Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Altamonte Springs, FL

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 received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in 2016. I am a Florida licensed psychotherapist and have maintained a private practice for 17 years in Orlando and Winter Park. I have specialized training in the following: Clinical Trauma Professional and Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Qualified Clinical Supervisor. I am also a certified Psychedelic-Assisted Therapist through Integrative Psychiatry Institute, and MAPS.

I specialize in working with couples that want a stronger relationship, kids hurting from divorce, angry teens, frustrated parents and individuals looking to find purpose in life. Also, for those whose work schedules may interfere with their availability, I do offer evenings and weekend sessions.

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.

I have learned through personal life experiences that finding the right counselor is crucial to the healing process. I provide individual and family counseling to adults, adolescents, and children.

I graduated in 2010 with a Masters of Science in Counseling and am currently dual licensed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified School Counselor in the state of Florida.

Note: I do not currently accept EAP benefits.

I provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults. I specialize in caring for college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone seeking healing from difficult religious experiences. I seek to help my clients sort through past hurts, confront present challenges, and develop a greater sense of hope for the future.

My background is in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, where I earned my Master's from the University of Central Florida. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, and difficulties with self-esteem and emotional regulation. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique experiences.

Hi there! I am dedicated to meeting each client exactly where they are, inviting them to "come matter here." I view the therapeutic relationship as a powerful partnership, where safety, support, and respect come together to inspire meaningful change. I believe in the power of laughter and often weave humor into my sessions to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.