English
Spanish
Our Vision
Since our founding in 2011, our vision has been to help clients receive sustainable relief and freedom by treating the symptoms and root causes utilizing integrated, whole-person care.
Being Healthy Requires Alignment of All Aspects of Your Life
At Total Health Guidance, we believe that to be truly healthy you need to not only be physically well, but also have a healthy emotional life, satisfying relationships, spiritual health and a solid financial foundation. Our integrated and holistic healthcare approach brings together professionals from various disciplines, including counseling, massage, nutrition counseling, and financial guidance to provide a truly unique and complete approach to your overall health. Whether you need one of our services or several, everyone at Total Health is focused on your overall well-being.
Our Commitment
Helping people achieve sustainable relief and freedom since 2008
We provide an array of counseling options to meet your unique needs. Our whole-person perspective looks at your emotional health as well as your physical, relational, financial and nutritional needs. This well-rounded approach allows us to see other areas of your life that may be impacting your mental health. Our passionate counselors work with you to bring balance where needed. We are a solution-focused team that supports you on your journey toward sustainable long-term health.
Our Team
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Counseling / Coaching, Nutrition, and Consumer Credit Counselor
EDUCATION
John has a degree in Theology from Cairn University, a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Liberty University, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, and his Doctorate in Naturopathic Psychology. John also has over 150 continuing education credits in the area of health and nutrition.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Christian Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutrition Coach (by FACCT), Consumer Credit Counselor, and a professional Life & Business Coach. John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University’s School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master’s Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master’s Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He started a nutrition business in 2005 and has been the Wellness Coordinator for several Central Florida doctors over the past 10 years. His diverse background provides him with insight as a counselor and life coach.
PERSONAL
John was born & raised in New Jersey, but has lived in Orlando since 1994. He is the father of 3 children (two in college and one in high school). John enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, cooking, and working out.
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Catherine Caba, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families
(A.R.T. Practitioner, E.F.T. Practitioner, CBT, Addiction & Substance Abuse)
(Habla Español)
Catherine Caba, LMHC – Clinical Director
Catherine, a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor, is deeply committed to her client's well-being. Specializing in addiction, low self-esteem issues, traumas, fears, anxiety, and depression, she strives to create an awareness of personal and inner power in others, guiding them toward a life filled with possibilities. As the Clinical Director for Total Health Guidance, Catherine's dedication to her clients is unwavering.
EDUCATION
Catherine has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from La Universidad del Este and a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is trained in Emotional Freedom Techniques, which decrease emotional responses to traumas, abuse, anxiety, and depression. She is also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Catherine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida
EXPERIENCE
Catherine's professional journey began with a focus on helping others heal from addictions. Her experience includes working in The Salvation Army residential program for men, where she aided in their recovery and helped them reconnect with their spirituality. Catherine's expertise extends to medication-assisted treatment facilities, further solidifying her ability to provide comprehensive counseling services.
PERSONAL
Catherine was born and raised in New York until her parents moved to Puerto Rico at the age of ten. She married in 1981 and returned to the United States. She has lived in Orlando since 1994 and is the mother of two children.
Jessica Santos Valenzuela, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, Children & Teens, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
Jessica Santos Valenzuela, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, Children & Teens, Addiction & Substance Abuse.
(Habla Español)
Education
Jessica has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez and a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Carlos Albizu University. She has also taken courses and training in Telehealth for Mental Health Professionals and Depression and Suicidal tendencies from the Beck Institute.
Credentials
Jessica is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the State of Florida (IMH 19026).
Experience
Jessica started her professional career helping others in the law setting. She worked for a non-profit organization that provided services for Domestic Abuse victims and their families. She spent 14 years in private practice as an Attorney specializing in Civil and Family cases, where she was exposed to the complexity of family dynamics. After getting her Master’s Degree, Jessica started working in the clinical setting with children, adolescents, and adults, helping them with their behavioral and emotional wellbeing. Jessica also acquired administrative skills in the clinical setting. For her internship, she was able to apply her skills working with older people, as well as domestic violence victims and their families. Jessica has always been involved in helping others in different settings, including church ministries and other faith-based organizations.
Personal
Jessica was born and raised in Puerto Rico and has lived in Orlando since 2017. She enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She also enjoys learning new ways to transform the therapeutic experience and help her clients develop the best version of themselves.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Catherine Caba, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families
(A.R.T. Practitioner, E.F.T. Practitioner, CBT, Addiction & Substance Abuse)
(Habla Español)
Catherine Caba, LMHC – Clinical Director
Catherine, a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor, is deeply committed to her client's well-being. Specializing in addiction, low self-esteem issues, traumas, fears, anxiety, and depression, she strives to create an awareness of personal and inner power in others, guiding them toward a life filled with possibilities. As the Clinical Director for Total Health Guidance, Catherine's dedication to her clients is unwavering.
