Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

I feel like this question is a loaded one! Ha! My interest in psychology started back in my Psych 101 class, where I was struggling with how can people be so complex yet so simple at the same time. And why does it seem like we make it harder on ourselves to live happy lives connected with those that we love? Years later and I find my self still baffled by the human condition and I am in constant awe of the way people over come things and create deep bonds with one another.

Are you looking for a trauma or couples therapist? Are struggling with inner child wounds and family of origin woes? Does it impact your romantic relationships, work, and how you show up in the world? Is being a cycle-breaker exhausting and do you need support? As a first gen myself in a biracial marriage, I know not only from my studies but lived experience just how important addressing cultural issues can be in order to make lasting change in our lives. I know how difficult exploring culture and how hard it is to find balance, not wanting to say something is bad or wrong but instead just figuring out how to live a life more inline with our values so that we can live more authentically. I help people with this all over California in online therapy.

I became a therapist because when I was younger, therapy got me through a lot of issues in a way that nothing else was able to. I wanted to help people in the same way I had been helped: by providing empathic, non-judgmental, open-minded care to people who needed it. I told myself that if I could help one person, save one life, the hard work would be worth it, and it absolutely has been.

I have spent my career focused on LGBTQ+ issues, and more specifically, gender identity issues. Transition is a big decision, and there is a lot involved. I help clients to navigate gender identity questions, determine what the best path forward is, and connect them to the resources they need to pursue transition in the way that best fits for them. I guide my clients through the process of transition to help them achieve authenticity, including HRT and surgery letters in addition to counseling. I won't make you jump through hoops to get referrals, and can often approve you in a single session. Another of my specialties is working with couples. Relationships are fundamental to our existence. Using my extensive training and experience, I help couples to build healthier communication and conflict resolution. I am also experienced in working with polyamory, BDSM dynamics, same-sex relationships, and relationships where one partner is in transition. As a member of and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the unique struggles that members of the community face regarding coming out, family complications, self-acceptance, and other issues. I help my clients to navigate these issues, and to live their best life possible.

I became a therapist because of a deep passion for supporting individuals through their toughest moments and a desire to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. My journey began at the University of Alabama, where I developed a strong foundation in both knowledge and empathy through research and mentoring. What motivates me to continue is the fulfillment I find in guiding individuals towards healing and resilience. My experiences at Gracepoint Wellness and the Counseling Service Center, where I worked with clients facing significant challenges like mental health issues, substance use, domestic violence, and anger management, have reinforced my commitment to this field. Volunteering and giving back to the community further inspire me, as I witness firsthand the positive change therapy can bring. Ultimately, the opportunity to provide compassionate, evidence-based care and help clients navigate life's challenges keeps me motivated every day.

Welcome! I'm a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for supporting individuals through their toughest moments. My journey began at the University of Alabama, where I honed my research skills and mentored students, laying the groundwork for a career built on knowledge and compassion. At Gracepoint Wellness, I embraced the challenge of adult emergency services, offering both individual and group therapy to those grappling with mental health and substance use issues. Similarly, at the Counseling Service Center, I provided guidance to individuals navigating court-mandated programs, covering vital topics such as domestic violence and anger management. Beyond my professional roles, I believe in giving back. Volunteering at Gracepoint Wellness and the Counseling Service Center has allowed me to offer pro bono therapy, making a difference in many lives. My commitment extends to the Florida Thoroughbred Association and Divine Province Thrift Store, where I support community initiatives. As a proud member of both the American Mental Health Counselors Association and Suncoast Mental Counselors Association, I stay connected to the latest in our field. My dedication to continuous learning is reflected in my recent certifications in crisis intervention, psychological first aid, safety administration, and life support among others. These ensure that I am equipped with cutting-edge strategies to help you navigate life's challenges. With expertise in evidence-based therapies like Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), I'm committed to finding the approach that works best for you. And rest assured, my computer literacy means your records are kept meticulously for seamless care coordination. Thank you for considering me as your partner on this journey toward wellness. Together, we'll work towards healing and resilience. Hey there! I'm a licensed mental health counselor with expertise in crisis intervention, evidenced-based treatments, and trauma-informed practices. I'm here to provide comprehensive and caring support to adults, children, and families, helping them improve their overall well-being. I've trained in various evidence-based treatment modalities, including solution-focused therapy, feedback-informed treatment, cognitive processing therapy, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I'm skilled in developing coping strategies, conducting clinical research, and creating personalized treatment plans. If you're looking for a counselor who can help you navigate through challenges, I'm here for you! Please reach out to me! *Specialties •Mental Health *Conditions treated •Trauma •Relationship issues •Family counseling •Addiction •Anxiety •Depression *Treatment philosophy Hey there! I'm a licensed mental health counselor with expertise in crisis intervention, evidenced-based treatments, and trauma-informed practices. I'm here to provide comprehensive and caring support to adults, children, and families, helping them improve their overall well-being. I've trained in various evidence-based treatment modalities, including solution-focused therapy, feedback-informed treatment, cognitive processing therapy, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I'm skilled in developing coping strategies, conducting clinical research, and creating personalized treatment plans. If you're looking for a counselor who can help you navigate through challenges, I'm here for you! Please reach out to me! *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Culturally Sensitive •Trauma-Focused •Person-Focused •Couples Counseling

