211 therapists in Florida matching your needs
Take advantage of your insurance plan.. Schedule an appointment with a qualified and trusted Florida therapist that's in-network with your insurance provider. Browse different certified mental health providers below.Take advantage of your insurance plan.. Schedule an appointment with a qualif...
Mark R. Odell
![Mark R. Odell, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-a69e0e30-86b1-4d6e-85c4-c33048cba0e4-provider1841.jpeg)
LMHC
14 years of experience
Solution oriented
Empowering
Open-minded
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and retired Navy Chief Petty Officer. I have a master's degree in counseling and psychology and over 14 years of experience as a therapist. I am currently located in Pensacola, Florida. My passion is providing individual counseling services to adults and teens. I specialize in helping people through many of life's emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and existential issues. I use various treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
James Bryant
![James Bryant, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-cb601080-05b3-4fa1-aa8a-a31e0f7e9246-provider27232.jpeg)
LMHC
3 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Virtual
I am a Seminary trained clinical therapist. I am also a combat veteran and have experience serving in ministry abroad. I have a prior career before becoming a therapist, working about 12 years overseas. I have worked successfully with adults from many backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and religious faiths. I have experience working with clients struggling with a wide variety of mental health conditions and stressors including but not limited to trauma, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Patty Redondo
(she/her)
![Patty Redondo, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-5de62260-5640-4ad6-af6e-cfe108073360-provider26723.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Masters from Nova Southeastern University and have been practicing for 5.5 years. I help people work through life's most challenging problems, in order to make sense out of their circumstances. I will walk along side you and guide you through your dilemmas, fears, sadness, conflict, and anxieties while providing you with tools and resources that will help you overcome and be successful in all your future endeavors.
Jean Kraljev
![Jean Kraljev, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-b9b37c7d-0886-442e-80fe-4bd197ed3a2b-provider23235.jpeg)
LMHC
30 years of experience
Intelligent
Authentic
Virtual
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I began my career as an Art Therapist, afterward completing studies to become a Certified Addiction Counselor and Qualified Supervisor. I gained licensure in Florida, and have worked as a group facilitator, primary therapist, and Clinical Director in multiple treatment centers in South Florida, where the focus was addiction and mental health treatment. My approach is eclectic and person-centered. Some theories that I utilize during sessions include ACT, DBT, CBT, and most importantly, developing a relationship with my clients where there is a safe space to explore issues and changes.
Eliana Gassette
(she/her)
![Eliana Gassette, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-bc7fe2b4-af99-4f28-81d0-895e2b8cf526-provider4408.jpeg)
LMHC
13 years of experience
Empowering
Warm
Intelligent
Virtual
Hi there, I am Eliana Gassette. I am an LMHC for more than 13 years. I speak English and Spanish. I am specializing in anxiety, ADHD, depression, and panic attacks. I love mixing cognitive behavior and conversation to get to the root of your struggles. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and increase self-confidence and self-esteem. Together, we can identify what's not working and get back to balance. We'll use a whole-self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome your struggles. Let's work together!
My website is https://www.focusmind.online
Jennifer Perez
(she/her)
![Jennifer Perez, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-66f8fa5d-cfff-4994-922c-6b00320b475c-provider23703.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I received my Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology at Troy University. I work with many clients who are struggling with a multitude of stressors, setbacks, and limiting self-beliefs. Years of experience working with these individuals along with my own life experience has provided me with the skill set needed to help my clients see light at the end of the tunnel.
Mary Ann Hensley
![Mary Ann Hensley, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-999543a8-87f1-427d-b6e9-ed82cd105077-provider27163.jpeg)
LMHC
25 years of experience
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida, and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I hold an Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology. I retired from school counseling and became a full-time mental health therapist approximately 8 years ago. I have worked with clients from varied parts of the world, ages 3-70 years old, and with diverse issues/challenges (e.g., LBGTQIA+, anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting, ADHD, etc.). My 25 years of experience has given me insight into a wide range of solutions, a "problem-to-be-solved" attitude, and a compassionate ear.
