Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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Joana Milla
APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I would tell them that therapy is a safe space where you are heard, supported, and validated. It's okay to feel uncertain or vulnerable at first, but therapy is a collaborative process that helps you understand your emotions and develop effective strategies for managing challenges. You are not alone in this, and together, we can work towards resilience and emotional well-being.
Hello, I'm Joana Milla, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience in mental health care. I specialize in treating patients of all ages, from teens to the elderly, ensuring everyone receives the care they need. As a compassionate and experienced psychiatric practitioner, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward behavioral well-being. I specialize in helping clients navigate various conditions by integrating evidence-based therapies and medication management. My comprehensive care includes support for medication use, along with standardized testing and screening to evaluate and identify conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Trauma, social anxiety, insomnia, Eating disorders, Body image anxiety, and finally, elaborate and meet your therapeutic goals. I am dedicated to providing a caring and holistic approach. I firmly believe in treating each individual as a whole - addressing the needs of the mind, body, and spirit in unison. Our journey together will involve delving into your distinct emotional landscape and collaboratively formulating personalized strategies for your healing journey. I'm certified in several areas, including psychiatric-mental health across the lifespan, crisis intervention, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Additionally, I am fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, which helps me connect with a broader range of patients. Our sessions will provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to express yourself freely. I will actively listen to validate and understand your experiences. It's important to emphasize that we are partners in your healing journey. Your input and decisions are essential in creating the appropriate treatment. Let's work together to achieve resilience, self-compassion, growth, and lasting emotional wellness.
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Gabriel Gilbert-Lurie
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Beginning with a new therapist can be scary, frustrating, and bring up a lot in anyone...whether this is their first time in therapy or not! Ultimately, I believe that it is your relationship with your therapist that is healing beyond any one modality, style, or technique. Taking the time to really find the person who you feel that "click" will make the experience feel smoother and more rewarding.
I believe that therapy is a space where you can be yourself, and I would love to be a part of helping you to explore your life in a meaningful way. Coming from a creative background, I decided to become a therapist to engage more deeply with the human experience, both intellectually and emotionally.  My work is centered around helping people grow into the fullest version of themselves—one that feels more authentic, more alive, more aware, and more at peace. Above all, I believe that real healing comes from the unique relationship we build together. Therapy works when you feel deeply seen, heard, and cared for, and that is what I strive to provide in every session. Together, we will work to explore your past, understand how it shapes your present and current relationships, and create a path toward a more meaningful and fulfilling now and future. My approach is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and respect, and I welcome clients from all walks of life. I also am LGBTQIA+ affirmative, culturally-sensitive, and sex-positive, so please bring yourself however you are.
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Allie Archer
Mental Heath Counselor
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I wish I could tell people that is it all about good fit! If you have had a bad or unhelpful experience with therapy I would love to see if I am a good match for you. I am genuine, non judgmental, and eager to help you grow. If I am not the therapist for you, I am committed to helping you find someone you connect with!
Allie received her Bachelor of Science in Youth Advocacy from Texas Christian University and graduated with her Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. At Bayou City Counseling, she works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, grief, OCD, and those facing relationship issues. Allie is trained in EMDR and is passionate about working with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, and PTSD. Allie has a special place in her heart for postpartum moms, those dealing with church hurt, or who have a toxic inner critic. Allie is a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator and enjoys working with dating, engaged and married couples. Allie is also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and has clinical experience in non-profit and private practice settings. She believes that change and freedom can come from a safe, therapeutic relationship. Allie has seen that by sharing practical coping skills, processing one’s past, and understanding their present, clients can have hope for the future! Outside of the office, Allie enjoys reading, walking in Buffalo Bayou Park with her husband, Chase, and golden-doodle, Cooper.
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Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I want those hesitant to try therapy to know that mental health struggles are real and you don’t have to face them alone. Therapy is a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, and together we can develop effective coping strategies. Taking the first step by reaching out for help can lead to significant improvements in your well-being.
