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Our Vision
Our vision is to help clients receive sustainable relief and freedom by treating the symptoms and root causes utilizing integrated, whole-person care.
Being Healthy Requires Alignment of All Aspects of Your Life
At Total Health Guidance, we believe that to be truly healthy you need to not only be physically well, but also have a healthy emotional life, satisfying relationships, spiritual health and a solid financial foundation. Our integrated and holistic healthcare approach brings together professionals from various disciplines, including counseling, massage, nutrition counseling, and financial guidance to provide a truly unique and complete approach to your overall health. Whether you need one of our services or several, everyone at Total Health is focused on your overall well-being.
Our Commitment
Helping people achieve sustainable relief and freedom since 2008
We provide an array of counseling options to meet your unique needs. Our whole-person perspective looks at your emotional health as well as your physical, relational, financial and nutritional needs. This well-rounded approach allows us to see other areas of your life that may be impacting your mental health. Our passionate counselors work with you to bring balance where needed. We are a solution-focused team that supports you on your journey toward sustainable long-term health.
Our Team
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Counseling / Coaching, Nutrition, and Consumer Credit Counselor
EDUCATION
John has a degree in Theology from Cairn University, a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Liberty University, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, and his Doctorate in Naturopathic Psychology. John also has over 150 continuing education credits in the area of health and nutrition.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Christian Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutrition Coach (by FACCT), Consumer Credit Counselor, and a professional Life & Business Coach. John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University’s School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master’s Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master’s Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He started a nutrition business in 2005 and has been the Wellness Coordinator for several Central Florida doctors over the past 10 years. His diverse background provides him with insight as a counselor and life coach.
PERSONAL
John was born & raised in New Jersey, but has lived in Orlando since 1994. He is the father of 3 children (two in college and one in high school). John enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, cooking, and working out.
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
Naturopathic Psychology, Counseling/Coaching; Nutrition, & Consumer Credit Counseling
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Tony Ambush, LMT, LC, CHC
Somatic Massage, Greif Specialist, Life Coaching, Health Coaching, Psychodrama, Men's Work (Father Wounds), Adults and Teens (16 & up).
Dr. Clinton Eugene Sims, MsEd, PsyD
Psychological Evaluations
EDUCATION
Clinton has an Associates Degree in Chemical Technology and a Bachelor’s Degree from Rutgers University. He has also earned a Master’s Degree in Education and a Doctoral Degree in Applied Psychology, both from Pace University in New York City.
CREDENTIALS
Clinton is licensed as a school psychologist and trained in psycho-analytic theory and comprehensive psychological evaluations. He practiced as a school psychologist for six years prior to going into private practice in 2005. Clinton currently does all types of psychological evaluations including those that are court ordered. He has also been deemed an expert witness for court testifying in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Lake Counties.
EXPERIENCE
Dr. Sims began his practical training as an intern at Osceola Mental Health where he facilitated therapy sessions concerning educational, marital, and personal concerns. He then served six years as a school psychologist in Hillsborough County where his primary responsibilities included evaluations to assess social/emotional maladjustment as well as “gifted” assessments. Clinton also served on the school districts Crisis Intervention Team. He also evaluated students who were at risk of harming themselves or others, and conducted individual and teacher consultations. Currently, he devotes most of his time to psychological evaluations of all types, assisting teens with school adjustment problems, and assisting families through relational concerns.
PERSONAL
Dr. Sims was raised in Northern New Jersey, arriving in Orlando in 1998. He has a 20 year old daughter who is an all-American collegiate gymnast and honor’s student. He also has a step-daughter and step-son and 7 grandchildren.
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC
Medical, clinical, Swedish, AromaTouch and Sports Massage, Certified Health Coach, Life Coach
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
Tony Ambush, LMT, CHC, LC (COO)
Massage, Life Coaching, Health Coaching
Finding a massage therapist that understands the muscles, body and how to work out my issues is rare. Tony has helped me with neck and back issues which have bothered me for years. The AromaTouch massage is my favorite; an overall cleansing and complete relaxing massage. Thank you Tony, see you soon! – L.S. Orlando, FL
EDUCATION
Anthony is a graduate of The Center for Massage and Natural Health in Asheville, NC. The school is known for having a strong holistic teaching regimen with a balance of Eastern and Western modalities, giving students a well rounded feel for holistic as well as clinical massage. Tony is an honorably discharged veteran of the US Army where he served in the medical field. Along with his clinical training, Tony also earned a business degree from the Art Institute of Dallas.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Anthony is a Licensed Massage Therapist with the State of Florida (MA74731) and specializes in medical, clinical, Swedish, CTM and sports massage. He has a knack for helping with shoulder issues and lower back gluteal issues as well. He is a member in good standing with the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA). Tony’s touch has been described as unnoticeable deep penetrative massage. He doesn’t believe that is has to hurt in order to be doing some good.