EDUCATION
Catherine has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from La Universidad del Este and a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is trained in Emotional Freedom Techniques, which decrease emotional responses to traumas, abuse, anxiety, and depression. She is also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Catherine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida
EXPERIENCE
Catherine's professional journey began with a focus on helping others heal from addictions. Her experience includes working in The Salvation Army residential program for men, where she aided in their recovery and helped them reconnect with their spirituality. Catherine's expertise extends to medication-assisted treatment facilities, further solidifying her ability to provide comprehensive counseling services.
PERSONAL
Catherine was born and raised in New York until her parents moved to Puerto Rico at the age of ten. She married in 1981 and returned to the United States. She has lived in Orlando since 1994 and is the mother of two children.
Jeannette Ureana, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, Children & Teens, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
Jeannette Urena LMHC
Individual Counseling, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, & Families, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
EDUCATION
Jeannette has a degree in Psychology from Mount Holyoke College, and a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Degree from Argosy University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Jeannette is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jeannette started her life passion of helping others when she was very young through many experiences helping others in her personal life with resolving conflicts and life challenges. While in college completing her bachelor’s degree she fell in love with Psychology and never turned back from this field; later completing Master’s Degree in clinical mental health counseling and ending up with state licensure. Her experiences in helping others in the counseling field date back to 1999 where she worked with individuals struggling with substance use (adolescents and adults). She worked exclusively with this population from 1999 until 2011. From 2011 until 2018 she experienced working with individuals, groups, couples and families who at times had struggles with substance use and/or other mental health challenges (depression, generalized anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, relationship conflicts and others). During these years professional experiences varied in settings such as the following: inpatient/outpatient settings, in home settings and school-based settings. From 2018 until end of May 2021 she worked in a Central Florida Group Practice engaging on outpatient individual counseling/therapy (mental health and/or substance use) and at times provided supportive/therapeutic counseling to families and couples.
The combination of earlier professional experiences prior to attaining a Master’s Degree and state licensure have made Jeannette a well-rounded counselor. However, the core of her counseling remains maintaining a person-centered approach which for her means the following: “Meeting a client where they are, upholding empathy (putting herself in someone else’s shoes) and remaining non-judgmental”. Aside from person centered approach to counseling, she has learned to incorporate cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches. Another important philosophy that Jeannette brings to her counseling approach is that she and the person she is helping work in a “collaborative approach” meaning that the person is the expert of their life and that with the assistance/help of Jeannette’s professional and personal experiences work can be done towards the goals a person wants to achieve to attain wellness for their present and future lives.
PERSONAL
Jeannette was born & raised in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, however, has lived in Central Florida area since 2006. She is the mother of 3 children (one in college and two in high school) and has been married to her soulmate for over twenty years. Jeannette enjoys spending time with family, outdoor related activities/exercises, traveling and in last few years learning about what can help her improve with self-care and wellness.
Ramya Balapa, LMHC
.Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Arthur Gately, Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Adolescents,Adults, Teens, Couples & Families
EXPERIENCE
Artie began his counseling career in September 2017 when he entered the Pepperdine University’s Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy program. Prior to this he had been working for a technology company in Southern California as a sales representative. After several years of doing this work he found the job unfulfilling and wanted to enter into a profession where he could use his skills to help people. After completing one year of his master’s degree in California, he decided to transfer to Rollins College so he could complete his degree near his girlfriend. During his time in the Rollins College Master’s program he has had experience interning at Aspire Health, working at the Men’s Residential Recovery program. He also spent time interning at The Cameron Group, which is a care management company working with the elderly population. Artie has a passion working with men who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitional issues.
PERSONAL
Artie grew up and spent the first eighteen years of his life in a town called Cumberland, Rhode Island. At 18 he moved to Manchester, New Hampshire to pursue his bachelor's degree at Saint Anselm College. During his time at Saint Anselm College he developed a passion for service and helping people. Upon graduating Artie decided to dedicate a year of service working for an AmeriCorps volunteer group. During this year of service Artie lived in San Diego, CA working as a kindergarten assistant and the director of the aftercare program at an underprivileged school. After completing the year of service Artie loved the Southern California area so much that he decided to get a job there and stay. For the next five years Artie worked for a technology company doing sales. However, after several years of doing this he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue a career that was meaningful and could positively change the lives of the people he worked with. Artie currently lives in Winter Park with his girlfriend and their several foster cats. Artie loves being outside and enjoys skateboarding, playing golf, camping, running, and pretty much anything else you can do outdoors. Artie is also a huge New England sports fan and follows all the Boston sports teams.
