I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with substance addiction, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, OCD and related issues, parenting issues, educational issues, motivation, self-esteem, and self-confidence. I take an integrative, strength-based approach in helping adolescents and adults overcome difficult life events or psychological conditions and develop resilience. People with resilience cope with stress in a healthy way. The great news is resilience can be learned and strengthened with different strategies. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior, as well as Adlerian Therapy, which is a brief, psychoeducational approach that is both humanistic and goal oriented, to help clients achieve wellness. I have a Masters in Counseling and a PhD in Counselor Education. I am a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor. In addition to helping people, I instruct and supervise Masters level counselor trainees at a local university and assist them in becoming highly competent and compassionate therapists. Additionally, I have been active in physical fitness and wellness education for more than 30 years. I am a firm believer in the reciprocal and dynamic effects of the mind and body: your body is affected by the way you think, feel, and behave. When you are stressed, anxious, or upset, your body reacts physically. When you are physically or emotionally stressed, your body releases stress hormones that can affect all body systems and organs. For example, depression has the potential to decrease the natural ability of the body to heal. The use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation encourage relaxation, improve coping skills, reduce tension and pain, and may decrease the need for medication. Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, once wrote, “The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well.” My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You have my unwavering support throughout your journey towards optimum mental health and increased overall well-being.