EXPERIENCE
Anthony has worked at his alma mater, The Center for Natural Health, where he was exposed to providing varied treatments for clients. While studying he also worked with at the retreat center associated with the school. There he was exposed to various treatments for clients dealing with mental health issues, stress, physical pain, nutritional needs and those dealing with addiction. Tony was fortunate to see how massage incorporated with other natural modalities was helping people get back to sustainable health. He seeks to create a welcoming experience to help assist clients with healing. Tony has a strong desire to help people get back to health so that they may regain the freedom of movement, without pain, that brings joy.
PERSONAL
Tony chose to enter massage after a mysterious debilitating issue plagued him for many years. After many procedures, bone scans, x-rays, MRI’s etc. it was the natural healing modalities that rejuvenated his life. Massage helped him regain his physical self and allowed him to once again play softball, volleyball and to do the other things he enjoyed. Massage, along with Chiropractic care and Acupuncture, restored his zest for life. His personal experience with pain allows him to empathize and care deeply for clients. You’ll be in good hands with Tony!
DJ Spigener, MA, LMHC
Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Adolescents, Adults, Couples, & Families
DJ Spigener, MA, LMHC (Clinical Director)
Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Adolescents, Adults, Couples, & Families
EDUCATION
DJ graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Flagler College in 2009. Pursuing his passion for mental health, he later completed his Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College in 2012. DJ has worked as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida since 2015.
EXPERIENCE
DJ began his counseling career as an intern at an adolescent substance abuse recovery program, cementing his love for working with adolescents while also providing a context to practice counseling skills in a real-world setting. For his follow-up internship, he worked as a counselor at Chancery Charter High School, an alternative high school located in Orlando, FL. Upon graduation from Rollins College, DJ took a full-time position with Haven Recovery Center, a non-profit residential substance abuse treatment program previously located in Deland, FL. After years of rewarding and insightful experience in this setting, he transitioned to Orlando Recovery Center, a new treatment center located near downtown Orlando, and worked alongside his peers to build their clinical program from an unknown start-up into a nationally recognized provider of high quality substance abuse treatment. His desire to work with a broad spectrum of clients from all walks of life, and to provide truly individualized and holistic care, brought him to Total Health Guidance in 2017.
PERSONAL
DJ was born in Austin, TX, but work opportunities for his father meant he would be moving to new and exciting places relatively quickly. He eventually wound up in the mountains of Colorado, where the social pressures of adolescent life in an unfamiliar place were often difficult to navigate. Through his own incredible journey of self-discovery while working with a counselor, DJ uncovered a passion for helping others realize their potential, and soon found his calling. Combined with his fascination of the study of psychology and the human mind, he started down a path that would lead him to his current work as a mental health counselor. Through his own experiences with addiction in his family, he found that there is hope for recovery, and a better future, for sufferers and families affected by this destructive and often baffling illness. DJ currently lives in Lake Mary, FL with his family, where he enjoys making good meals, playing with his dogs, and finding time to relax and recharge. His passion for guiding and supporting those in need burns stronger than ever, and he could not imagine a more fulfilling and meaningful career.
INSURANCE
DJ is an in-network provider for several insurance carriers; AVMED, CIGNA, MAGELLAN, and MULTIPLAN. When you schedule your initial appointment be sure to provide us with your insurance details. All insurance coverage will need to be verified before your session. Any sessions prior to insurance verification may require self-payment. Please call (321) 332-6984 with any questions, and to verify your insurance options.
Catherine Caba, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families
(A.R.T. Practitioner, E.F.T. Practitioner, CBT, Addiction & Substance Abuse)
(Habla Español)
Catherine Caba, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, EFT, CBT (Habla Español)
EDUCATION
Catherine has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from La Universidad del Este and a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is trained in the Emotional Freedom Techniques and teaches simple processes to help resolve anxiety and self-esteem issues.
