Registered Interns with Provisional License

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Alaina is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Stetson University. Her educational background also includes an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in psychology with minors in crime law and deviance and sociology from the University of Central Florida. Alaina is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor with an extensive educational background in psychology, sociology, behavioral forensics, and criminal justice. Alaina possesses a passion for helping those in need to achieve their highest potential. While obtaining her Master’s degree, she worked in a residential inpatient facility for children and adolescents struggling with a dual diagnosis of mental health disorder and substance abuse. Alaina has experience with children and adolescents in the counseling setting, school setting, as well as college-aged students and children foster care. Alaina has also worked in community mental health, providing group, individual, family, and couples counseling. In addition, Alaina worked with domestic violence survivors, providing substance abuse and trauma counseling. 

Alaina’s therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, emotionally focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, Imago therapy, play therapy, and experiential approaches. She has experience working with individuals and families with various mental, behavioral, and relational problems. She believes in creating a safe, judgment-free space to form a strong client-therapist relationship. Alaina focuses on providing a safe and trusting relationship where individuals, couples, and families can be heard, find more deeply who they are, and be empowered to make the desired change. Alaina empowers her clients, meeting them where they are and supporting them through their own personal journey of healing. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Julianna is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling with a concentration in marriage and family counseling from the College of William and Mary. Julianna received her bachelor’s degree in family, youth, and community sciences from the University of Florida. Prior to obtaining her master’s degree, Julianna spent several years as a preschool teacher and volunteering in K-12 schools before interning at a child advocacy center where she worked with trauma survivors and their families. While completing her master’s degree, Julianna worked as an education assistant helping children on the autism spectrum adjust to pandemic-related changes, as well as in community mental health settings. Through these experiences, Julianna solidified her passion for helping individuals and families through difficult life transitions, as well as through the struggles of everyday living. 

Everyone has the capacity within them to change; they may just need some help navigating through the challenging process. Julianna’s primary goal in the therapeutic process is to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment where she and the client can work together toward creating positive change. 

Julianna incorporates evidence-based practices such as structural family therapy, emotion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, trust-based relational intervention, and attachment theory. Julianna enjoys utilizing a person-centered approach as well as integrating creative and experiential interventions into the counseling process for the purpose of meeting each individual and family’s specialized needs. 

In her free time, Julianna enjoys spending time with her family, reading, crocheting, and exploring the local amusement parks. 

Julianna is looking forward to accompanying you on a journey toward positive change! 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Lauren is a registered clinical social work intern who has received her master’s degree in Social Work from Southeastern University. She is passionate about partnering with individuals and families in all areas of life. She incorporates a holistic approach, where she considers all areas of a person’s life as they seek growth and healing. Additionally, Lauren loves to create a safe space where clients feel welcomed, heard, and valued. 

Lauren’s experience includes working with children and families in individual and group settings. She is passionate about equipping and empowering all clients with tools they can use to create healthy life patterns and environments in which they can thrive. 

Therapeutic interventions Lauren commonly uses are client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy. 

Olivia is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Olivia has experience working with individuals of all ages as they navigate stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, addiction, trauma, and other challenges.

Olivia strives to provide a trusting, nonjudgmental environment where people can learn more about themselves and the tools they can use to improve their quality of life. Though she primarily uses Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, she believes in the importance of personalizing her approach to meet the needs and goals of each individual. Olivia is also trained to administer the Safe and Sound Protocol, which is a listening therapy that utilizes music to regulate the nervous system.

In her free time, Olivia enjoys reading, playing video games, going to Disney, doing puzzles, and hanging out with her two cats.

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Stephanie has a heart for meeting people where they are by looking at the whole person, including physical, mental, spiritual, social, and emotional well-being. She believes that empathy and safety from a counselor are the cornerstones of successful healing. Her background includes working with human trafficking survivors, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and childhood attachment. She graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Counseling with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health. 

In her free time, Stephanie loves to sing on her church worship team, play ukulele, cook, travel, take pictures, and play board games with friends. 

She looks forward to working with people to find hope and healing! 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Kristina is a registered marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping couples and families build stronger, healthier relationships. Kristina’s clients describe her as a very relatable and engaging therapist. She approaches therapy with empathy and a deep respect for each client’s unique experiences and perspectives. Kristina provides solution-focused therapy, working collaboratively with her clients to identify and achieve their goals. 

