LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Polk County, FL

I’ve worked with issues including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, chronic impulsivity, ADHD, coping skills, social skills, developmental disorders, family conflict, grief, learning disabilities, parenting, relationship issues, self esteem, and acculturation conflict.
I believe in the importance of a safe and comfortable therapeutic space. When working with me, you’ll find a nurturing atmosphere where you are free to explore and be your genuine and authentic self. Together, we will create this and ensure that your needs are being addressed.
I’ve worked with issues including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, chronic impulsivity, ADHD, coping skills, social skills, developmental disorders, family conflict, grief, learning disabilities, parenting, relationship issues, self esteem, and acculturation conflict.
I believe in the importance of a safe and comfortable therapeutic space. When working with me, you’ll find a nurturing atmosphere where you are free to explore and be your genuine and authentic self. Together, we will create this and ensure that your needs are being addressed.

I specialize in trauma, substance abuse, sexual issues/sex therapy, LGBTQ+ issues & mental health with 22 years experience in the helping field.
Are you feeling emotionally or physically disconnected from your partner? Is communication not clear? Passion & intimacy gone within your relationship? Are you having some difficulty with your sexual behaviors, urges or desires? Unsure of your sexuality? Are you a therapist or professional helper? Feeling disconnected in a relationship can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable and alone. Having sexual issues can be embarrassing and alienating. Not being accepted due to your sexuality can be hurtful. My affirming and empathetic approach can help you gain a sense of normalcy, dig deeper and begin to make the changes you desire.
I specialize in trauma, substance abuse, sexual issues/sex therapy, LGBTQ+ issues & mental health with 22 years experience in the helping field.
Are you feeling emotionally or physically disconnected from your partner? Is communication not clear? Passion & intimacy gone within your relationship? Are you having some difficulty with your sexual behaviors, urges or desires? Unsure of your sexuality? Are you a therapist or professional helper? Feeling disconnected in a relationship can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable and alone. Having sexual issues can be embarrassing and alienating. Not being accepted due to your sexuality can be hurtful. My affirming and empathetic approach can help you gain a sense of normalcy, dig deeper and begin to make the changes you desire.

I have over 15 years of experience with at-risk youth, LGBTQ population, and trauma work.
I have a wealth of experience working with at-risk youth. I started my career in child welfare. I have worked extensively working with LGBTQ population with individual therapy and LGBTQ couples. Recently I have worked virtually with client's relationship problems, anxiety, and depression.
I have over 15 years of experience with at-risk youth, LGBTQ population, and trauma work.
I have a wealth of experience working with at-risk youth. I started my career in child welfare. I have worked extensively working with LGBTQ population with individual therapy and LGBTQ couples. Recently I have worked virtually with client's relationship problems, anxiety, and depression.

Carolina helps couples and families improve their communication and emotional connection, and is LGBT, kink, and poly knowledgeable and friendly
At some point in our lives we all get to a place where the tools we have been using are no longer working for us, where we feel stuck, where we are unable to see the path forward. You might be in a relationship that is changing or having trouble communicating. You might be burning out at work, overwhelmed and lost as to what to do next. In a safe, open, judgement free environment, Carolina will team up with you to figure out your path forward and get you back on track, headed in the right direction.
Carolina helps couples and families improve their communication and emotional connection, and is LGBT, kink, and poly knowledgeable and friendly
At some point in our lives we all get to a place where the tools we have been using are no longer working for us, where we feel stuck, where we are unable to see the path forward. You might be in a relationship that is changing or having trouble communicating. You might be burning out at work, overwhelmed and lost as to what to do next. In a safe, open, judgement free environment, Carolina will team up with you to figure out your path forward and get you back on track, headed in the right direction.

Beginning the therapy journey can be difficult and finding the right therapist for yourself is important. Therapy allows us the space to process our difficulties, to talk through difficult decisions and figure out the path that you are wanting to take. I believe human connection is what leads to the most success in therapy and finding that right person can feel overwhelming. I would be honored to help you to achieve the goals that you have set for counseling.
Beginning the therapy journey can be difficult and finding the right therapist for yourself is important. Therapy allows us the space to process our difficulties, to talk through difficult decisions and figure out the path that you are wanting to take. I believe human connection is what leads to the most success in therapy and finding that right person can feel overwhelming. I would be honored to help you to achieve the goals that you have set for counseling.

I utilize evidence based interventions including CBT/DBT Mindfulness.
I utilize evidence based interventions including CBT/DBT Mindfulness.
John Dwyer, LMHC, is a compassionate and highly experienced mental health counselor who has been helping individuals and families across Florida for over 30 years. 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. His approach emphasizes equipping clients with practical tools to improve communication, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and address selfdefeating thought and behavior patterns.
John Dwyer, LMHC, is a compassionate and highly experienced mental health counselor who has been helping individuals and families across Florida for over 30 years. 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. His approach emphasizes equipping clients with practical tools to improve communication, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and address selfdefeating thought and behavior patterns.