Arthur Gately, Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Adolescents,Adults, Teens, Couples & Families
EXPERIENCE
Artie began his counseling career in September 2017 when he entered the Pepperdine University’s Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy program. Prior to this he had been working for a technology company in Southern California as a sales representative. After several years of doing this work he found the job unfulfilling and wanted to enter into a profession where he could use his skills to help people. After completing one year of his master’s degree in California, he decided to transfer to Rollins College so he could complete his degree near his girlfriend. During his time in the Rollins College Master’s program he has had experience interning at Aspire Health, working at the Men’s Residential Recovery program. He also spent time interning at The Cameron Group, which is a care management company working with the elderly population. Artie has a passion working with men who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitional issues.
PERSONAL
Artie grew up and spent the first eighteen years of his life in a town called Cumberland, Rhode Island. At 18 he moved to Manchester, New Hampshire to pursue his bachelor's degree at Saint Anselm College. During his time at Saint Anselm College he developed a passion for service and helping people. Upon graduating Artie decided to dedicate a year of service working for an AmeriCorps volunteer group. During this year of service Artie lived in San Diego, CA working as a kindergarten assistant and the director of the aftercare program at an underprivileged school. After completing the year of service Artie loved the Southern California area so much that he decided to get a job there and stay. For the next five years Artie worked for a technology company doing sales. However, after several years of doing this he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue a career that was meaningful and could positively change the lives of the people he worked with. Artie currently lives in Winter Park with his girlfriend and their several foster cats. Artie loves being outside and enjoys skateboarding, playing golf, camping, running, and pretty much anything else you can do outdoors. Artie is also a huge New England sports fan and follows all the Boston sports teams.
Ramya Balapa, LMHC
EDUCATION
Ramya has a Masters degree in Counseling Education from the University of Central Florida
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Ramya is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#MH22440) in the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Ramya's passion for mental health began at the age of 12. She received an undergraduate degree majoring in Psychology and a Masters degree in Psychological counseling while she lived in India.
After completing her first master’s degree, she moved to the United States to pursue a second degree at the University of Central Florida. Soon after graduation, she began working at a community mental health facility in Kissimmee. She worked with children and teens on issues related to impulsive behaviors, stress from academic performance, trauma, substance use and abuse, depression, and anxiety-related problems. She also worked with adults suffering from depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, interpersonal conflicts, grief, postpartum stressors, infertility, and women’s health issues.
Additionally, she volunteered as a grief counselor for the one-year anniversary of the Pulse nightclub massacre and received a medal of appreciation from the Mayor of Orange County. The Pulse tragedy reaffirmed her commitment as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, strengthening her resolve to support and advocate for all.
PERSONAL
Ramya was born and raised in Bangalore, India. She moved to the United States in 2013 to pursue her Master's degree. Ramya is happily married and has a 19 year old step daughter as well as a 3 year old son. Ramya loves Harry Potter, crafting and spending time with her family.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families. (Habla Español)
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; were he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC,
RHMCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern) - Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
EDUCATION
Jermesa Lee holds a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. Jermesa has received training in mediation and conflict resolution. She is also certified in marriage and family therapy as well as rehabilitation counseling. Jermesa is also a registered mental health counselor intern.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILITIONS
Jermesa is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jermesa has worked with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. She strongly believes in inclusivity and diversity. Her goal is to be a resource for all those with whom she works. Her areas of focus include self-esteem & self-empowerment, emotional regulation (stress management & anxiety), life transition, relationship issues, and disabilities adjustment/support). Jermesa provides exceptional services and she is here to listen.
PERSONAL
Jermesa is visually impaired and personally knows what it is like to have to adapt to life altering circumstances. She knows how it feels to be excluded or in life transition, so she has made it one of her life goals to create inclusive environments. It gives her joy to help others brighten their light so that they may shine.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
Dr David MacIvor, D.O.M., A.P. - “Dr. Mac”
Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. Dr MacIvor is Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM), and Florida State Licensed.
EDUCATION
Dr. David MacIvor, is a graduate of the Florida College of Integrative Medicine where he taught as a Professor and Clinical Supervisor. He trained in western medicine through the US military where he was part of the Special Operations medical program.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
MacIvor is Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM), and Florida State Licensed.
EXPERIENCE
Dr. Mac is trained in Traditional and Classical acupuncture. He is certified in Advanced Acu-point Injection Therapy and has had noted success with treating Stress and Anxiety, Digestive disorders, Menstrual and Fertility issues, Headaches, Blood Pressure and more. He is skilled at integrating western biomedical knowledge with that of the Oriental Medicine modalities for sound healing. Dr. Mac prides himself on being able to significantly reduce of his patient’s pain levels on their first visit.
