skills, and move toward a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with their values and faith.
Nathan Maranto, LCSW
(Affiliate Counselor)
Nathan earned his Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University, where he completed his advanced-year internship at LSU Mental Health Service. Following graduation, he worked with adolescents at Capital Area Human Services before returning to LSU in 2018 to serve as a counselor with Student Support Services.
He later became the Clinical Director of The Well Clinic, a multidisciplinary private practice, providing leadership and clinical oversight while continuing direct clinical work. Nathan now brings this depth of experience to Neutral Ground Behavioral Health Solutions.
Nathan works with college students, adolescents, and adults navigating life transitions, identity development, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Within a Catholic counseling framework, he integrates sound clinical practice with a respect for the dignity of the human person and the role of faith in the healing process. His approach is integrative and client-centered, fostering curiosity, self-compassion, and a warm, authentic therapeutic relationship.
As an active parishioner at Christ the King Parish at LSU, Nathan values the intersection of faith and mental health and welcomes clients who desire counseling that thoughtfully incorporates their Catholic/Christian faith.
A Baton Rouge native, Nathan enjoys spending time with friends and family. He loves antiques and exploring his Italian heritage – especially when it involves dessert.