Optum Therapists in Florida

I am a licensed mental health counselor. I have experience in helping both children and adults with concerns about anger management, autism, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and women’s issues. I also help with stress management and social skills. I obtained my master's degree from Grand Canyon University. In addition to my formal education, I have 2 postgraduate certifications in Christian Counseling and Play Therapy.

I invite individuals to engage with me and embark on your journey to joy and wellness. My multidimensional approach helps you live life free of emotional pain and find meaning in all areas of your life. I provide a safe, non-judgmental supportive space to share your concerns, ideas, and dreams. Here you can learn to really live life on the terms you choose.

Struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, feeling stuck, or low self-esteem? I’m here to help. As an experienced therapist, I offer evidence-based, person-centered therapy to guide you toward balance and growth. Whether you’re facing career or relationship challenges, or seeking faith-based therapy, we’ll work together to create a personalized path forward. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma and painful experiences that may be holding them back. I also integrate techniques like breathwork, mindfulness, and actionable steps to enhance healing. Taking the first step is courageous—let’s work together to achieve lasting change and well-being.

The quality of your relationships has left you feeling anxious depressed, frustrated, disconnected, unseen, unheard, guilty, alone… But this isn’t the end of your story. Growth and change are within your capacity. Healing within your power. Hi, I’m Cathe and I believe in our ability to break generational traumas, to heal from wounds inflicted by those who didn’t know how or didn’t have the capacity to show up for us; and to learn how to show up for ourselves. Throughout the years I’ve worked with individual who struggled with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma and provided counseling services to military services member and their families while deployed overseas. I witnessed the significant impact that relationships can have on your overall wellbeing. From my own personal experience; as I worked to unlearn what was no longer serving me and to rediscover my worth, I was presented with how fundamentally transformative this process can be. It’s led me to learn how to live with greater peace, to create and sustain connections and to feel safe and secure in love. It’s not an easy process nor is it a painless journey but it’s worth it. As for my credentials... I earned my Master’s degree at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for the state of Florida and territory of Guam, a board certified Telemental Health Provider and a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional. I am also a Qualified Clinical Supervisor which allows me to provide supervision to registered interns for Mental Health Counseling within the state of Florida. Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me. I look forward to getting the chance to learn about you and hear your story.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida, and I began my social work career in 2011. I bring a grounded, compassionate, and practical approach to the therapy space. My style is warm, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that healing happens when you feel truly seen and supported. I work to create a safe space where we can explore what healing and growth look like for you. I aim to build clarity, confidence, and tools that last beyond the session.

Hi, I'm Melissa, Licensed Therapist and Your Favorite Relationship Expert. I am also the President of the Central Florida Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. Thanks for taking the time to learn about me and my practice where we specialize in relationships for INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES. My own personal life encouraged me to focus on helping clients experience successful relationships. I have over 15 years experience and training with individuals and couples to improve their relationships. I have worked in college counseling and community mental health agencies where relationship issues are a top concern. I also have specialized training in unhealthy and toxic relationships. I can help you work through unpleasant emotions and lead you through steps to navigate your relationships. I am focused on helping individuals and couples feel satisfied and secure in their relationships.

Throughout my practice, I have served school children with ADHD, oppositional defiant, mood disorders, and conduct disorder. I have implemented "an integrated parenting class to teach and equip parents with most appropriate parenting techniques in the community. I worked with domestic violence victims or abusers (batterers interventions). Have been assist couples and families in establish better relationship among family members. I have provided forensic counseling in judicial settings in client sex offenders and trauma related, Post Traumatic Therapy, crisis interventions, suicide preventions, and mood regulation skills.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently providing Telehealth/online therapy for teenagers and adults. Working in mental health for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure of serving a diverse population of individuals seeking assistance to overcome various types of emotional and mental hurdles. I am a dedicated therapist who provides a non-judgmental approach to promote emotional growth and development.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor holding a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Doctorate of Ministry in Biblical Counseling, I am dedicated to supporting my clients through life’s challenges to focus on the possibilities ahead. My belief is that each client’s compilation of struggles requires customized treatment suited to their needs. Regardless of the treatment style, I aim to help every client increase their self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease their symptoms, and increase awareness of their personal strengths.

