Jennifer McCollum

Hi, I’m Jennifer McCollum. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida dedicated to supporting families of the fallen and those navigating the complex, high-stakes landscape of profound loss. Whether you are navigating a line-of-duty loss, life as a solo parent, or a significant life transition, I offer a steady, expert hand to help you find your footing in the "messy middle."

I bring over 20 years of experience across clinical, school, personal, and community settings. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and a Bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Development from Virginia Tech, with a concentration in Child Life and Play Therapy. This background allows me to provide both high-level clinical expertise and practical, "real-world" insight into how individuals and families grow, heal, and rebuild after the unthinkable.

My approach is strength-based, neuroscience-informed, and deeply practical. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model; instead, I tailor my methods to each client’s specific developmental stage and unique history. I integrate Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed Care within a family systems framework.

As a counselor with extensive school-based experience, I am particularly skilled at bridging the gap between clinical healing and daily life. I understand the complexities of IEPs, educational advocacy, and crisis intervention, ensuring that the progress we make in our sessions translates into meaningful change at home, at school, and in your community.

In our first telehealth session, you can expect a welcoming, collaborative space designed to be a "breath of fresh air" amidst the overwhelm. Our primary goal is to understand your concerns, identify your existing strengths, and clarify your goals.

For children, this often involves age-appropriate activities to build comfort; for teens and adults, it is an open, supportive conversation. We move at a pace that feels safe for you. By the end of our time together, we will have identified a clear direction forward, ensuring you leave the session feeling supported, understood, and—most importantly—hopeful.