Deborah Hilyard

LMHC (she/her)32 years of experienceNext available
5.0 (138)
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for over 30 years. I received my masters in counseling at the University of Memphis. I worked with college students while getting my masters with personal career counseling.

After becoming licensed in Florida, I worked specifically with service members and their families with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, spouse and child abuse and marital issues.

After becoming licensed in Florida, I worked specifically with service members and their families with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, spouse and child abuse and marital issues. During the past 3 years I have worked with young adults to retired adults addressing individual, work and family issues. It has been my pleasure to guide hundreds of people to a healthier, happier life style that enables them to do what they want to in life without what appears to be impossible barriers like depression, stress and anxiety.

First session

In our first session we will have brief introductions and will discuss what issues bring you to counseling. Together, we will identify your challenges and goals - where you want your life to be in a month, six months, a year from now. Then, we'll identify options and strategies you can use to get there. You'll leave the session with a better understanding of what you're facing with an "actions I can take right now" approach. There will always be room for suggestions concerning our work together, including keeping each other accountable.

Strengths

Having been in the field of therapy for over 30 years, I feel that I connect easily with clients and able to understand their needs rather quickly. I also have the patience to work with issues that sometimes require long term therapy. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, active listening and creating a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings.

Ideal clients

I love working with individuals that are motivated to making changes in their lives that will contribute to their increased well-being and happiness.

Treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been my primary treatment method for the majority of my career. CBT helps to identify your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how they influence each other.

Psychodynamic

I integrate psychodynamic principles into my practice by encouraging clients to explore their past experiences, relationships and emotions to gain insight into childhood related events.

Location

Virtual sessions

Reviews and ratings

5.0 rating (138)22 reviews
September 16, 2026

Such a warm and welcoming experience. I felt heard and that Deborah truly understood what I had to say. I look forward to our sessions to come!

Verified client, age 35-44Review shared after session 1 with Deborah
March 30, 2026

Mrs. Hilyard is the angel that came to save me when I was at one of my lowest points in life. She definitely is a special gift from God!

Verified client, age 35-44Review shared after session 23 with Deborah
March 25, 2026

I enjoyed my session with Deborah. She’s a great listener. She’s intelligent and very warm. I will be booking with her again. I highly recommend.

Verified client, age 55-64Review shared after session 1 with Deborah

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Schedule 60 min