Trauma Depression, and anxiety can feel like an unbearable weight on your shoulders. Everyone has the capacity for growth and healing and whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present, or prepare for the future, you are capable of creating the life you desire. I am a client centered therapist who utilizes evidenced based, cognitive- behavioral, and mindfulness approaches in order to engage one's body, mind, and spirit for an integrated approach to wellness. Allow me to walk with you through life's obstacles in order to attain better insight and inner peace.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, National Certified Counselor, and Ph.D. candidate in Counseling with a specialization in Family and Couple Therapy, I bring a compassionate, integrative, and culturally attuned approach to therapy. I view mental health as more than the absence of illness—it is a state of well-being where individuals can access their inner resources to manage life’s challenges and thrive. In my PhD-level clinical work, I use Bowen Family Systems Therapy as a diagnostic and relational framework, while integrating trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and attachment-based approaches to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each individual, couple, or family. This multidimensional approach allows me to support healing from childhood trauma, strengthen marital and relational dynamics, and empower families navigating complex life transitions. With a background in Social Sciences and a master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling, I combine academic rigor with practical experience. I have developed strong clinical skills in assessment, multicultural counseling, and individualized intervention planning. Rooted in a strengths-based philosophy, I believe every client has inherent value and potential. My role as a therapist is to help clients tap into that strength with empathy, professionalism, and purpose.

I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional challenges with evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-based perspective. My dream clients are individuals who are ready to work on self-discovery, emotional regulation, and personal growth, whether they are struggling with stress, self-doubt, or relationship issues. I create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where clients can develop practical coping skills, build resilience, and regain a sense of control and confidence in their lives.

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.

Danesha Simmons, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Dream Identity Counseling, located in the State of Florida. Her passion is to serve Healthcare workers, minorities and striving youth and adults of the community as they learn how to break ineffective generational family cycles, remove unhealthy norms and follow their dreams despite their past and current experiences. Danesha's approach for individuals, families, and the community is to promote holistic wellness. She connects the ability to incorporate integrative psycho-educational modalities, practices of mindfulness, and expressive art therapy techniques to help you grow from a life of carrying those heavy feelings inside to effective coping. She works with her client's to help them learn effective skills to get off their routine “go-mode” of life and promote balance and stress release. As a National Certified Counselor, Danesha holds value in collaborating with community partners to promote social change. As a Certified Trauma Professional, she believes that the individual is a part of a greater system and each shares a role for cohesion and support. As a wellness consultant, she takes a deeper view into how each work employee contributes to personal and workplace wellness.

Welcome to Growtherapy !! My name is Yvonne Ricketts. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with the State Board of Florida. I have been providing face to face and virtual psychotherapy to children and adults for over 16 years. I earned a Masters of Science degree in counseling psychology (MS)at Palm Beach Atlantic University. I have also been employed in various community agencies and have additional on the job training and experiences in various modalities. My caring, empathic, and non -judgmental ability has allowed me to serve effectively across cultures and diversities. Ensuring that I treat all my clients as unique individuals, in a collaborative effort while they navigate their therapeutic journey. in an understanding and caring atmosphere.

My name is Yvette and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I received my Masters Degree from Webster University and have been practicing for 9 years. I am a US Air Force Veteran which fuels my passion for working with veterans and active duty military personnel. I specialize in substance abuse and sexual trauma. Throughout my career I have had to opportunity to work various setting, including in-home, acute hospitalization and residential. Within these settings I have the opportunity to address: depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, anger management, parenting and addiction. Currently I am the assistant clinical Director at a juvenile program that specializes in rehabilitating youth with problem sexual behaviors. I assist with managing and developing a team of five therapists to help provide exceptional services for the program. I truly enjoy assisting others and extending my services to individuals that wish to seek therapy in the comfort of their own home.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or others, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me during times of transition, stress, or uncertainty, unsure of how to move forward but knowing something needs to change. I work with kids, teens, and adults who are navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stress, and major life changes. Some clients are looking for relief from the daily weight of worry or sadness; others are trying to make sense of who they are and how to live more fully.