CREDENTIALS
Catherine is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Catherine started her professional career seven years ago. She spent five years working with the substance abuse community helping them regain and rediscover their life’s purpose. She has empowered couples and individuals to overcome obstacles in order to improve themselves and their relationships.
PERSONAL
Catherine was born and raised in New York and has lived in Orlando since 1993. She is the mother of two adult children. Catherine enjoys reading self-help and personal growth books. She also enjoys learning new ways to make the therapeutic experience as positive and effective as possible.
Jessica Santos Valenzuela, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, Children & Teens, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
Jessica Santos Valenzuela, LMHC
Individual, Couples, & Families, Children & Teens, Addiction & Substance Abuse.
(Habla Español)
Education
Jessica has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, and a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Carlos Albizu University. Jessica also has taken courses and training in Telehealth for Mental Health Professionals, and Depression and Suicidal tendencies from the Beck Institute.
Credentials
Jessica is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the State of Florida (IMH 19026).
Experience
Jessica started her professional career helping others in the law setting. She worked for a non-profit organization that provided services for Domestic Abuse victims and their families. She spent 14 years in private practice as an Attorney specializing in Civil and Family cases, where she was exposed to the complexity of the family dynamics. After getting her Master’s Degree, Jessica started working in the clinical setting working with children, adolescents, and adults and helping them with their behavioral and emotional wellbeing. Jessica also acquired administrative skills in the clinical setting. For her internship, she was able to apply her skills working with the elderly, and Domestic Violence victims and their families. Jessica has always been involved in helping others through different settings including church ministries and other faith-based organizations.
Personal
Jessica was born and raised in Puerto Rico and has lived in Orlando since 2017. She enjoys reading, and spending time with her family. She also enjoys learning new ways to transform the therapeutic experience and help her client develop the best version of themselves.
Jeannette Urena, LMHC
Individual Counseling, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, & Families, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
Arthur Gately, Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Adolescents,Adults, Teens, Couples & Families
EXPERIENCE
Artie began his counseling career in September 2017 when he entered the Pepperdine University’s Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy program. Prior to this he had been working for a technology company in Southern California as a sales representative. After several years of doing this work he found the job unfulfilling and wanted to enter into a profession where he could use his skills to help people. After completing one year of his master’s degree in California, he decided to transfer to Rollins College so he could complete his degree near his girlfriend. During his time in the Rollins College Master’s program he has had experience interning at Aspire Health, working at the Men’s Residential Recovery program. He also spent time interning at The Cameron Group, which is a care management company working with the elderly population. Artie has a passion working with men who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitional issues.
PERSONAL
Artie grew up and spent the first eighteen years of his life in a town called Cumberland, Rhode Island. At 18 he moved to Manchester, New Hampshire to pursue his bachelor's degree at Saint Anselm College. During his time at Saint Anselm College he developed a passion for service and helping people. Upon graduating Artie decided to dedicate a year of service working for an AmeriCorps volunteer group. During this year of service Artie lived in San Diego, CA working as a kindergarten assistant and the director of the aftercare program at an underprivileged school. After completing the year of service Artie loved the Southern California area so much that he decided to get a job there and stay. For the next five years Artie worked for a technology company doing sales. However, after several years of doing this he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue a career that was meaningful and could positively change the lives of the people he worked with. Artie currently lives in Winter Park with his girlfriend and their several foster cats. Artie loves being outside and enjoys skateboarding, playing golf, camping, running, and pretty much anything else you can do outdoors. Artie is also a huge New England sports fan and follows all the Boston sports teams.
Arthur Gately, Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Adolescents,Adults, Teens, Couples & Families
EXPERIENCE
Artie began his counseling career in September 2017 when he entered the Pepperdine University’s Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy program. Prior to this he had been working for a technology company in Southern California as a sales representative. After several years of doing this work he found the job unfulfilling and wanted to enter into a profession where he could use his skills to help people. After completing one year of his master’s degree in California, he decided to transfer to Rollins College so he could complete his degree near his girlfriend. During his time in the Rollins College Master’s program he has had experience interning at Aspire Health, working at the Men’s Residential Recovery program. He also spent time interning at The Cameron Group, which is a care management company working with the elderly population. Artie has a passion working with men who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitional issues.
