Grief counselors and therapists in Valrico, FL

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.

Life can feel overwhelming when stress, anger, addiction, anxiety, or family conflict start pulling you away from who you want to be. I work with adolescent boys, teens, and adults who feel stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by emotional struggles and unhealthy patterns. Together, we focus on building confidence, emotional balance, healthy coping skills, and a stronger sense of purpose so you can feel more grounded, peaceful, and in control of your life and relationships.

Life can feel heavy sometimes. Maybe you’ve been carrying stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or emotional exhaustion for longer than anyone realizes. You might feel overwhelmed trying to keep up with everything while quietly wishing you had a space where you could finally exhale and just be yourself. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to have it all figured out. I work with adults, teens, and children who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and everyday challenges while learning healthier ways to cope, heal, and reconnect with themselves.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Professional Mental Health Clinician, and Life Coach with over 25 years of experience providing inpatient and outpatient mental health therapy, as well as more than 30 years of working alongside individuals to help them create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University, a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Georgia, and I am an active member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society.

I believe that the most powerful change happens when clients feel safe, accepted, and empowered to be themselves. My ideal client is motivated, engaged, and open to self-reflection—but in truth, everyone is welcome in my practice. Whether you’re struggling with past trauma, navigating current challenges, or simply looking to grow, my goal is to provide a supportive, judgment-free space where we can work together toward your goals. More importantly, EVERYONE is welcome to my practice!