Kristina has received specialized training in Gottman therapy and Imago therapy, two evidence-based approaches to couples therapy. Gottman therapy is focused on strengthening the friendship and intimacy in a relationship while also helping partners manage conflict in a healthy way. Imago therapy, on the other hand, helps couples improve their communication and deepen their connection by exploring the unconscious dynamics that drive their behavior. 

In addition to working with couples and families, Kristina has extensive experience working with gifted children and adults. Kristina brings a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with gifted individuals. With years of experience helping gifted clients navigate their unique experiences, Kristina is committed to helping clients thrive by identifying their strengths and supporting them through challenges such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, and existential questions. Her approach is collaborative and client-centered, and she works closely with each client to create a safe, supportive space where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. 

Kristina completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Washington and received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Touro University Worldwide. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and four children and playing board games. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Yvonne meets her clients where they are without judgment to partner with them as they work toward emotional healing and the attainment of their goals. She believes that everyone is doing the best they can with what they have now, from where they are now, and with what they know now. Yvonne uses a person-centered, strengths-based approach to help her clients feel safe and accepted enough to share their stories while also identifying and using the strengths they already possess to solve their problems and grow. She utilizes various evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and psychodynamic therapy to deliver targeted interventions that are personalized to each individual and their specific needs. 

Yvonne has a passion for counseling and enjoys working with a wide variety of clients and issues. Yvonne’s education includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and human development. She is certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC), holds a provisional state license with over 1,500 hours of clinical counseling experience, and soon will be eligible for full licensure. Yvonne is also a certified teacher in the state of Florida. She brings over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, and families in the school setting and beyond, as well as the valuable experience of raising her own two children with her husband of 31 years. 

Yvonne has experienced many challenges along her own journey, both personally and with loved ones, that now inspire her work to help others. These experiences help her relate to many of the issues her clients may face, including childhood trauma, divorce, grief, alcohol and substance abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, and parenting struggles. She understands that life can be tough sometimes! She looks forward to providing you with a compassionate and empathetic listening ear and coming alongside you to help you create the life you deserve. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Bethany is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern.  She earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Louisiana State University.  She also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin.  She has a passion for helping people through life’s challenges and changes and improving overall mental health.  Bethany has experience working with children and families, people with substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders, trauma (including sexual trauma) survivors, grief (including disenfranchised grief), families experiencing abuse and/or are involved in the child welfare system, crisis intervention, court mandated individuals, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.  She is also a Family Mediator. 

Bethany prioritizes building a safe, trusting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship with her clients.  She uses a variety of therapeutic interventions including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Trauma Focused CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago, the Gottman Method, Brainspotting, and Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).  

Bethany is married with 4 children and has an American Bulldog.  She enjoys family time, swilling, reading, fishing, and crocheting.  Bethany feels genuinely honored to work with her clients and be part of their healing stories.  She enjoys empowering and inspiring her patients and witnessing growth.  She looks forward to the opportunity to work with you and your family. 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Eve is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with honors. She is passionate about being a counselor that is caring and compassionate. Her motto is “Kindness First Always.” She has experience working with individuals struggling to adjust to difficult life situations. Eve has a strong background in substance use treatment and recognizes the unique challenges facing those trying to break free from addictions. Eve has raised children with emotional and mental health disorders and is empathetic with youth who face challenges. Therapeutic modalities that Eve utilizes include cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused and strength-based modalities. 

Eve is patient and supportive. Being in session with her is like finally feeling heard and understood. She has a knack for making you feel relaxed and able to shed your burdens. 

In her free time, Eve loves to sing, self-reflect, garden, and create craft works. Eve is highly attuned to being at one with nature. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Magon is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Bellevue University. Magon received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the City University of New York Hunter College. Magon has experience working with individuals ages nine years and older with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, family dynamics, life transitions, domestic violence, phobias, addiction, etc.

Magon is passionate about counseling and enjoys collaborating with clients to assist them in finding solutions to their concerns. She provides a nonjudgmental and safe environment for clients to learn about themselves and the people in their lives. Magon primarily uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Imago therapy, structural family therapy, and solution-focused therapy approaches. However, she changes her therapeutic approach based on each client’s goals and needs.