PERSONAL
Artie grew up and spent the first eighteen years of his life in a town called Cumberland, Rhode Island. At 18 he moved to Manchester, New Hampshire to pursue his bachelor's degree at Saint Anselm College. During his time at Saint Anselm College he developed a passion for service and helping people. Upon graduating Artie decided to dedicate a year of service working for an AmeriCorps volunteer group. During this year of service Artie lived in San Diego, CA working as a kindergarten assistant and the director of the aftercare program at an underprivileged school. After completing the year of service Artie loved the Southern California area so much that he decided to get a job there and stay. For the next five years Artie worked for a technology company doing sales. However, after several years of doing this he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue a career that was meaningful and could positively change the lives of the people he worked with. Artie currently lives in Winter Park with his girlfriend and their several foster cats. Artie loves being outside and enjoys skateboarding, playing golf, camping, running, and pretty much anything else you can do outdoors. Artie is also a huge New England sports fan and follows all the Boston sports teams.
Jeannette Urena LMHC
Individual Counseling, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, & Families, Addiction & Substance Abuse. (Habla Español)
EDUCATION
Jeannette has a degree in Psychology from Mount Holyoke College, and a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Degree from Argosy University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Jeannette is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jeannette started her life passion of helping others when she was very young through many experiences helping others in her personal life with resolving conflicts and life challenges. While in college completing her bachelor’s degree she fell in love with Psychology and never turned back from this field; later completing Master’s Degree in clinical mental health counseling and ending up with state licensure. Her experiences in helping others in the counseling field date back to 1999 where she worked with individuals struggling with substance use (adolescents and adults). She worked exclusively with this population from 1999 until 2011. From 2011 until 2018 she experienced working with individuals, groups, couples and families who at times had struggles with substance use and/or other mental health challenges (depression, generalized anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, relationship conflicts and others). During these years professional experiences varied in settings such as the following: inpatient/outpatient settings, in home settings and school-based settings. From 2018 until end of May 2021 she worked in a Central Florida Group Practice engaging on outpatient individual counseling/therapy (mental health and/or substance use) and at times provided supportive/therapeutic counseling to families and couples.
The combination of earlier professional experiences prior to attaining a Master’s Degree and state licensure have made Jeannette a well-rounded counselor. However, the core of her counseling remains maintaining a person-centered approach which for her means the following: “Meeting a client where they are, upholding empathy (putting herself in someone else’s shoes) and remaining non-judgmental”. Aside from person centered approach to counseling, she has learned to incorporate cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches. Another important philosophy that Jeannette brings to her counseling approach is that she and the person she is helping work in a “collaborative approach” meaning that the person is the expert of their life and that with the assistance/help of Jeannette’s professional and personal experiences work can be done towards the goals a person wants to achieve to attain wellness for their present and future lives.
PERSONAL
Jeannette was born & raised in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, however, has lived in Central Florida area since 2006. She is the mother of 3 children (one in college and two in high school) and has been married to her soulmate for over twenty years. Jeannette enjoys spending time with family, outdoor related activities/exercises, traveling and in last few years learning about what can help her improve with self-care and wellness.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, RCSWI-Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; were he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Harry W. Rosario Pérez, BA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
Education
Harry is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. There he attained a bachelor’s degree in Arts, with a major in social work. This University is known as one of the top Universities in his native Puerto Rico and one of the leaders in different areas of scientific investigation. He also attained a master’s degree in social work, with a major in Administration and Supervision of Welfare Agencies, with additional coursework in crisis intervention, family and children, group therapy, social work with the LGBTTQ+ community and investigation from the Graduate School of Social Work Beatriz Lassalle in the same Campus; where he graduated with honors amongst the top students of his class.
Credentials/Affiliations
Harry is a Licensed Master Social Work (#12759) in his native Puerto Rico, certified to work in all areas of Social Work as established by law in Puerto Rico as granted by a permanent license. He is also licensed in the State of Florida as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Intern (ISW16334) and is currently working towards his full Clinical Social Work Licensure in the State of Florida. He is also affiliated with the College of Professional Social Workers of Puerto Rico since 2009, where he has maintained a good standing.