Monique Knowles
![Monique Knowles, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-ea9eacb2-ac66-4be9-ae47-f7a02b1a0d8b-provider26692.jpeg)
LMHC
15 years of experience
Empowering
Direct
Solution oriented
Virtual
I am a licensed mental health counselor who seeks to help clients gain insight into their mental health and/or substance abuse issues. Part of my focus is on empowering clients through self-awareness and self-compassion. I understand the power of dynamics and also work with couples and families to find cohesion. Faith-based counseling is available as well.
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Christine Shephard
![Christine Shephard, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-36df1bc6-1207-47e8-bc02-f49eee342899-provider32689.jpeg)
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker and have doing social work since 1996. I have worked in many settings including outpatient clinics, residential, jail, nursing homes, and case management in client homes. I currently enjoy running intensive outpatient groups and am focusing my attention on individual counseling. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I believe that movement and change si essential to growth and practice this personally and encourage it professionally.
Kerry Little
![Kerry Little, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-e46950cd-fe13-4bc2-9629-ee6ae73be560-provider1451.jpeg)
LMHC
26 years of experience
Authentic
Humorous
Solution oriented
Virtual
Peace. Happiness. Love. Success. We seek them. We want them. As we see them within reach, we are knocked down by the challenges and difficulties of life. We find, instead, lives that are filled with anxiety, sadness, grief, trauma, loss and failure. I know this too well. I have experienced this in my own life and in the life of my clients. It does not matter where you are in your life. I have had celebrity clients at the top of their field. I have worked with gold medal athletes. I have worked with businessmen and women, housewives, families, adolescents. I have also worked with those who have lost everything to the ravishes of substance use and with men serving life in prison.
It is possible to navigate the dangerous waters of life, but you will need a guide. I am that guide. I have excellent education from Palm Beach Atlantic University. I have a wealth of experience. I have over three decades of experience as a husband, father, grandfather, youth pastor, counselor and university professor. I have worked in the church, private practice (in Florida and the Bahamas), community mental health (specializing in crisis and families with at-risk-adolescents), foster care, substance abuse, juvenile justice and the prisons. I have maintained my relevance by teaching at the university level, advising a best-selling author on the psychological aspects of his book, and serving as a consultant to other mental health agencies. I have wonderful experience working with anxiety, depression, anger, parenting issues, challenging children and teenagers, grief, trauma, substance use issues, family and relationship issues, LGBT issues, and other issues and concerns. I have helped my clients find peace with themselves, with others and in their situations. I have helped my clients find happiness, even amid loss. I have helped my clients find belonging and love in healthy and supportive relationships. I have helped my clients increase their ability to succeed by changing their thinking.
One of the foundations of my life and my work was written by M. Scott Peck in The Road Less Travelled. He wrote, “Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths… Life is a series of problems. Do we want to moan about them or solve them? Do we want to teach our children to solve them?” Let’s start today to solve some of life’s problems and to begin to grasp peace, happiness, love and success.
Takiyah Thomas
![Takiyah Thomas, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-ba2af732-e3e1-492b-8240-8547296b9e84-provider25028.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Solution oriented
Empowering
Warm
Virtual
Hello, my name is Takiyah Thomas Licensed Mental Health Counselor LMHC based in Florida with 4 years of experience. I want to start affirming you by saying "You are improving your mental health symptoms every day." I'm stating this because you made the healthy choice to seek therapy. As your therapist I will always be on the lookout for strengths and empowering tools that I can use to keep you motivated to stay the course. Why? Because many times our maladaptive responses to our mental health symptoms form habits that require motivation and practice to unlearn. I will be there every step of the way to encourage you to keep moving forward. You got this, but it's nice to have your own personal cheerleader encouraging you and believing in you.
