LGBT therapists in Brandon, FL

I'm a seasoned clinical social worker licensed in New York and Florida who has worked with all ages. I have my Bachelor's degree from Russell Sage College Troy, New York in Sociology and Psychology. I received my Master's degree from The State University of New York at Albany with a focus on individual counseling. I've been a therapist for 16 years.

I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD,

obsessive compulsive disorder, addiction, panic attacks, trauma, grief and loss, geriatric issues, stress-related disorders, bipolar disorders and schizophrenia.

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or seeking clarity? You're not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with individuals from all walks of life who are facing anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. My clients are often seeking a supportive and nonjudgmental space where they can process their experiences, build resilience, and find practical tools for change.

With over 16 years of experience, I take a warm, collaborative, and affirming approach to therapy. I use evidence-based methods like CBT, EMDR, and solution-focused strategies, tailoring each session to your needs and goals. My style is grounded, compassionate, and direct—focused on helping you feel more empowered, emotionally regulated, and connected to yourself and others.

“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.” — Mulan

For the past five years, I have been honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and self-esteem issues. I also work with clients struggling with mood disorders, OCD, and personality disorders, amongst other conditions. My journey in this field began with my education at the University of Central Florida, where I built the foundation for my clinical practice. It has been my mission to create a space where you can be yourself and we can work together towards healing.

Figuring out who you are, and where you fit, can feel overwhelming, especially when you're carrying anxiety, family stress, relationship challenges, or feeling disconnected from yourself. Therapy can be a space where you don't have to have everything figured out.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families to create a supportive, affirming environment where people feel safe showing up exactly as they are. Many of the clients I work with are navigating anxiety, identity exploration, family conflict, relationship concerns, stress, or major life transitions. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools that support confidence, resilience, and meaningful growth.

With over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, I specialize in supporting people navigating LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and the coming out process. Whether you're stepping into your identity for the first time, rebuilding after a difficult transition, or managing the stress and relationship challenges that come with trying to balance everything, you deserve a therapist who truly gets it. I bring warmth, directness, and a genuine investment in helping you feel more like yourself.

The holidays will be here soon. Experienced human compassion and expertise is what I bring to the table for you. Take a moment to Book Now. Accepting new clients. Flexible hours available. Kathleen is Board Certified (CCMHC), Licensed Professional Counselor w/ 30+ years of experience.

Choose Kathleen when you want expert help! Licensed in five states! Texas, Florida, Alaska, Oregon, and Montana.

Graduate of University of North Florida.

Reviews:

"My connection with Kathleen feels like she understands what I’m going through and has helped me make sense of my thoughts and not fear them. I’m really fortunate and grateful she exists and I found her."

"Kathleen really cares, and it shows!"

"I saw incredible improvement in less than a month!"

I am a therapist with extensive experience providing compassionate person centered care to individuals, couples and families. My approach is warm, supportive and non judgmental, with a focus on helping clients identify their own strengths, insights and solutions. I strive to create a safe and welcoming online environment where clients feel heard, respected and empowered. I also offer flexible scheduling including evening hours to make therapy more accessible.

Mindfully focused to connect your presenting concern to your system, my style is to meet you where you are whether you need me to explain what we’re doing, or simply direct you. My approach is practical, direct, and occasionally humorous — I believe real progress happens when you feel are both, supported and challenged, not just listened to.

Over 30 years I've worked with individuals, couples, and families through some of the hardest seasons of life: chronic illness, painful grief, relationship breakdowns, severe ADHD, life hindering eating disorders, destructive anger, and major life transitions.

I singly raised my three children, and came to realize clinical training doesn’t compare to life experience... theory helps it’s just not enough to capture the big picture.

I've also spent significant time working with military families and first responders, rich in life experience. They seem to prefer my steady, no-nonsense mindset at times.

Also, a well trained 15 year-old Australian Shepherd occasionally joins sessions — let me know if you'd prefer this.

Hello and welcome to therapy. You are one step closer on your journey to achieving your goals, passions, and intentions. You and I will develop a therapeutic relationship as you work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and other areas that you would like growth in. You will utilize the strengths that you already have, and keep expanding on those. It is my job to create a safe, open, and person-centered environment. I look forward to working with you on your healing journey! Keep going and growing.

I’ve spent years sitting with people at their lowest—through addiction, crisis, and the kind of pain that can make life feel unmanageable. That work taught me something I bring into every session now: nobody is “too much,” and no story is too messy. These days, I’m more focused on slower, steadier work. Whether you’re worn down by depression, gripping through stress, or finally ready to be honest about drinking or using, I’ll meet you where you are with steadiness, honesty, and compassion. You don’t need the right words yet; we’ll figure it out together.

Are you tired of what feels like the "same old" therapy?

My approach to create a space with my clients to have a more personally tailored approach utilizing a wellness approach!

Thriving instead of just surviving.

I am a strong believer in meeting those I serve where they are.

Whether you are experiencing loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a life transition, stress or need a sounding board, I am here to be a support!