"I am Magdalen Mekoh, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with six years of experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and an inpatient addiction and detox facility. My journey in mental health began with a passion for helping individuals navigate their challenges, leading me to obtain my Master's degree and specialization from Northern Kentucky University. I take pride in my compassionate and individualized approach to patient care. My experience encompasses a wide range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, PTSD, trauma, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in the power of active listening and collaboration, working closely with each patient to understand their unique needs and develop effective treatment plans. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities such as medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Creating a safe and supportive environment is central to my practice, allowing patients to feel comfortable addressing their concerns and developing coping strategies. I am committed to personalizing care to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. I understand that mental health struggles can feel isolating, but I want you to know that you don’t have to face them alone. I am here to listen and support you on your journey to healing. If you’re ready to take the first step, I encourage you to reach out and book an appointment. Together, we can work towards finding the best path for your mental health."
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Leonid Stosman
Leonid Stosman, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a journey that doesn’t have to be taken alone. It’s a safe, supportive space to explore what matters to you and to gain tools that help you navigate life’s challenges. Taking the first step can open doors to growth and relief in ways you might not yet realize.
Hello, I'm Leonid Stosman, and I’m here to help you navigate the challenges you face in your mental health journey. As both a provider and someone with personal experience managing depression, anxiety, and addiction, I understand the complexities of mental health. My approach is holistic and grounded in understanding the full picture of your experience. Together, we’ll identify the root causes of your struggles—whether they stem from medical, interpersonal, or psychological factors—and build a customized plan that combines therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication management to address your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with meaningful strategies that promote sustainable growth and healing. I am committed to being here with you at each step, offering compassion, guidance, and support as you work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Change may be challenging, but together, we’ll create a path that’s uniquely yours. Treatment philosophy: My approach is collaborative and compassionate, aimed at helping you find solutions that bring relief and foster hope. We’ll work together to clarify your goals and develop a path to deeper fulfillment. I believe in mindful, informed medication use to address specific symptoms, but also focus on the impact of your relationships with yourself and the world. Having faced similar challenges myself, I understand what works, and I’m committed to supporting you through your journey.
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Renee Samuels-Laurent
DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
If you're hesitant to try therapy, I want you to know that it's a space where you will be met with empathy, not judgment. Therapy is a partnership where we work together to address your concerns at your pace. It's not just about talking; it's about finding practical ways to improve your mental health and well-being. Taking the first step can feel intimidating, but I’m here to support you through it and help you explore solutions that fit your unique needs.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental health and general medical care. I hold a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from CUNY City College. I'm certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing and Basic Life Support. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My focus has always been on providing top-notch care tailored to each patient's needs. Whether you need help with managing a psychiatric condition, understanding your medications, or learning techniques to reduce anxiety, I'm here for you. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and their families. I take the time to listen and ensure you're comfortable with your care plan. I'm also passionate about teaching and supporting new nurses and students, helping them grow in their careers. I'm licensed to practice in both Florida and Oregon, ready to bring my skills wherever they're needed. My goal is to make healthcare accessible, effective, and compassionate for everyone I serve. Let's work together to achieve your best health!
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Daimary Perez
Compassionate Licensed Mental Health Therapist
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
For those hesitant to try therapy, I want to reassure you that seeking help is a courageous step toward healing and growth. It's normal to feel apprehensive, but therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. You don't have to face your challenges alone; I'm here to support you. Therapy can offer valuable tools for managing stress, improving relationships, and enhancing well-being. Remember, everyone deserves access to support, and taking that first step can lead to a brighter, more empowered future. Your journey starts with a conversation, and I'm here to listen and help.
