Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Lutz, FL

Hello, I’m Star. I am a Licensed Mental Health and Addictions Counselor and am currently returning to school to pursue a Master’s Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, with the goal of holistically integrating mental and physical well-being. I graduated from the University of Colorado in 2016 with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health.

I began my counseling career working and volunteering in drug rehabilitation centers and community mental health centers and later gained experience within the criminal justice system through work in county jails and the Colorado state prison system, where I have been practicing since 2016.

My primary interests include working with trauma, substance use disorders, and general mental health and wellness, with an emphasis on movement and proper nutrition due to their impact on how we think and feel. I prefer a holistic approach, focusing on finding what works best for each individual client. I am trained in diversity and inclusion and utilize a person-centered approach in my professional practice.

My motto is, “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” and my goal is to help clients fill their cups so they can be more present for themselves and their loved ones.

It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.

I have 30 years of experience of helping those with those who have mental health, addictions and relationship problems. I am honored to help all who seek help with any of these issues. I help clients find solutions in a safe and non-judgmental place.

I've spent over 21 years helping people navigate some of life's toughest situations — substance use, trauma, domestic violence, anger, and the kind of challenges that make it hard to see a way forward. I spent the last decade working in court-ordered programs with clients who didn't choose to be in therapy, and I got them to stay. First thing I tell every client: I am your advocate. I'm real, I'm relatable, and yes, I will make you laugh! I'm a seasoned Black woman from New York City, and my NYC energy definitely comes through. Clients describe me as someone who can break through that wall of resistance many people walk in with and I'm proud of that.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or the emotional demands of parenthood, you're not alone. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating life transitions, maternal mental health concerns, stress, grief, family conflict, substance use concerns, and PTSD. Whether you're struggling to manage difficult emotions, improve relationships, or heal from past experiences, therapy can provide a space for growth, healing, and self-discovery.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I provide therapy in both English and Spanish and believe healing begins in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to help clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to create meaningful change while building resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, mood disorders, and other emotional or behavioral challenges.

As a bilingual English-Spanish provider, I am passionate about improving access to high-quality mental health care for diverse communities and creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves in the language they know best. My goal is to build trust, empower healing, and support you every step of your journey toward better mental health.