LGBT therapists in Gulf Breeze, FL

You don't have to have everything figured out to be here.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, and I’ve been helping people work through meaningful change since 2011.

I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and addiction, with a focus on building resilience and a stronger sense of self. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQ+ individuals, those navigating recovery and the HIV/AIDS community. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Southern Methodist University and my Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University.

Hello, my name is Arlene and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) I have been working in the mental health profession for 33 years. I have experience working in various areas of counseling settings and have provided counseling for diverse populations that include different ages, genders, and diverse racial, cultural, and LGBTQ backgrounds. Through the years I have obtained knowledge with concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family/parenting difficulties as well as childhood, adolescent, and young adult adjustments. In recent years I have been trained to work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. I specialize in treating substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, using evidence-based approaches like motivational interviewing and individualized treatment planning. My experience includes facilitating group therapy and working with diverse adult populations in recovery. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to make positive changes.

I am an LCSW with a mission to untangle trauma and transform lives.

I've observed that many are unaware their struggles stem from unresolved childhood trauma. I focus on addressing core beliefs formed during these transformative years.

As I too struggled with unhealthy patterns of my past. Hitting rock bottom was my turning point. I immersed myself in retreats and inner child work, finding strength in spirituality. Healing myself and paying it forward to help others heal too.

The strength to heal isn't something I give you — it's already within you. My job is to help you find it.

I work with individuals, families, children, adolescents, and older adults, offering a personalized approach to care that adapts to each person's unique story, needs, and goals. Whether you're navigating something acute or something that's been quietly weighing on you for years, this is a space where you can speak freely, without judgment, and without having to have it all figured out first.

My goal is simple: to create an environment where you feel safe enough to be honest — and supported enough to actually move forward.

My specialties include trauma, relationships, supervision, and medical issues. I will help you be more conscious of your thoughts, emotions, and body and thus reach your potential.

My previous education in biology and neuropsychology has provided me with knowledge that is invaluable, especially during trauma work. Because I find both Eastern and Western psychological practices useful, I integrate many tools and therapies into the sessions and tailor treatment to each individual.

I am a warm, energetic, and down-to-earth therapist who values creating a space where clients feel both supported and empowered. My background includes working with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. In addition to traditional therapy, I am certified in yoga, energy work, and Florida family court mediation, allowing me to offer a more holistic perspective. I am especially passionate about helping couples restore balance and connection, as well as guiding individuals through meaningful life changes. My goal is to meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be.

I have been a counselor for 40 years, working with individuals, couples, families and groups with psychological as well as addiction issues. I have extensive experience in inpatient as well as outpatient settings. I am eclectic in my evaluation and treatment methods, which gives me flexibility to treat individual needs. Primarily, I use cognitive-behavioral techniques. Many of my clients suffer with depression, anger, and anxiety (panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder); all of which impact potential addictions. I also treat couples and families to better understand their dynamics and to improve their communication skills.

My background consists of psychological testing and understanding personalities. This has helped in my work with children, adolescents, & families. I enjoy working with gay and straight couples, to help them with empathy and communication. I do extensive cognitive work as well as teaching techniques with people suffering from anxiety, anger, and addictions.

I encourage self-awareness to stimulate one's potential. Understanding oneself is essential to reducing anxiety, depression & anger (and in improving relationships). I teach relaxation, meditation, & self-hypnosis techniques to improve personal balance. I guide couples and families to improve relationships through empathy, acceptance, and communication.