Grief counselors and therapists in Port Charlotte, FL

Avril Lindsay Dennis, LCSW-QS(FL), CGP®, LCSW-R (NY), has been a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over twenty years. After earning her graduate degree from Fordham University, she pursued postgraduate training, including a certificate in Interpersonal Trauma. This became a passionate area of specialty for her, which also includes understanding the needs of individuals with substance use disorders & providing mental health support for those in twelve-step programs.

Over her career, Avril has specialized in treating & supervising the care of children & adolescents with trauma & psychiatric illnesses within child welfare, juvenile justice, & mental health settings. Avril has worked with adults in crisis situations, as well as those with long term medical issues.

She has collaborated with two service dog organizations over the years, taught & presented on the topic & trained & worked with several of her own therapy dogs. She and her current therapy dog, Eli, continue to volunteer in various programs.

In 2016, after a successful career in New York City, she relocated to Central Florida to continue her public service work.

In her spare time, Avril enjoys spending time with her spouse & dogs, relaxing at home, camping, visiting the beach, sewing & crafting. She works to find gratitude for every moment life presents.

Because trauma and pain often originate in relationships, they can be effectively healed and overcome in relationships. I want to help you to process and resolve the issues that are preventing you from feeling better, accomplishing your goals, and becoming the best version on yourself.

I earned an MSW from Tulane School of Social Work in 1989 and am a clinical social worker. I also practice Psychodrama and am a graduate of the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute in NY. I work primarily with musicians, actors & writers. I have a long history of working in non-profit agencies and schools, providing top notch care to disadvantaged and oppressed adolescents and families.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about creating a space where you can feel safe, supported, and truly understood. My work is rooted in compassion and connection, honoring your unique experiences while helping you move toward healing, balance, and greater peace within yourself. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, celebrate your strengths, and cultivate the meaningful change you’re seeking in your life.

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.

Are you living with chronic illness, navigating a life transition, or feeling overwhelmed by mental health challenges? You don’t have to go through it alone.

I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with extensive experience supporting individuals across a wide range of life experiences and mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. My work is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and a trauma-informed lens.

Over the years, I’ve supported clients living with chronic illness and chronic pain, including those facing cancer and dialysis treatment. I understand that the medical system often doesn’t allow time for patients to be truly heard. That’s why I’m passionate about creating a space where you can slow down, speak freely, and feel undertood.

I truly believe I was born to help others, and caring for people has been a passion throughout my adult life. With more than 20 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I've had the opportunity to support people through anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship concerns, mood disorders, and many of life's difficult transitions.

My experience has taken me across a variety of settings and populations, including more than 10 years working with teens. I understand that reaching out for support isn't always easy, and I want you to know that you deserve a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. No matter what brings you to therapy, my goal is to meet you with compassion and without judgment as we work together toward greater clarity, healing, and a healthier way forward.

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.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe wholeheartedly in empowering and enhancing one's capacity to address your own needs. You have the power and expertise within; it is a matter of finding a way to maximize it.