Therapists in Virginia Park, Tampa, FL

I remember going through the motions of living life how I thought others wanted me to live. I was always putting others first and myself second, and although I gained joy from some of these experiences, knowing that I was not true to myself and who I wanted to be made me feel lazy and unfulfilled. While I was working on my Masters, the teachings of martial arts and eastern philosophy coincided with my academic lessons in a way that gave me perspective on how I could better myself, my mood, and the lives of others. I have felt a great improvement on my outlook and my ability to assist others in battling their own crossroads.

My intention for you is to have a better sense of self by identifying your strengths, letting go of unhelpful thinking or behaviors holding you back, and enhancing personal empowerment. The goal is to thrive not just survive. I believe each client is unique and deserves evidence based therapeutic approaches to match. The tools/techniques given are able to be applied in between visits which continue to build on your success. Let's get you unstuck to reclaim your life!

Congratulations on taking the first steps to a healthier you. My name is Wendy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 24 years of experience. I believe the relationship with a client should be one that is filled with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I utilize methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy styles along with motivational interviewing. This approach allows for you to be empowered to solve your own problems using your own abilities. This is a goal oriented approach to problem solving that often allows you to see the change you are looking for sooner.

Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed? Do you feel disconnected from your life and those around you? Do you find it challenging to manage difficult emotions or experiences? Know that change is possible, and if you are ready for change, know that I am here to help you. I approach each session from a place of warmth and appreciation for your lived experience, and I encourage a collaborative therapeutic relationship as I support you in navigating the course of therapy. I integrate techniques from evidence-based treatments to help you experience symptom reduction, improve your overall well-being, and move toward flourishing.

Life is full of experiences and memories that challenge our confidence and obstruct our pursuit of happiness, excellence, and contentment. The modern world programs us to protect and guard ourselves, and those we love, by ignoring or discounting our complex emotions and traumatic memories – emotions and memories that negatively affect our enormous potential.

As a therapist I take great pride in honoring my clients' dignity and self-determination. I see therapy as a collaborative effort where I support you and teach you the skills needed to be successful in your goals toward improved mental health and overall well-being. I offer a warm, welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and secure in discussing your challenges whether it be related to self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression.

I strive to deliver compassionate counseling with sincere dedication to service, and to do so as efficiently as possible in order to help alleviate stress and anxiety, and encourage emotional independence. My practice is rooted in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). REBT, the pioneering form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is a goal-oriented therapeutic approach that helps people to challenge and replace self-defeating beliefs with healthier alternatives. REBT is generally shorter-term, solution-focused, and present-centered which makes it an amazing choice for those who not only wish to FEEL better, but to GET better.

We all have times in our lives when pressures, responsibilities, and even memories can seem too much. This can impact our relationships, physical health, employment, and overall well-being. These issues can cause us to feel as though we are merely surviving life, rather than living it. I would welcome the opportunity to help you change that.

Life can come with many tests, challenges, and tribulations. Making the decision to take action and seek change can be difficult, but it can also be the start of a new, more rewarding journey in life. In our work together, my primary goal is to provide a positive, authentic, and collaborative experience that allows for transformation, growth, and an enhanced sense of self. Creating a safe space where clients feel heard, accepted and understood is my utmost priority. I use a variety of interventions and tailor treatment based on the goals and expectations of the client.

Does your High Functioning Anxiety make you worry all the time, overthink and make it hard to say no to others? On the outside, maybe you appear to have it all together, you're successful, ambitious and a problem solver. But on the inside, it's a very different story because you struggle with overthinking, self doubt and a mind that can't stop overanalyzing!

Narcissistic abuse often leaves you feeling anxious, depressed, traumatized, and alone. Are you unsure how to move forward after a toxic relationship? Did you grow up with a narcissistic mother or father? The effects of narcissistic abuse can lead to long term effects of isolation, panic attacks, self-blame, or loss of identity. But you are ready to make a change. If you have been struggling to set healthy boundaries, resolve conflict, and maintain a sense of self, then this is the place for you. If you have been struggling to survive in your relationships because of betrayal, broken trust, resentment, or disappointment I can help!

Currently accepting new clients for teletherapy- Your life can and should be boundless. Let's work together to take it up a few notches. Relief from depression, anxiety, and other emotional struggles is possible. Your relationships can be fun and exciting again. Learn how to get the most out of your life! Let's work together to develop a plan best suited to meet your personal and spiritual needs and goals. I have training and experience in the areas of Christian counseling, trauma, and relationships. It's your life, let me help you get the most out of it!

There may be times when you feel like it is challenging to fit in with others. You may feel like a triangle living in a square world. Eventually, this masking to fit in can leave us feeling down, burnt out, anxious, and insecure to show others who we are. You may be an empathetic person who finds it difficult to express your own emotions or feel affected easily by others. My approach to our sessions is brought with warm collaboration, support for your needs, and encouragement to become an independent thinker so that you can progress towards a more authentic life.

In my practice I value the importance of a mind-body connection and utilize mindfulness as needed in our sessions. My life’s journey has taught me to appreciate each individual, and incorporate a humanistic approach to tailor to your needs. It is important for me to meet you where you are in the therapeutic process; you are not alone.

Recovery is not a linear path and it can be difficult to ask for help. Reaching out for support is a great step to take. Counselors can help guide you towards your goals and I would be honored to help you along your journey. I focus on working with individuals with eating disorders, self-esteem concerns, and those struggling with interpersonal relationships. I enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ community, college aged students, and young adults adjusting to life.

I have been described by colleagues is a champion for the holistic well-being of my clients. I am an Operations Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran, serving as a Healthcare Specialist/Combat Medic and Medical Section Sergeant. In addition to personal experience and passion, I have further developed expertise in the treatment of trauma and First Responders and Veterans as a Certified Psychological First Aid Provider by the National Center for Traumatic Stress. I work with a wide range of conditions with individuals 18 years of age and older.

Book with me now by clicking on my website! As your therapist, I aim to address the root cause of your psychological symptoms and to encourage healing, self-awareness, resilience, and self-empowerment. My approach is holistic, eclectic, individualized, and collaborative. I have previously provided psychotherapeutic care in an inpatient psychiatric setting, the VA hospital, and have worked as a medical social worker in an ICU during the pandemic. I have also provided psychological services in public schools, skilled nursing facilities, and both the juvenile justice and adoption systems.

My years working as an Elementary School Counselor and also as a Mental Health Counselor in various settings has provided me with the experience of working with individuals in different stages in their lives while providing support and guidance in many challenging situations. I realize that everyone's journey is different therefore I enjoy working together to create a unique plan to overcome any challenges to help move in a new direction in one's life. I look forward to meeting new people and helping them make a difference in their own life and helping them become a stronger version of themselves by using evidence based practices.

I focus on topics related to relationships, sexuality, emotions, communication, and changing behaviors. I support clients who want to understand themselves and why they do the things they do, strengthen their relationships, communicate better, manage their emotions, create or break habits, and/or have more pleasure in their sex life. From communication dynamics to exploring kink/BDSM, I use a conversational style and offer resources based on your goals. Whether your goals are relational or personal, I am here to support you!