Dr. Cynthia Penalva

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Florida with over a decade of experience working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, grief, and emotional overwhelm. My work is grounded in a strength-based, client-centered approach that honors each person’s story, values, and resilience.

I integrate evidence-based practices with mindfulness and relational work to help clients better understand themselves and create meaningful, sustainable change. I strive to offer a calm, thoughtful space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they move toward greater clarity and emotional balance.

My approach is collaborative, relational, and strength-focused. I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, understood, and actively involved in the process. Together, we explore patterns, emotions, and relationships while building practical tools for coping and growth.

I draw from mindfulness-based practices, relational therapy, and solution-focused strategies, adapting sessions to meet each client’s needs and pace. Rather than “fixing” clients, I help them reconnect with their existing strengths, increase self-awareness, and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.

The first session is a supportive, low-pressure space to get to know one another. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’re hoping for, and any concerns you may have. I’ll ask thoughtful questions, but there’s no expectation to share everything at once.

We’ll also discuss goals, preferences, and what therapy might look like moving forward. My aim is for you to leave the first session feeling heard, grounded, and clearer about next steps—whether that’s continued work together or simply a better understanding of what you need right now.