Optum Therapists in Florida

My name is Tahaji Smith. I am currently an MSW graduate, and an LCSW with 20+ years of public service experience. Previously, I worked for 17 years as an Emergency Public Safety Communications Operator for one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the nation, but I decided to pursue a career doing what I love…helping others become the best version of themselves.

I'm Magda McGuire, a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My commitment to my profession is evident through almost a decade-long career in counseling, where I have honed my expertise in affirming client centered therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I have experience working in hospital settings as a liaison counselor assisting patients and their families to navigate end-of-life challenges, serious mental illnesses, adjustment issues and crisis situations. I also have experience working in jail settings with individuals from all walks of lives facing challenges such as adjustment issues, serious mental illness, anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, remorse, addictions, suicide attempts, crisis and many more challenges.

Hello, I am here to help you create a healthy internal environment to thrive in your external one. I obtained my MSW from Howard University in DC and received my clinical social work license in the state of Florida. I love traveling, reading history and sci-fi books, and building Lego sets. I work with clients dealing with trauma related to emotional abuse, neurodivergent struggles, self-esteem, relationships, and cultural identity.

EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Therapist. FL/NJ/VA. I also use traditional talk therapy with my clients. My therapeutic approach is based on the individual's specific needs. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of therapy that enables you to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. I work with adult clients with individual therapy.

My name is Joniett and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My goal is to provide a safe, open, and honest space where we can work together towards your actualization of your truest self. I believe that everyone has the potential to create and employ positive changes in thoughts, attitude and behavior that will allow your truest self outward. I provide individual and family therapy to adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of mental health, emotional, behavioral, and relationship needs. I have experience in the inpatient, school, and community settings where I’ve worked with adolescents and adults in individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Throughout my education, training, and work with numerous clients, I have become especially interested and experienced in: • Working through past traumatic events • Depression and suicidality • Anxiety-related issues • Emotional identification and regulation • Academic pressure and goal setting • LGBTQQAAIP+ and gender issues • Race/Culture based fatigue/trauma • Relational conflict resolution and strengthening • Coping with transitions (academic, professional, and life transitions) • Self-esteem and image concerns • Substance use and Recovery

Hello, I'm Amber, a dedicated and compassionate trauma-informed therapist committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for individuals on their healing journey. With a background in psychology and extensive training, I bring a holistic approach that integrates psychodynamic, person-centered, mind-body approach and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to support clients in their path to recovery. Incorporating a mind-body approach in therapy involves recognizing and addressing the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. This approach may include techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation to help clients become more aware of how their thoughts and emotions influence their physical sensations. By integrating practices that focus on bodily awareness and self-regulation, therapists can help clients manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. My psychodynamic orientation allows me to help clients delve into the unconscious aspects of their psyche, understanding how past experiences shape current thoughts and behaviors. Through this exploration, we work together to identify patterns, gain insight into unresolved conflicts, and promote long-term personal growth. In addition to the psychodynamic approach, I integrate person-centered therapy principles, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the inherent goodness and resilience of individuals and strive to create a space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate their unique healing process. Furthermore, my practice incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. This approach allows us to develop practical strategies for coping with the impact of trauma, fostering resilience and promoting positive change. With a commitment to ongoing professional development and staying informed about the latest advancements in trauma treatment, I am dedicated to providing evidence-based and client-centered care. I am here to support you on your journey towards healing, personal empowerment, and a more fulfilling life.

Hello, my name is Takiyah Thomas Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida with 5 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.

Do you struggle with making decisions, finding it hard to fall asleep, letting go of the past or overcoming an unhealthy relationship? Poor sense of worth? Hitting to close to home? Well you have come to the right place. I provide a sense of hope that what you are experiencing is not your Normal and that you can get more out of life! I believe in providing a collaborative setting for my clients in hopes that it will facilitate growth but most of all HOPE. Encouraging clients to see their own potential that they already posses, assisting them in identifying their own negative perceptions or unhealthy thoughts that perpetuates the negative beliefs of self. Therapy is an awakening where self-love, honesty and commitment are a triangle that reaches Happiness. We all thrive to obtain our individual Nirvana or Self- Fulfillment, nonetheless we struggle with the motivation or having the lack of resources. I am here to guide and assist you along this journey. We know change can be challenging and sometimes scary. However, with perseverance and assistance from myself (your personal clinical confidant), we can process and achieve these goals together. So tell me, are you ready? If so, I am here to walk alongside you with encouragement and support!

