Dedicated to Providing Quality and Compassionate Pediatric Care
Our Story
A pediatrician with more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Almouie has helped thousands of parents navigate the ups and downs of childhood illnesses and injuries. He knows parents want a consistent and reliable way to make sure their children’s healthcare is up-to-date as well as responsive to the illnesses that mark the growth and development of any child. His goal with Pediatricz Now Primary Care is to provide a healthcare environment that celebrates childhood milestones as well as promotes wellness in all areas of life while providing necessary preventative care along the way.
How We’re Different
Our services are more robust than traditional pediatric clinics. Patients can be tested and treated for asthma and allergies, receive mental health treatment like access to counseling and treatment for autism and ADHD, and complete necessary lab work in the clinic. Our nurse practitioners and physician assistants can also provide nutrition and weight management support, lifestyle modifications, diabetes care and much more. We offer appointments outside traditional office times to support families needing consistent care but on a flexible schedule. Our priority is always on providing patients with quality healthcare delivered with compassion.
COMPASSIONATE
Our healthcare providers model compassionate behavior by providing care that respects each child’s individualism and dignity.
QUALITY
Our healthcare providers model compassionate behavior by providing care that respects each child’s individualism and dignity.
RELIABLE
Our healthcare providers model compassionate behavior by providing care that respects each child’s individualism and dignity.
INNOVATIVE
Our healthcare providers model compassionate behavior by providing care that respects each child’s individualism and dignity.
COMPASSIONATE
Our healthcare providers model compassionate behavior by providing care that respects each child’s individualism and dignity.
QUALITY
RELIABLE
INNOVATIVE
Physicians

Dr. Muhamad Almouie
MD, FAAP, PRESIDENT & CEO
Dr. Muhamad Almouie
MD, FAAP, PRESIDENT & CEO
Dr. Muhamad Almouie
MD, FAAP, PRESIDENT & CEO

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Raju
MD, FAAP
Dr. Vijayalakshmi Raju
MD, FAAP
Dr. Vijayalakshmi Raju
MD, FAAP
The Management Team

Jenifer Salmeron
Practice Manager
Jenifer Salmeron
Practice Manager
Jenifer Salmeron
Practice Manager

Melissa Sorto
Practice Manager
Melissa Sorto
Practice Manager
Melissa Sorto
Practice Manager

Janed Garcia
Practice Manager
Janed Garcia
Practice Manager
Janed Garcia
Practice Manager

Natalie Duque
Practice Manager
Natalie Duque
Practice Manager
Natalie Duque
Practice Manager

Ivon Garcia
Practice Manager
Ivon Garcia
Practice Manager
Ivon Garcia
Practice Manager

Beida Morales
Practice Manager
Beida Morales
Practice Manager
Beida Morales
Practice Manager

Anna Saenz
Vaccine and Lab Coordinator
Anna Saenz
Vaccine and Lab Coordinator
Anna Saenz
Vaccine and Lab Coordinator

Selena Enriquez
CLINICAL COORDINATOR
Selena Enriquez
CLINICAL COORDINATOR
Selena Enriquez
CLINICAL COORDINATOR
Providers

Diane Duong, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Diane is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston in 2023. Before obtaining her masters, Diane worked as an inpatient bedside nurse for 6 years with the whole organ transplant and hepatology population.
Diane is a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner who loves specializing in pediatrics and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Diane is committed to holistic health approaches and believes in empowering patients through education and support. In addition to her clinical work, Diane is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with the latest healthcare practices and innovations.
Outside of work, Diane enjoys spending time with husband and her very large Vietnamese family. Diane also enjoys eating all the good eats in Houston and traveling the world.
Diane Duong, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Diane is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston in 2023. Before obtaining her masters, Diane worked as an inpatient bedside nurse for 6 years with the whole organ transplant and hepatology population.
Diane is a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner who loves specializing in pediatrics and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Diane is committed to holistic health approaches and believes in empowering patients through education and support. In addition to her clinical work, Diane is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with the latest healthcare practices and innovations.
Outside of work, Diane enjoys spending time with husband and her very large Vietnamese family. Diane also enjoys eating all the good eats in Houston and traveling the world.
Diane Duong, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Diane is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston in 2023. Before obtaining her masters, Diane worked as an inpatient bedside nurse for 6 years with the whole organ transplant and hepatology population.
Diane is a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner who loves specializing in pediatrics and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Diane is committed to holistic health approaches and believes in empowering patients through education and support. In addition to her clinical work, Diane is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with the latest healthcare practices and innovations.
Outside of work, Diane enjoys spending time with husband and her very large Vietnamese family. Diane also enjoys eating all the good eats in Houston and traveling the world.

