I’m Wilfredo Guzman (he/him/él), a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Orlando, Florida. I received my Masters from Rollins College and have been practicing for 5 years. I provide affirming, client-centered therapy to individuals navigating challenges related to identity, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. With a direct and compassionate approach, I collaborate with clients to explore their mental wellness, build coping skills, and create more satisfying and empowered lives.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, you can expect a warm, nonjudgmental space where we’ll begin getting to know each other. I’ll ask about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any relevant personal history you’re comfortable sharing. We’ll also talk about what you’re hoping to get out of our work together and set the foundation for a collaborative relationship built on trust, respect, and open communication. I’ll explain my therapeutic approach, answer any questions you have about the process, and check in regularly to make sure you feel safe and supported. This first session is about laying the groundwork—not rushing or fixing—but understanding you as a whole person. You're in the driver's seat, and we'll move at your pace.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My top three strengths as a counselor are that I provide: Culturally Responsive and Inclusive Care; Direct, Compassionate, and Collaborative Communication; and use an eclectic approach with Trauma-Informed and Person-Centered therapy at the core. I create a safe, affirming space for clients of all backgrounds—especially those from marginalized communities—by honoring each person’s unique identity, lived experience, and cultural context. As a bilingual counselor, I’m committed to making therapy accessible and relevant across languages and cultures. Clients appreciate my honest yet supportive style. I offer clear feedback, ask meaningful questions, and walk alongside clients as we work toward their goals together—always empowering them to take the lead in their healing journey. Grounded in empathy and emotional safety, I help clients feel heard and supported, especially when navigating complex trauma, identity exploration, or systemic challenges. I adapt evidence-based strategies to meet each client where they are, promoting sustainable growth and healing.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
In serving diverse communities across Florida, my targeted client to work with is ready to explore their inner world with honesty, curiosity, and the courage to grow. Whether they are navigating identity, healing from trauma, managing substance use, or simply seeking more fulfillment in life… they are open to collaborative, direct, and culturally responsive care. I especially connect with clients from historically marginalized communities—LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of color, and those impacted by systemic challenges. My ideal client may carry the weight of complex life experiences but still holds hope for change and healing. They are open to exploring how their past informs their present, and willing to challenge unhelpful patterns through self-awareness, skill-building, and consistent effort. Whether we’re working through anxiety, depression, or life transitions, clients I work with value transparency, mutual respect, and the power of community. They understand that therapy isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about reclaiming their voice, reconnecting with purpose, and living with greater satisfaction and authenticity. Some commonalities amongst individuals I work with are that they are: 1. Open to Self-Exploration They may be facing life challenges or mental health concerns, but they’re curious about understanding themselves more deeply and willing to do the inner work. 2. Motivated for Change (Even If Unsure How) They might feel stuck or uncertain, but they’re open to growth and ready to take steps toward improving their quality of life—even if it's just a small first step. 3. Culturally Diverse and Identity-Focused Many hold layered identities and consider the intersectionality of those identities—LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, bilingual, or navigating cross-cultural experiences. They’re looking for a therapist who "gets it" without needing to explain the basics. 4. Value Authenticity and Direct Communication They appreciate that I'm real, direct, and resourceful. They’re not just looking for validation—they want tools, insight, and collaboration. 5. Resilient and Community-Oriented They come from challenging backgrounds—trauma, substance misuse, systemic oppression—but they’re strong, resourceful, and value connection and community. 6. Ready for a Holistic Healing Journey They don’t just want to “fix” a symptom—they’re interested in growing emotionally, relationally, and sometimes even spiritually. They’re open to different techniques and appreciate when ther
About Wilfredo Guzman
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I often introduce the CBT triangle for cognitive restructuring connecting one's thoughts, feelings, and actions. I use CBT to help clients recognize and shift unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. I begin by collaboratively identifying the client’s goals and exploring how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. We work together to identify cognitive distortions—like catastrophizing, black-and-white thinking, or overgeneralization—and I explore with clients how to challenge and reframe these thoughts using techniques like cognitive restructuring.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I take time to explore a client’s cultural identity throughout the therapeutic process—this includes acknowledging how culture, family, historical context, and systemic factors may impact their mental health and help-seeking behaviors. In asking open-ended questions, avoiding assumptions, and listening to what is meaningful or significant to them culturally, I can better see and understand my client's lived experiences. Using a cultural lens to adapt therapy is something I find often best support clients.
Gender-affirming therapy
Gender-affirming therapy is a vital part of my counseling practice and a reflection of my commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and validating space for clients of all gender identities and expressions. My experience with this approach includes formal training, consultation with LGBTQIA+ affirming clinicians, and ongoing work with transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals. I believe in respecting and validating my client’s self-identified gender. I prioritize listening without judgment, using correct names and pronouns, and allowing clients to define their own experiences and goals. I recognize that gender identity is deeply personal, and therapy should support—not pathologize—a person’s journey. For some clients, this means exploring identity and expression in a safe space. For others, it may involve supporting social or medical transition, navigating family dynamics, or managing the stress of discrimination and systemic barriers. I also assist clients who are seeking letters for gender-affirming care, and I do so in a way that is respectful, collaborative, and affirming rather than gatekeeping.
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed care is a foundational lens through which I approach all of my clinical work. Trauma-informed care means that I prioritize safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment in every therapeutic interaction. I understand that trauma can deeply impact how a person views themselves, others, and the world, and that it can influence their nervous system, relationships, and ability to engage in therapy. I take great care to create a space where clients feel emotionally and physically safe. This involves being mindful of triggers, clearly explaining the therapy process, maintaining consistent boundaries, and checking in regularly about how the client is experiencing the work we’re doing together. I also recognize the importance of client autonomy and choice so I work collaboratively with clients, allowing them to set the pace and direction of therapy.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I use person-centered therapy to establish a strong, trusting alliance with each client. This means meeting a client where they are at. I focus on offering the core conditions identified by Carl Rogers—unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness—to foster an environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment.In striving to act as a supportive guide, I empower clients to get closer to reaching self-actualization and striving towards accomplishing their goals. I trust in the client’s innate ability to grow, heal, and find their own answers when given the right conditions. This means I listen deeply, reflect what I hear, and respond with authenticity. I pay close attention to what matters most to the client and move at their pace.