Dr. Mac has worked with elite athletes from Bahamas, Great Britain, Germany, Scotland, Jamaica, Ukraine, Japan, and the United States. He was present and treating patient/athletes at the 2008 Beijing, China Olympians Games. Those patients won gold and silver. He has also worked with performers from Cirque Du Soleil, Worlds Strongest Man competitors, Body Builders, Track & Field athletes, MMA fighters, Wake boarders, Ironman competitors, and PGA golf athletes.
Dr. Mac successfully representing the Department of Defense’s pilot program under the Surgeon General of the Army. He was selected as one of eighteen Acupuncturists to treat Active-Duty military soldiers for pain.
PERSONAL
Dr. Mac is a 16-year veteran of the US military and was head coach of the Army Europe, Augsburg, Germany Wrestling Team. Dr. MAC has been wrestling Free Style and Greco Roman wrestling for 28 years and has competed at the international level. He also practices Win Chun Kung Fu and competes in Jujitsu. He is currently working on authoring a book on Meridian Theory.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dave Stewart, MA, RSCI
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
Adults, Children, Marriage & Family, Couples, Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety
EDUCATION
Jermesa Lee holds a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. She has received training in mediation, conflict resolution, and marriage and family therapy. She is certified in marriage and family therapy and rehabilitation counseling. Jermesa is also a registered mental health counselor intern.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Jermesa is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jermesa has worked with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. She strongly believes in inclusivity and diversity. Her goal is to be a resource for those she works with. Her focus areas include self-esteem & self-empowerment, emotion regulation (stress management & anxiety), life transition, relationship issues, and disability adjustment/support). Jermesa provides exceptional services, and she is here to listen.
PERSONAL
Jermesa knows what it is like to adapt to life-altering circumstances. She knows how it feels to be excluded or in a life transition, so she has made it one of her life goals to create inclusive environments. It gives her joy to help others brighten their light so that they may shine.
Angela Prather, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), NCC (National Certified Counselor)
EMDR, LGBTQ+ia, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Children &Teens, Adults, Parenting, Couples (Gottman), Life Coaching, Bringing Up Baby Educator (Gottman) and Dating.
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
EDUCATION
Kristina graduated from Valencia Community College; she has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She is currently in her third year of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s graduate program at Antioch University.
EXPERIENCE
Kristina has extensive customer service experience with over 16 years in various capacities. She worked as an insurance accountant for 6 years and then became a high school teacher; further transitioning into a special education teaching role at a private school. She has comprehensive experience working within an administrative role at an optometrist’s office and enjoys working with a multitude of cultural backgrounds.
PERSONAL
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was a baby, she has resided here since. She is currently in a LMHC graduate school program and mental health is one of her passions. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, learning how to read tarot, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), (Graduate Level Intern)
EMDR, LGBTQ+IA, Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Angela is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ+IA youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) & Good Grief Camp since 2015. As a Military Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children: her son, a Marine Veteran, who lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an Architectual Analyst, who lives in Austin, TX. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS and The Trevor Project.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), NCC (National Certifed Counselor)
EDUCATION
Angela is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate with a Master of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in engineering and military police.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATION
Angela is a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH25761) EMDR Practioner, National Certified Counselor, and Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, EMDR International Association, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military/Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children: her son, a Marine Veteran, who lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, who lives in Austin, TX. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, and Soldier’s Angels.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach) NCC (National Certified Counselor)
EDUCATION
Angela is a graduate of Southern New Hampshire University with a Master of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATION
Angela is a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH25761), a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute and a National Certified Counselor. Angela is a EMDR Practitioner. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida as member at large 2022-2023. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, EMDR International Association, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela is currently employed at Total Health Guidance as a Counselor and Life Coach. Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military/Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children, her son, a Marine Veteran, lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, lives in Austin, Tx. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, and Soldier’s Angels.
Bryan Torres Pabon
Administrative Specialist, Client Care, Insurance & (Bilingual)
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Bryan Torres Pabon
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care, Insurance & Billing
Experience
Bryan worked for 2 years at Valencia college as a Certified Peer Educator and as a member of the Campus Activity Board. He managed the budget for many events held at Valencia College at the Poinciana Campus and oriented students to any resources they needed. Bryan also worked for two years as a Administrative Medical Assistant and Billing Specialist at an outpatient mental health facility before joining the Total Health Guidance Team.
Education
Bryan has an AA in Psychology from Valencia College and is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in psychology with a certification in aging studies. Bryan plans to continue his education and obtain a master’s in counseling psychology with a specialization in forensic psychology; and eventually attaing his Doctorates in Psychology specialized in forensic psychology.
Personal
Bryan was born and raised in Puerto Rico. In October of 2017, after Hurricane Maria hit the island, he moved to Florida to finish high school and continue his academic goals. Bryan’s hobbies are playing guitar, sports, taking care of his pets, and singing. He is currently a singer in his church music group.
