Our Clinical Staff

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Clinician. 

My name is Emily and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received a Bachelors of Science in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida and received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Central Florida with a certification in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and their families through individual and family sessions. I have experience 

working with clients with Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem issues, and other diagnoses. I aim to use Evidence Based Practices that are person centered and strengths based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other evidence based modalities. My approaches aim to help you understand yourself, process difficult emotions, learn new skills, and utilize your values and strengths to empower you. 

Clinician.

Jessica earned her MA degree from Webster University in 2006 and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). She also obtained her B.A. degree in Criminology from Saint Leo University. She has over 15 years working with children, adolescents, within inpatient and outpatient settings. She is skilled in treating mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma using cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, and brief-solution focused therapy modalities.

Clinician

Clinician.

 Hi, my name is Rebekah. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults at Lukas Counseling since 2021. I have certificates in Play Therapy and in Marriage and Family Counseling. I am currently serving students at Markham Woods MS and Lake Mary HS in person and adult women via telehealth. I aim to make therapy a safe, non-judgmental space to process and work through issues relating to self-esteem, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, separation, loss, relationships, etc. Our time together would be a step towards a more peaceful life with enhanced self-awareness and understanding about you or your child's inner self. I am passionate about helping others create a happier and healthier life. In my free time, I enjoy minimalistic living, growing house plants, listening to audio books, and spending time curled up on the couch with my cat Peach.  

Clinician/TCM

Clinician

Clinician

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Clinician

Clinician

Clinician. 

I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in working with children, adolescents, and college students. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work in 2011 and have since devoted my career to helping young individuals navigate their emotional and psychological challenges.

With a genuine passion for play therapy, I am currently working towards my certification in this specialized approach. I recognize the power of play as a means of communication and self-expression, allowing children and teens to explore their emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Outside of my professional pursuits, I cherish spending quality time with my family, including my four beloved fur babies. I find solace in reading, and am a firm believer in maintaining a healthy body and mind. I enjoy running to stay active and find relaxation and rejuvenation by unwinding at the beach.

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Clinician

Clinician

Clinician/TCM

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician.

 Self-Permission Therapy does things differently! What is on offer is counseling of a person-centered nature. This means that therapy could be simpler, warmer, and more optimistic if you were encouraged to focus on your current understanding of things rather than on some unconscious motive or someone else's interpretation of the situation. This places emphasis on your current perception and how you live in the here-and-now, and that's where the work begins! My primary approach to counseling is an integration of person-centered, mindfulness-based, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Focusing on the now/present, establishing intent, and reflecting on individual needs and emotions are key goals with these models. You may find comfort in knowing that I strive to empower and assist you in expanding healthy awareness rather than to give you advice. "You are the expert of your own life. I am merely a facilitator."

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician.

Jennifer is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and certified PreK-12 School Counselor. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in School Counseling. Her career started in 2004 in the field of education and she transitioned into the mental health field in 2007. She is also a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid trainer. She enjoys working with children, adolescents and young adults. She specializes in supporting individuals with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and adoption-related issues. Her theoretical orientation is person-centered and solution focused. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, reading and traveling.  

Clinician

Clinician

Psychiatry

Clinician

Clinician/PSR

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Clinician

Clinician.

 I have 10 years experience and that I love to work with autistic kids and I like to work with the kids that are hard to deal with, those are my specialties. Working with autistic kids has been the best experience of my life. Gilbert has an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, and a B.A. in Psychology from UCF.

Clinician. 

I am dedicated to providing an ultra safe, comfortable space for you to reemerge in a new light. I know you are powerful, strong, and brave because you are taking a HUGELY vulnerable step. Part of finding your way back is acknowledging that you are lost. And when we are lost, it is useful to cry out for help, right? Good news! I have a lantern, my friend.

First and foremost, I am a trauma-informed counselor. Trauma generally builds up to the point of us becoming stuck or faced with a more severe diagnosis. I am solution oriented in my approach and dedicated to the process of change. My go-to framework is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) because it is just so good, and will mix in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and IFS (Internal Family Systems) modalities. Please note that these are simply approaches that will be woven into your treatment. Try not to get hung up on the framework, as I will intuitively apply whichever approach is fit for your unique and individual needs. If there is a specific modality that you are curious about, please ask! Be brave; I will see you soon. 

Clinician/TCM

PSR.