Renee Perez
![Renee Perez, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-c5d8eddf-5175-47d8-b41c-aa445f5d8998-provider26572.jpeg)
LMFT
4 years of experience
Open-minded
Authentic
Warm
Virtual
Hello all. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist who graduated from Nova Southeastern University. I have a diverse and valuable background in supporting individuals through various life transitions and challenges. My experience as both a therapist and a case manager provided me with a well-rounded perspective on the needs of the clients. Due to this experience, I focus on working with young adults and adults on challenges such as life transition, boundaries, values, anxiety, family relationships, and communication. Working with clients in the therapy room with these challenges is crucial as these are common areas where many people need support and guidance.
LaRhonda Britton
(she/her)
![LaRhonda Britton, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-7e6cc3b8-b344-4913-b4ba-2f5ac7c74d73-provider27656.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Open-minded
Intelligent
Virtual
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I graduated with my Masters degree in 2019 from Nova Southeastern University and has worked in the field since. I work with individuals who experienced trauma and suffer from depression and anxiety gain their voice and confidence back. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults from many different cultures and in different settings.
Aaron Plotz
(he/him)
![Aaron Plotz, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-e4d06827-3b46-4f27-8781-48c4c58f495c-provider20432.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Authentic
Humorous
Empowering
Virtual
Hi, I'm Aaron.
Are you someone who just feels like life is kicking you while you are down? Are you constantly looking in the mirror and disliking what you see? Do you find that no matter where you are and who you are with, you still feel alone? Let's see if we can change that. Let's aim to challenge our thoughts and be there for ourselves. Let's create a plan that will empower us to take back control over our life and love what we see when looking in the mirror. Let's work together to live a happy and more fulfilling life.
I strive to help high-functioning individuals to rediscover their inner strength to overcome their trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I work with clients to help them challenge the thoughts holding them back. I implement a variety of therapeutic techniques to fit the needs of the client. I also use music and guided meditations to facilitate self-understand, along with providing tools they can use at home to help deal with stress, anxiety and depression. My main focus is to empower clients to better enable them to understand what is in their control and how they can make positive changes in their life.
Reaching out for help is always scary because you do not know where to start or what to expect. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back.
Cassandra Castro
(she/her)
![Cassandra Castro, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-2b27df75-39d0-4b29-ba77-e77abec434f1-provider32169.jpeg)
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I’m Cassandra Castro, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Tampa, with 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I’m a proud alumna of the University of South Florida, where I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Social Work. I've had the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan, from children and teens to families and adults. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration, as I believe in meeting each client where they are on their unique journey.
Alysia S. Ross, Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist
(she/her)
![Alysia S. Ross, Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-456ec72a-ce4b-4b8d-8b71-b3321814445d-provider30121.jpeg)
LMHC
27 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to GrowTherapy Telehealth and the virtual practice of Clinicians Group Corporation and Alysia S. Ross, M.S., LMHC, MAC, Florida Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist. I'm happy that you reached out for assistance and understand that it is sometimes incredibly challenging to find a licensed professional who connects with you when a time of guidance is needed or in a moment of crisis. I am here to provide assistance. My clinical practice utilizes a practical, interactive, solution-focused discipline as a licensed mental health professional with twenty-seven (27) years experience. My treatment approach is to provide support to assist clients in resolving current problems and long-standing patterns. I log in once a day Monday through Friday and am off on Saturday and Sunday. I generally respond to your messages between the hours of 12:00pm and 5:00pm EST.
Natalie Suazo
![Natalie Suazo, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-1d8b48fd-2424-4f15-9b68-3e05358ee6dc-provider21014.jpeg)
LCSW
5 years of experience
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Virtual
Hi there! My name is Natalie, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the mental health field for 8 years. I would say my strong suit is working with clients dealing with: mens Issues, military populations, prenatal/postpartum depression and anxiety, low self- esteem, and social anxiety. My passion is working with people going through their toughest moments and watching them transform into the best version of themselves in the process. I really believe that each client deserves individualized treatment, not just a "cookie cutter" approach. I take my time building trust with my clients so they feel safe to be vulnerable in sessions with me. My ultimate goal is to create an environment where healing can happen.