I became a therapist because I love to be a part of peoples’ growth and change. I know from personal experience how scarred our pasts can leave us; I want to help people understand that we can choose happiness despite those scars. 

Hey there! My name is Paige Avellar and I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I started my mental/behavioral health career in California as a Youth Care Professional working with at risk teens in the group home system. I was also volunteering as a Trauma Response Advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence at the time. When I moved to San Diego, CA, I began working with children on the spectrum as a Registered Behavior Technician. During my time in Florida, I have worked with private practices that help clients manage anxiety, depression, and other common mental health symptoms. I have also worked with clients who struggle with substance abuse and co-occurring mental health problems. Just call me a jack of all trades! I’ll take a quick moment to be vulnerable and let you know that I am also a human that has a history of complex trauma! I’ve been through the healing process and I know how HARD it is to unlearn all of the intrusive thoughts and unhelpful behaviors that you’ve learned as a result of your trauma. I also know that the therapeutic process is not linear, so don’t worry; we’ll take our time and figure it out together. I practice from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective, which basically means I help you identify your problematic thoughts and how they affect your emotions and behaviors. Then we figure out how to challenge your problematic thoughts and replace them with healthier thoughts that lead to healthier feelings and behaviors! I totally understand that counseling can be intimidating; please know that my ultimate goal as a counselor is to encourage the people that I work with to wake up and choose to be their best and brightest selves every day! If you are interested in taking back your power over your mental health struggles and choosing joy every day, I would love to be the one to help you! Please feel free to contact me by phone at 904-372-3637 or by email at [email protected]. **Please note that I am only meeting with clients via phone or Zoom at this time.

I grew up with a chronic condition that caused a lot of physical pain. I also had several family members with similar autoimmune and pain conditions. I learned first hand and by watching my family members just how all-encompassing and overwhelming living with a chronic illness or chronic pain condition can be. I also learned that everyone handles it a little differently, and that for some people it can lead to a lot of sadness, worry, fear, depression, and feeling like other people "just don't get it". Unfortunately, there are not a lot of therapists who truly understand the way that living with an illness can impact your mental health and well-being AND who also understand that things like stress and worry can actually make it even harder to manage symptoms of pain and illness. I decided that I needed to do something about this- so I went to graduate school specifically to study Clinical Health Psychology and to learn scientifically backed ways to help support those with pain and illness. I now use both my personal connection and my professional knowledge to help others live their best lives possible.

I focus on helping people with chronic pain and chronic illness to regain control over their lives. Chronic pain and illness can take a major toll on the whole person- mood, relationships, work, sleep- the list goes on and on. When it starts to feel like pain or illness are impacting all parts of your life, it can lead to depression, sadness, worry, and loneliness; talking with a therapist who understands both the emotional and physical parts can help. In addition to my work with chronic pain and chronic illness, I also work with people going through the process of cancer treatment and recovery, as well as people with insomnia. I am a Board Certified Clinical Health Psychologist with years of experience helping those with medical conditions AND I myself live with a a chronic illness. My personal connection to this work is what makes me passionate about helping others dealing with pain and illness to live a full, meaningful life even with physical challenges.

