Marlon Pena

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida with more than 13 years of experience providing behavioral health services and community-based care serving diverse and underserved populations.

Before entering the behavioral health field, I proudly served as an active-duty United States Marine, including overseas deployments. The leadership, discipline, resilience, and commitment to service that I developed during my military career continue to guide my professional approach and dedication to helping others.

My experience includes providing direct clinical services, managing complex cases and focusing on creating culturally responsive, evidence-based services that improve outcomes for children, families, and communities.

I strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, empathy, and respect. I believe that feeling heard and understood is an essential part of the healing process, and I make every effort to meet clients where they are while supporting them in achieving their personal goals.

My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, utilizing evidence-based interventions that best align with their treatment goals and experiences. Depending on the individual, I incorporate therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Through a collaborative process, I support clients in developing effective coping strategies, increasing self-awareness, and building the skills necessary to create lasting positive change.

My goal is for clients to leave their first session feeling supported, welcomed, and understood. I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and confident that they are entering a therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. Establishing a strong rapport from the beginning is a priority, as I believe a meaningful therapeutic connection is essential for continued engagement and successful treatment outcomes.

My approach is rooted in culturally responsive and culturally competent care, recognizing that each client’s background, values, experiences, and personal circumstances shape their individual journey. I make an intentional effort to understand the whole person and identify areas of common ground that allow us to build a collaborative and authentic therapeutic relationship. By meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique perspectives, I aim to create a space where they feel empowered to explore challenges, recognize their strengths, and work toward their goals.