Hi! My name is Nancy Muricken. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Tampa FL currently accepting new clients via Telehealth! I provide individual therapy with a pinch of millennial energy and the spice from South India. That being said, I hope that you and I can soon spill the chai! Let me go first. I was born and raised in Queens, NY (just like your friendly neighborhood Spiderman) where I grew up in a South Indian household by parents and extended family from Kerala, India. Now if you are like me and was born or grew up in America but raised by an Immigrant family, there are a lot of values. traditions, and pressure that are instilled in us. Mental health is completely disregarded or taboo and Masala Chai, Vicks, and prayers became the answers to all our problems. I'm all for Chai and praying but imagine if we had proper insight and coping skills as a child in a supportive environment alongside spiritual support? We probably wouldn't be here scrolling for a therapist for our mother and father wounds. That being said, the psychodynamic approach is one of the primary approaches I utilize in therapy to help identify patterns from our childhood which affect our behaviors, actions, and relationships in our present life. I use Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my other treatment methods to help clients embrace their present lives, identify patterns of thinking, and reframe negative thoughts. I am an email or phone call away. Book your appointment today! I am excited to meet you and for your journey to healing.

Hi, I’m Neph! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I received my master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and have been practicing for about 5 years. I have several years of experience as a social worker and primary therapist treating adolescents and adults with substance use and mental health issues. I use a strengths-based approach combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and person-centered therapy to empower clients and help them address their unique needs.

Hi. Welcome to my page. I am Oswaldo Castro but prefer to be called Oz. I am licensed mental health therapist with a plethora of experience. I first start my journey working in neurofeedback which has allowed me to work with a diverse population from children to seniors with issues with ADHD, autism, sleep disorder, anxiety disorders, depressed mood and a plethora of other neurodivergent individuals for about 7 years. My journey continues to working at a drug rehab facility where I worked with individuals with substance use disorder for about 5 years. My life then continues to work at a survivor's center where I worked with victims of domestic violence, violent crimes and grief for about 2 years. I also gained experience with the LGBTQIA+ population where I worked closely and ran groups with individuals of the trans experience. Moving forward, I have worked with suicidal children and adolescents that have been under a Baker Act which has given me experience in with family systems for about 4 years. If you like what you can read so far, reach out to me and schedule a session. Hope to hear from you so we can start working on those goals that you may have for yourself.

Combining Transformative Justice Practices with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Techniques, Adejare (Ah-Day-Jah-Ray) McMillan, is professionally known as The Transformative Justice Therapist. This South Florida-based speaker, poet, and activist holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, and is State Licensed as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Additionally, he is currently writing his dissertation towards the completion of a Ph.D. in Couples and Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University. For the last decade, he has worked with people of all races, lifestyles, and ages — as young as 13 and upwards of 70 years old. Having been a member of several organizations dedicated to human rights and social justice, Adejare finds time to remain engaged in community activism, advocacy, and organizing — at times, specifically as a Transformative Justice Circle Keeper and Trainer.

I specialize in life challenges that trigger stress, trauma, grief, anxiety, and PTSD. Stress, pain, fear, and confusion are alarm clocks that beg to be heard and answered. Therapy is one way to turn down the noise and listen to our inner voice. We can't always control what is outside of us, but we have the agency to engage self-mastery that guides that inner voice toward wisdom that heals and integrates the pieces we may have lost along the way.

Everyone needs help from time to time, but the hardest step is asking for help. Now that you’re here, you are well on your way to living the life you want. As a therapist, I am a systemic thinker. I use various therapies and techniques such as Narrative therapy, Solution focused brief therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques to help my clients live better lives. I also encourage my clients to share their faith in therapy as this can often be a huge source of strength in the healing process. I like working collaboratively with my clients to identify the problem(s) causing emotional distress in their life and alternative ways to solve their problems. I enjoy working with teenagers, individuals, couples, families and groups. Some issues I have worked with are anxiety, depression, life - transitions (e.g. school, relocations, physical illnesses), child adjustments, PTSD, and grief. I look forward to witnessing your transformation in therapy!

Hi my name is Areeba Johnson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW, dedicated to educating and empowering individuals on how to heal. To be a part of your journey to emotional health. Helping you find the path in life and living life abundantly. To help individuals gain self-fulfillment and growth. In life challenges may arise where you experience self-doubt, unhealthy habits or trauma. I am here to help you overcome those challenges by using a holistic approach focusing on your cognitions and the impact they have on your behavior. If you are looking to make healthy changes and overcome past struggles today is a great day to get started.

