Clinical Director/Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I found my passion in helping others when I learned the hard truth and struggles about my grandmother. Before I was born, my grandmother struggled with depression and attempted to take her life twice. Had she completed either time, I would have missed out on knowing one of the most amazing women in my life. She was so incredibly strong and did for others every chance she got. It blew my mind to be told what had gone on inside this unbelievable driving force in my life. I decided then I needed to help those who have lost hope find it again.

I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice along with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Texas A&M- Commerce. I have 10 years of experience treating eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, self harm, suicidal ideations and general mood disorders with all populations.

Specialty:

My passion is working with those with eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, difficult life transitions and the LGBTQ community. In my experience, people with these struggles are extremely intelligent and they just want more for themselves. I get the honor of watching people recover while healing all aspects that impact their wellbeing and establish a new sense of self. Guiding patients to make healthier decisions for themselves so they can learn to love the body they are in which will change their lives to live the life they have dreamed of and more. The end goal is about self-acceptance, body acceptance, self-love and self compassion to better themselves physically, mentally and emotionally.

Therapeutic Approach:

My approach to any session or patient is to meet them where they are at today. Identify their needs and figure out together what support they might need and how I can help. So many struggles come in many different manifestations that just need someone to shine the light on the darkness and help someone come out on the other side. My main goal in therapy is to help develop healthy coping skills, build up one’s self image and esteem, identify the root of the emotions and allow every patient to ride the waves of their feelings while being there as a constant support. I want to help change the legacies people are leaving behind for generations to come.

Personal Note:

I enjoy all things University of Florida related, GO GATORS I pass my time with continuing to build a beautiful connection with all three of my children and spoiling my fur babies as well. Home is where the heart is and mine resides with those that matter to me most. I have witnessed and heard some of the worst things in life so my main goal or mission in life is to leave this world a little better than I have seen it come or even was given. I share my experience in hopes to make an impact on those around me.

Fran is licensed in South Carolina as a Telehealth Provider. https://llr.sc.gov/TeleHealth/Counselor.html

Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I started college with the intention of majoring in nursing, but once I took my first psychology class, I knew I had to switch! Since then I have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce.  

Specialty:

My passion is working with those in active addiction, early sobriety, and long-term recovery. I also work closely with couples who are navigating a partner’s addiction, struggles in communication and conflicts, betrayal, and any other relationship issue. I also have experience in working with individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and attachment disorders. 

Therapeutic approach:

I utilize attachment-based therapy to identify any thoughts, feelings, or behaviors learned early on in life that may be contributing to issues today. With that lens, I also utilize many Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT) techniques to empower my clients to validate their own experiences and find balance with healthy coping skills and emotional responses. We will make sure you have the skills needed to endure problems while we dig deeper to understand the root of the issues and make long-term changes. You deserve a life you don’t need an escape from! 

Personal note:

I enjoy passing the time by reading the latest fantasy novel, browsing a farmer’s market, and traveling to new states with my husband. I hope to one day own a cozy cabin in the mountains where I can peacefully drink hot tea by the fireplace and watch the snowfall. 

Supervisor: Donald Cook, LPC-S, LCDC

Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I come from a background deeply rooted in a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Growing up, I was always drawn to understanding the complexities of human behavior and how people can heal and grow through support and connection. This curiosity led me to pursue a career in counseling.

I earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Brandman University, and then earned my Masters in Counseling from West Texas A&M University. My journey has shaped my approach to therapy, making it both compassionate and grounded in real-world experience.

Specialty:

My primary specialty is in addiction and substance use disorders, where I help individuals break free from the grip of addiction and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I also have a strong interest in working with women, particularly in addressing issues unique to women’s mental and emotional health. Additionally, I work with clients struggling with relationship issues, ADHD, and other challenges that impact day-to-day functioning. My approach is always compassionate, and I strive to create a safe space for individuals to explore their struggles and work toward healing.

Therapeutic Approach:

As a person-centered therapist, I believe in the inherent potential for growth and change in every individual. I work collaboratively with clients to create a non-judgmental, empathetic environment where they feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual’s needs, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, while always honoring the unique experiences and strengths of each person. My goal is to help clients gain insight, develop coping strategies, and build resilience in a way that feels authentic to them.

Personal Note:

Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé and children, traveling, trying new restaurants, reading, writing stories, tending to my houseplants, playing D&D, and playing video games, and am committed to lifelong learning. I believe in the importance of a balanced life and find that this perspective enriches my work with clients. My approach is rooted in respect, compassion, and understanding, and I truly believe that each step of the healing process, no matter how small, is a victory. I’m honored to be part of your journey toward personal growth, self-empowerment, and lasting change.

Supervisor: Fran DeArman, MS, LPC, C-PD, CYMHS

Student Intern NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

As a child of immigrants, I grew up with the idea of mental health being dismissed. It wasn’t until I started therapy as a teenager that I finally felt like someone “got it”, and now I am ready to pay it forward. I am passionate about collaboration and helping people learn about themselves. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in biology with a focus on pre-health professions, but it was my coursework in psychology and religious studies that drove my passion. I pivoted away from medicine and into counseling, and am in the final year of my Master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

Specialty:

As a student, I am developing my counseling identity, and I am passionate about learning from wherever I can. My areas of focus include: members of the LGBTQIA+ community, life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, religious deconstruction, and first and second generation Americans. I work with teens and adults, with a focus on the Gen Z experience. I am passionate about working with a multicultural lens and supporting racial, religious, and gender/sexual minorities. I take an intersectional approach with an understanding of the social systems that impact our mental health.