During my time at Maryville University, I developed a deep interest in the healing potential of psychedelic medicine, particularly ketamine. I’ve continued to incorporate this into my practice to help heal deep-seated trauma and improve lives. Seeing my patients progress, heal, and achieve fuller, more joyful lives keeps me motivated every day.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fostering care across the life span fully licensed in Colorado, Florida, California, and Oregon. I provide initial evaluation and ongoing management of psychiatric medications, supportive counseling, health education, ketamine evaluations, and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. I believe in treating the whole mind, body, and spirit. I feel that it is vital to provide support structuring lives in a manageable way that allows treating the root cause of underlying symptoms-working together developing a treatment plan that we are both comfortable with. I believe strong relationships are the key to a successful healing process. I want to truly get to know you so I may provide optimal health care. This is why my appointments are longer than those typically offered by other mental health providers. In my first year at Maryville University, I developed a deep interest in psychedelic medicine and its healing powers. I continued my training within the ketamine space after school until I was able to incorporate it into my practice in an effort to heal deep-seeded traumatic wounds of others. It is my hope that I can continue to help many others heal in a similar fashion in order to live joyful lives to their fullest potential whether that it through ketamine or psychiatric medications.

As a kid, I think that I first learned that adults could be therapists was through the 'Bob Newhart Show.' I was fascinated with the idea that it was an actual job that people could get to do. I continue because it still remains fascinating to me, I guess...

I'm a mix of all sorts of cultural influences - hence my fascination with languages and helping my clients adapt to change. My mother tongue is English, but I also grew up speaking Spanish, with my years in Buenos Aires leaving me with an unmistakably Argentinian accent (which other Spanish- speakers tend to sometimes 'lovingly mock'). My European side is thanks to over 30 years spent living and working in France, where I picked up not only an incurable love for lavender crème brûlée and other deliciously fattening foods, but the ability to provide therapy in fluent French. All in all, this means that immigrants, foreigners, expats; you're my people!

I chose to become a therapist to help people be the best they can be. My children motivates me to continue as well as the many people that need counseling and otherwise may not seek counseling.

Lorena is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with over 20 + years of experience in the Mental Health field including Case Management. She graduated from Troy University with a M.S in Counseling and Psychology in 2005. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor through NBCC, with experience working with adolescents, young adults, and the geriatric population. Her experience includes depression, anxiety, Dementia and chronic mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorders, other mood disorders. Lorena also has experience working with adults and families. Her theoretical orientation is primarily based in Client Centered therapy, which allows clients to gain greater trust within him or herself, form healthier relationships, increase self esteem, and express their personal feelings and opinions. She also enjoys incorporating Gestalt therapy which is a client- centered approach to psychotherapy. Lorena has real life experiences of trauma and sudden life changes in addition to being a natural “people person” which helps her to develop rapport quickly with clients which is beneficial for the counselor/client relationships. Lorena wants her clients to know she is here to ensure they will grow and gain insight and enlightenment throughout their counseling process. Outside of the office, Lorena loves to spend time with her son and daughter, family, and friends. She enjoys reading, shopping online, watching law shows and suspense thriller movies.

I had a very poor experience with a therapist as an adolescent. As a result it has been my continued to goal to provide therapy in a way that my clients don’t have a similar experience. I remain motivated each day by my clients resiliency and their own motivation to improve their circumstances. 

I offer virtual therapy for clients located in MN. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and perinatal care. 

I believe I always had a curiosity about how we as humans interact with each other. With an understanding that how we function in relationships begins with our family of origins, I became interested in family systems and the couples within the family. I have always been part of a blended family so my personal experience led to my passion for blended families. I continue the work because of my passion and research shows statistics that support the need for therapy for blended families and couples. My goal is to help these families thrive in spite of challenges that come from blending individuals with potentially unrealistic expectations of what life together will look like.

I provide individual, couple, and family therapy. I specialize in blended families and pre- and post- marital couple counseling for blended family couples. My approach is person-centered and experiential. I meet clients where they are collaborate with them to help them thrive and have a healthier life and relationships.