Experience
Despite his young age Harry has vast experience in various fields of Social Work. From his formative years in his bachelor’s degree, he began gaining experience by completing various social work internships at a high school in his hometown working with the student body. Later he continued to gain experience while working with rehabilitating substance abusers at Puerto Rico CONCRA’S buprenorphine program conducting group education seminars. Aside from this, he gained a strong sense of social justice and fairness while completing his community based internship in social work at the Proyecto Enlace del Caño Martin Peña in San Juan, were he worked with the community Parada 27 to strengthen the community and advocate for the draining of a community adjacent body of water that is highly contaminated and floods the communities when it rains. Lastly, he gained invaluable experience working with children with special needs in a school setting; working with conditions such as Autism, Severe Learning Disabilities and Physical Disabilities. During his years as a graduate student, Harry returned to “El Caño”, this time as an Administrative Social Worker, helping from within the Proyecto Enlace offices to strengthen and develop the G-8, Inc. a conglomerate of all the communities within “El Caño” to advocate for their development. Since the conclusion, his formative years Harry has garnered more experience working as a Forensic Social Worker in Child Protective Services within DCF in Puerto Rico. Upon relocating to Florida, he has expanded his experience while working with the Homeless Population in Osceola County with Park Place Behavioral Health Care. As a Counselor for recovering substance abusers with Aspire Health Partner’s Drug Court Program in Orlando and, lately; as a Social Worker, working with a diverse population at Poinciana Medical Center.
Personal
Harry is the youngest of two children, born and raised in the small town of Morovis in Puerto Rico. He decided to enter the profession of Social Work after finding his passion for service at a faith-based youth group in his hometown of Morovis. There he worked since he was 14 years old until he turned 29. Upon his beginnings he worked as a leader and member of the group providing development and faith-based seminars to the youth in his hometown, also incurring in community service activities. In later years, he moved on to a role of mentorship, tutoring and guiding younger and newer members of the group to share in the knowledge he had acquired throughout his years there, as well as utilizing his knowledge and skills as a licensed social worker to serve as a counselor to the younger members. His stint in this group also created a profound sense of empathy for others and a desire to help those in need. Meeting and sharing experiences with as many people as he did over the span of those years, Harry became and avid fan of the arts, including art, music, theater, movies; but also, of everything geeky.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC,
RHMCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern) - Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
EDUCATION
Jermesa Lee holds a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. Jermesa has received training in mediation and conflict resolution. She is also certified in marriage and family therapy as well as rehabilitation counseling. Jermesa is also a registered mental health counselor intern.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILITIONS
Jermesa is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jermesa has worked with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. She strongly believes in inclusivity and diversity. Her goal is to be a resource for all those with whom she works. Her areas of focus include self-esteem & self-empowerment, emotional regulation (stress management & anxiety), life transition, relationship issues, and disabilities adjustment/support). Jermesa provides exceptional services and she is here to listen.
PERSONAL
Jermesa is visually impaired and personally knows what it is like to have to adapt to life altering circumstances. She knows how it feels to be excluded or in life transition, so she has made it one of her life goals to create inclusive environments. It gives her joy to help others brighten their light so that they may shine.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI-(Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction Treatment, Adults, Couples & Families.
Dr David MacIvor, D.O.M., A.P. - “Dr. Mac”
Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. Dr MacIvor is Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM), and Florida State Licensed.
EDUCATION
Dr. David MacIvor, is a graduate of the Florida College of Integrative Medicine where he taught as a Professor and Clinical Supervisor. He trained in western medicine through the US military where he was part of the Special Operations medical program.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
MacIvor is Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM), and Florida State Licensed.
EXPERIENCE
Dr. Mac is trained in Traditional and Classical acupuncture. He is certified in Advanced Acu-point Injection Therapy and has had noted success with treating Stress and Anxiety, Digestive disorders, Menstrual and Fertility issues, Headaches, Blood Pressure and more. He is skilled at integrating western biomedical knowledge with that of the Oriental Medicine modalities for sound healing. Dr. Mac prides himself on being able to significantly reduce of his patient’s pain levels on their first visit.
Dr. Mac has worked with elite athletes from Bahamas, Great Britain, Germany, Scotland, Jamaica, Ukraine, Japan, and the United States. He was present and treating patient/athletes at the 2008 Beijing, China Olympians Games. Those patients won gold and silver. He has also worked with performers from Cirque Du Soleil, Worlds Strongest Man competitors, Body Builders, Track & Field athletes, MMA fighters, Wake boarders, Ironman competitors, and PGA golf athletes.
Dr. Mac successfully representing the Department of Defense’s pilot program under the Surgeon General of the Army. He was selected as one of eighteen Acupuncturists to treat Active-Duty military soldiers for pain.