There is one thing I am gifted at and that’s touching the lives of others through therapy. A wise man once said, “Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness; it’s the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing that the light will shine again”. I am an influencer of change and a strong believer that your perspective will take you as far as you can see.

Hi I'm Desiree! I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida . I'm graduate of University of Central Florida where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. After spending a year in the field, I continued my education at Nova Southeastern University, earning a Master’s of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling. I began my counseling journey after realizing that many people are struggling to find their way through the difficulties of life. Whether the difficulties begin with stress, anxiety, depression or a traumatic event, I am dedicated to providing a confidential and collaborative approach to your treatment.

Hello and welcome, I’m Annie Altenor a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-QS) based in Florida. I received my Masters from Barry University and have been practicing for over 8 years. I have experience working with individuals and families helping them navigate life’s most challenging transitions. I have experience working in a wide range of populations in various settings from end-of-life, mental health, Caregivers and Veterans, adults struggling with career stress and burnout. My approach to therapy is holistic, incorporating a range of interventions such as person-centered, solution-focused, motivational therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, all aimed at fostering positive change.

Hello! My name is Melissa Sonthonax and I have seven years of experience in the mental health field (as an LMHC) in the state of FL. While, I have worked with clients of all ages, my primary work is with adults, especially from the 20s and 30s age range. My specialty is working with individuals who specifically struggle with general anxiety, social anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues, life transitions and other everyday issues. I have training in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and solution focused approaches. I understand that each person has their own unique situations, therefore I value giving each person individual plans of action to address their issues. My goal is for you to feel free to express yourself in addition to guiding you in identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. Sometimes it can be hard to reach out for help on addressing personal issues, especially with someone you don't know. However, I am here to meet you where you are and guide you in this process. I provide virtual and in person sessions. I look forward to speaking with you for a free 15 minute phone consultation.

A WORLD VIEW approach to overcoming setbacks. I have international experience in Europe and the US through educational and professional background in psychiatric services that ENHANCES HOPE and RESILIENCE to overcome LIFE SPAN issues relating to mental health, substance addiction and offending behavior difficulties. I believe in a pollination of growth ideas which encompasses diverse cultural ways of problem resolution.

Are you looking for a judgement-free space to discuss your issues? It is not easy to sit in front of a stranger and discuss your personal issues. I take pride in being a therapist that is open to understanding my client's point of view. My goal as a therapist is to facilitate a safe space for children, young adults and people of color to share their adverse experiences. If you are interested in therapy but not sure where to start, schedule a free consultation to discuss the next steps.

Feeling tense and on edge, restless, ruminating all the time, can't get out of bed, constantly worrying and feeling annoyed and irritable? While these feelings can be quite unsettling I understand just how to help you make the next move to feeling better. I am a licensed therapist in the state of Florida with over 11 years of experience working with individuals on a host of different issues from depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, self esteem and many more. I have worked in a many different setting and all those experiences helped to make me the rounded clinician that I am today. Many individuals focus on their physical health while ignoring the most important aspect of their being and that is their mental health. I believe that focusing on one's mental health shows fortitude and strength and I am right there to help you walk through those difficult times. I take clients on the journey until they arrive at their destination by incorporating prayer and the Word along with therapeutic interventions. “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go, they merely determine where you start.” Nido Qubein. This quote sums up what I believe when it comes to working with my clients. Where you are right now does not define you, it is your starting point to get you moving in the right direction. The thought of therapy may sound daunting to you, but I can assure you that this could be one of the best decisions that you ever made. Investing in your mental health is priceless and it is your choice to make. Even an ounce of success is better than no success. Take that leap of faith and start living a changed life. This is my story, What’s yours? Let’s talk.

Hi there, I am Cynthia Harris-Maddox a licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I aim to help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Let's work together!