I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in gender-affirming, neurodivergent-affirming, and trauma-informed care. I provide a safe, supportive space for clients to explore their identities, navigate life’s challenges, and build meaningful coping strategies. Using evidence-based approaches like ACT, DBT, and CPT, I help clients foster self-acceptance, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Whether you’re seeking support for gender identity, neurodivergence, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to provide compassionate, affirming care tailored to your unique needs.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, clients can expect a warm, welcoming space where they can share as much or as little as they feel comfortable. I’ll ask about their reasons for seeking therapy, their goals, and any concerns they have about the process. We’ll explore what has and hasn’t worked for them in the past, and I’ll explain my approach to therapy so we can decide together what will be most helpful. Most importantly, this session is about building trust and ensuring they feel safe, heard, and supported as we begin our work together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a provider are my ability to create a safe, affirming space and my genuine, down-to-earth approach to therapy. I balance evidence-based techniques like ACT, DBT, and CPT with warmth, authenticity, and a sense of humor—because sometimes laughter is just as important as insight. I use humor to build connection, ease anxiety, and help clients see challenges from a new perspective. My clients appreciate that I truly see them, advocate for them, and tailor therapy to their unique needs, making the process feel both supportive and relatable.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I work best with clients who seek a supportive, affirming space to explore their identities, emotions, and life challenges. Many of my clients are gender-diverse, neurodivergent, or navigating trauma, and they want a therapist who truly understands their experiences. They may struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, or feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns, and they’re ready to build self-acceptance, resilience, and meaningful coping strategies. My approach is best suited for those who value collaboration, evidence-based tools, and a therapist who sees them fully—without judgment, only support.
About Stephany Mahaffey
Identifies as
Licensed in
Accepts
Address
3001 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792, 217Appointments
Virtual & in-personMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
In therapy, I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients handle difficult thoughts and emotions without getting stuck in them. Instead of fighting discomfort, I guide clients in developing mindfulness, self-compassion, and practical strategies to move toward a meaningful life. ACT is especially helpful for managing anxiety, depression, and life transitions, allowing clients to stay flexible, resilient, and aligned with their values.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
In therapy, I integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients navigate life’s challenges with practical tools. Mindfulness Skills build awareness and balance, Distress Tolerance Skills help manage tough moments without making things worse, Emotion Regulation Skills support stability and control over emotions, and Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills strengthen communication and relationships. By combining these skills with talk therapy, I empower clients to handle emotions, cope with stress, and create healthier connections while working through deeper personal challenges.
Feminist
As a third-wave feminist psychologist, I recognize how systemic oppression and power dynamics shape mental health, especially during difficult times. By decolonizing therapy, I move beyond outdated, Eurocentric models to create space for diverse identities, lived experiences, and cultural wisdom. My work isn’t just about symptom management—it’s about empowering my clients to reclaim their narratives, resist harmful systems, and build resilience. Together, we foster healing, advocacy, and meaningful change, both in my clients’ lives and in the world around us.
Gender-affirming therapy
In gender-affirming therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their identities, navigate challenges, and access essential resources. Client safety is my priority, and I bring expertise in gender diversity, along with knowledge of both local and national supports. With experience writing letters for gender-affirming medical care, I help clients access the care they need while advocating for their well-being. My goal is to foster self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment in a world that often presents barriers to authenticity.
Trauma Informed Care
As a trauma-informed therapist, I prioritize safety, empowerment, and collaboration in every session. I stay up to date with training in evidence-based treatment modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to provide clients with effective tools for healing. By integrating these approaches, I help clients process past trauma, build emotional resilience, and develop coping strategies that align with their unique experiences. My goal is to create a supportive space where clients feel validated, in control of their healing, and empowered to move forward.