Therapeutic approach:

My approach to therapy centers meeting you where you are. I aim to balance encouragement and accountability in a space that makes you feel seen and understood. I take an integrative approach, using primarily Adlerian therapy and Internal Family Systems. I view people holistically and believe therapy is not one size fits all. Every part of you is important to me and we will work together to tackle the challenges you are facing. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where your identity is not only valid, but valued. Seeking therapy is a courageous act, and I feel honored to be a part of your journey.

Personal note:

I believe laughter and joy are some of the best medicines, so you’ll often see me bringing humor into sessions when appropriate. I am originally from Austin, the live music capital of the world, so I go to concerts and shows as often as I can. I am also a cozy girl at heart, and at the end of a long day I enjoy relaxing and spending time with my partner and our gray tabby named Finn.

Supervisor: Fran DeArman, MS, LPC, C_PD, CYMHS

Student Intern - BOOK NOW FOR END OF AUGUST OPENINGS

My Origins:
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to understanding people, not just what they do, but why they do it. My own lived experiences, combined with moments of reflection and resilience, sparked my interest in becoming a counselor. After stumbling across a book about a boy with an eating disorder, I found myself captivated by the intricate relationship between the brain, body, and emotions, and how deeply our internal and external experiences shape our lives. That moment ignited something in me. It wasn’t just curiosity, it was purpose. Now, as a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at West Coast University in Dallas, I’m fully immersed in a path that has continuously confirmed itself through both academic growth and lived experience.

Specialty:
As I near the start of my practicum and internship, I recognize that I am still shaping my identity as a clinician. Upon graduating with my undergraduate degree, I was blessed to find work at an eating disorder treatment facility, a place where my academic passion came to life. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of populations, expanding my perspective and deepening my empathy. I’ve found myself particularly drawn to work involving eating disorders, anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma in adolescents and young adults. Group therapy, psychoeducation, and mindfulness-based approaches like ACT have become integral parts of my developing clinical identity. I’m passionate about helping others develop emotional regulation, self-compassion, and body acceptance. I can’t wait to continue working with even more diverse individuals and communities as I move into my practicum and beyond.

Therapeutic Approach:
I practice from a person-centered, trauma-informed lens that emphasizes collaboration, trust, and emotional safety. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens when people feel seen and supported. I work to integrate both the science and soul of therapy, acknowledging the biopsychosocial factors that influence our lives, while also honoring the personal narratives that shape who we are. I value authenticity, transparency, and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship, and I see the process of healing as one rooted in curiosity and courage.

Personal Note:
Outside of the therapy room, I’m someone who values meaningful conversations, soulful journaling, and travel that nourishes the spirit, as well as reconnecting with myself through stillness or creativity. I’m intentional with my growth, committed to the process, and grateful for every step that has led me here. Whether I’m laughing with loved ones, dancing alone, or planning my next adventure, I strive to live with honesty and heart.

Supervisor: Fran DeArman, MS, LPC, C-PD, CYMHS

Student Intern - BOOK NOW FOR END OF AUGUST OPENINGS

My Origins: 

From a young age, I knew I was meant to be in a helping profession. I’m originally from Niceville, Florida, but growing up in a military family meant frequent moves, which allowed me to meet people from all walks of life and experience a variety of cultures. Through this exposure, I noticed a universal truth—mental health challenges exist everywhere, and the need for compassionate, accessible support is present in every corner of the world. 

This realization guided me to pursue a career in mental health. I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology from Auburn University, with minors in Counseling and Italian Studies, and I am currently continuing my journey by pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Auburn as well. My path has been shaped by a strong desire to understand people deeply and help them navigate the challenges that may be holding them back. 

Specialty: 

While I am still exploring where my passion and expertise will ultimately focus, I am drawn to working with individuals experiencing eating disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I have experience supporting children, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, survivors of sexual violence, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community—especially men navigating eating disorder recovery. 

I strive to create a therapeutic environment where people feel safe, seen, and empowered. My goal is to walk beside each client on their journey and help them build a life rooted in authenticity, acceptance, and resilience. 

Therapeutic Approach: 

My therapeutic style integrates a range of evidence-based approaches, always tailored to meet each client where they are. I believe that every individual has the capacity for growth, and therapy should be a space where healing is nurtured through connection, trust, and collaboration. I am committed to fostering a supportive, nonjudgmental environment that encourages exploration and emotional safety, while helping clients build meaningful coping strategies and insight into their emotional world. 

Personal Note: 

When I’m not in session or studying, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé and our dog (Weasel), as well as my friends and my family. I love reading, painting, traveling to new places, and cheering on Auburn athletics—War Eagle! My goal in both my personal and professional life is to lead with compassion, curiosity, and an open heart. I hope to leave every person and place better than I found them.