Alyssa DeStefano

Online Therapy

Compassionate LCSW Therapist

Orlando, Florida

License SWS21273

https://www.kiwihealth.com/provider/FL/Orlando/Alyssa-DeStefano

About Alyssa

Hello! I'm Alyssa DeStefano, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Lake Worth, FL. With a decade of experience in mental health and substance use therapy, I am passionate about helping individuals lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Currently, I offer virtual therapy sessions through Headway. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need. My education includes a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. I am also a proud member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and have completed extensive training in crisis intervention, dual diagnosis, and more. I believe in a person-centered approach, focusing on individual needs and goals. Let's work together to find effective coping mechanisms and strategies to improve your well-being. *Specialties •Mental Health *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •Bipolar disorders •PTSD •ADHD •Addiction •Family counseling •Relationship issues •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Women's Issues •Anger Management •Coping Skills •Grief •Parenting •Peer Relationships •Self Esteem *Treatment philosophy I believe that each person is unique and deserves to live a fulfilled life. My goal is to help my clients grow and learn. I am dedicated to teaching my clients the skills they need to combat their mental illness and move forward with a healthier way of thinking and living. I believe in a collaborative relationship with therapist and client in order to ensure a happier way of life. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Emotionally Focused •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Trauma-Focused •Person-Focused •Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) •Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) •Motivational Interviewing •Narrative •Positive Psychology •Psychodynamic •Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT) *Insurance •Aetna •Cigna •UnitedHealthcare •Oscar Health •Humana

Office Location

Orlando, Florida 32822

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Costs and Insurance

Out of Pocket

Aetna

Cigna

Humana

UnitedHealthcare

How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works by helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. In CBT, clients learn practical skills to challenge unhelpful thoughts and adopt healthier ways of thinking and reacting. This approach can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other issues, empowering clients to respond more effectively to life’s challenges.

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

I became a therapist because I saw how powerful compassionate support and guidance could be in someone’s life. Growing up, I witnessed people around me struggle with mental health challenges without the tools or understanding to manage them. This motivated me to study psychology and social work, wanting to make a difference by helping others find their path to healing. What keeps me going is seeing the resilience and progress in my clients. Each time someone reaches a breakthrough, builds a new coping skill, or feels even a little more empowered, it reinforces why I do this work. Therapy isn’t just a job to me; it’s a way to contribute to someone’s growth and help them discover a life that feels meaningful and balanced.

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

For anyone hesitant to try therapy, I’d say that therapy isn’t about being “broken” or needing to be “fixed”—it’s about having a safe, judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Therapy can be a journey toward understanding yourself more deeply and finding tools that actually work for *you*. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but you don’t have to go it alone. A good therapist will meet you where you are and help at a pace that feels comfortable. I truly believe it can be one of the most valuable gifts you give yourself.

What should people thinking about working with you, know about you?

People considering working with me should know that I bring empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to each session. I approach therapy as a partnership, where I’m here to support you without judgment and adapt to what you need most at any given time. I value open communication and transparency, so I’ll encourage you to share feedback along the way to ensure we’re making progress that feels meaningful to you. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or you’re returning, I’m here to help you feel supported and empowered.

What do therapy sessions with you look like?

In our therapy sessions, you can expect a relaxed and supportive space where you feel heard and valued. I tailor each session to your unique needs, so whether we're focusing on managing stress, exploring past experiences, or building new coping skills, the process is collaborative. We'll start by defining what you’d like to work on, and as we move forward, I’ll introduce tools from approaches like CBT, mindfulness, or DBT to help make real-life changes. There’s no rush; I believe in moving at a pace that feels right for you, focusing on both progress and comfort.

How do you work with clients with anxiety?

With clients experiencing anxiety, I focus on creating a calming, nonjudgmental space to explore their concerns. Using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and grounding exercises, we’ll work to identify anxiety triggers and develop coping skills. My goal is to help clients feel more in control of their thoughts and responses, ultimately reducing anxiety's impact on daily life.

How do you work with clients with depression?

When working with clients experiencing depression, I provide a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings without judgment. Together, we’ll identify patterns and triggers, then use tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and coping strategies to help manage symptoms. My approach is collaborative and focused on small, achievable steps to rebuild motivation, self-compassion, and hope.

How does emotionally focused therapy work and how can it help?

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) focuses on understanding and transforming negative emotional patterns, particularly in relationships. By exploring deep-rooted emotions and attachment needs, clients gain insight into their emotional responses. EFT helps build stronger, healthier connections, improves communication, and fosters trust, making it especially effective for couples and individuals wanting to improve relationship dynamics.

How can you provide care remotely?

Providing care remotely allows me to offer support in a way that’s flexible and accessible, meeting you in your own space where you feel comfortable. Through secure video sessions, we can connect face-to-face, just like in an office. I use techniques adaptable to virtual therapy, like CBT, mindfulness exercises, and talk therapy, all of which translate effectively online. Remote sessions make therapy more convenient, whether you have a busy schedule or prefer the privacy and comfort of home. My goal is to ensure that distance doesn’t limit your ability to get the help you need.

Interested in talking?

(561) 287-7023