As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of dedicated practice, I am deeply committed to facilitating positive change in the lives of individuals and families. My extensive experience has honed my ability to provide empathetic and effective therapeutic support, making me a trusted partner in the journey toward mental health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have worked in a diverse range of settings, allowing me to cultivate a versatile skill set.
As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of dedicated practice, I am deeply committed to facilitating positive change in the lives of individuals and families. My extensive experience has honed my ability to provide empathetic and effective therapeutic support, making me a trusted partner in the journey toward mental health and well-being. Throughout my career, I have worked in a diverse range of settings, allowing me to cultivate a versatile skill set.

Most of the time the hardest part of change is the decision to do something different. There are times when we need some help to bring focus, clarity, and peace to our lives. At Purple Heart Counseling, I utilize a mindfulness and introspective approach to help identify your thoughts and feelings. We can focus on your goals and strive towards you living a more optimal and healthy life.
Most of the time the hardest part of change is the decision to do something different. There are times when we need some help to bring focus, clarity, and peace to our lives. At Purple Heart Counseling, I utilize a mindfulness and introspective approach to help identify your thoughts and feelings. We can focus on your goals and strive towards you living a more optimal and healthy life.

I have 40 years experience in mental health. I have a Masters and Specialist Degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide therapy for children from ages 3-10 years old. I use Parent Child Interaction Therapy.
I have 40 years experience in mental health. I have a Masters and Specialist Degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide therapy for children from ages 3-10 years old. I use Parent Child Interaction Therapy.

Cypress Gardens Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Winter Haven, FL 33880
I am a Licensed Marriage/Couples and Family Therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help combat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dysphoria, trauma & behavioral and mood disorders. I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who enjoys guiding, empowering, and educating my clients. I believe it is import to hold the feelings and trust the process of healing. I have a history serving minority populations ranging from race to gender and sexuality. My goal is to make your therapy space a welcoming and a safe environment. We are all on this journey of life and I would love to walk with you if you want me to.
I am a Licensed Marriage/Couples and Family Therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help combat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dysphoria, trauma & behavioral and mood disorders. I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who enjoys guiding, empowering, and educating my clients. I believe it is import to hold the feelings and trust the process of healing. I have a history serving minority populations ranging from race to gender and sexuality. My goal is to make your therapy space a welcoming and a safe environment. We are all on this journey of life and I would love to walk with you if you want me to.

If you are searching for therapist with experience, knowledge and focus on your needs, if you are "stuck" in your current situation and don't see your way out, if problems in your relationship or marriage can't seem to be resolved, you should be kind to yourself and seek help. The pressures placed upon us by society, family and ourselves can become a heavy burden to carry alone. I practice optimizing approach to treatment using differential psycho-therapeutics. I believe in uniqueness of individual and situation therefore my approach is the following: different patients - different therapies.
If you are searching for therapist with experience, knowledge and focus on your needs, if you are "stuck" in your current situation and don't see your way out, if problems in your relationship or marriage can't seem to be resolved, you should be kind to yourself and seek help. The pressures placed upon us by society, family and ourselves can become a heavy burden to carry alone. I practice optimizing approach to treatment using differential psycho-therapeutics. I believe in uniqueness of individual and situation therefore my approach is the following: different patients - different therapies.

Hi! I'm glad you're here! My name is Tricia Houghtby and I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. With licenses in both Vermont and Florida, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from diverse backgrounds in their journeys towards healing and growth.
Hi! I'm glad you're here! My name is Tricia Houghtby and I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. With licenses in both Vermont and Florida, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from diverse backgrounds in their journeys towards healing and growth.

Hi, my name is Steven Sanchez and if you're here reading this, you're most likely going through difficult life experiences and seeking help at this time. This is your first step and I welcome you to do so. As a counselor with a background in social work, it is my mission to empower and advocate for my clients, and offer them a comfortable, safe and non-judgemental enviornment, where they can heal and grow, and become their true authenic self. Through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can begin your journey and I will make sure that on this journey you are seen, heard and most importanlty validated.
Hi, my name is Steven Sanchez and if you're here reading this, you're most likely going through difficult life experiences and seeking help at this time. This is your first step and I welcome you to do so. As a counselor with a background in social work, it is my mission to empower and advocate for my clients, and offer them a comfortable, safe and non-judgemental enviornment, where they can heal and grow, and become their true authenic self. Through a collaborative therapeutic relationship, we can begin your journey and I will make sure that on this journey you are seen, heard and most importanlty validated.

