Licensed to practice in Florida and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Autism, Trauma and PTSD, Life Transitions and 10 more.
New to Grow
I'm Ari'Ton B. Scales, LMHC, Founder of Internal Growth LLC. I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for children, adolescents, and adults throughout Florida. I specialize in ADHD, Autism (ASD), anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and parent support. With eight years of experience in mental health, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can build resilience, heal, and achieve meaningful personal growth.
I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming or even a little intimidating. The first session is designed to help you feel comfortable and begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship. During this session, we will focus on getting to know one another, ensuring that we are a good fit, and discussing your goals for therapy. We will also review the information provided in your intake paperwork and any completed assessments to better understand your experiences and how I can best support you moving forward.
As previously mentioned, I have over eight years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings, including mental health hospitals, community-based programs, private practice, and schools. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting children, adolescents, adults, and their families as they navigate emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. My approach goes beyond addressing behaviors—I work collaboratively with families to help them better understand the underlying factors contributing to these challenges while providing practical, evidence-based strategies that promote lasting growth and positive change.
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, young adults, and older adults, tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs and goals. I also specialize in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, taking a family-centered approach that emphasizes collaboration with parents and caregivers. In addition to providing therapy, I offer parent training, guidance with navigating the IEP process, and practical strategies to support children's emotional, behavioral, and developmental growth across home, school, and community settings.
Other specialties
Child Parent Psychotherapy
I incorporate Child-Parent Psychotherapy by strengthening the relationship between children and their caregivers. I believe that a secure, healthy parent-child relationship is the foundation for emotional growth and healing. Throughout treatment, I help parents understand the underlying function of their child's behaviors, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively and foster positive change.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is an essential part of my therapeutic approach. I believe that understanding a diagnosis can help reduce uncertainty, increase self-awareness, and empower clients and families throughout the therapeutic process. I also provide education on the evidence-based interventions and coping strategies we use in therapy, helping clients understand not only what we are doing, but why these techniques are effective.
Christian Counseling
For clients who wish to incorporate their faith into therapy, I offer Christian counseling as part of the treatment process. I recognize that some individuals believe they must choose between their faith and mental health treatment. I strive to create a space where clients understand that therapy and a relationship with God can work together. When requested, I integrate biblical principles and Christian values alongside evidence-based therapeutic interventions in a way that aligns with each client's beliefs and preferences.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the primary evidence-based approaches I use in treatment. CBT helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By learning to identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier behaviors, clients can improve emotional well-being, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting changes in how they view themselves and navigate life's challenges.