In her free time, Magon enjoys spending time with her family, playing cozy video games, reading, sewing, and playing board games with her husband. 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Marie is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical counseling from Bellevue University. As an undergraduate, she earned an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in psychology. While obtaining her degree, Marie had the opportunity to work with individuals across the lifespan. She spent several years working with children and adolescents in schools, daycares, offices, and telehealth settings. Her experience working with adults includes helping college-aged individuals and adults in both individual and group settings. Marie spent time volunteering in inpatient and residential mental health facilities, as well as training psychiatric service dogs, and became passionate about mental health and the growing need for adequate mental healthcare services. 

While Marie operates from a person-centered, holistic approach, she tailors treatment to the needs of the individual. She believes that every person is unique. Marie strives to create a safe, inviting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment where she and the client can work together as a team to achieve the client’s therapeutic goals using evidence-based treatments and approaches tailored to the individual’s needs. Therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, emotion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and client-centered therapy. She works with clients of all faiths and offers Christian faith-based counseling at the client’s request. 

Marie enjoys spending time with her Goldendoodle and hanging out at local theme parks. She loves music, theater, and sports. Marie genuinely desires to help people and work with them to create positive change. She looks forward to the opportunity to help you meet your therapeutic goals! 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Joan obtained a BA in Management from the University of Phoenix in 2007.  She began her studies in Mental Health Counseling in 2019, pursuing her MA in Professional Clinical Counseling from UMass Global (formerly Brandman University).  Joan was awarded a Master of Arts degree in Professional Clinical Counseling in August 2023.

Joan is a calm and patient counselor who works well with children, adolescents, and adults.  She has experience and training in working with grief and complicated grief following trauma.

Joan provides caring person-centered therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Imago, and Art therapy.  She also believes each client has unique needs and will individualize the approach best suited for the client.

Joan believes in taking the time with her clients to form a relationship based on trust and care.  She has worked with clients from differing backgrounds.  Joan is passionate about helping others find strength within themselves to create a better life and a more positive outlook.

Joan has an adult daughter.  She is close with her siblings and friends. She enjoys reading, swimming, arts and crafts, and volunteering.  Joan is focused on helping her clients achieve life balance to improve their mental health.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Emily is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University with honors. As an undergraduate, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Emily looks to assist individuals of all ages as they continue on their wellness journey through anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and other challenges. 

In sessions, Emily strives to provide a trusting and nonjudgmental environment where people are able to be themselves, learn more about who they are, embrace themselves, and learn tools they can implement to improve their overall wellness. Emily primarily uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered, acceptance and commitment theory (ACT), and play therapy. However, Emily strives to express the importance of personalizing her therapeutic approach in order to best meet the needs and goals of each individual she sees. 

Emily is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), as well as being certified in Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Emily is working toward her full EMDRIA certification. 

Emily is originally from Chicago and loves hockey. She enjoys attending games and cheering for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chicago Blackhawks. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading, going to theme parks, and spending time with friends, family, and her cats. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Hanna is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Her educational background also includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology with a minor in Psychology from Marshall University. While obtaining her Master’s degree, she worked at The Central Florida’s Hope Center where she gained experience with people from all ages and walks of life. Hanna is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor wanting to make everyone feel genuinely seen and heard. Hanna has experience with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and the elderly within the counseling setting. Hanna has also worked with group settings, premarital, and couples/marriage counseling. In addition, Hanna has specific experience with young adults transitioning into adulthood.
Hanna incorporates evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Holistic approaches. She strongly believes in creating that strong, judgment-free therapeutic bond first, before anything else. Hanna focuses on providing a calming and safe environment where individuals can freely speak, be understood and validated, and empowered to meet their desired goals. Hanna works wholeheartedly to break the stigma of mental health services to anyone seeking their own journey to healing.
In her free time, Hanna is most likely reading, traveling, watching movies, or spending time with her Husband, pup, friends, or family.

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Hanna is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. Her educational background also includes a bachelor’s degree in microbiology with a minor in psychology from Marshall University. While obtaining her master’s degree, she worked at The Central Florida Hope Center where she gained experience with people from all ages and walks of life. Hanna is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor wanting to make everyone feel genuinely seen and heard. Hanna has experience with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and the elderly within the counseling setting. Hanna has also worked with group settings, premarital, and couples/marriage counseling. In addition, Hanna has specific experience with young adults transitioning into adulthood. 

