I'm licensed in Florida and Colorado with 12 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, life transitions, and identity exploration. My approach is affirming, relational, and deeply culturally aware, integrating compassion with evidence-based techniques. I work primarily with multicultural and LGBTQ+ clients, creating a space that feels safe, collaborative, and empowering. I believe in meeting people where they are and supporting authentic, lasting growth at their own pace.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In the first session, clients can expect a warm, welcoming space where we’ll take time to get to know each other. If they choose, we’ll start with a 15-minute consult to answer any questions and ensure a good fit. The first full session will be an intake, where I’ll listen closely to their story, understand their goals, and begin shaping a personalized, meaningful therapy plan.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a provider include deep cultural awareness and the ability to create an affirming, inclusive space where clients feel truly seen and heard. With 12 years of experience, I bring a warm, relational approach that balances empathy with practical, evidence-based practices. That said, I’m definitely not a “woo woo” therapist. I also use humor thoughtfully to build connections and help clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey. Additionally, my work as an analog astronaut (researcher who studies what it's like to live and work in space) allows me to incorporate the latest psychology research into my practice, bringing unique insights into resilience and human behavior.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
The client I love working with is someone moving through anxiety, identity questions, or big life changes, often feeling caught between who they’ve been and who they’re becoming. They may be multicultural, LGBTQ+, or both, and are looking for a therapist who truly sees them. I offer a warm, affirming space where they can feel safe, supported, and free to grow.
About Sharife Gacel
Identifies as
Specializes in
Serves ages
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my therapy sessions, I use evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients manage anxiety, stress, and life transitions. CBT focuses on identifying and shifting negative thought patterns that impact emotions and behaviors. Together, we explore how your thoughts influence your daily life and emotional well-being, and we develop healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. I incorporate practical CBT tools—such as thought records, mindfulness strategies, and behavioral techniques—to support lasting change. This structured, goal-oriented approach helps clients build resilience and feel more in control of their mental health.
Multicultural
I provide culturally responsive therapy that honors the diverse identities, values, and lived experiences of each client. My approach to multicultural counseling recognizes how race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, immigration history, and other cultural factors shape mental health. I create a safe, inclusive space where clients can explore how these intersecting identities impact their emotional well-being. Through a trauma-informed, client-centered lens, I help individuals navigate anxiety, identity development, life transitions, and systemic stressors. My goal is to offer affirming, effective support that respects and reflects who you are.
Positive Psychology
I integrate Positive Psychology into therapy to help clients build on their strengths, cultivate resilience, and enhance overall well-being. Rather than focusing solely on what’s wrong, this approach emphasizes what’s going right—such as personal values, growth, gratitude, and meaning. In sessions, we explore your strengths, set realistic goals, and develop habits that support mental health and fulfillment. Positive Psychology techniques like strengths assessments, values-based goal setting, and gratitude practices help clients thrive, not just cope. This approach is especially helpful for individuals navigating life transitions, burnout, or seeking greater purpose and direction.