 My name is Danielle and I am thrilled to be here at Lukas Counseling. I began my career in Child Development but quickly switched gears after becoming a foster and adoptive parent.  I felt a calling to become more involved in Social Services and to try to make a difference to the children and families I worked with. My career has taken me many places; foster parent recruitment and training, foster home licensing, Day Treatment, Targeted Case Management, HUD Case Management and Psychosocial Rehabilitation. I look forward to bringing support, advocacy, hope and healing to your family.  

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician.

Are you seeking a positive change in your life? Do you feel

overwhelmed and stuck in negative patterns? Perhaps, you find it difficult to connect with others due to trauma, stress, or burnout, causing depression, anxiety, and relationship issues with loved ones. I am a Licensed Psychologist from Argentina, and

I hold a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. I have over 25 years of experience in bilingual therapy (English/Spanish) with diverse populations, ranging from children to the elderly. I specialize in Trauma,

PTSD, Addiction, Anxiety, and Family issues, with a focus on Latin Culture.

Additionally, I am an approved EMDR Therapist by EMDRIA.

Case Manager.

 I have spent my entire adult life working in the mental health field. I am passionate about working with clients , both children and adults , and helping them to reach their goals and needs. I am a mother and a grandmother. My desire is for my children and grandchildren to be the best versions of them selves as possible. I work out to keep myself mentally and physically fit,  as do my children and  grandchildren.  I run  and love reading , as that seems to keep me centered.  My work is much more than a job and I love what I do.  I hope I make a difference in peoples lives. 

Clinician.

I'm a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern and I'm excited to be your trusted ally on your journey to healing and growth. Drawing upon my background in criminal justice, I

provide a safe and welcoming space for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. My therapeutic approach is centered around compassion and understanding. Life

can be filled with twists and turns, and it's okay to seek support during challenging times. Together, we'll navigate through any struggles you may face, whether it's coping with anxiety,

finding balance in relationships, or simply exploring your inner self. I believe that each individual possesses the strength to overcome obstacles, and my role is to guide you in

discovering your inner resilience.

Case Manager.

I am a certified Behavioral Health Case Manager. I have worked with diverse populations from outpatient mental health, such as children, adolescents, adults, and elderly in order to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate care, resources, and support to maintain their mental well-being and improve their quality of life. My academic preparation is in Social Work which was the perfect career to be able to combine my knowledge with my passion which is to help people in need.

Clinician.

My name is McKenzie and I am working with Lukas Counseling as a Graduate Social Work Intern over the course of this next year.

Clinician/PSR.

I would like to leave the world better than I found it!

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Clinician

Clinician

Clinician/TCM

Clinician/TCM

Clinician

Clinician.

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families through individual and family therapy sessions. I have worked with diverse populations from outpatient mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, and within the education system. I use modalities that provide the best evidence-based results such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based practices.

Clinician.

 I love, love, love working with kids. I received my degrees from Florida A&M University. I worked as a behavior therapist specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder. In addition to Lukas Counseling, I work in the education setting as a school counselor. My favorite hobbies are spending time with my family, trying new restaurants, and traveling. 

Case Manager

I have an MA in Psychology, experience as a Mental Health Therapist for 2 years and as a TCM for 3 1/2 years. I like to help people in need. Especially those who moved from PR after Hurricane Maria. I want to help all my clients to be productive and feel part of the community. I am the administrator of a Puerto Rican group on Facebook that have more than 12k Hispanic living in the Polk County area. I love to help people thrive by helping find a job, housing, medical resources, and community resources. I always go the extra mile for my clients.

Clinician

Clinician/TCM

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Clinician

Clinician

Clinician/TCM

CBHA Assessor.

Case Manager/PSR.

Hello my name is Jennifer.  I am a case manager working to become a licenses mental health therapist.  I have been working with adolescents in different compacities for twelve years.  I am very passionate about helping others and creating a safe happier life for others.  I work to provide a safe environment during our sessions.  I look forward to working with you!

Case Manager.

I'm dedicated to fostering strong connections within my community, offering unwavering support, and providing essential resources. As a mental health. advocate, I'm here to make a positive . impact on your well-being. Sara has a BPA degree from Florida International University.

Case Manager.

 I have been a TCM for 10 years. I love serving the community and helping people reach their full potential. I enjoy spending time with my family and roller skating.  

Case Manager.