Diann Jimenez
![Diann Jimenez, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-7705cbda-2c00-4aa0-a1c6-22a53dd478ae-provider12142.jpeg)
LMHC
5 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Virtual
As a first-generation therapist, I am rooted in my Hispanic heritage, culture, and faith. Native to Puerto Rico and raised in South Florida. Fueled by the desire to help people and walk alongside them, I chose to pursue a career in mental health counseling.
We all have battles we’re fighting, why do it alone? Together we will empower you to reach your goals.
Bridgit DeLisle-Daley
![Bridgit DeLisle-Daley, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-4a61b547-c296-4820-996c-7e9279c64dfd-provider24120.jpeg)
LCSW
6 years of experience
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
It takes courage to seek out a fulfilling and happy life, and to take the first step towards making the change. When was the last time you gave yourself the personal attention you deserve to talk to someone about your mental health? Sometimes it seems difficult and overwhelming when you are faced with challenges to move on, and to overcome the pain and struggles you are experiencing. The stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, anger, and all of life changes can negatively impact your well-being. I am here to support and empower you in your journey to health and wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida with over 5 yrs years of experience working with clients. I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety and depression to achieve self-esteem and confidence. As your therapist, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
For clients who will like to integrate faith into treatment, I offer personalized Faith-Based Telehealth services tailored to the specific needs of clients. This provides an opportunity for individuals to learn more about themselves, gain deeper insight, and create a sense of self-acceptance, and incorporating christian spirituality in the healing process.
David Mervilus
(he/him)
![David Mervilus, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-9270291f-cb10-47c2-afed-0ad12586e63d-provider13761.jpeg)
LMHC
13 years of experience
Solution oriented
Empowering
Authentic
Virtual
I am a Florida Licensed, Qualified, and Client-focused Mental Health professional with over a decade of experience in the healthcare field as a Mental Health Therapist. My approach is centered on bringing harmony and success to my patients’ lives.
Building trust and fostering a strong therapeutic relationship are essential to me. I work diligently to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where clients feel valued and actively engaged in their treatment process. With both academic knowledge and practical experience as a Mental Health Professional, I am committed to providing excellent and comprehensive services to all my clients.
My expertise lies in successfully treating patients with a wide range of disorders. Holding a master’s degree in counseling psychology with a specialization in Mental Health, I have extensive experience working with students across the Broward County School District; currently serving as one of the Broward County School-based therapists.
Throughout my career, I have effectively treated clients suffering from various disorders, including Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and substance abuse disorders.
I am comfortable doing my part to bring harmony and success to patients. I'm highly capable of conducting clinical assessments, creating personalized treatment plans, organizing successful therapy sessions, and supervising course of treatment. Knowledgeable in providing intensive school-based, in home and virtual services to successfully address mental health, emotional, and behavioral issues. As a Mental Health professional, I have treated many clients throughout my career who suffer from various disorders ranging from Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, substance abuse disorder etc.
Amy Morantes
(she/her)
![Amy Morantes, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-95cb2e53-e9e4-4baf-b5bb-8b47ddd885eb-provider14665.jpeg)
LCSW
25 years of experience
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Virtual
Hi! My name is Amy Morantes and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I have provided individual therapy for people ages 18 to 80 years old. I earned a Bachelors of Science in Family Studies from the University of Maryland and my Masters in Social Work from Howard University. I have been working as a social worker for over 25 years. I believe it is important to meet people where they are emotionally and help them to identify and achieve their goals.
Carolyne Cole,
(she/her)
![Carolyne Cole,, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-a1f86ef9-b477-4ee2-8bd5-2c5359e41003-provider20554.jpeg)
LMFT
8 years of experience
Warm
Direct
Solution oriented
Virtual
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.