PERSONAL
Dr. Mac is a 16-year veteran of the US military and was head coach of the Army Europe, Augsburg, Germany Wrestling Team. Dr. MAC has been wrestling Free Style and Greco Roman wrestling for 28 years and has competed at the international level. He also practices Win Chun Kung Fu and competes in Jujitsu. He is currently working on authoring a book on Meridian Theory.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dave Stewart, MA, RSCI
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI
Social Work, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Addiction Treatment, Adults, Couples & Families.
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and Academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC, RHMCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
EDUCATION
Kristina graduated from Valencia Community College; she has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Central Florida. She is currently in her third year of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s graduate program at Antioch University.
EXPERIENCE
Kristina has extensive customer service experience with over 16 years in various capacities. She worked as an insurance accountant for 6 years and then became a high school teacher; further transitioning into a special education teaching role at a private school. She has comprehensive experience working within an administrative role at an optometrist’s office and enjoys working with a multitude of cultural backgrounds.
PERSONAL
Kristina was born in New York and moved to Orlando with her family when she was a baby, she has resided here since. She is currently in a LMHC graduate school program and mental health is one of her passions. When she’s not studying, she enjoys traveling, learning how to read tarot, listening to music, and is an avid tv and movie watcher
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Bryan Torres Pabon
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care, Insurance & Billing
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI (Registered Clinical Social Work Intern)
Social Work, Substance Abuse & Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Adults, Couples & Families
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in social work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Bryan Torres Pabon
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care, Insurance & Billing
Experience
Bryan worked for 2 years at Valencia college as a Certified Peer Educator and as a member of the Campus Activity Board. He managed the budget for many events held at Valencia College at the Poinciana Campus and oriented students to any resources they needed. Bryan also worked for two years as a Administrative Medical Assistant and Billing Specialist at an outpatient mental health facility before joining the Total Health Guidance Team.
Education
Bryan has an AA in Psychology from Valencia College and is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in psychology with a certification in aging studies. Bryan plans to continue his education and obtain a master’s in counseling psychology with a specialization in forensic psychology; and eventually attaing his Doctorates in Psychology specialized in forensic psychology.
Personal
Bryan was born and raised in Puerto Rico. In October of 2017, after Hurricane Maria hit the island, he moved to Florida to finish high school and continue his academic goals. Bryan’s hobbies are playing guitar, sports, taking care of his pets, and singing. He is currently a singer in his church music group.
Kristina Lazarus
Administrative Specialist, Customer Care & Scheduling
Nicole Santoro, MLSI (SEP 23)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families.
EDUCATION
Nicole has a bachelor's degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida, a master's degree in Developmental Disabilities with concentrations in Early Childhood and Applied Behavior Analysis, and is currently perusing a master's degree in Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Nicole is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Nicole is a member of the American Counseling Association.
EXPERIENCE
Nicole has been implementing the principles of various counseling techniques including CBT and ABA to her work with children, adolescents, and families from all walks of life since 2010. She has provided free webinars to families waiting for services to distribute information related to Autism, ABA, and techniques to use with children. Furthermore, she is passionate about building positive and healthy relationships with her clients to equip them to be active participants in shaping the direction of their lives!
PERSONAL
Nicole is the oldest of 3 children and was born and raised in New York. She is married and has one daughter who is the light of her life. She enjoys traveling, watching her daughter dance and cooking. Nicole has lived in Orlando since 2018 and enjoys being part of a holistic approach to healing.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI
Social Work, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Addiction Treatment, Adults, Couples & Families.
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and Academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, Couples & Families.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
EDUCATION
Angela is a graduate student enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military/Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orl
ando in 2011. She has two children, her son, a Marine Veteran, lives in Orlando, a
nd her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, lives in Austin, Tx. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, Soldier’s Angels, and the Pulse Foundation.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
EDUCATION
Angela is a graduate student enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military/Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orl
ando in 2011. She has two children, her son, a Marine Veteran, lives in Orlando, a
nd her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, lives in Austin, Tx. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, Soldier’s Angels, and the Pulse Foundation.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
EDUCATION
Angela is a graduate student enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military/Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orl
ando in 2011. She has two children, her son, a Marine Veteran, lives in Orlando, a
nd her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, lives in Austin, Tx. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, Soldier’s Angels, and the Pulse Foundation.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Teens, Children Adults, Couples & Families.
Dave Stewart, MA, RCSWI
Social Work, Depression, Anxiety, Children & Special Needs Youth, Addiction Treatment, Adults, Couples & Families.
