Welcome! I am Carolyne Cole, a marriage and family counselor. I specialize in marriage and family therapy. I also work with young adults and seniors who are bravely taking steps toward bringing positive change into their lives. My approach to therapy is pretty eclectic. I use principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will help you shut down unhelpful distortions about yourself and provide personal coping strategies that will support problem-solving in your life. Narrative Therapy will help you identify your values and skills so that you can use them to confront current and future challenges. I also offer spiritual counseling if you are seeking to explore or solidify your spiritual beliefs. I am also a Certified Grief Therapist. I began my calling in mental health following my retirement from a 35 year career in education. I am a published author and I hold a master’s degree in American Studies, and I have earned the distinguished National Board Certification in English Education. I have taught in public and private schools, community colleges, and universities in both Florida and Eastern Europe. All these experiences have widened my understanding and make it easier to relate to a variety of people and cultures. It also makes it easy for me to connect with you. I am a native Floridian, married for 44 years to a former University of South Florida professor, so I understand what it means to live life and overcome challenges in the Sunshine State. My heart is to support you wherever you are on your journey, ease your worries about the future, and give you practical tools to heal.