Family Therapy in Polk County, FL
I am a clinical fellow of American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and some of my specialty areas include: Substance Addiction/Abuse - Certified DUI Treatment Provider in Polk County; Conduct Court-Ordered Drug Evaluations and Domestic Violence Evaluations; Marital Issues (Including communication and infidelity); Depression/Anxiety; and Spiritual Issues
Since I have been doing counseling/therapy for 40+ years, I am very familiar with many approaches and theories. My first step in working with a person or couples is to help them express the goal(s) they wish to achieve in seeking counseling and then work with them to either discover the skills within themselves or help them develop these skills to reach these goals and live fulfilled lives.
I am a clinical fellow of American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and some of my specialty areas include: Substance Addiction/Abuse - Certified DUI Treatment Provider in Polk County; Conduct Court-Ordered Drug Evaluations and Domestic Violence Evaluations; Marital Issues (Including communication and infidelity); Depression/Anxiety; and Spiritual Issues
Since I have been doing counseling/therapy for 40+ years, I am very familiar with many approaches and theories. My first step in working with a person or couples is to help them express the goal(s) they wish to achieve in seeking counseling and then work with them to either discover the skills within themselves or help them develop these skills to reach these goals and live fulfilled lives.
We utilize several modalities to treat depression, anxiety, fear, grief, school or work stress, couple and family relational strain, trauma, substance abuse, and more.
Christina Dawson is a Mental Health Therapist. I am the owner of Graze Academy Inc. and our core mission for all past, present, and future clients is to experience the beauty that comes from each person with the power and magnificence of horses. We offer a 12-week program that has equine assisted therapy and talk therapy rotating every other week. Christina brings her life experience and is a certified equine assisted facilitator. Christina has experience working in a substance use treatment center and working with IPN/PRN clients. We offer equine assisted services as well as traditional talk therapy in person only.
We utilize several modalities to treat depression, anxiety, fear, grief, school or work stress, couple and family relational strain, trauma, substance abuse, and more.
Christina Dawson is a Mental Health Therapist. I am the owner of Graze Academy Inc. and our core mission for all past, present, and future clients is to experience the beauty that comes from each person with the power and magnificence of horses. We offer a 12-week program that has equine assisted therapy and talk therapy rotating every other week. Christina brings her life experience and is a certified equine assisted facilitator. Christina has experience working in a substance use treatment center and working with IPN/PRN clients. We offer equine assisted services as well as traditional talk therapy in person only.
Specializing in working with adults, children, and adolescents, John provides tailored support to those navigating a range of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and family dynamics.
Through this process, clients can discover their strengths and work toward lasting resolutions. John is particularly passionate about helping clients address complex relationship issues.
Specializing in working with adults, children, and adolescents, John provides tailored support to those navigating a range of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and family dynamics.
Through this process, clients can discover their strengths and work toward lasting resolutions. John is particularly passionate about helping clients address complex relationship issues.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida with six years of professional work experience.
I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida with six years of professional work experience.
I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
She has a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University with a specialization in Family.
In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys reading, sew, spending time with her family and going on cruises. Through the pandemic her love of cooking was encouraged so she has been enjoying cooking more for her husband and herself. Cheryl believes in a work/life balance in order to maintain her mental health.
She has a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University with a specialization in Family.
In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys reading, sew, spending time with her family and going on cruises. Through the pandemic her love of cooking was encouraged so she has been enjoying cooking more for her husband and herself. Cheryl believes in a work/life balance in order to maintain her mental health.
Heart And Soul Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, IMT2
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Kissimmee, FL 34759
Jeannette is a Registered Marriage and family Therapist Intern in the state of Florida. She believes in supportive attachments and the importance of connection to achieve optimum balance. Jeannette has extensive training/experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems and Emotion Focused Therapies to systematically alter behaviors and interactions of families, couples, children and adolescents. She specializes in treating Anxiety, Depression, & ADHD. She offers Individual, Couple/Marriage Counseling. Her style of counseling allows young clients (5-18) to discover a pathway to relieving peer related stress.
Jeannette is a Registered Marriage and family Therapist Intern in the state of Florida. She believes in supportive attachments and the importance of connection to achieve optimum balance. Jeannette has extensive training/experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems and Emotion Focused Therapies to systematically alter behaviors and interactions of families, couples, children and adolescents. She specializes in treating Anxiety, Depression, & ADHD. She offers Individual, Couple/Marriage Counseling. Her style of counseling allows young clients (5-18) to discover a pathway to relieving peer related stress.
Cue Counseling Center
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33815
I want you to be free of emotional pain, able to deal with life on life’s terms, and find purpose and meaning in work, family, friendships, and all other life areas.
My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). CBT aims to identify patterns of thinking, emotional responses, or behaviors that negatively impact daily living and replace them. Working together, you will learn what thoughts/situations contribute and be supported in making the changes you want to see in your life.
I want you to be free of emotional pain, able to deal with life on life’s terms, and find purpose and meaning in work, family, friendships, and all other life areas.