Deborah Chen, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Chen, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Chen, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner

Pamela Aldakkour, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Pamela is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. She previously worked as a nurse for over six years before transitioning into a medical provider. Before joining the Pediatricz Now team as a Nurse Practitioner she worked on a postpartum mother-baby unit as both a staff nurse and a charge nurse.
Pamela strives to provide compassionate care to all of her patients and ensure they know she takes their concerns seriously.
In her spare time, she loves to read, exercise, and spend time with her family, friends, and fur baby “Bunny” the dog.
Pamela Aldakkour, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Pamela is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. She previously worked as a nurse for over six years before transitioning into a medical provider. Before joining the Pediatricz Now team as a Nurse Practitioner she worked on a postpartum mother-baby unit as both a staff nurse and a charge nurse.
Pamela strives to provide compassionate care to all of her patients and ensure they know she takes their concerns seriously.
In her spare time, she loves to read, exercise, and spend time with her family, friends, and fur baby “Bunny” the dog.
Pamela Aldakkour, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Pamela is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. She previously worked as a nurse for over six years before transitioning into a medical provider. Before joining the Pediatricz Now team as a Nurse Practitioner she worked on a postpartum mother-baby unit as both a staff nurse and a charge nurse.
Pamela strives to provide compassionate care to all of her patients and ensure they know she takes their concerns seriously.
In her spare time, she loves to read, exercise, and spend time with her family, friends, and fur baby “Bunny” the dog.

Leda Garcia, CPNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner
Leda Garcia, CPNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner
Leda Garcia, CPNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner

Prescilla Orellana, APRN-CNP
NURSE PRACTITIONER
I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience as a Registered Nurse in labor and delivery, where I developed a strong foundation in patient-centered, compassionate care.
I am passionate about empowering individuals through education and preventative health, helping patients feel informed, confident, and actively involved in their care.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. As a family, we love attending church, seeking new adventures, cooking together, and cheering on our favorite teams at sporting events.
Prescilla Orellana, APRN-CNP
NURSE PRACTITIONER
I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience as a Registered Nurse in labor and delivery, where I developed a strong foundation in patient-centered, compassionate care.
I am passionate about empowering individuals through education and preventative health, helping patients feel informed, confident, and actively involved in their care.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. As a family, we love attending church, seeking new adventures, cooking together, and cheering on our favorite teams at sporting events.
Prescilla Orellana, APRN-CNP
NURSE PRACTITIONER
I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience as a Registered Nurse in labor and delivery, where I developed a strong foundation in patient-centered, compassionate care.
I am passionate about empowering individuals through education and preventative health, helping patients feel informed, confident, and actively involved in their care.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. As a family, we love attending church, seeking new adventures, cooking together, and cheering on our favorite teams at sporting events.

Omar Aldabe, PMHNP
MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Omar Aldabe, PMHNP
MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Omar Aldabe, PMHNP
MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER

Adriel Perales, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Adriel Perales is a dedicated pediatric provider with 15 years of experience caring for children and families. A Corpus Christi native, Adriel has built his career serving the community he calls home, including five years in pediatrics at Driscoll Hospital and more than a decade working alongside Dr. Almouie.
Known for his commitment to pediatric care, Adriel is passionate about supporting the health and well-being of children throughout the Coastal Bend region. His deep roots in Corpus Christi and extensive experience in pediatric healthcare allow him to connect with families through compassionate, knowledgeable, and dependable care.
Outside of work, Adriel enjoys staying active and spending time with his wife and their four children.
Adriel Perales, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Adriel Perales is a dedicated pediatric provider with 15 years of experience caring for children and families. A Corpus Christi native, Adriel has built his career serving the community he calls home, including five years in pediatrics at Driscoll Hospital and more than a decade working alongside Dr. Almouie.
Known for his commitment to pediatric care, Adriel is passionate about supporting the health and well-being of children throughout the Coastal Bend region. His deep roots in Corpus Christi and extensive experience in pediatric healthcare allow him to connect with families through compassionate, knowledgeable, and dependable care.
Outside of work, Adriel enjoys staying active and spending time with his wife and their four children.
Adriel Perales, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Adriel Perales is a dedicated pediatric provider with 15 years of experience caring for children and families. A Corpus Christi native, Adriel has built his career serving the community he calls home, including five years in pediatrics at Driscoll Hospital and more than a decade working alongside Dr. Almouie.
Known for his commitment to pediatric care, Adriel is passionate about supporting the health and well-being of children throughout the Coastal Bend region. His deep roots in Corpus Christi and extensive experience in pediatric healthcare allow him to connect with families through compassionate, knowledgeable, and dependable care.
Outside of work, Adriel enjoys staying active and spending time with his wife and their four children.

