Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Port Charlotte, FL

My clinical background includes extensive experience working with underprivileged populations, victims of crime, and individuals coping with bereavement, grief, and loss. I have served as a school counselor for students from pre‐K through 12th grade, and I have supported college students navigating the challenges of major life transitions.

After completing my Master’s in Counseling from California State University, Sacramento, I co‐facilitated a children’s bereavement group with Hospice and led a suicide‐prevention program throughout inner‐city schools in Sacramento. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how individuals process adversity, build resilience, and find meaning in their healing journeys.

My therapeutic approach is humanistic and person‐centered, with an emphasis on play and art therapy. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution‐Focused techniques, and mindfulness‐based approaches to support clients in developing insight, strengthening coping skills, and fostering emotional well‐being.

I graduated with honors from National Louis University with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I received a bachelor’s degree in Special Education in 2013 from Walsh University in Ohio. I taught children with varying exceptionalities and learning differences for five years. I have over ten years of experience working with children and adults with autism, ADHD, and various learning disabilities.

I utilize interventions of various approaches to best assist my clients in accomplishing their individual goals. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I am also a certified yoga teacher.

I am a compassionate, collaborative therapist who values the whole person. I work from a strengths-based perspective and believe that people have the capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change when provided with a safe and supportive environment. I honor each client’s lived experiences, and I strive to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. My role is to meet you where you are, help you explore what’s important to you, and support you in developing the tools and insight you need for lasting change.

Call me Ben! I've been in private practice as an LCSW for 6+ years and the mental health field at-large for close to a decade. I live in Asheville, North Carolina with my wife and our two cats. I love to go hiking and kayaking, I own a record store where I also work, and love a good gaming session with my friends.