Hanna incorporates evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), play therapy, The Gottman Method, and holistic approaches. She strongly believes in creating that strong, judgment-free therapeutic bond first, before anything else. Hanna focuses on providing a calming and safe environment where individuals can freely speak, be understood and validated, and be empowered to meet their desired goals. Hanna works wholeheartedly to break the stigma of mental health services to anyone seeking their own journey to healing. 

In her free time, Hanna is most likely reading, traveling, watching movies, or spending time with her husband, pup, friends, or family. 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Hanna is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. Her educational background also includes a bachelor’s degree in microbiology with a minor in psychology from Marshall University. While obtaining her master’s degree, she worked at The Central Florida Hope Center where she gained experience with people from all ages and walks of life. Hanna is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor wanting to make everyone feel genuinely seen and heard. Hanna has experience with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and the elderly within the counseling setting. Hanna has also worked with group settings, premarital, and couples/marriage counseling. In addition, Hanna has specific experience with young adults transitioning into adulthood. 

Hanna incorporates evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), play therapy, The Gottman Method, and holistic approaches. She strongly believes in creating that strong, judgment-free therapeutic bond first, before anything else. Hanna focuses on providing a calming and safe environment where individuals can freely speak, be understood and validated, and be empowered to meet their desired goals. Hanna works wholeheartedly to break the stigma of mental health services to anyone seeking their own journey to healing. 

In her free time, Hanna is most likely reading, traveling, watching movies, or spending time with her husband, pup, friends, or family. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Emily is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University with honors. As an undergraduate, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Emily looks to assist individuals of all ages as they continue on their wellness journey through anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and other challenges. 

In sessions, Emily strives to provide a trusting and nonjudgmental environment where people are able to be themselves, learn more about who they are, embrace themselves, and learn tools they can implement to improve their overall wellness. Emily primarily uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered, acceptance and commitment theory (ACT), and play therapy. However, Emily strives to express the importance of personalizing her therapeutic approach in order to best meet the needs and goals of each individual she sees. 

Emily is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), as well as being certified in Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Emily is working toward her full EMDRIA certification. 

Emily is originally from Chicago and loves hockey. She enjoys attending games and cheering for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chicago Blackhawks. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading, going to theme parks, and spending time with friends, family, and her cats. 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Emily is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University with honors. As an undergraduate, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Emily looks to assist individuals of all ages as they continue on their wellness journey through anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and other challenges. 

In sessions, Emily strives to provide a trusting and nonjudgmental environment where people are able to be themselves, learn more about who they are, embrace themselves, and learn tools they can implement to improve their overall wellness. Emily primarily uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered, acceptance and commitment theory (ACT), and play therapy. However, Emily strives to express the importance of personalizing her therapeutic approach in order to best meet the needs and goals of each individual she sees. 

Emily is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), as well as being certified in Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Emily is working toward her full EMDRIA certification. 

Emily is originally from Chicago and loves hockey. She enjoys attending games and cheering for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Chicago Blackhawks. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading, going to theme parks, and spending time with friends, family, and her cats. 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Hanna is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. Her educational background also includes a bachelor’s degree in microbiology with a minor in psychology from Marshall University. While obtaining her master’s degree, she worked at The Central Florida Hope Center where she gained experience with people from all ages and walks of life. Hanna is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor wanting to make everyone feel genuinely seen and heard. Hanna has experience with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and the elderly within the counseling setting. Hanna has also worked with group settings, premarital, and couples/marriage counseling. In addition, Hanna has specific experience with young adults transitioning into adulthood. 

Hanna incorporates evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), play therapy, The Gottman Method, and holistic approaches. She strongly believes in creating that strong, judgment-free therapeutic bond first, before anything else. Hanna focuses on providing a calming and safe environment where individuals can freely speak, be understood and validated, and be empowered to meet their desired goals. Hanna works wholeheartedly to break the stigma of mental health services to anyone seeking their own journey to healing. 

