Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Oviedo, FL covered by Cigna

I have been serving Orlando and surrounding areas in private practice for over 5 years after first gaining experience in residential crisis and substance abuse. I received my BS in psychology from UCF and my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Stetson University in Deland!

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.

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.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving individuals (including adolescents), couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, trauma recovery, perinatal mental health, relationship challenges, parenting, and major life transitions. I offer support to those in ministry, missions, or helping professions (including fellow counselors) who may be navigating burnout, compassion fatigue, or carrying unique emotional, relational, or spiritual burdens. I am also trained in EMDR, an evidence-based therapy for helping the brain and body heal from distressing experiences, and certified in Prepare/Enrich, a premarital and marriage assessment.

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 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.