Therapists in Florida

My journey to counseling has been both personal and professional. Before becoming a therapist, I spent nearly two decades working in the nonprofit world—helping people navigate challenges, systems, and life transitions. In my 30s, I went back to school to earn my master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University and became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I’ve been practicing since 2014, seeing clients in person through 2020 and virtually ever since. Along the way, I’ve experienced my own seasons of loss, grief, family challenges, and major life transitions—including surviving cancer. Those experiences gave me a deep respect for the courage it takes to ask for help and the strength required to keep moving forward. I bring that understanding into every session, creating a space that is compassionate, grounded, and genuinely human. I am licensed in both Florida and Vermont and currently offer virtual therapy to adults who are going through life transitions—whether building their careers, managing family responsibilities, or moving through midlife changes. I also work with clients who are struggling with symptoms like anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to chronic illness. I am licensed in both Florida and Vermont, and practice 100% virtual therapy.

I work with high-functioning adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, emotional pain, or self-sabotage—even after years of traditional talk therapy. My approach integrates trauma-informed, somatic, and nervous system-based practices with subconscious reprogramming. Together, we’ll gently uncover and shift the deeper beliefs and survival patterns held in your body, creating healing that is not only insightful, but embodied and lasting.

My name is Gabriel Peña, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I earned my Masters of Education and Education Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. I have spent my career working with individuals struggling with addiction and other co-occurring disorders, and I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community and related issues.

Sandra Pennington, MA, LMHC Sandra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with four years of clinical experience supporting individuals and groups. Her diverse professional background — including 14 years in corrections, as well as work in healthcare and public education — has given her a unique perspective and the ability to connect with clients from all walks of life. Sandra uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) along with an eclectic blend of evidence-based approaches to help clients heal, grow, and thrive. She has extensive experience working with children who have experienced severe trauma, as well as adults with developmental delays and mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. Her years working in the state prison system inspired her passion for helping others navigate life’s most difficult challenges. Today, Sandra serves as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in a Florida public school, where she provides crisis support, facilitates student groups, and teaches mental health education to both students and staff.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my Masters from Florida State University and have been practicing for 5 years. I strive to meet people where they are, without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space for all clients while we partner together on the issues/topics that matter to you the most.

I have been in practice for over 10 years in various different settings and with different populations. I will meet you where you are and help you move to where you want to be. You are the expert of you and I am here to guide. There is no ideal client-I encourage honesty and continuous learning. I am currently working towards my doctorate.

Hey there! I'm Nandi, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in South Florida. I'm all about making life better for teens and young adults through empathetic and culturally relevant mental health care. With a career spanning 6 years in the field of mental health I began as an intake specialist, where I first recognized the immense need for personalized, empathetic support in this critical phase of life. Over the years, I've evolved from case management to life coaching, and now I primarily focus on clinical work, providing therapeutic interventions to empower young minds. My goal? To make sure that mental health care is not just easy to get but also speaks to everyone’s unique experiences and background. I believe that tailored support is the key to lasting growth. Let's work together to create a brighter, mentally healthier future for the next generation. You're not alone on this journey!

Hello! I'm Abigail, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in Florida. I received my Masters from Indiana University and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help clients and families of all ages, children through elderly, who are wanting to enjoy life more, work through difficulties, and build skills for life and coping in preparation for anything life brings.

I am passionate about helping Millennials and Gen Z overcome hopelessness, exhaustion and self-doubt. My clients feel like they’re forcing a smile but deep down they feel depressed and defeated. It’s confusing and scary. I’ll help you shed a light on your sadness so you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a crazy person. I get it, we can figure this out together. My clients describe me as warm, caring and authentic. Even though what we talk about is important, I believe it’s our genuine connection that will allow you to create true and lasting change.

