Keri Funk is a compassionate and skilled counselor with a wealth of experience in guiding individuals and families through their most challenging moments. Holding credentials as an MS, LMHC, and RPT, she adeptly navigates the complexities of emotional health across various age groups, including children, teens, and adults up to elders. Keri's therapeutic approach embraces a diverse range of modalities such as Expressive Arts, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With a particular focus on issues like codependency and anxiety, she uses techniques from the Gottman Method and EMDR to foster healing and personal growth. Keri’s vibrant energy and genuine warmth make her a trusted ally in the therapeutic journey, whether in family dynamics or individual counseling. Her unique blend of professional expertise and empathetic understanding empowers clients to discover their strengths and pursue a fulfilling life.

Aj Garcia is a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Qualified Supervisor based in Florida. Since founding Thrive Counseling in 2012, Aj has been committed to creating a welcoming environment for clients of all ages and backgrounds, fostering opportunities for positive growth. Integrity and professionalism are fundamental to Aj’s practice, serving as the cornerstone of her work with clients. Support and encouragement are considered essential elements in the therapeutic journey, vital for promoting overall wellness. Aj adopts a strengths-based approach, focusing on each individual’s unique talents, values, hopes, and potential. Specializing in enhancing relationships, she addresses key aspects such as communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and building lasting connections. Whether clients seek to improve their relationship with themselves, family members, or partners, Aj meets them at their point of need, guiding them toward meaningful growth and fulfillment. It’s truly a time to thrive under her compassionate guidance.

Iviín Gonzalez, a dedicated counselor with credentials as an LMHC and NCC, believes that everyone deserves to live a life overflowing with purpose, enjoyment, and emotional clarity. He recognizes that for many individuals, experiences of anxiety, depression, and past traumas can hinder their aspirations for themselves and their families. In his therapeutic practice, Iviín fosters a space where clients can engage in radical honesty—one that is safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential. With a genuine and straightforward approach, he is committed to aiding clients in extracting more from life, discovering greater purpose, and nurturing excitement. Through collaboration, they learn to cultivate courage and inner peace as they heal from the past, embrace the present, and hold onto hope for the future. Many of Iviín's clients enter therapy feeling that something vital is missing; they often confront persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or disconnection. Together, he and his clients work on enhancing communication, healing from unhealthy relationships, and rediscovering their voices. With years of experience walking alongside individuals and couples, Iviín has successfully guided many toward breaking unhealthy behavioral patterns and achieving healing through a thoughtful exploration of their heart, mind, body, and spirit. Discover more about Iviín and his therapeutic philosophy to see how he can support your personal journey.

Chad Jenkins, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), brings years of experience in guiding clients through a variety of challenges including anxiety, anger management, depression, substance abuse, and stress management. Specializing in coping skills and relationship issues, Chad holds a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Webster University and a Specialist in Education degree from the University of Florida. His therapy styles are diverse, encompassing Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, among others. With a commitment to authenticity, empathy, and understanding, Chad strives to cultivate a strong therapeutic relationship with each individual he works with. He believes that everyone possesses the potential to achieve their goals and that the path to success is influenced by the support one chooses to engage with. Whether navigating life's challenges or seeking personal growth, Chad is dedicated to being a guiding light on this transformative journey.

Peggy Linn is a dedicated therapist whose mission is to support individuals in achieving their personal and professional success. In the competitive landscape of today’s world, many find it intimidating and frustrating to reach their goals. With compassion, empathy, and unwavering support, Peggy equips her clients with an array of tools designed to foster happiness and fulfillment. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC0018318), she specializes in working with children, teens, adults, and families facing a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. Her therapeutic practice incorporates a person-centered approach, drawing from diverse modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), art therapy, and trauma-focused techniques. She is particularly skilled in addressing childhood trauma that may hinder individuals from realizing their full potential. Additionally, Peggy offers video therapy as a convenient option, making support accessible from the comfort of her clients' safe spaces. Through her comprehensive services, Peggy Linn is committed to empowering her clients to overcome life’s obstacles and build healthier relationships.

Dr. Kevin Mertens is a dedicated psychologist with a PhD who believes mental health transcends mere symptom management. He emphasizes developing a resilient inner self and nurturing healthy relationships as essential components of well-being. Dr. Mertens is passionate about enhancing quality of life by promoting the impact of simple joys and meaningful moments. He specializes in addressing common challenges such as chronic illness, life transitions, and emotional struggles, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. His health and wellness program is particularly tailored to help individuals cope with major medical conditions like diabetes and cancer, offering guidance on treatment adherence, sleep hygiene, and relational dynamics. Dr. Mertens provides integrative, psychodynamic, and culturally sensitive therapeutic approaches, serving preteens, teens, adults, and elders. Utilizing a user-friendly online Client Portal, he makes it easy for clients to schedule appointments and engage in live video therapy, creating a supportive environment for those who may feel anxious about seeking mental health treatment.