EDUCATION
Dave has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University as well as a bachelor’s degree in social work form University of Central Florida. He received his master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Dave is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. He also holds teaching certificates in both Social Work and Math.
EXPERIENCE
Dave spent 10 years teaching Alternative Education, Drop Out Prevention, School Social Work, and Academic Counseling here in Orange County, Florida. He has over 10 years of experience in Clinical Social Work and Community Mental Health providing drug and alcohol counseling along with adolescent and family therapy.
PERSONAL
Dave is the middle of 3 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has been married to his wife Nancy for 42 years and has 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. Dave has lived in Orlando since 1974 and enjoys walking, bike riding, traveling, and repairing electronic gadgets. He has managed a dance studio in Orlando for the past 25 years.
Angela Prather, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Identity, Grief, Children & Teens, Adults, Couples & Families.
EDUCATION
Angela is a graduate student enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University in the Clinical Mental Health Counselor program. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois. Angela is an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Navy, where she served in the engineering and military police fields.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILIATIONS
Angela is a Certified Professional Life Coach by the Certified Life Coach Institute. Angela currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association, American Association of Suicidology, and American Mental Health Counselors Association.
EXPERIENCE
Angela has been a life coach since 2015. She works with and encourages clients through personal or career challenges, guiding them to reach their goals. She has worked with clients to improve productivity, focus, time management, communication, and other life skills. She has conducted workshops on communicating with difficult people and uncovering your authentic self. Angela is a Lifeline volunteer with the Trevor Project, combining her passion for supporting LGBTQ youth and suicide prevention. Angela has volunteered with the Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors (TAPS) & The Good Grief Camp since 2014. As a Military Veteran Mentor, she works 1:1 with children with a military family member who has died primarily by suicide. She helps these children progress through their grief journey and develop coping mechanisms.
PERSONAL
Angela is originally from Illinois but has lived in many states and a few countries. She relocated to Orlando in 2011. She has two children, her son, a Marine Veteran, lives in Orlando, and her daughter, an IT Coder/Programmer, lives in Austin, Tx. She is a Disney Annual Pass member and loves the parks. She enjoys seeing Broadway shows with her friends at Dr. Phillip's Performing Art Center. Angela volunteers with TAPS, The Trevor Project, Soldier’s Angels, and the Pulse Foundation
Nicole Santoro, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults, & Families,
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Nicole Santoro, MLSI (Masters Level Student Intern)
Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum & Caregivers, ABA Therapy, Children & Teens, Adults & Families.
EDUCATION
Nicole has a bachelor's degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida, a master's degree in Developmental Disabilities with concentrations in Early Childhood and Applied Behavior Analysis, and is currently perusing a master's degree in Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
Nicole is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Nicole is a member of the American Counseling Association.
EXPERIENCE
Nicole has been implementing the principles of various counseling techniques including CBT and ABA to her work with children, adolescents, and families from all walks of life since 2010. She has provided free webinars to families waiting for services to distribute information related to Autism, ABA, and techniques to use with children. Furthermore, she is passionate about building positive and healthy relationships with her clients to equip them to be active participants in shaping the direction of their lives!
PERSONAL
Nicole is the oldest of 3 children and was born and raised in New York. She is married and has one daughter who is the light of her life. She enjoys traveling, watch her daughter dance and cooking. Nicole has lived in Orlando since 2018 and enjoys being part of a holistic approach to healing.
Our Awards
Our Memberships
Success Stories From Our Clients
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC, RHMCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern)
Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
Shannon Nichols
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Individuals, Couples, Groups & Families. Works with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression & Identity Issues using Person-centered, Trauma-informed, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Education
Shannon received a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Sciences from the University of Central Florida in 2012. Additionally, she studied herbal medicine and holistic healing at the Florida School of Holistic Living and received a Community Herbalist Certificate in 2014. She is currently attending Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Family and Relationship Therapy.