Kristina Lazarus , MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, Couples & Families.
Nicole Santoro, MLSI (SEP 23)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Nicole has a bachelor's degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida, a master's degree in Developmental Disabilities with concentrations in Early Childhood and Applied Behavior Analysis, and is currently perusing a master's degree in Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Nicole is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Nicole is a member of the American Counseling Association.
EXPERIENCE
Nicole has been implementing the principles of various counseling techniques including CBT and ABA to her work with children, adolescents, and families from all walks of life since 2010. She has provided free webinars to families waiting for services to distribute information related to Autism, ABA, and techniques to use with children. Furthermore, she is passionate about building positive and healthy relationships with her clients to equip them to be active participants in shaping the direction of their lives!
PERSONAL
Nicole is the oldest of 3 children and was born and raised in New York. She is married and has one daughter who is the light of her life. She enjoys traveling, watching her daughter dance and cooking. Nicole has lived in Orlando since 2018 and enjoys being part of a holistic approach to healing.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Kristina Lazarus
Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, Couples & Families.
Education:
As a dedicated and empathetic mental health professional, Kristina is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals seeking support and guidance. She is in her last year of a Clinical Mental Health graduate program from Antioch University; she brings a solid academic foundation coupled with practical experience in a Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral approach. Her person-centered focus empowers clients to navigate challenges, foster positive change, and develop their authentic self.
Experience:
As an intern, she is committed to fostering a supportive environment for clients, she actively engages in individual and group counseling sessions, providing empathetic support to individuals navigating a multitude of stressors. She is eager to apply her foundational skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and ongoing commitment to professional development in contributing to the well-being of clients.
Personal:
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was one, she has resided here since. Mental health is one of her passions. She is keen on cultivating a compassionate and inclusive environment where individuals feel supported in their journey to sustainable mental well-being, relief, and freedom. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher. She reads Tarot cards with an introspective lens leading others to find answers within themselves.
Shaun Alladin, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
LGBTQ+ia, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Teens, Adults, Couples & Families
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
EDUCATION
Kristina graduated from Valencia Community College; she has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She is currently in her third year of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s graduate program at Antioch University.
EXPERIENCE
Kristina has extensive customer service experience with over 16 years in various capacities. She worked as an insurance accountant for 6 years and then became a high school teacher; further transitioning into a special education teaching role at a private school. She has comprehensive experience working within an administrative role at an optometrist’s office and enjoys working with a multitude of cultural backgrounds.
PERSONAL
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was a baby, she has resided here since. She is currently in a LMHC graduate school program and mental health is one of her passions. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, learning how to read tarot, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), (Graduate Level Intern)
EMDR, LGBTQ+IA, Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Angela is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ+IA youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) & Good Grief Camp since 2015. As a Military Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children: her son, a Marine Veteran, who lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an Architectual Analyst, who lives in Austin, TX. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS and The Trevor Project.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Shaun Alladin, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
EDUCATION
Shaun has a bachelor's degree in psychology and history from Florida State University, a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University, and a Graduate Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Shaun is registered as a Registered Mental Health Counselor intern by the Florida Department of Health. He is an active member of the Florida Counseling Association, serving as the current secretary of the board of SAIGE-FL. Shaun is also a member of the American Counseling Association and the American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Shaun has been working in mental health since 2013, where he found a passion for helping others in distress while volunteering for the suicide hotline and as a Crisis Worker for the Trevor Project, where he worked to de-escalate LGBTQ+ children with suicidal ideations. From there, Shaun worked as a data analyst and career consultant in several business environments. Shaun's passion for mental health advocacy drew him to pursue his master's in clinical mental health counseling, where he presented at conferences and won the BHWET Fellowship. As a mental health professional, Shaun started his professional career working in a women's residential facility, helping families navigate addiction through therapy, groups, and treatment planning. Following that experience, Shaun worked as a Clinical Coordinator for an in-home addiction treatment company. He led teams of helping professionals with treatment plans, provided therapy, and successfully discharged clients throughout a yearlong program.
PERSONAL
Shaun was born and raised in South Florida and moved to Orlando in 2022. He is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and has a strong drive for fostering social justice-oriented and inclusive spaces. He enjoys playing sports, exploring Orlando, and reading in his free time.
Carolina Mosocso, MLSI, (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression , Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, Children & Teens, Adults and Families.(Habla Español)
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Carolina Moscoso, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults & Families.
EDUCATION
Carolina holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Sculpture from Cornell University and is currently completing her practicum hours toward a degree in Mental Health Counseling at Antioch University. She also holds a Master's in Psychology from Antioch University and other master's degrees in other fields. She is a trained Internal Family Systems (L2) practitioner by the Internal Family Systems Institute.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Carolina is a trained Internal Family Systems (L2) practitioner by the Internal Family Systems Institute.