Aliya Rubio, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Aliya Rubio, PA-C, grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, where early experiences with a compassionate pediatrician inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas Tech University, developing a strong foundation in child development and mental health.
Before attending physician assistant school, Aliya gained hands-on clinical experience in family medicine and in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for patients with depression. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the connection between mental and physical health and shaped her patient-centered approach to care.
Aliya earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from West Coast University in Dallas in December 2025. She believes the foundation of lifelong health begins in childhood and is passionate about educating children and families to support healthy development and preventive care.
To Aliya, pediatrics is more than treating illness—it is about building trust with families, supporting children through every stage of growth, and forming meaningful, long-term relationships. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare journey.
Aliya Rubio, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Aliya Rubio, PA-C, grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, where early experiences with a compassionate pediatrician inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas Tech University, developing a strong foundation in child development and mental health.
Before attending physician assistant school, Aliya gained hands-on clinical experience in family medicine and in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for patients with depression. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the connection between mental and physical health and shaped her patient-centered approach to care.
Aliya earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from West Coast University in Dallas in December 2025. She believes the foundation of lifelong health begins in childhood and is passionate about educating children and families to support healthy development and preventive care.
To Aliya, pediatrics is more than treating illness—it is about building trust with families, supporting children through every stage of growth, and forming meaningful, long-term relationships. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare journey.
Aliya Rubio, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Aliya Rubio, PA-C, grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, where early experiences with a compassionate pediatrician inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas Tech University, developing a strong foundation in child development and mental health.
Before attending physician assistant school, Aliya gained hands-on clinical experience in family medicine and in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for patients with depression. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the connection between mental and physical health and shaped her patient-centered approach to care.
Aliya earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from West Coast University in Dallas in December 2025. She believes the foundation of lifelong health begins in childhood and is passionate about educating children and families to support healthy development and preventive care.
To Aliya, pediatrics is more than treating illness—it is about building trust with families, supporting children through every stage of growth, and forming meaningful, long-term relationships. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare journey.

Maria I. Creticio-Garza, MSN, CPNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner
Maria is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based healthcare to children from birth through young adulthood. She believes in a family-centered approach to care and works closely with parents and caregivers to support healthy development, guide families through important milestones, and manage both acute and chronic childhood conditions.
Maria's diverse cultural background allows her to connect with families from many walks of life. Born and raised in the Philippines, she is fluent in both Tagalog and Visayan. During her first decade of nursing practice along the U.S.-Mexico border, she developed strong Spanish-language skills, enabling her to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients and families.
Outside of the clinic, Maria is passionate about health, wellness, and lifelong fitness. She enjoys bodybuilding, Pilates, yoga, road cycling, and exploring parks and outdoor spaces throughout the San Antonio area. Her commitment to wellness extends beyond her professional practice, reflecting her belief in promoting healthy lifestyles for children and families alike.
Aliya Rubio, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Aliya Rubio, PA-C, grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, where early experiences with a compassionate pediatrician inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas Tech University, developing a strong foundation in child development and mental health.
Before attending physician assistant school, Aliya gained hands-on clinical experience in family medicine and in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for patients with depression. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the connection between mental and physical health and shaped her patient-centered approach to care.
Aliya earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from West Coast University in Dallas in December 2025. She believes the foundation of lifelong health begins in childhood and is passionate about educating children and families to support healthy development and preventive care.
To Aliya, pediatrics is more than treating illness—it is about building trust with families, supporting children through every stage of growth, and forming meaningful, long-term relationships. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel heard, supported, and empowered in their healthcare journey.
Maria I. Creticio-Garza, MSN, CPNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner
Maria is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based healthcare to children from birth through young adulthood. She believes in a family-centered approach to care and works closely with parents and caregivers to support healthy development, guide families through important milestones, and manage both acute and chronic childhood conditions.
Maria's diverse cultural background allows her to connect with families from many walks of life. Born and raised in the Philippines, she is fluent in both Tagalog and Visayan. During her first decade of nursing practice along the U.S.-Mexico border, she developed strong Spanish-language skills, enabling her to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients and families.
Outside of the clinic, Maria is passionate about health, wellness, and lifelong fitness. She enjoys bodybuilding, Pilates, yoga, road cycling, and exploring parks and outdoor spaces throughout the San Antonio area. Her commitment to wellness extends beyond her professional practice, reflecting her belief in promoting healthy lifestyles for children and families alike.