Are you often unable to take a moment to yourself and decompress? Do the people in your life call on you to handle or ‘fix’ situations? Maybe you find it difficult to give yourself grace based on what “should” be. If this sounds like you, I hope to assist you in organizing the many overwhelming tasks in your life by identifying attainable goals to manage stress and prioritize your needs and desires. Welcome! I’m Shakyra and I empower Millennial and Gen Z men and women with the tools and support they need to put themselves first. No issue is too small for therapy. I love to work with individuals who are facing everyday stressors but do not have the necessary support to cope with those stressors. This could be, but is not limited to, people who are struggling with lack of organization, dealing with heartbreak or other life adjustments. In group settings, I work with people who want to better understand why they feel, act, or react to varying stressors in the way that they do. When you’re ready to “woosah” and better handle the stresses of life, I’m ready to help you. Book a consultation today so we can schedule your first session and get you back to being your best self!

I’ve had the privilege of working with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, healing from trauma, coping with grief, financial struggles, relationship challenges, career/work hurdles, adjustment to life changes, family or interpersonal conflicts, parenting struggles, and coping with general life’s stressors. I assist clients with achieving the profound benefits of working toward one’s authentic self, strengthening one’s internal dialogue and building a resilient wellness kit to navigate life’s ups and downs. A strong and healthy sense of self is the foundation for effective emotional well-being, personal growth, and maintaining healthy connections with others.

Sana Jindani is a licensed mental health counselor with experience in substance use, depression, anxiety, addictions, self-esteem, mood disorders, marriage and family, couples, and trauma. She has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. She is family-oriented, energetic, direct, and humorous but sensitive to her clients' needs. I currently offer virtual sessions that allow you to sit in the comfort of your home while we explore possibilities to relieve the stress or discomfort you are experiencing. Empathy, openness, and being nonjudgmental are some things that I hold dear to my practice.

Welcome my name is Vaaseen Richards and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based out of Florida. I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced trauma to heal and thrive. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Traumatic Incident Reduction Therapy to help clients process their experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and reclaim a sense of safety and empowerment in their lives. My goal is to support you on your journey toward healing and help you rediscover strength and resilience within yourself.

Welcome! I'm Anthonette. First, I want to applaud you for taking a step toward improving your mental health. I specialize in helping women heal from anxiety and depression so they can live authentically and with intention. I believe every woman is equipped with her own set of solutions to the challenges she faces, and with the right guidance and support she can overcome even the most difficult experiences in life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida with a Master's degree from the University of North Florida and four years of practice experience. I am dedicated to challenging the stigma surrounding mental health. I support men and women as they navigate the challenges of adulthood and embark on their journey to wholeness by improving their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

My name is Michelline (she/her) and I am a marriage and family therapist, who is licensed in Florida, with 17 years' experience in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide array of concerns such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress management, anxiety, domestic violence, female empowerment, communication, parenting issues, relationship issues, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and mood management. I have also worked with clients on anger management issues.

You are not alone and here is a safe space! Greetings! I am Roosevelt Badger, LCSW, and I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples enhance their lives and achieve meaningful recovery! I believe in using person-centered approaches and evidence-based interventions to provide the support you need in a way that feels tailored and effective for you. I continue to adopt innovative strategies and implement the latest therapeutic approaches to deliver treatment. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship should be free of judgment and meet you exactly where you are in your journey. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and reach your full potential!

I have over 10 years of experience in helping individuals address trauma related symptoms, anxiety and stressful life changes. It's important to me to provide my clients with a safe space to learn more about themselves and build skills to live a more fulfilling life. I use a very compassionate and integrative approach to help clients meet their goals in therapy.

Hi everyone! I'm Josh. Do you struggle with social anxiety and poor self-confidence? I know that overcoming it is possible! Many come to therapy for social anxiety because of childhood trauma and how it has manifested in their adult lives. Often this manifests in feelings of poor self-confidence, poor self-worth, and poor self-confidence. At its root, the fundamental belief of those who have social anxiety is the belief, “I am not enough.” Clients get into the habit of comparing themselves to others and it makes them feel inadequate and insecure. Over time clients begin to avoid situations that elicit their anxiety, particularly social situations. This can lead to social isolation and loneliness. Clients will present with complaints of frequent panic attacks, not having a romantic partner, not having friends, not being happy in their jobs and feeling disconnected from life. They are labeled by others as shy, quiet, or introverted. This scenario described myself for much of my life which gives me lived experience to better able to assist you. I help individuals combat their social fears and begin to live a rich and fulfulling life. I do this through cognitive behavioral therapy techniques primarily but also integrate solution-focused therapy, assertiveness training, exposure therapy, and acceptance & commitment therapy. Whether you're a teen struggling to make friends and socialize or you are an adult unable to speak up at work meetings or unable to ask someone out on a date, I'm here for you! Seeking therapy can be frightening but I want to assure you that you will be most welcome if you take that leap of faith!