Brittany Smiley
(she/her)
![Brittany Smiley, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-172cb9a5-57cf-4b69-87d3-e3c0f5af5252-provider19888.jpeg)
LMHC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Early on I experienced an unwavering passion to help others. This deep-seated desire led me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. My aspirations didn't stop there. Upon venturing into the social service field I gained a strong interest in working with deviant youth, giving me the motivation to complete a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, along with a Master's in Social Science with a concentration in Criminal Justice. After attaining four college degrees, I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. For over 8 years, I have dedicated myself to serving the community and gaining invaluable experience along the way. I have acquired educational, professional, and personal experiences which help guide others on their healing journey, overcoming trauma, cultivating emotional stability, and addressing psychological distress.
The utmost focus is to extend a helping hand to those grappling with anxiety, family conflicts, depression, and ADHD. By having a down-to-earth demeanor, and professional expertise with a genuine yet compassionate nature; the aim is to create a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where you can explore your inner strengths, discover resilience, and embrace personal growth.
Maggie Foran
![Maggie Foran, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-b50c35a0-6188-4a46-b367-5d5efc56b860-provider24663.jpeg)
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my Masters in Social Work from Florida State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I help people of all ages who struggle with anxiety and the stressors of life. I love working with individuals to overcome their fears and anxiety so that they can become the person they were created to be. I have also developed skills to work with couples to help strengthen communication and connection.
Austin Schrag
![Austin Schrag, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy](https://d2oun3o7n7y8hx.cloudfront.net/thumbnail-9b8a4884-a009-4099-b16f-0b1100c2f602-provider428.jpeg)
LMFT
7 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Virtual
I am deeply honored that you are considering me as your counselor. I have experienced how difficult it is to choose a counselor and my hope is to make that choice as easy as possible for you. Despite my best efforts to give you the information you need on this page, the information that’s important for choosing a counselor is different for everyone. I have decided to focus on Austin-the-counselor on this page but, if you would like to ask me any questions about Austin-the-person or about counseling with me before making your decision, I would be happy to answer your questions.
Since becoming a counselor, I have worked in a variety of community counseling settings. I have worked with clients from ages 3 through 80 and with individuals, couples, and families. With that breadth of experience, very little shocks or surprises me and I have gotten a pretty good sense of where the types of counseling that play to my strengths as a counselor overlap with the types of counseling that are helpful for my clients. This sense (along with learning about lots and lots of research into what helps people find and maintain mental health) has led to the following guiding principles that shape all the counseling I do:
1) The client is always in charge. People are complex and come with years of history that I can never know all of. I know a lot of things but you will always be the one who decides what you want to get out of counseling, how we work towards that goal, whether or not what we’re doing seems to be working, and when we’re done. I will support you in all of those decisions: I will give you information about different possibilities and what’s likely to work, I will help you understand how you feel about different options and possibilities, I will even tell you what I would advise doing but the final say is always yours.
2) Change and health happen through relationships. I could write a book about how I know this is true and would be happy to have the opportunity to convince you of it but for here I will focus on two implications that it has on counseling. The first is that the work we do in counseling will touch on how your relationships impact your health. No matter what you come in for, there are always relational implications of change and relational factors that contribute to whatever it is that you came to counseling to change. The second implication is that the relationship between you and me matters. Change can only happen in counseling because of that relationship. It’s my responsibility to make our relationship a place where you feel heard and accepted and that is always my first priority because nothing else we do really works without it.
3) Counseling should be efficient. Counseling has significant costs in time and money. I think the benefits far outweigh the costs but if I can give you the benefits while helping you save on the costs then I want to do that. Also, people come to counseling because they are experiencing pain. I want to end that pain as quickly as possible. So I choose approaches to counseling that generally work more quickly. That being said, I don’t want to you to feel better for three to six months and then need counseling again because we only worked on symptom relief and didn’t bring healing to the underlying causes. That doesn’t seem very efficient to me. So my goal is to provide as long-lasting and complete help as possible in as little time as possible.