Experience
Carolina's professional journey began in art and architecture before transitioning to a rewarding experience as an ESL teacher for adults in the US and abroad that spanned nearly a decade. Inspired by her own positive therapeutic experiences, Carolina became interested in helping others find internal peace and reconnecting to their sense of Self, leading her to pursue a career in counseling. She has worked as an IFS practitioner and life coach since January 2023 and is now dedicated to empowering clients to find wellness, joy, and inner freedom. Carolina is especially interested in helping others heal from trauma by incorporating compassionate inquiry, parts-work, and integrating artistic and somatic techniques. She volunteers with Construyendo Desde Adentro, an IFS peace-building initiative supporting community leaders in El Salvador by transforming existing systems of oppression.
Personal
Originally from Puerto Rico, Carolina relocated to the US in 1996 to pursue her college education. She is fluent in Spanish, has lived in five different countries, loves mountains and beaches, and is a proud mom to three cats. Having recently settled in Orlando, Carolina, she is thrilled to be closer to her family in Miami and Puerto Rico.
Daniela De La Terga
Administrative Specialist, Client Care, Insurance & Bilingual
Nicole Santoro, MLSI (SEP 23)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Nicole has a bachelor's degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida, a master's degree in Developmental Disabilities with concentrations in Early Childhood and Applied Behavior Analysis, and is currently perusing a master's degree in Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Nicole is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Nicole is a member of the American Counseling Association.
EXPERIENCE
Nicole has been implementing the principles of various counseling techniques including CBT and ABA to her work with children, adolescents, and families from all walks of life since 2010. She has provided free webinars to families waiting for services to distribute information related to Autism, ABA, and techniques to use with children. Furthermore, she is passionate about building positive and healthy relationships with her clients to equip them to be active participants in shaping the direction of their lives!
PERSONAL
Nicole is the oldest of 3 children and was born and raised in New York. She is married and has one daughter who is the light of her life. She enjoys traveling, watching her daughter dance and cooking. Nicole has lived in Orlando since 2018 and enjoys being part of a holistic approach to healing.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Daniela De La Terga
Business Administration in Hospitality
EDUCATION
Daniela holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a specialization in hospitality. She is also certified in Transpersonal Therapy and is a Certified Essential Oils Consultant & AromaTouch Technique Practitioner.
EXPERIENCE
Daniela has over a decade of experience in customer service, including roles as Assistant Manager in retail settings and Operations Manager. She excels in providing direction, training, and support to achieve customer service goals and team development. Proficient in social media management.
PERSONAL
Originally from Venezuela, Daniela moved to the United States in 2013, initially residing in Houston, TX, before settling in Orlando, FL, a year later. She is a dedicated mother to three young children and a dog. Outside of work, Daniela enjoys dancing, volunteering for non-profit organizations, and spending quality time with her family. Her passion for essential oils and natural living drives her to continually seek knowledge and integrate holistic practices into her lifestyle.
Diana Mendoza, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Individual counseling & couples, Children, Adolescents, & Adults, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, & Stress, Christian counseling (Habla Español)
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
EDUCATION
Kristina graduated from Valencia Community College; she has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She is currently in her third year of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s graduate program at Antioch University.
EXPERIENCE
Kristina has extensive customer service experience with over 16 years in various capacities. She worked as an insurance accountant for 6 years and then became a high school teacher; further transitioning into a special education teaching role at a private school. She has comprehensive experience working within an administrative role at an optometrist’s office and enjoys working with a multitude of cultural backgrounds.
PERSONAL
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was a baby, she has resided here since. She is currently in a LMHC graduate school program and mental health is one of her passions. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, learning how to read tarot, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), (Graduate Level Intern)
EMDR, LGBTQ+IA, Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Angela is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ+IA youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) & Good Grief Camp since 2015. As a Military Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children: her son, a Marine Veteran, who lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an Architectual Analyst, who lives in Austin, TX. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS and The Trevor Project.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Diana Mendoza, RMHCI
EDUCATION
Diana is a graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She has a bachelor’s in Physical Therapy from Universidad Nacional de Colombia and a specialization in Social Research from Universidad Pedagogica de Colombia.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATION
Diana is a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH26169), member of the American Counseling Association, and a certified Encourager with Community Freedom Ministries.
EXPERIENCE
Diana started her professional path in the health field as a Physical Therapist and specialized in Social Research, which allowed her to function as a university teacher and researcher in the field of physical therapy and workers' health. Diana was also an advisor for the design and implementation of public policies for the prevention of child labor exploitation in her country of origin, Colombia. Since migrating to the United States, Diana continued to develop her passion in the social field and has supported vulnerable populations as a case manager working with immigrant children and their families to facilitate their adjustment process.