My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). CBT aims to identify patterns of thinking, emotional responses, or behaviors that negatively impact daily living and replace them. Working together, you will learn what thoughts/situations contribute and be supported in making the changes you want to see in your life.
Tonya D Samuels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is more than a profession or career choice for me.
I would love the opportunity to meet with you. Together we will work to customize a treatment plan that best suits your needs. I have been working in this field for over 13 years. I look forward to working with you soon.
Working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is more than a profession or career choice for me.
I would love the opportunity to meet with you. Together we will work to customize a treatment plan that best suits your needs. I have been working in this field for over 13 years. I look forward to working with you soon.
Reginal A Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33813
I provide in-person and telehealth services at my offices in Polk County, Florida (individual or family) & telehealth services ONLY to remaining counties.
I use evidence-based psychotherapy and a 12-Step approach to treat substance abuse, reentry and thinking disorders because I believe the symptoms of substance intoxication and withdrawal are similar to the diagnostic criteria used to diagnose many mental health disorders and are frequently misdiagnosed. I also used EBP to treat other mental health concerns.
I provide in-person and telehealth services at my offices in Polk County, Florida (individual or family) & telehealth services ONLY to remaining counties.
I use evidence-based psychotherapy and a 12-Step approach to treat substance abuse, reentry and thinking disorders because I believe the symptoms of substance intoxication and withdrawal are similar to the diagnostic criteria used to diagnose many mental health disorders and are frequently misdiagnosed. I also used EBP to treat other mental health concerns.
I am a well qualified professional and prepared to provide you with professional counseling in the areas of: Parent/Child Relationship, Preteen/Adolescent problems, Personal Adjustment Issues, Self-esteem, Grief, Depression, Relationship Issues and Family Therapy.
There comes a time when problems may arise in your life whether it is your home, job, school an everyday circumstance and you need to talk to someone who has a listening ear and a compassionate heart.
I am a well qualified professional and prepared to provide you with professional counseling in the areas of: Parent/Child Relationship, Preteen/Adolescent problems, Personal Adjustment Issues, Self-esteem, Grief, Depression, Relationship Issues and Family Therapy.
There comes a time when problems may arise in your life whether it is your home, job, school an everyday circumstance and you need to talk to someone who has a listening ear and a compassionate heart.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, hopelessness, suicidal ideation, anger, trauma, social issues, relationship/ family conflicts, risky behaviors, academic/career issues using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Faith-Based, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and EFT.
Our practice was established, not only to help individuals overcome daily mental health challenges, but to help them thrive and live a purpose-based life. We truly believe that each person is created with purpose, strengths, and the capacity to change distorted thinking patterns. Our Renewed Model and integrative approach works to evaluate multiple factors that impact one’s mental health to develop an effective treatment plan that meets the needs of each individual. Allow me to help you journey through a process of healing from hurtful experiences, strengthen coping skills, grow healthy relationships, and live a life of purpose.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, hopelessness, suicidal ideation, anger, trauma, social issues, relationship/ family conflicts, risky behaviors, academic/career issues using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Faith-Based, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and EFT.
Our practice was established, not only to help individuals overcome daily mental health challenges, but to help them thrive and live a purpose-based life. We truly believe that each person is created with purpose, strengths, and the capacity to change distorted thinking patterns. Our Renewed Model and integrative approach works to evaluate multiple factors that impact one’s mental health to develop an effective treatment plan that meets the needs of each individual. Allow me to help you journey through a process of healing from hurtful experiences, strengthen coping skills, grow healthy relationships, and live a life of purpose.
Meet Our Family Therapy
Chemal Cruz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Mental health, specialize in Couples and Family Therapy, and retain a deep knowledge of Anxiety and Trauma.
New Hours 10am-3pm. My ideal client is a person or couple that is willing to talk about finding a better way of life and may need someone to confide in. Also, those needing an unbiased, non-judgmental ear with feedback. In our society, I believe men in particular need a safe place to be heard and take off their armor. So I welcome all men to try therapy and explore themselves beyond what they can provide. Whether you struggle with pride, shame/guilt, saying no, or making decisions I welcome you. Growth is a lifelong process that cannot be rushed. Hypnotherapy bridges your awareness so new possibilities emerge from embedded trauma.
I am trained in Mental health, specialize in Couples and Family Therapy, and retain a deep knowledge of Anxiety and Trauma.
New Hours 10am-3pm. My ideal client is a person or couple that is willing to talk about finding a better way of life and may need someone to confide in. Also, those needing an unbiased, non-judgmental ear with feedback. In our society, I believe men in particular need a safe place to be heard and take off their armor. So I welcome all men to try therapy and explore themselves beyond what they can provide. Whether you struggle with pride, shame/guilt, saying no, or making decisions I welcome you. Growth is a lifelong process that cannot be rushed. Hypnotherapy bridges your awareness so new possibilities emerge from embedded trauma.
Sonica Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Maybe you grew up in a family where emotions weren’t talked about, and now you carry the weight of being everything for everyone.