Hello! My name is Daimary Perez, and I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a heart for helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges. With a Master of Social Work from Florida Gulf Coast University, I have spent years building a career focused on providing compassionate and effective mental health services. At the core of my practice is the belief that everyone deserves access to support that can make a real difference in their lives. Whether it's guiding students to overcome obstacles to their education or working with families to foster healthier relationships, my goal is always to empower those I work with. My experience spans from school systems where I've supported students' emotional and behavioral needs, to remote therapy sessions that bring healing into the comfort of your own home. I'm skilled in conducting thorough assessments, creating personalized treatment plans, and delivering both individual and family therapy. I'm proud to offer bilingual services in English and Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving high-quality care. Additionally, as a Youth Mental Health First Aid trainer, I am passionate about educating others on how to support the mental well-being of our young people. Beyond my clinical work, I am deeply involved in community outreach and have spearheaded projects like community gardens to improve local access to nutritious food. My approach is holistic – I believe in nurturing both the mind and the environment we live in. With every interaction, my aim is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. If you're looking for someone who will listen attentively, advocate fiercely on your behalf, and work tirelessly towards your well-being, I am here for you. Let's take that first step towards a brighter future together. *Specialties •Mental Health *Conditions treated •Anxiety •Depression •ADHD •PTSD •Bipolar disorders •Coping Skills •Self Esteem •Bipolar Disorder •Child •Codependency •Couples Counseling •Divorce •Domestic Abuse •Domestic Violence •Eating Disorders •Family Conflict •LGBTQ+ •Mood Disorders •Parenting •Peer Relationships •Pregnancy •Prenatal •Postpartum •Relationship Issues •School Issues •Self-Harming •Sexual Abuse •Women's Issues *Treatment philosophy Some valuable aspects from our therapy sessions include: Gaining enhanced coping skills, increased self-awareness, effective communication skills, empowerment and confidence, stress reduction, emotional support, a way to heal and process trauma, and an overall sense of well-being. *Treatment approach •Attachment-based •Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) •Trauma Focused •Gestalt •Motivational Interviewing •Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) •Psychodynamic •Strength-Based •Gottman Method •Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) •Culturally Sensitive •Dialectical Behavior (DBT) •Emotionally Focused •Experiential Therapy •Internal Family Systems (IFS) •Multicultural •Strength-Based *Insurance •Aetna •Cigna •Oscar Health •UnitedHealthcare •Blue Cross Blue Shield •Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts •Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey •Oxford •United Health/Optum
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Ime Edet
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I want you to know that seeking therapy is a courageous step towards better mental health. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your feelings and challenges with empathy and respect. My role is to empower you with the tools and support you need to manage your mental health, helping you navigate your journey with resilience and understanding.
Hello! I’m Ime E. Edet, and I'm here to support you on your mental wellness journey. I have over 18 years of experience in an environment where I believe in providing compassionate, holistic care tailored to each individual's needs. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to empower you by offering the tools and support necessary for you to manage your mental health effectively. I hold advanced degrees in nursing, including a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Connecticut State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Hartford. My training also includes practical courses like Mindful-Based Stress Reduction and QPR Suicide Prevention. My approach includes comprehensive assessments to create personalized treatment plans. I’m proficient in medication management and skilled in therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe in working together with my clients to ensure they receive well-rounded care. Your participation in treatment decisions is crucial, and I advocate for a supportive environment where your voice is always heard. Here, your mental wellness is my priority. Let's embark on this journey with empathy, resiliency, and respect.
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Shahrzad Shadmani
PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, but therapy is a powerful tool for healing and personal growth. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself and take the first steps toward feeling better. It's a partnership where we work together to improve your overall well-being.
I am Shahrzad "Shery" Shadmani, dual board-certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Medicine with over 15 years of experience providing holistic care to patients across a wide range of health and mental health conditions. Having worked in diverse healthcare settings, I have developed a deep understanding of chronic conditions and mental health challenges, with a special focus on addressing their root causes. In my integrative psychiatry practice, I combine medication management and lifestyle optimization to empower patients on their wellness journeys. My approach ensures that every patient feels seen, heard, and supported from diagnosis to treatment. I earned both my FNP and PMHNP post-master’s degrees from Purdue University, and I've been passionate about healthcare since I began my career in 2007. My journey into mental health was sparked by a desire to treat complex cases with compassion, which led me to create an integrative practice that blends mental and physical health care. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and chronic health conditions through an evidence-based, patient-centered approach. Outside of my practice, I’m an avid foodie with a passion for cooking and traveling. Exploring new cultures and cuisines enriches my perspective on life and informs my approach to wellness.
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