As a mental health professional, Diana has experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, marriage issues, difficult transitions, and stress, among other challenges. Diana employs techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients replace negative thought patterns related with emotional distress and mental health issues, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients to enhance distress tolerance and adaptability to transitions. Diana’s approach centers on fostering a positive identity and developing skills to navigate changes, challenges, and life transitions that produce distress. Diana integrates faith-based resources and psychotherapy techniques with clients who seek this approach, blending spiritual support with a therapeutic approach to facilitate holistic healing.
PERSONAL
Diana is originally from Colombia and migrated to the U.S. in 2013. Diana enjoys nature and in her spare time, she hikes in different national and state parks. Diana has a passion for supporting people in their spiritual growth and has served as a Christian counselor in her church for more than 10 years. Diana Mendoza, RMHCI
EDUCATION
Diana is a graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She has a bachelor’s in Physical Therapy from Universidad Nacional de Colombia and a specialization in Social Research from Universidad Pedagogica de Colombia.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATION
Diana is a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH26169), member of the American Counseling Association, and a certified Encourager with Community Freedom Ministries.
EXPERIENCE
Diana started her professional path in the health field as a Physical Therapist and specialized in Social Research, which allowed her to function as a university teacher and researcher in the field of physical therapy and workers' health. Diana was also an advisor for the design and implementation of public policies for the prevention of child labor exploitation in her country of origin, Colombia. Since migrating to the United States, Diana continued to develop her passion in the social field and has supported vulnerable populations as a case manager working with immigrant children and their families to facilitate their adjustment process.
As a mental health professional, Diana has experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, marriage issues, difficult transitions, and stress, among other challenges. Diana employs techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients replace negative thought patterns related with emotional distress and mental health issues, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients to enhance distress tolerance and adaptability to transitions. Diana’s approach centers on fostering a positive identity and developing skills to navigate changes, challenges, and life transitions that produce distress. Diana integrates faith-based resources and psychotherapy techniques with clients who seek this approach, blending spiritual support with a therapeutic approach to facilitate holistic healing.
PERSONAL
Diana is originally from Colombia and migrated to the U.S. in 2013. Diana enjoys nature and in her spare time, she hikes in different national and state parks. Diana has a passion for supporting people in their spiritual growth and has served as a Christian counselor in her church for more than 10 years.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Andrea Friedlander, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, Teens
EDUCATION
Andrea holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida and is finishing her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Bellevue University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Certified Vinyasa Yoga Instructor
Experience
Andrea gained experience counseling during her Residency at Bellevue University. Andrea has always had deep empathy and a personal understanding of life's emotional complexities. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change.
Andrea's approach is solution-focused and client-centered, drawing on her knowledge of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, person-centered therapy, and emotionally focused couples therapy. She believes in the importance of understanding her client's
goals and what they wish to gain from therapy.
"My role is to help you explore what you want out of therapy, what you want out of life, how you want to feel, how you envision your relationships, and how to move closer to your goals. No matter your struggles, I am here to guide you—whether that means helping you tune into your inner voice, brainstorming solutions to problems, challenging maladaptive thoughts, or simply offering a compassionate space to process your experiences and emotions."
Personal
Andrea Friedlander, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, and Teens
Andrea Friedlander, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, Teens
EDUCATION
Andrea holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida and is finishing her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Bellevue University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Certified Vinyasa Yoga Instructor
Experience
Andrea gained experience counseling during her Residency at Bellevue University. Andrea has always had deep empathy and a personal understanding of life's emotional complexities. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change.
Andrea's approach is solution-focused and client-centered, drawing on her knowledge of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, person-centered therapy, and emotionally focused couples therapy. She believes in the importance of understanding her client's
goals and what they wish to gain from therapy.
"My role is to help you explore what you want out of therapy, what you want out of life, how you want to feel, how you envision your relationships, and how to move closer to your goals. No matter your struggles, I am here to guide you—whether that means helping you tune into your inner voice, brainstorming solutions to problems, challenging maladaptive thoughts, or simply offering a compassionate space to process your experiences and emotions."
Personal
Andrea grew up in West Virginia, where she spent much time acting in a local musical theatre group. After completing her Psychology degree at the University of Florida, she moved to Austin, TX, and worked as a singer/songwriter/guitarist for over ten years. Her hobbies include running, yoga, listening to music, and reading.
Genevieve Nicklin, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, and Teens
Genevieve Nicklin, Masters Level Student Intern
EDUCATION
Genevieve holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Université de Moncton in Canada. She has spent many years working in accounting, helping small businesses and individuals work toward financial stability. Genevieve took some time away from her career to become a stay-at-home mother. The time away from accounting led her to enroll in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Southern New Hampshire University. She is currently a Master’s level intern completing her internship hours.