Credentials/Affiliations
Shannon is working toward her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is currently certified as a Community Herbalist. She has completed continuing education credits in Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (evidence-based, mind-body treatment approaches to the anxiety spectrum disorders) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She completed the Jon Kabat-Zinn 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program. Shannon is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Experience
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Shannon became deeply interested in traditional plant medicine. She worked as a Community Herbalist in Orlando, where she held one on one wellness consultations and created holistic treatment plans and herbal medicines for her clients. She traveled to Peru and New Mexico, where she worked with indigenous healers and learned a great deal about alternative medicine. During her mental health pre-practicum experience at Rollins, Shannon worked with women 18+ struggling with substance dependence at a Women's Residential Program (Aspire Health Partners). This program combined traditional substance abuse treatment approaches (e.g., AA/ NA meetings, behavioral therapy) with holistic approaches such as yoga and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition, she was a Research Assistant for the Rollins College Anthropology Department for her social justice pre-practicum. She was part of a research team that examined the unique alliances and tensions that developed between local, grassroots LGBTQ+/Latinx organizations following the Pulse shooting in Orlando. Shannon served as a Teaching Associate at Rollins College for the undergraduate course, Mindfulness: Practice & Theory and for the graduate counseling course, Addictive Disorders. She also has experience working with children and adolescents, as she was a Substitute Teacher for the Orange County Public School Systems for some years.
Some of Shannon’s primary interests in the world of mental health counseling include mindfulness, trauma and its effects on the brain/body/emotions and relationships, the effects of systemic discrimination and marginalization, somatic approaches to healing, LGBTQIA+ culture and related issues, and multicultural considerations and approaches. The heart of Shannon’s theoretical orientation is essentially a combination of humanistic, multicultural, and mindfulness-based approaches. Using a somatic orientation, one that focuses on the body, is important to her, as she approaches healing from the inside out with the understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Shannon also incorporates aspects of cognitive-behavioral, existentialist, Jungian, systems-based, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches depending on the client’s goals.
Personal
Shannon is a native Floridian (stated begrudgingly, as she’s a mountain person at heart). She enjoys anything outdoors, especially swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shannon has experienced deep transformation from a regular meditation and yoga practice, from working with plant medicine and indigenous healing practices, and from growing through her own experiences with the help of incredible mentors and mental health counselors. She is excited for the opportunity to sit with her clients as they share their life stories and to be a witness to their evolution.
Dr. John Stiteler, PsyDN
EDUCATION
John has a bachelor's degree in Christian Education from Cairn University, a master's degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix, a master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, as well as his doctorate degree in Naturopathic Psychology.
CREDENTIALS / AFFILIATIONS
John is licensed as a Clinical Therapist by the Florida Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists. He is also a Certified Nutritional Counselor (by FACCT) and a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor (NACCC). John is on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University's School of Alternative Medicine. He is a member of the American Nutrition Association, The Mental Health Association of Central Florida, The Federal Association of Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the National Association of Consumer Credit Counselors.
EXPERIENCE
John started his professional career by helping others with their spiritual health. He spent 8 years in full-time ministry working with adolescents and parents. After getting his first Master's Degree, John worked for 15 years as a business consultant to many Fortune 500 companies including: Disney, Johnson & Johnson, Northrop Grumman, JC Penney, and General Electric. He is a certified Six Sigma and LEAN trainer. After years of helping people with their spiritual, career, & financial health, John returned to school to complete his Master's Degree in counseling so he could help others with their emotional & relational health as well. He began his nutritional business in 2005 and he started Total Health Guidance in 2011 where he serves as a counselor, doctor of naturopathic psychology, and life coach.
PERSONAL
John is the youngest of 5 children and was born and raised in New Jersey. He has 2 adult daughters along with a son-in-law and grandson who all live here in Florida. He also has a son who now resides in Heaven. John has lived in Orlando since 2004 and enjoys being part of an integrated team of health professionals.
Jermesa Lee, MA, CRC,
RHMCI (Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern) - Self-esteem, Empowerment, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Caregivers, Disabilities, Adults, Couples, & Families.
EDUCATION
Jermesa Lee holds a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. Jermesa has received training in mediation and conflict resolution. She is also certified in marriage and family therapy as well as rehabilitation counseling. Jermesa is also a registered mental health counselor intern.
CREDENTIALS/AFFILITIONS
Jermesa is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with the state of Florida.
EXPERIENCE
Jermesa has worked with individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life. She strongly believes in inclusivity and diversity. Her goal is to be a resource for all those with whom she works. Her areas of focus include self-esteem & self-empowerment, emotional regulation (stress management & anxiety), life transition, relationship issues, and disabilities adjustment/support). Jermesa provides exceptional services and she is here to listen.
PERSONAL
Jermesa is visually impaired and personally knows what it is like to have to adapt to life altering circumstances. She knows how it feels to be excluded or in life transition, so she has made it one of her life goals to create inclusive environments. It gives her joy to help others brighten their light so that they may shine.