Together, we create space to unpack the cultural and relational layers that shape your anxiety, burnout, or inner critic. I bring a trauma-informed, decolonized lens to therapy that blends cognitive, somatic, and parts work (IFS). This is a space where your full self gets to show up—where you’re not "too much," "too sensitive," or too anything.
Maybe you grew up in a family where emotions weren’t talked about, and now you carry the weight of being everything for everyone.
Together, we create space to unpack the cultural and relational layers that shape your anxiety, burnout, or inner critic. I bring a trauma-informed, decolonized lens to therapy that blends cognitive, somatic, and parts work (IFS). This is a space where your full self gets to show up—where you’re not "too much," "too sensitive," or too anything.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010.
I will be open and flexible to meet your needs. I will always be happy to adjust my approach if you need more or less of anything from our session. I will maintain eye contact, give encouraging words, and ask relevant questions while being warm & non-judgmental during our sessions.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010.
I will be open and flexible to meet your needs. I will always be happy to adjust my approach if you need more or less of anything from our session. I will maintain eye contact, give encouraging words, and ask relevant questions while being warm & non-judgmental during our sessions.
Gina Claxton - Qualified Lcsw Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33815
The three populations I enjoy working with most are couples, adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety and depression, and family therapy.
I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self esteem, and grief. As a couples counselor I help partners improve intimacy, communication, and trust. I also work with families coping with divorce or separation, to improve co-parenting and develop coping skills for all family members.
The three populations I enjoy working with most are couples, adolescents, and young adults dealing with anxiety and depression, and family therapy.
I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self esteem, and grief. As a couples counselor I help partners improve intimacy, communication, and trust. I also work with families coping with divorce or separation, to improve co-parenting and develop coping skills for all family members.
I use a person-centered approach to work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, transitions, family relationships, and more.
Please email, to set up phone consultation.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Lakeland, FL, that specializes in teen through young adult females. The goal of my practice is to help set my clients on path to success by helping them uncover their strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and discover what they are mentally capable of.
I use a person-centered approach to work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, transitions, family relationships, and more.
Please email, to set up phone consultation.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Lakeland, FL, that specializes in teen through young adult females. The goal of my practice is to help set my clients on path to success by helping them uncover their strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and discover what they are mentally capable of.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of their next step.
I believe in therapy that is real, honest, and sometimes even a little humorous—because healing doesn’t have to be heavy all the time. With warmth, directness, and insight, I’ll help you break free from limiting patterns and reconnect with your authentic self. Together, we’ll work toward the life and relationships you want at a pace that feels right.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of their next step.
I believe in therapy that is real, honest, and sometimes even a little humorous—because healing doesn’t have to be heavy all the time. With warmth, directness, and insight, I’ll help you break free from limiting patterns and reconnect with your authentic self. Together, we’ll work toward the life and relationships you want at a pace that feels right.
Kevin Berry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Waitlist for new clients
I am able to empathize with the struggles of anxiety & depression, as well as the hurt of strained or broken family relationships.
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
I am able to empathize with the struggles of anxiety & depression, as well as the hurt of strained or broken family relationships.
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
Specialty areas include but are not limited to: anxiety/stress management, depression, grief/loss, couples/ family conflict, premarital, divorce recovery, transitions, singleness, and spiritual issues.
Tired of figuring it out on your own? Counseling could be an important next step in your life-a new journey into greater health. I see my role as an expert guide to bring understanding into your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. I'll explore your history to facilitate a greater awareness of how your past affects the present. Because life is often played out in the context of relationships; these emotions, thoughts, and behaviors not only impact your view of self, but also the world around you. I have an eclectic approach to therapy drawing from over 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples.
Specialty areas include but are not limited to: anxiety/stress management, depression, grief/loss, couples/ family conflict, premarital, divorce recovery, transitions, singleness, and spiritual issues.
Tired of figuring it out on your own? Counseling could be an important next step in your life-a new journey into greater health. I see my role as an expert guide to bring understanding into your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. I'll explore your history to facilitate a greater awareness of how your past affects the present. Because life is often played out in the context of relationships; these emotions, thoughts, and behaviors not only impact your view of self, but also the world around you. I have an eclectic approach to therapy drawing from over 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples.
ABC Mental Health & Relationship Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
My name is Yilmaz Taskin, as a certified Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer an open-minded, non-judgmental, and empathetic counseling/therapy approach in a safe and supportive environment.
When our thinking becomes blurred, our behaviors will be altered, consequently affecting the people around us, and beyond; we suffer, and so do our loved ones. Sadly, for a long-time people have avoided seeking help because of the stigma attached. Fortunately, this thought process is changing; more people are getting help rather than suffering needlessly.
My name is Yilmaz Taskin, as a certified Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer an open-minded, non-judgmental, and empathetic counseling/therapy approach in a safe and supportive environment.
When our thinking becomes blurred, our behaviors will be altered, consequently affecting the people around us, and beyond; we suffer, and so do our loved ones. Sadly, for a long-time people have avoided seeking help because of the stigma attached. Fortunately, this thought process is changing; more people are getting help rather than suffering needlessly.
See more therapy options for Polk County
Family Therapy
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.
How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.
How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.
Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.