Longwood, FL Local Support & Community Resources

Madison Alvarez Brunk is a compassionate pre-licensed professional with a Master's degree and credentials as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI). She believes that everyone deserves a counselor who understands their unique journey and helps them navigate towards a brighter future. At A Way Forward Counseling, Madison creates a safe and equitable space essential for personal growth, utilizing a collaborative and harm-reducing approach that facilitates meaningful change. Her practice is firmly rooted in affirming neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ identities, as well as being Health at Every Size (HAES) informed. Madison recognizes that challenges are often more complex than merely thoughts or behaviors, deeply entwined within relational systems and social contexts. Through her comprehensive care in individual, couple, and family counseling, Madison employs narrative therapy along with other collaborative treatment modalities to meet the diverse needs of her clients. A Way Forward Counseling is a welcoming environment for all, particularly for marginalized groups, as Madison centers their unique experiences and requirements. She prioritizes transparency and is dedicated to answering all potential clients' questions, making the process of choosing a therapist less daunting for those seeking support.

Anthony Ards, MS, LMHC, is a highly skilled counselor and marriage and family therapist intern who specializes in couples counseling. With a compassionate approach, he addresses a variety of relationship challenges, including infidelity, communication difficulties, and trust issues. Drawing on the latest research and therapeutic techniques, such as Imago, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and the Gottman Method, Anthony develops tailored plans that guide couples toward healthier dynamics and deeper connections. He offers flexible scheduling options for both in-office and virtual sessions, making it easier for adults and elders to access support on their journey to improved relationships. Anthony's dedication to helping clients navigate their emotions and relational patterns fosters an environment where healing and growth can flourish.

Cynthia Benedict is a highly regarded Board Certified and Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Life Coach, renowned for her exceptional problem-solving skills. She incorporates cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused strategies that cater to all ages. With a foundation built on compassion and honesty, Cynthia shares her extensive knowledge to help individuals navigate life's challenges, such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, grief, parenting, ADHD, and blended family dynamics. She is dedicated to helping her clients identify practical solutions and implement them effectively, rather than merely discussing feelings. Cynthia recognizes that therapy can be profoundly transformative, especially in circumstances involving depression, anxiety, child and adolescent behavioral concerns, family conflict, grief resolution, and life transitions. Her practice extends to individuals of all ages, including children, teens, couples, and families. Cynthia believes in the shared human experience encapsulated by Colin Raye's words: 'I Laugh, I Love, I Hope, I Try. I Hurt, I Need, I Fear, I Cry.' She understands that we are all interconnected in our emotions and challenges, which is at the heart of her therapeutic approach.