Clinician.

 I have been in practice for 15 years now working with children, families and adults, in both the SPMI and Drug and alcohol outpatient and inpatient communities I have now changed the focus of my practice on adults. I utilize an eclectic mix of treatment modalities to get to a positive end result of treatment. I am from Ohio, but have been Florida for about 4 years. I have two grown boys and enjoy spending time with them as well as my husband. For fun I enjoy crocheting, reading, and spending time with friends. 

Psychiatry

Clinician

Case Manager

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician/TCM

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician

Clinician.

I was born and raised in Western Washington and have lived in Florida for 2 and a half years. I've lived all over the USA including Europe. I have been involved with doing psychosocial rehabilitation work since 2017. I practiced in Idaho from 2017-2021 and in Florida from 2021-the present. Before this, I was an optician and in management part of the time. I graduated from Western Washington University with a Bachelor's of art degree in 2003 and later earned my Master's in Human Relations from The University of Oklahoma in 2010. I have been involved in the Caluya Foundation providing volunteer mental health assistance in Africa online. I am the Mother of 3 teenagers. They are incredible people and motivate me to better myself daily. I care deeply for young people especially, our future. The pandemic created some challenges for this population in their formative years. I will do what I can to support their journey to a healthy adulthood. I also love working with people of all ages. None of us are exempt from  mental struggles. I love the sunshine and going outdoors. I love being social. I love laughing and enjoy most comedy.  

Clinician.

 I obtained a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Central Connecticut State University. I have been in practice for two years and I enjoy the work that I perform daily. As a Bi-lingual Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with individuals of all ages. My holistic, collaborative, and person-centered approach ensures you actively participate in your healing process. If desired, I am also equipped to incorporate faith-based interventions. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey, breaking free from generational patterns, challenging intrusive thoughts, and fostering a deeper understanding of your emotions, behaviors, and relationships. 

Clinician.

 A long-time resident of Orlando, Corey or “CJ” is a Florida native with many years of professional and community-based experiences working within the human services field throughout Central Florida. Corey earned his Master of Science in Counseling Education, with a specialization in Play Therapy, from Palm Beach Atlantic University- Orlando campus. Corey is also a HBCU graduate from Florida A&M University, where he obtained his B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. In addition, Corey is an active member of both the American & Florida Counseling Associations. Corey is compassionate about the healing process. Since the tender age of 12, working as a volunteer coordinator with Habitat for Humanity- Orlando, Corey had always placed a significant amount of attention and energy on community wellness. As he matriculated through life developing his professional identity, various training and coursework has centralized his focus and prepared him to work well with an array of individuals from all walks of life. Corey’s approach to counseling involves a client strength-based model that encourages the individual to incorporate their gifts and knowledge into developing a healthy, judgment-free therapeutic working relationship toward self-efficacy and transcendence. 

Clinician.

 I'm Joel Nickel, a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern (RMHCI) in the state of Florida. I obtained my undergraduate in Media Communications, and my M.S. in Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. I've worked in rehabilitation therapies and faith based practices since 2022. I look forward to working with teens and young adults, those experiencing relationship issues, family systems, and more. I look forward to meeting all clients where they are and developing plans according to their current lifestyles.  

Clinician.

 I have a strong sense of compassion. I am a registered Mental Health Counselor Intern. My experience ranges from children, adolescents to adults. I specialize in developing therapeutic relationships to help individuals and families in the field of Mental Health. I apply Cognitive Behavioral Strategies and other interventions to address the root of your difficulties building meaningful social connections. My mission is to initiate a journey to healing and growth. Lissette has a Masters Degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix

Clinician/TCM

APRN

Clinician/PSR

Clinician.

Clinician/TCM

Clinician

Clinician.

Individuals whom are conflicted with life or find themselves overwhelmed, staggered and submerged with dilemmas have a way out! Quandaries can be resolved within the individual and families. My belief stems from my faith and ensuring family order in a family of dysfunction. Too often many families and individuals step out of design and attempt to function; unfortunately with little success due to enmeshment and disengagement. My goal is to offer families and individuals the opportunity to create change and re-frame the family system to continue growth. I have 20 years of experience with adults, adolescents and children within the juvenile system, dependency and mental health facilities. I have addressed issues related to marital issues, premarital counseling, couples counseling, major depression, bipolar, anxiety and anger management.