David Hernandez
Lakeland,
FL
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
David Hernandez, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate and skilled Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding adults and elders through the emotional turmoil of divorce, grief, and anxiety. He understands that whether the decision to divorce is mutual or not, it brings forth a whirlwind of confusion, anger, and resentment. Clients often experience deep grief over the impending loss of their marriage and may question the validity of their past. David recognizes that what once felt like love can now seem adversarial, especially amidst legal proceedings filled with complexities such as lawyers, court dates, and child visitation disputes. After a divorce, life can feel drastically altered, shrouded in a heavy fog of uncertainty. At Stoa Life, David provides unwavering support, validating the experiences of grief and disappointment that clients face. Employing an integrative approach that combines Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and elements of Stoicism, he empowers clients to navigate this challenging phase with clarity. Through structured processes and skill-building, individuals are equipped to confront their challenges from a position of personal strength. It's time to lift that fog and make informed decisions during this pivotal life transition, setting the stage for a brighter future.
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Shelva Alderman
Lakeland,
FL
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Shelva Alderman is a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who genuinely aims to assist her clients in achieving a state of well-being. Her down-to-earth approach fosters a productive therapist-client rapport, allowing for tailored treatment that recognizes the individuality of each person from intake through treatment planning and follow-up resources. With experience in a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, Shelva has developed a specialization in substance abuse and childhood trauma. Utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she effectively challenges and transforms clients' distorted thoughts and unhealthy behaviors, enhancing their emotional regulation and equipping them with vital coping skills to navigate life's challenges seamlessly.
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Bipolar
Borderline (BPD)
Depression
LGBTQ+
PTSD/Trauma
Donald Allen Cleveland
Lakeland,
FL
Counselor, LMHC
Donald Allen Cleveland is a dedicated counselor and mental health professional known for his compassionate approach to therapy. He has a unique perspective illustrated by an old picture hanging in his office—a woman in a white and blue cover-up, seemingly unwilling to engage in conversation. This imagery reflects the feelings of many clients who enter therapy feeling skeptical or disconnected. With many years of experience in shelters and private practice, Donald has successfully worked with countless individuals, particularly focusing on those often deemed 'Impossible Cases' who have not yet found success with traditional talk therapy. His mission is to foster a therapeutic partnership tailored to each client's needs and goals, ensuring that therapy is centered around them. Donald strives to create an environment of trust, safety, and respect, where clients can discover and heal themselves. His dedication to providing unconditional understanding, support, and a transformative experience is at the heart of his practice, making a significant difference in the lives of those he empowers through therapy.
Michael Brown
Lakeland,
FL
Michael Brown is a therapist who understands that children ages 3 to 11 face unique challenges that demand a specialized approach. He utilizes play therapy to engage with young clients in a safe and supportive environment, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings through toys rather than words. This method creates a safe space where children can convey their emotions indirectly, as they may not be developmentally ready to articulate their feelings explicitly. With a deep understanding of child psychology, Michael is dedicated to helping children navigate their emotional landscapes with compassion and care.
Specialties
ADHD
Addiction
Alcohol/Drug Use
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Parenting
Relationship Stress
Spirituality
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Melissa Buchanan
Lakeland,
FL
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS
Melissa Buchanan is a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MS, LMHC, CCTP) with a passion for hearing her clients' stories and walking alongside them on their journeys. She is committed to creating a safe and dependable environment where individuals can process their thoughts, think creatively, and feel supported during life's challenging moments. With a belief that numerous factors shape a person's identity—including trauma, upbringing, culture, and relationship dynamics—Melissa emphasizes that these influences do not dictate a client's future. Through a compassionate and integrative approach, she collaborates with clients to address their concerns, identify patterns in their lives, and work towards their personal goals while minimizing the burdens that may be holding them back. Melissa specializes in assisting individuals and couples facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, perfectionism, and boundaries. The therapeutic modalities she employs encompass Compassion Focused, Culturally Sensitive, Somatic, Trauma Focused, and many others tailored to each client's unique needs. Melissa believes that engaging in therapy is one of the most courageous decisions a person can make, and she is here to help guide clients toward their desired outcomes.
Specialties
Anxiety
PTSD/Trauma
Relationship Stress
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Chris Dixon
Lakeland,
FL
Counselor, MS
Chris Dixon, MS, LMHC, is a seasoned counselor who has dedicated over three decades to studying C.G. Jung's transformative work in psychology. Since 1991, Chris has engaged deeply with Jungian concepts through immersive workshops and lectures spanning from Zurich, Switzerland, to South Florida. With a focus on serving adults and elders (65+), Chris helps clients navigate complex psychological roadblocks, conflicts, and trauma. His Jungian and person-centered approach dives into the deepest layers of the unconscious psyche, initiating a profound process of transformation that transcends mere symptom relief and fosters optimal growth. Rather than solely analyzing psychological patterns through the lens of disorders, Chris seeks to reveal what these patterns signify as part of an integrated narrative. Those who are ambitious yet find themselves hindered by obstacles, or individuals caught in the turmoil of life transitions, often seek Chris's expertise. He is especially equipped to support adults facing significant life events, guiding them to uncover the deeper mysteries of their existence and purpose.
Specialties
Depression
Men's & Women's Issues
PTSD/Trauma
Natalie Douge
Lakeland,
FL
Counselor, MS
Natalie Douge is a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes that everyone faces times in life when they need support and understanding. With over 18 years of experience, she has had the privilege of guiding individuals, couples, children, and families through struggles such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Natalie's passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need drives her work. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she meets clients where they are, providing compassionate and insightful guidance throughout their journeys.
