Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Altamonte Springs, FL covered by Cigna

I am a pilgrim in progress, a man of faith, a student of people, a mental health counselor, and an avid lover of stories. I am grateful to have a Bachelor of Science in Religion from Liberty University, and both a Master's of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary. Professionally, I have worked with individuals and families from a variety of backgrounds including: grief, trauma, gender and sexuality, addiction, faith and spirituality, anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc.). I have served clients across a variety of ages, children to adults both in clinical settings and also in community (professional Christian ministry) settings.

My background in both education and counseling allows me to support clients with a blend of clinical insight, trauma‐informed care, and practical skill‐building. I currently serve as a facilitator with the Peace and Justice Institute and work as a contract therapist with Families First of Florida. I also have my own private practice named Here and Now Counseling Center. My clinical approach is grounded in compassion, cultural responsiveness, and evidence‐based practices tailored to each client’s needs.

Every person is unique and has a personal story to tell. My focus is the client and use a multi-modal approach to walk alongside each individual that enters the therapy setting, empowering clients to become the best version of themself. Whether individuals are managing LGBTQ+ issues, Trauma/PTSD, Grief/Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Substance Abuse, Personality Disorders, or other life challenge, allow me to meet you on your journey, and help you discover the amazing individual within.

My area of focus is with high-achieving adults and athletes who seek self-discovery, optimal performance and skillfully practicing the art of living well. Having grown up in a high achieving environment, becoming one myself and then raising my own high achievers. I have intimate knowledge of the highs and lows and the guilt and shame that follow. There is a way to have a "balanced" life. "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf." - Jon Kabat-Zinn

Hi, I’m Amber, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

You want someone who listens, who takes your struggles seriously, and who knows that mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why I combine evidence-based care with a compassionate, personalized approach.

My goal is to help you not just manage symptoms, but truly improve your quality of life—so you can show up as your best self for your family, your career, and most importantly, for you...

Carmen Arrufat Ives is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who brings both heart and expertise to her work. She’s passionate about trauma-informed, developmentally thoughtful care—blending psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic strategies to help patients heal, grow, and truly thrive.

She completed advanced clinical training with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she specialized in treating PTSD, military sexual trauma, and complex psychiatric conditions. Carmen is also a graduate of The REACH Institute’s Evidence-Based Treatment for Pediatric Primary Care program, giving her specialized expertise in working with children and adolescents navigating anxiety, ADHD, mood, and behavioral challenges.

With advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, and EMDR, Carmen integrates neuroscience, preventive mental health, and whole-person care to support individuals and families across every stage of life.

Outside of work, Carmen enjoys spending quality time with her family, friends, and her beloved “furry family,” recharging through connection, laughter, and everyday moments that matter most.

I believe that everyone has an innate capacity to guide their own lives. Sometimes, we forget this superpower! I'm here to help you remember your own light and empower you to shine. I was an educator for over twenty years, and I have worked with diverse populations in many capacities. I will help you see your strengths and possibilities.

I love to utilize EMDR, psychoeducation along with other methods to help resolve the distress.

If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more, we are here to support you. Seeking help and opening up to someone new can be intimidating, but it's a brave step towards healing. I understand the importance of a supportive and personalized approach, which enables me to offer effective treatment plans tailored to your unique circumstances. I treat a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, among others. My extensive experience in a variety of mental health settings has equipped me to address both common and complex mental health needs with compassion and expertise.