In her free time, Hanna is most likely reading, traveling, watching movies, or spending time with her husband, pup, friends, or family. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Clinical Director + Qualified Supervisor + Consultant

Hanna is a registered mental health counselor intern who received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. Her educational background also includes a bachelor’s degree in microbiology with a minor in psychology from Marshall University. While obtaining her master’s degree, she worked at The Central Florida Hope Center where she gained experience with people from all ages and walks of life. Hanna is a dedicated and enthusiastic counselor wanting to make everyone feel genuinely seen and heard. Hanna has experience with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and the elderly within the counseling setting. Hanna has also worked with group settings, premarital, and couples/marriage counseling. In addition, Hanna has specific experience with young adults transitioning into adulthood. 

Hanna incorporates evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), play therapy, The Gottman Method, and holistic approaches. She strongly believes in creating that strong, judgment-free therapeutic bond first, before anything else. Hanna focuses on providing a calming and safe environment where individuals can freely speak, be understood and validated, and be empowered to meet their desired goals. Hanna works wholeheartedly to break the stigma of mental health services to anyone seeking their own journey to healing. 

In her free time, Hanna is most likely reading, traveling, watching movies, or spending time with her husband, pup, friends, or family. 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

KaSandra is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who earned her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Southeastern University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Liberty University. Before pursuing her Master’s degree, KaSandra dedicated 16 years to the education system, working closely with children and their families. Her commitment to helping others extends beyond her professional life, as she has volunteered at a local equine rescue and is an avid animal lover.

KaSandra is passionate about supporting trauma survivors, couples, and individuals navigating various life challenges. She has extensive experience working with trauma survivors, particularly children in the foster care system. KaSandra is skilled in utilizing Play Therapy as a tool for helping children express and process their emotions. Her expertise also extends to working with adults and couples, guiding them through healing and growth in a compassionate and supportive environment.

Her therapeutic approach is client-centered, meeting individuals where they are and guiding them through their unique journeys. KaSandra utilizes a range of therapeutic models, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Play Therapy. She is also trained in Imago Therapy. KaSandra is dedicated to creating a safe, empathetic space where clients feel heard, accepted, and valued.

KaSandra and her husband are the proud parents of two daughters and one son and grandparents to a beautiful little girl. She enjoys spending time with her family, including her Great Dane, horse, and donkey, as well as reading, traveling, camping, fishing, and playing games in her spare time.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Rae is an Orlando native currently holding a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bellevue University in Nebraska. Rae is actively pursuing a doctorate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a focus on Couples and relationship-based therapies and is working towards her certification for Sex Therapy. She has evolved and grown with FLCC over the last year as a Master’s level student Intern working with a variety of clients from various backgrounds, cultures and histories. She has experience working with young children to older adults for individual services, couples and families. Everyone brings their own stories to the table where Rae meets them with empathy, compassion and unyielding support. She has experience in crisis intervention counseling and keeping a cool demeanor under pressure.

She will adapt several therapeutic approaches to tailor to the needs of the individual. Adaptable therapy styles include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Center Rogerian, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Sex Therapy, IMAGO Therapy, Gottman Method, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Music Therapy and Experiential approaches. Rae prides herself in building a strong rapport with her clients, ensuring they feel safe, comfortable and supported to talk through life’s challenges. Nothing is beyond repair, as long as you are willing to work and keep moving forward.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Lydia graduated with her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and is currently working on licensure as a registered mental health counseling intern.

Lydia’s previous experience includes working with both individuals and children who struggle with behavioral, intellectual, and cognitive disabilities as well as trauma, anxiety, and depression. In addition, she has supported couples and families in strengthening both relational, and communication skills as well as offering support for increased awareness about emotional regulation skills.

Lydia has a tremendous passion for individuals,  young adults, and children!  She believes that holistic healing is integral for growth and she values techniques such as person-centered techniques, mindfulness-based therapy,  cognitive behavioral therapy, and talk-therapy. She also utilizes techniques from expressive art and play therapies! She is inspired by these interventions because they focus on healing in a manner that embraces the present, while also  creating  a healthy pathway towards the future. She has worked with individual, children and families  with various backgrounds including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief,  autism,  expressive language disorder, ADHD, ,  etc.  Lydia’s  passion is to equip others to learn to heal,  grow, and thrive throughout their life’s journey and she wants to help you too! 

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Tonya Castleberry is a Registered Intern Marriage and Family Therapist at Family Life Counseling Center and an Adjunct Professor. With a strong background in psychology and 6 years’ experience in mental health, Tonya combines her expertise in mental health with a passion for education and research.