APPROACH
Genevieve carries with her a genuine love of helping. She hopes to be a helper in her client’s lives and help to guide them to self-actualization. Her empathetic personality, strong interpersonal skills, and person-centered approach will help guide her clients toward their ultimate goals. Genevieve believes that a whole-person approach is essential to help clients achieve the best versions of themselves.
PERSONAL
Originally from Canada, Genevieve relocated to the United States 10 years ago and has been in Orlando for 5 years. She is a mother, wife, and proud human to three wonderful dogs. In her spare time, Genevieve loves creating and exploring. She enjoys photography, sewing, fiber arts, watercolors, and everything else relating to creativity. Her passion is learning new skills in various art forms. Her desire to explore stems from her love of travel. She loves exploring local gems, faraway places, and everywhere in between.
Korey Adams, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, and Teens
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
EDUCATION
Kristina graduated from Valencia Community College; she has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She is currently in her third year of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s graduate program at Antioch University.
EXPERIENCE
Kristina has extensive customer service experience with over 16 years in various capacities. She worked as an insurance accountant for 6 years and then became a high school teacher; further transitioning into a special education teaching role at a private school. She has comprehensive experience working within an administrative role at an optometrist’s office and enjoys working with a multitude of cultural backgrounds.
PERSONAL
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was a baby, she has resided here since. She is currently in a LMHC graduate school program and mental health is one of her passions. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, learning how to read tarot, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Angela Prather, MA, RMHCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern), CLC (Certified Life Coach), (Graduate Level Intern)
EMDR, LGBTQ+IA, Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Angela is a Southern New Hampshire University graduate in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ+IA youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) & Good Grief Camp since 2015. As a Military Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children: her son, a Marine Veteran, who lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an Architectual Analyst, who lives in Austin, TX. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS and The Trevor Project.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Diana Mendoza, RMHCI
EDUCATION
Diana is a graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She has a bachelor’s in Physical Therapy from Universidad Nacional de Colombia and a specialization in Social Research from Universidad Pedagogica de Colombia.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATION
Diana is a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH26169), member of the American Counseling Association, and a certified Encourager with Community Freedom Ministries.
EXPERIENCE
Diana started her professional path in the health field as a Physical Therapist and specialized in Social Research, which allowed her to function as a university teacher and researcher in the field of physical therapy and workers' health. Diana was also an advisor for the design and implementation of public policies for the prevention of child labor exploitation in her country of origin, Colombia. Since migrating to the United States, Diana continued to develop her passion in the social field and has supported vulnerable populations as a case manager working with immigrant children and their families to facilitate their adjustment process.
As a mental health professional, Diana has experience working with clients facing anxiety, depression, marriage issues, difficult transitions, and stress, among other challenges. Diana employs techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients replace negative thought patterns related with emotional distress and mental health issues, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients to enhance distress tolerance and adaptability to transitions. Diana’s approach centers on fostering a positive identity and developing skills to navigate changes, challenges, and life transitions that produce distress. Diana integrates faith-based resources and psychotherapy techniques with clients who seek this approach, blending spiritual support with a therapeutic approach to facilitate holistic healing.
PERSONAL
Diana is originally from Colombia and migrated to the U.S. in 2013. Diana enjoys nature and in her spare time, she hikes in different national and state parks. Diana has a passion for supporting people in their spiritual growth and has served as a Christian counselor in her church for more than 10 years. 
Korey Adams, Masters Level Student Intern
Education
Korey obtained a Bachelor of Arts from Dallas Baptist University and is currently completing his Master of Science degree through Bellevue University as part of their Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program.
Personal
Korey was raised in Texas, he attended Dallas Baptist University where he finished his Bachelor's degree. His hobbies include working out, playing video games, reading, and creative writing.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Andrea Friedlander, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Individuals, Couples, Teens
EDUCATION
Andrea holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida and is finishing her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Bellevue University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Certified Vinyasa Yoga Instructor
Experience
Andrea gained experience counseling during her Residency at Bellevue University. Andrea has always had deep empathy and a personal understanding of life's emotional complexities. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change.
Andrea's approach is solution-focused and client-centered, drawing on her knowledge of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, person-centered therapy, and emotionally focused couples therapy. She believes in the importance of understanding her client's
goals and what they wish to gain from therapy.
"My role is to help you explore what you want out of therapy, what you want out of life, how you want to feel, how you envision your relationships, and how to move closer to your goals. No matter your struggles, I am here to guide you—whether that means helping you tune into your inner voice, brainstorming solutions to problems, challenging maladaptive thoughts, or simply offering a compassionate space to process your experiences and emotions."
Personal
Our Awards
Our Memberships
