Grief counselors and therapists in Ormond Beach, FL

Dr. Jeni Allissun Upton (Groot) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and co-owner of Hope in the Gale Therapeutic Healing where she provides individual and group therapy, collaborates to curate tailored wellness services, and consults on areas related to psychology and trauma. Jeni has worked in diverse settings with youth, adults, and families as a counselor supporting clients as they strive to bolster their mental health, build resilience, and find joy in life. Jeni also has a background in military and federal service. Her 13-year military career included work as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician and Special Agent with the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations where she specialized in crimes against children and counterintelligence. Jeni also spent ten years with the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers as a Research Psychologist, Behavioral Science Division Program Manager, and Counterterrorism Division Branch Chief.

Jeni holds Associate of Arts Degrees from the Community College of the Air Force in both Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science, a Master of Arts in Counseling, and a PhD in International Psychology with an emphasis in Trauma Services.

My background includes trauma, substance use, crisis intervention, anxiety, OCD, and relationship challenges. I am especially passionate about supporting marginalized communities, particularly women and teens, while creating an inclusive and affirming space for all identities and lived experiences. I believe in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and helping people feel less alone in what they carry.

My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to each individual rather than forcing clients into one specific framework. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a reprocessing therapy similar to EMDR. I draw from these approaches based on your unique needs, personality, and goals while balancing evidence-based interventions with authenticity, humor, compassion, and occasional tough love.

I use a four- fold approach to treating beyond traditional psychotherapy to help you on your journey. I have PhD in Clinical psychology, two master's degree (one in community counseling, one in community psychology). I also have a degree in Addictions and one in business management. Having worked every level of care from an inpatient hospital setting, residential long-term care, in a jail, a prison, out-patient levels for intensive three times per week to one time per week and taught in two universities. I am working my favorite level of care on an out-patient setting. Training has been in addictions, mental health, couples and family systems. I have other specialties with chronic pain and nutrition/bariatrics and obesity and available to provide medical and court evaluations with limited testing. I see children from 12 and up and adults/geriatrics.

Luis R. Garcia, M.A., LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with clarity, empowerment, and practical solutions. He brings more than 15 years of clinical experience to his work, offering a grounded, compassionate, and evidence-based approach to healing.

Xiara Reyes is a seasoned mental health and substance use disorder counselor with over 22 years of dedicated experience in the field. She holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University and is an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist.

I’m Seth Watson, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping you find balance and resilience. I pride myself on offering an easy, stress-free demeanor that makes it simple to talk openly. When it comes to medication management however, I get right down to business. I focus on addressing the problem with strong, evidence-based results, and I will always utilize a collaborative approach to ensure that every decision about your care is one we make together.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s most difficult challenges. As a U.S. Navy veteran, I bring a deep understanding of the unique stressors faced by service members, veterans, and their families. My work is centered on helping clients navigate PTSD, trauma, and the emotional impact of major life events with compassion, skill, and respect.

I specialize in trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, and client-centered therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. My professional background includes extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. As a bilingual clinician, I am committed to providing accessible, culturally responsive care to both English- and Spanish-speaking clients.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, empathetic, and empowering. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Narrative Therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma-focused interventions to help clients build resilience and achieve meaningful, lasting change.

My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, supported, and understood. Whether you are processing trauma, navigating recovery, or seeking greater balance and clarity, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we will work toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life.