Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Kissimmee, FL

Hi! I'm Katia, a counselor dedicated to guiding you through life's challenges. My approach prioritizes you, creating a judgment-free space for exploration. As a first-gen Latin immigrant, I've faced societal pressures, finding strength in resilience. I believe in everyone's capacity to heal and grow, aiming for a balanced life.

~Meliorism- the belief that the world gets better; the belief that humans can improve the world. --This is not only the name of my practice, Meliorism Counseling LLC, but it's a core value I truly believe in. Using a focus on relationships, I work with individuals, couples, and families to obtain a sense of overall well-being and balance. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida I have had the privilege to work in the dependency system, child advocacy setting, not-for-profit sector and private agencies. Services are available in office or through teletherapy.

I am a warm approachable therapist that recognizes how daily life can impact our mental health. I focus on how our past and present collide to at time cause disruptions and how to heal to live a brighter future.

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

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.

Born and raised in Central Florida, I attended UCF and Rollins College. I have spent time in youth ministry and have extensive experience in health care administration, business management and sales.

I'm married with 3 young kids and love outdoor activities, golf, coaching little league and spending time with friends and family.

I work with clients dealing with low self-worth or self-esteem, depression, anxiety, compulsive & addictive behaviors, unwanted sexual behaviors, social isolation & disconnection, spiritual & existential issues, couples & relational issues, and much more.

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.