Tonya’s academic journey began with an undergraduate degree in psychology, where she developed a keen interest in human factors and usability research. She has presented her work at notable conferences, including the Office for Undergraduate Research at the University of South Florida (USF) with her presentation on the “Usability of Social Sharing” in 2013 and the Human Factors and Applied Psychology Conference at Riddle Aeronautical University, where she presented on “Testing the Usability of a Social Sharing Platform.”

Tonya holds two master’s degrees—one in General Psychology and another in Marriage and Family Therapy. Tonya is trained in Brain Spotting. Her dedication to the field is further demonstrated by her active engagement in research, public speaking, and curriculum development.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Tonya enjoys a variety of hobbies including writing, art, playing the piano, and singing. Her passion for learning and teaching is evident in her work, whether she’s conducting research or creating innovative training programs.

Outside of her professional life, Tonya cherishes spending time with her children, engaging in meaningful family activities. Her commitment to both her family and her career exemplifies her dedication to fostering growth and connection in all aspects of her life.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Brittaney obtained her B.S. in Psychology through Liberty University and her Masters Social Work from Florida State University. Brittaney has worked with individuals and families from all walks of life helping them to reach their goals.

She believes people absolutely can have an abundant life full of joy and peace! She is honored to be a part of your journey to abundant life. The bravest thing a person can do is to seek help from others. We all need help at times, life is full of trauma, stress, and obstacles. It is her goal to collaborate with clients making sure to prioritize their dignity and strengths to help them accomplish their goals.

You can find healing physically, spiritually, and emotionally. You do not have to live overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck. She wants you to understand your story, your goals, and help you find the skills that will benefit you most.

She works with clients adapting to their individual needs utilizing a strengths-based approach and treating clients as the experts on themselves. Empathetic listening and compassion are at the forefront of every interaction. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy in sessions.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Jeffrey is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern with a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University in 2018. Jeffrey is a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator. But long before having received this degree, he has been helping couples navigate their struggles by facilitating marriage courses at his local church. He is a marriage conference host and speaker having conducted conferences. Before completing his latest endeavor, he spent over 25 years as a Tax and Accounting professional having held the Certified Public Accountant distinction since 2009. He holds a Master of Taxation from Georgia State University and Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Kennesaw State University. His earnest belief is that his past career has served to shape his current calling.

Jeffrey is a passionate proponent of marriage and has extensive training with couples and families helping them to navigate and alleviate their struggles. Jeffrey is especially equipped in helping couples discover their “blind spots” which are hindering their growth and progress. Jeffrey approaches couples and families from a holistic perspective allowing them to see how their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions are affecting the entire family system.

Jeffrey is also an advocate for men’s mental health issues. Jeffrey recognizes, as men, we are taught to be independent, self-made, and self-reliant. Jeffrey believes this viewpoint has perpetuated isolation, loneliness, and confusion for men. Jeffrey acknowledges that there has been a tear in the soul of men and provides the tools for the “Healing of the Masculine Soul”.

Jeffrey and his wife, Susan, have been married for 30 plus years and have four children and seven grandchildren. Jeffrey and Susan are unique in that their marriage is blended with children from a prior relationship. Thus, Jeffrey understands the complexity and challenges blended families can present.

Clinical Director–Tavares/Lake County Schools 

Marie is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Bellevue University. As an undergrad, she earned an Associate’s degree and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. While obtaining her degree, Marie had the opportunity to work with individuals across the lifespan. She spent several years working with children and adolescents in schools, daycares, office, and telehealth settings. Her experience in working with adults includes helping college-aged individuals and adults in both individual and group settings. Marie spent time volunteering in inpatient and residential mental health facilities, as well as training psychiatric service dogs, and became passionate about mental health and the growing need for adequate mental healthcare services.

While Marie operates from a person-centered, holistic approach, she tailors treatment to the needs of the individual. She believes that every person is unique. Marie strives to create a safe, inviting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment where she and the client can work together as a team to achieve the client’s therapeutic goals using evidence-based treatments and approaches tailored to the individual’s needs. Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Client-Centered therapy. She works with clients of all faiths and offers Christian faith-based counseling at client’s request.

Marie enjoys spending time with her goldendoodle and hanging out at local theme parks. She loves music, theater, and sports. Marie genuinely desires to help people and work with them on creating positive change. She looks forward to the opportunity to help you meet your therapeutic goals!