Kimberly Newcombe, a dedicated counselor with an MA, LPC, and LMHCA, understands that reaching out and asking for help is both a courageous and significant step. She specializes in helping individuals who struggle with understanding the 'why' behind their feelings, who might feel disconnected from their true selves, or who question various aspects of their lives. For those contemplating the benefits of counseling, Kimberly creates a safe and validating space for clients to process their emotions. Her integrative approach tailors sessions to suit each individual’s needs, focusing on mood disorders, trauma, and self-esteem. With a specialization in telehealth sessions, Kimberly is committed to guiding her clients toward uncovering areas of concern and working through them. She firmly believes that everyone is worthy of feeling like the best version of themselves and is ready to assist in the journey toward personal happiness and fulfillment.

Lake Nona Behavioral Health Services is proud to present Natasha, a dedicated counselor whose passion for mental health shines through in her practice. With a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University, Sarasota, Natasha is an esteemed member of both the American Mental Health Counseling Association and the Florida Mental Health Counseling Association. She possesses a wealth of experience as an inpatient and outpatient therapist, enabling her to effectively tackle a diverse range of client concerns in individual and group settings. Her therapeutic approach integrates cognitive behavioral therapy and person-centered techniques, tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Natasha is also proud to be LGBTQ affirming, and her expertise spans conditions such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, stress, and grief. With a focus on enhancing self-confidence, self-worth, and self-image, Natasha collaborates with clients from all walks of life, thanks to her background as a teacher and her experience in the corporate sector. At Lake Nona Behavioral Health Services, clients are met with compassionate listening and genuine care.

Anna Patterson is a compassionate and dedicated therapist who specializes in guiding adults and elders (65+) through life’s challenges. With a keen focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, and grief, she creates a nurturing space for individuals to explore their feelings and experiences. Anna is well-versed in a diverse array of therapeutic modalities, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Grief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her integrative approach combines techniques from Gestalt, Adlerian, and psychodynamic therapy, along with insights from Christian counseling, to tailor her sessions to each individual's needs. Anna is passionate about helping clients build coping skills and navigate through life's transitions, fostering self-esteem and addressing deeper issues like trauma, PTSD, and stress. Through her empathetic and relational style, she aims to empower individuals on their path to healing and personal growth.

Rita Peterson, LMFT, is a compassionate and skilled therapist dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their most challenging moments. With a focus on trauma and PTSD, life transitions, and codependency, she empowers her clients to find resilience and healing. Rita is experienced in addressing a wide range of issues, including addiction, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and grief, offering tailored support that respects each person's unique journey. Her therapeutic repertoire includes coaching, narrative therapy, and multicultural approaches, blending techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and emotionally focused modalities to enhance personal growth. Whether working with teens, adults, or elders, Rita's warm presence and empathetic understanding create a safe space for change and transformation.

Barna Psychology is a nationally certified and state-licensed school psychologist with a specialization in testing services for learning and attention difficulties, giftedness, and mental health. Committed to fostering positive growth and success for children, Barna aims to identify each child’s strengths, challenges, and unique learning style to provide tailored support both at home and in school. With over 10 years of experience working within the public school system and in private practice, Barna has a rich background in supporting diverse students ranging from PreK to high school. This dedication to enhancing student well-being and academic performance shines through in every interaction.

Tammy Schmick, a dedicated Counselor and LMHC, has a wealth of experience in providing therapy to a diverse range of clients, from school-age children to seniors. Her qualifications from Webster University equip her with the skills to effectively address complex issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, family conflict, and self-esteem. Tammy utilizes an array of therapeutic methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). She is particularly passionate about guiding individuals on their journey to self-discovery and improved quality of life. By taking a holistic approach, Tammy considers each client's unique background and innate strengths, tailoring her methods to fit their specific needs. She firmly believes that building a strong therapeutic alliance is key to unlocking the potential for meaningful change, inviting clients to explore and overcome the thought and behavior patterns that hinder their happiness.

Alan Stuart is a dedicated psychiatric clinician deeply passionate about enhancing the mental, emotional, and physical health of his patients. He combines excellent listening and observation skills with kindness, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. Alan's treatment philosophy involves the use of the most effective modalities, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, behavior modification, and psychotherapy. He consistently goes the extra mile to prioritize patient education, safety, trust, and wellbeing. Specializing in outpatient psychiatry, he takes a holistic approach and collaborates closely with his patients to create individualized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, situations, and goals. Alan finds exceptional gratification in practicing psychiatry and making a significant impact in the lives of those who may be suffering on various levels. He is committed to bringing his best to each patient every day.