My name is Oswaldo “Oz” Castro, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience supporting individuals across a wide range of needs and life stages. My passion as a therapist is helping people find hope, healing, and practical tools to move forward. I began my career in neurofeedback, spending 7 years working with children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, autism, sleep difficulties, anxiety, depression, and other neurodivergent experiences. I later gained 5 years of experience at a drug rehabilitation facility, supporting individuals on their recovery journey from substance use. From there, I spent 2 years at a survivor’s center, helping individuals heal from domestic violence, violent crimes, and grief. During this time, I also worked closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, including facilitating groups for individuals of the trans experience. I also worked for 5 years with children and adolescents transitioning out of a Baker Act and receiving sometimes getting into therapy for the first time, which gave me extensive experience in crisis intervention, family systems, and the importance of providing stability and hope during vulnerable times. Most recently, for the past 3 years, I have been serving clients through the Grow Therapy, where I’ve had the privilege of reaching individuals who previously struggled to access care or find a therapeutic connection locally. This work has strengthened my belief that therapy should be accessible, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique story. If you’re seeking a therapist who will meet you with empathy, understanding, and practical support, I would be honored to work alongside you. Together, we can create a path toward the goals and growth you want for yourself.

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Mental Health Therapist who specializes in relationship abuse, trauma, and self esteem enhancement. I strive to empower my clients through a Holistic counseling approach that encompasses healing of the mind, body, and soul. My treatment style is solution focused and we will work together towards your desired goals in exploratory ways by connecting mindfully, creating self-love by holding boundaries, & creatively connecting to your joy. My therapeutic approach is integrative; I incorporate your entire experience: mind, body, & spirit, in order to reveal your inner strengths.

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Florida Atlantic University in 2017, followed by my Master and Doctorate in Social Work from Barry University in 2018 and 2024, respectively. I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2020 and have been practicing for 8 years. Clients often describe me as compassionate, attentive, and nonjudgmental. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are and creating a safe, collaborative space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. I take a flexible, individualized approach to therapy, blending evidence-based techniques with practical strategies tailored to your unique needs and goals. My focus is on helping you build self-awareness, develop coping skills, and strengthen resilience, all while honoring your pace and personal journey. I strive to make sessions a supportive and empowering experience, where you feel heard, understood, and encouraged to grow. I am also flexible with scheduling—if you don’t see a time that works for you, please reach out, and I will do my best to accommodate. Ultimately, my goal is to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and create meaningful change that feels authentic to you.

Hi, I’m Kassiana Casimir, a Florida-based therapist passionate about helping people feel seen, supported, and empowered. I specialize in guiding individuals through emotional ups and downs, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is rooted in culturally responsive, evidence-based care—offering a safe space where healing, insight, and growth can thrive. Whether you’re working on setting boundaries, managing anxiety, or simply trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor committed to helping adults strengthen emotional wellness, build resilience, and create meaningful change. My work includes supporting individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, and difficulties rooted in growing up within dysfunctional or emotionally unsafe family environments. I strive to create a supportive, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered. My approach integrates evidence-based interventions and trauma-informed care, tailored to each person’s unique goals, history, and strengths. Together, we work to increase self-awareness, develop effective coping strategies, improve relationships, and foster healthier ways of showing up in life. My goal is to help clients gain clarity, heal from past experiences, and move toward greater balance, self-compassion, and personal fulfillment.

Hello! I am Melany Quintero, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I'm bilingual. I have an Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and completed licensure in Clinical Social Work. I bring a strong educational and professional foundation to my work, specializing in treating mood disorders, stress, and anxiety, as well as helping clients navigate life-changing events, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions, complemented by a commitment to offering compassionate support and sharing practical knowledge to empower my clients on their healing journey.

Start your journey toward healing, resilience, and balance with me. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida and founder of Healing Matters Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience supporting individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, as well as working with couples and families. I know seeking therapy takes courage, which is why I provide compassionate, client-centered care in a safe, nonjudgmental space. My collaborative approach blends evidence-based practices with a focus on resilience, self-awareness, and growth—helping you navigate challenges and discover healing within yourself.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist and a Certified TraumaPlay Therapist. I received my education through Saint Leo University, in addition to The trauma play institute as well and the play therapy training institute. I have been in practice for 7 years in Florida. I help all ages work through trauma and learn to love their authentic selves and make meaning of their life challenges. I use mostly an experiential approach as well as other evidenced based interventions.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. After completing my education and training, I began working in healthcare settings, specifically, with patients and families dealing with chronic illnesses. I’ve worked with diverse populations in non-profit organizations, in-home services and for-profit healthcare treatment settings. Outside of behavioral health care and in my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in sunny Florida, I bring years of experience supporting adults through life transitions, mental health challenges, and periods of emotional overwhelm. I earned my Master’s degree from Florida International University and have worked with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, and major life changes. I am deeply committed in helping individuals reclaim their lives, overcome life difficulties, and discover their fullest potential.