Let's face it, people are struggling mentally. Whether it be financial concerns, trauma, stress, or even the political client, people are finding it hard to rely on others, sometimes even our family members. I might be the first therapist to admit that even I have things I continue to work on. I can't pretend I know what you are going through, but I too am a regular person like you. Let me help you navigate these times. I currently own a successful group practice in NJ and recently moved to Florida. You can visit my website to find out even more about me and how we can be a good fit.
Let's face it, people are struggling mentally. Whether it be financial concerns, trauma, stress, or even the political client, people are finding it hard to rely on others, sometimes even our family members. I might be the first therapist to admit that even I have things I continue to work on. I can't pretend I know what you are going through, but I too am a regular person like you. Let me help you navigate these times. I currently own a successful group practice in NJ and recently moved to Florida. You can visit my website to find out even more about me and how we can be a good fit.

My ideal client feels stuck, misunderstood, or like therapy hasn’t worked for them before. They may struggle with BPD, trauma, attachment issues, mood disorders, or self-esteem challenges. They want to heal, build healthier relationships, and develop coping skills while feeling seen and understood. Their goal is to create a balanced, fulfilling life, free from past patterns and constraints. They seek a therapist who offers empathy, tailored care, and a fresh approach to help them thrive.
My ideal client feels stuck, misunderstood, or like therapy hasn’t worked for them before. They may struggle with BPD, trauma, attachment issues, mood disorders, or self-esteem challenges. They want to heal, build healthier relationships, and develop coping skills while feeling seen and understood. Their goal is to create a balanced, fulfilling life, free from past patterns and constraints. They seek a therapist who offers empathy, tailored care, and a fresh approach to help them thrive.

Do you need a psychological evaluation letter for an emotional support animal, immigration, bariatric weight loss surgery, or another pre-surgery evaluation? You can have your evaluation in as little as seven days. We offer ESA Letters, bariatric weight loss evaluations, and immigration evaluations (Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancellation of Removal.
Do you need a psychological evaluation letter for an emotional support animal, immigration, bariatric weight loss surgery, or another pre-surgery evaluation? You can have your evaluation in as little as seven days. We offer ESA Letters, bariatric weight loss evaluations, and immigration evaluations (Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancellation of Removal.

Maybe you’re tired of overthinking, second-guessing yourself, or feeling stuck in the same frustrating patterns—in your relationships, your career, or just within yourself. Maybe you’ve tried pushing through on your own, but nothing really changes. Therapy is where we untangle the knots, rewrite the story, and find new ways forward. 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. You don’t need a one-size-fits-all approach—you need something that works for you.
Maybe you’re tired of overthinking, second-guessing yourself, or feeling stuck in the same frustrating patterns—in your relationships, your career, or just within yourself. Maybe you’ve tried pushing through on your own, but nothing really changes. Therapy is where we untangle the knots, rewrite the story, and find new ways forward. 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. You don’t need a one-size-fits-all approach—you need something that works for you.

“Out of office until May 2025”
I am focused on providing a collaborative and person-centered approach for those seeking therapeutic services. There is no "one-size-fits-all" philosophy in counseling and each person deserves an individualized process that can help with developing tools in order to better cope with life stressors or transitions. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment throughout each client's journey towards finding clarity and stability in their lives. Everyone deserves to find the confidence in themselves to further their personal or professional goals in life.
“Out of office until May 2025”
I am focused on providing a collaborative and person-centered approach for those seeking therapeutic services. There is no "one-size-fits-all" philosophy in counseling and each person deserves an individualized process that can help with developing tools in order to better cope with life stressors or transitions. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment throughout each client's journey towards finding clarity and stability in their lives. Everyone deserves to find the confidence in themselves to further their personal or professional goals in life.

I am passionate about helping Millennials and Gen Z overcome hopelessness, exhaustion and self-doubt. My clients feel like they’re forcing a smile but deep down they feel depressed and defeated. It’s confusing and scary! There’s a reason for your sadness, and I want to discover where it’s coming from with you. I’ll help you shed a light on your depression so you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a crazy person. I get it, we can figure this out together. Here’s a bit more about what it’s like working with me in therapy:
I am passionate about helping Millennials and Gen Z overcome hopelessness, exhaustion and self-doubt. My clients feel like they’re forcing a smile but deep down they feel depressed and defeated. It’s confusing and scary! There’s a reason for your sadness, and I want to discover where it’s coming from with you. I’ll help you shed a light on your depression so you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a crazy person. I get it, we can figure this out together. Here’s a bit more about what it’s like working with me in therapy: