LGBT therapists in Lake Mary, FL

My journey began as a deeply personal quest for healing, shaped by significant challenges such as abandonment, neglect, and trauma. Overcoming hardships like poverty, familial substance abuse, and toxic relationships led me to a lifelong struggle with anxiety and feelings of isolation. In my search for relief, I explored countless self-help resources, pursued degrees in psychology, and experimented with therapeutic techniques, yet nothing seemed to offer lasting change.

Everything shifted for me about three years ago when I experienced a transformative moment that inspired the creation of the Blue Lotus Approach. This method has not only helped me heal but has also profoundly impacted my clients, guiding them toward self-awareness and resilience.

I have a BS degree in Health Science from San Jose State University and an MSW degree from the University of Southern California. Yes, I’m originally from California. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in both California and Florida. I was first licensed in 2003. For the first ten years of my practice, I worked with children, adolescents, and families.

I have over eight years of experience supporting individuals whose mental health is affected by health and medical issues. Finally, I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).

My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I want to walk alongside you and help to empower you. Together, we find hope.

I am dedicated to the mental health field and have been both a therapist and a clinical supervisor. My areas of knowledge include trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, adjustment disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, self-esteem issues, and life transition difficulties. I work with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families.

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.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who takes a holistic and compassionate approach to therapy, supporting the mind, body, and spirit throughout the healing process. I believe people open up where they feel safest and most understood, so creating a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment is one of the most important parts of my work.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings. I specialize in supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship challenges, substance use concerns, ADHD, behavioral challenges, family conflict, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and emotional regulation difficulties. I help clients better understand their emotions, patterns, and relationships while building healthier coping skills, stronger self-awareness, and greater confidence in themselves and their lives. I also value incorporating psychoeducation into sessions so clients feel empowered with both insight and practical tools they can apply outside of therapy.

My philosophy is that we are never too old to heal, grow, or rediscover joy. I strive to help clients turn pain into wisdom, reconnect with their strengths, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Hello! I’m Carmen, I’ve been a therapist for over the past ten years. I have a masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in trauma and mental health. I also hold my license in clinical social work.