Julie Bui, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Julie Bui is a Physician Assistant (PA) who grew up in the Houston area. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Arts in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. As an undergraduate, she discovered her passion for the PA profession and went on to complete her Physician Assistant training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, graduating in August 2025.She has a strong commitment to working with children and enjoys building meaningful relationships with patients and their families.
She is happy to give back to the community as part of the PediatriczNow team and is dedicated to ensuring families have the best possible experience during every visit. Providing compassionate, thoughtful care and helping families feel supported are central to her approach to pediatric care.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys listening to music and trying new restaurants. She loves exploring the community and believes these experiences help her connect more personally with the families she serves.
Julie Bui, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Julie Bui is a Physician Assistant (PA) who grew up in the Houston area. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Arts in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. As an undergraduate, she discovered her passion for the PA profession and went on to complete her Physician Assistant training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, graduating in August 2025.She has a strong commitment to working with children and enjoys building meaningful relationships with patients and their families.
She is happy to give back to the community as part of the PediatriczNow team and is dedicated to ensuring families have the best possible experience during every visit. Providing compassionate, thoughtful care and helping families feel supported are central to her approach to pediatric care.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys listening to music and trying new restaurants. She loves exploring the community and believes these experiences help her connect more personally with the families she serves.
Julie Bui, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Julie Bui is a Physician Assistant (PA) who grew up in the Houston area. She earned her Bachelor of Science and Arts in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. As an undergraduate, she discovered her passion for the PA profession and went on to complete her Physician Assistant training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, graduating in August 2025.She has a strong commitment to working with children and enjoys building meaningful relationships with patients and their families.
She is happy to give back to the community as part of the PediatriczNow team and is dedicated to ensuring families have the best possible experience during every visit. Providing compassionate, thoughtful care and helping families feel supported are central to her approach to pediatric care.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys listening to music and trying new restaurants. She loves exploring the community and believes these experiences help her connect more personally with the families she serves.

Louis Nistal, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Louis Nistal was born and raised in Mexico City. He attended the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), where he completed his medical studies and graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1984. He then served as a rural area physician for two years.
In 1986, Louis moved to the United States, where he worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant. He also spent several years teaching as a Medical Assistant professor.
Louis later decided to become a Physician Assistant and completed his training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He has since worked as both a Family Practice Physician Assistant and a Pediatric Physician Assistant.
PA Nistal is fluent in Spanish and English and also has knowledge of Japanese, Hebrew, and sign language. Outside of work, he enjoys practicing Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery, as well as swimming and strength training.
Louis Nistal, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Louis Nistal was born and raised in Mexico City. He attended the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), where he completed his medical studies and graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1984. He then served as a rural area physician for two years.
In 1986, Louis moved to the United States, where he worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant. He also spent several years teaching as a Medical Assistant professor.
Louis later decided to become a Physician Assistant and completed his training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He has since worked as both a Family Practice Physician Assistant and a Pediatric Physician Assistant.
PA Nistal is fluent in Spanish and English and also has knowledge of Japanese, Hebrew, and sign language. Outside of work, he enjoys practicing Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery, as well as swimming and strength training.
Louis Nistal, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Louis Nistal was born and raised in Mexico City. He attended the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), where he completed his medical studies and graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1984. He then served as a rural area physician for two years.
In 1986, Louis moved to the United States, where he worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant. He also spent several years teaching as a Medical Assistant professor.
Louis later decided to become a Physician Assistant and completed his training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He has since worked as both a Family Practice Physician Assistant and a Pediatric Physician Assistant.
PA Nistal is fluent in Spanish and English and also has knowledge of Japanese, Hebrew, and sign language. Outside of work, he enjoys practicing Kyudo, the Japanese martial art of archery, as well as swimming and strength training.