Marisa is a dedicated clinician specializing in mental health and marriage and family therapy. Based in South Florida, Marisa has made it her mission to support individuals and families on their journey toward healing and well-being. With a compassionate approach and extensive knowledge in the field, Marisa offers a safe and nurturing environment for her clients to explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop effective coping strategies. Her expertise addresses a wide range of disorders, including anxiety, depression, developmental delays, parent training, and relationship difficulties. Marisa obtained her professional training in order to facilitate meaningful change within families and improve their overall dynamics. Through her work, she empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of their lives, fostering healthier relationships and promoting emotional growth. Marisa Chiuchiolo's unwavering dedication to mental health and marriage and family therapy has earned her respect as a trusted clinician within the South Florida community. Her genuine care for others and commitment to facilitating growth and healing make her a valuable resource for anyone seeking support on their path to well-being.

In addition to being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am also a Certified Personal Trainer and Experienced Registered yoga teacher. I believe that mental health and physical health are intimately related and have been on a lifelong journey to health and wellness. I offer a holistic approach to counseling, integrating mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoanalysis to assist you in achieving your goals.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide counseling, emotional support, and practical strategies to help clients navigate life’s challenges and build confidence. I’m passionate about helping people grow, discover their strengths, and take small, meaningful steps toward their goals in a warm and supportive environment. I also draw on my experience leading groups and collaborating with other professionals to create a space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped to make lasting positive changes. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to each individual’s needs, helping clients build resilience, hope, and a greater sense of well-being.

My name is John A. Llauget. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and an Educational Specialist Degree in Counseling from University of South Florida. My career in mental health in 1977 working in a psychiatric hospital; and later as a outpatient therapist in a community mental health center working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I was licensed in Florida in 1986 as a Mental Health Counselor and have maintained my license since that date. Also I have worked as an employee assistance counselor, school counselor, associate professor at an international university, and court evaluator for guardianship cases. For 20 years I worked as a cancer counselor with oncology clients helping them cope with illness, stress, and emotional distress. Additionally I have maintained a practice and interest in Traditional Okinawan Uechi-Ryu, earning a Masters rank in that system of training. I have used martial training with children & adolescents to develop self-control and self esteem. Later when I began working with an elderly population and clients dealing with physical limitations, I taught Qigong and Mindfulness Meditation as a way to improve their health, well-being, and cope with stress. My therapeutic style centers around getting to know a client, develop trust, and talking more explicitly about issues before making any recommendations. I am a strong advocate of evidence-based treatments and teaching ‘tools’ to cope with stress and emotional difficulties. I have gained training in trauma treatment because we now know that it is prevalent in our life experiences. I value compassion, persistence, and patience in working towards change. I look forward to working with you. I also value your time and want to use it productively in assisting you to reach your therapeutic goals.

Hello, and welcome! As a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals on their unique paths toward healing and personal growth here in the beautiful State of Florida. Through my counseling journey, I’ve discovered that real, lasting change begins with self-compassion. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, and nonjudgmental space where you feel empowered to express yourself and explore the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re navigating feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression, we’ll work together to uncover the root causes and develop personalized strategies to overcome them. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing on mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution-focused techniques tailored to your individual needs. It takes courage to seek support and take the first steps toward a more joyful and fulfilling life, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll work to help you build a life of purpose, resilience, and happiness. Let’s begin this transformative journey—you don’t have to do it alone!

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor practicing in the State of Florida. I earned graduate degrees in psychology and mental health counseling, both with Summa Cum Laude distinction. Along with my clinical training, I am a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, hold an Advanced Certification in Adlerian Play Therapy, and am a Registered Sand Therapist. I am also an active member of the Association for Play Therapists, the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and the North American Society of Adlerian Psychology. My work is grounded in play therapy and Adlerian psychology, with specialties in anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ concerns, identity exploration, neurodivergence, and sand tray therapy. I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where clients of all ages - children, teens, and adults - can explore, heal, and grow. I look forward to joining you on your journey of self-discovery.