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Karen Dube
Lakeland,
FL
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Dube is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, holding an LCSW credential. Originally from Rhode Island, she dedicated 20 years to serving as a School Social Worker, positively impacting the lives of her students. Karen achieved her first Master's Degree in 1992 from Emmanuel College in Boston, followed by a Master's in Social Work from Rhode Island College in 1997. She specializes in addressing key issues such as Depression, Anxiety, and LGBTQ+ concerns. With a focus on evidence-based methods including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Karen is committed to guiding her clients through personal growth and healing.
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ+
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Norma Jo Vaillette
Lakeland,
FL
Counselor, MA
Norma Jo Vaillette is an experienced counselor with a Master’s degree in counseling and extensive training in various therapeutic modalities, including Eclectic therapy, Family and Marital counseling, Hypnotherapy, and more. She specializes in helping individuals of all ages, from toddlers to elders, navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts. With a foundation in Music Therapy, Norma combines techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Freedom Technique, and Behavioral Modification to offer effective treatment tailored to each client’s unique needs. Her current focus is on expanding her practice to include the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM), a transformative approach that utilizes music as a medium for self-exploration and healing. Norma's compassionate approach fosters a safe environment for self-discovery, learning, and personal growth, making her an approachable guide in the healing journey.
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
PTSD/Trauma
Relationship Stress
Teens
Charlotte Kemp Patterson
Lakeland,
FL
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Charlotte Kemp Patterson is a licensed professional counselor, LMHC, dedicated to helping individuals uncover the answers needed to live a more confident, healthful, and peaceful life, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Her clients, including parents, partners, caregivers, employees, and students, often face the weight of stress that can impact their mental and physical well-being. Charlotte skillfully integrates relationship dynamics, mental and physical fitness, and personal guidance to assist those seeking to become happier and more peaceful versions of themselves. Believing in the power of conversation, she provides a compassionate ear to help navigate life's challenges and instill new skillsets for daily coping. Currently, Charlotte offers affordable 30-minute telehealth sessions, making her holistic healing approach accessible to those in need. With expertise in alternative techniques, she enhances her practice, guiding each client to heal as a whole person. Learning effective coping strategies under her guidance helps individuals thrive in every aspect of their lives.
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Specialties
Caregivers
General Mental Health
Parenting
Relationship Stress
Student Life
Catherine Hunt
Lakeland,
FL
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Catherine Hunt is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist, specializing in helping couples rediscover their connection. She understands the complexities that relationships face, especially during challenging times when communication breaks down. Couples often find themselves at an impasse, feeling isolated even in each other's presence. Catherine emphasizes that relationships can be revamped and that it's possible to move beyond patterns of conflict and blame. By utilizing integrated Cognitive Behavioral techniques, she guides couples toward transforming their communication, fostering a safe and solid partnership. Catherine believes that healing past wounds is essential for building a loving and enduring relationship, one that can withstand life’s challenges. She provides a supportive environment where couples can explore and resolve their issues, ensuring they feel equipped to navigate their complexities as a team. Everyone deserves a chance to thrive in their relationship, and with Catherine's expertise, couples will find the tools they need to progress together on their healing journey.
Specialties
Relationship Stress
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Vivian Mercedes Menhert
Lakeland,
FL
Counselor, MA
Vivian Mercedes Menhert is a highly experienced counselor with over 30 years of dedicated service in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate their emotional and behavioral challenges. Her therapeutic style is relatable and respectful, creating a comfortable environment where individuals can share their most private experiences. Vivian firmly believes in the transformative potential within each patient, enabled by her extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Substance Addiction. In addition to her rich understanding of diverse cultural backgrounds, she is fluent in English, Spanish, and German, which allows her to connect meaningfully with a broader range of clients. Vivian's commitment to fostering change and her compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for those seeking growth and healing.
Specialties
Addiction
Alison Moore
Lakeland,
FL
LCSW
Alison Moore, LCSW, is a compassionate therapist specializing in helping adults and elders navigate the complexities of life with grace and resilience. With a focus on issues such as Depression, Anxiety, and Alzheimer's, Alison brings a wealth of experience to her practice, particularly in addressing Trauma and PTSD, Behavioral Issues, and Relationship Conflicts. Utilizing Solution Focused Brief Therapy and a Person-Centered approach, she creates a supportive environment where individuals and families can cultivate coping skills and foster meaningful connections. Alison is dedicated to empowering her clients, helping them to uncover their strengths and achieve their personal goals through insightful therapeutic intervention.
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Stress
PTSD/Trauma
Parenting
Relationship Stress
Additional Resources
There are many therapists in Lakeland. They specialize in a wide range of topics, such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and family issues. If you’re having trouble finding a suitable local therapist, consider expanding your search to nearby areas.
Treatment Centers
Lakeland, FL
Local centers provide specialist support for a range of issues. Browse local centers and get in contact with them directly.
Housing Assistance
Lakeland, FL
There are a range of local organizations that provide housing assistance. Search for shelters, non profits and more by location.
Food Pantries & Support
Lakeland, FL
There are local organizations that provide free or low cost food to local residents and families. Find a food pantry, outreach or relief program near you and check opening times.
Churches & Faith Based Support
Lakeland, FL
Churches and local faith organizations provide free and charitable support near you. You can also chat to one of their trained listeners on 7 Cups.