
Michael Shaughnessy
My name is Michael. I love tennis, running, college football, my work, and my wife (not necessarily in that order). I have over 3 decades of experience in providing a safe enough space for people to examine/explore and hopefully resolve whatever issues precipitated their reaching out for assistance. I have found, over the years, that entering therapy is, for most, somewhat of a last resort; if it really was an easy fix, they would have resolved the issue on their own with a friend, mentor, or previous therapist. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and have worked in numerous settings over the years, including inpatient treatment for substance abuse, co-dependency, and eating disorders. Have been in private practice for several decades, in both a group practice and as a solo practitioner. Have encountered and assisted folks suffering from depression, anxiety, and various trauma’s due to distressing life experiences, as well as folks becoming a little lost along the way. Have assisted numerous couples trying to save or make their marriages better. As a private practice therapist, I have been privileged to work with people from many cultures and from various walks of life. I can best be described as eclectic in approach, with a strong tendency towards experiential therapy, and have found that acceptance of myself and others is one of the keys to harmony in this world and in my life. My clients and I laugh often in therapy, as I tend to utilize humor wherever I can. I possess what I call a tenacious spirit, as I never give up on anyone. I am competent and compassionate when assisting others who are experiencing periods of pain and loss, and the complicated feelings experienced as we go through life. I am insightful and energetic, drawing upon decades of personal as well as professional experience, sharing easily and often the life experiences I have lived (my mistakes as well as successes). I believe we are shaped by the experiences we have lived and that various aspects of our personality have evolved over time and will continue to evolve as we live our lives. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little nudge to address what we would rather not whereas others dive into the issues they know they need to. I work, at times, to assist in helping develop a balance between our internal parent/adult and child selves, as an imbalance in these aspects of the personality can create the distress that precipitates an entry into therapy.

Janice Nass
For those of us experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness/disability, grief and loss, relationship issues, and work/life balance difficulties, trying to adapt to the changes these issues inevitably bring is a common thread that binds us all together. Change is a natural part of life, but it has ways of bringing up feelings of fear, uncertainty, doubt, and sometimes even apathy and pessimism. Since we cannot control change – we can only control how we respond to it – we often feel “stuck”. Together, we can work to address these feelings and adjust our mindsets so we can become stronger from the inside out. Realizing that we have the power to “course correct” our circumstances can be empowering. Our aim in the therapeutic process is to address change by: *learning to “reframe” the situation and see it differently. We can become more aware of what our minds are saying to us and change the narrative to something that is more aligned with our needs. Sometimes we don’t see the possibilities that change can bring because we are locked in a mindset that this is how things are supposed to be. *re-examining our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. When we know ourselves, our truths, our current beliefs, we can weather change more effectively. Sometimes difficulty comes when we are living out of alignment to our core values. *acknowledging that it can be uncomfortable but that difficult moments to not define us. Although social media may have us believe otherwise, life is not meant to be lived perfectly. We can learn from our mistakes, alter our actions, and see where we can do better. Avoiding discomfort can lead us to miss out on amazing experiences. Together, through the therapeutic process, we can discover what might be on the other side. *identify supports and health self-care practices. We can explore those relationships and practices that are reflections of our worth and learn to let go of those that don’t. The therapeutic process can also address how our communication styles can either enhance or diminish our support systems. These are my beliefs. I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person centered therapy (PCT) and solution focused therapy tailored to each person’s needs. In the past 4 decades as a social worker (yes, it has been that long!), I have worked with individuals in long term care and hospice, both as a social worker and as an administrator, and as a mental health practitioner in group practice settings. If I have learned anything over those years it is this: It is never too late to try something new, to start again, and to create a life we truly desire. We are all connected. Our journeys may look different and feel different, but we are all here on this earth for a reason and for a purpose. Let us discover yours – together.

Ian Aiuto
Developing a meaningful connection with a personal therapist can lead to long-lasting benefits. While this may prove difficult for some, therapist Ian Aiuto helps clients identify ways to overcome the factors that often prevent them from leading the life they ultimately desire. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you Barriers may include: Anxiety Depression Grief or loss Relationship and boundary issues Substance Use Disorder Sex Addiction "Most people will encounter anxiety and depression at some point in their life, but many will not seek help," Ian says. "It takes great strength to seek help. I want clients to recognize that there is assistance available to them." Therapy can help conquer feelings of: Shame Embarrassment Helplessness Hopelessness Ian will assist you: Discover solutions to your difficulties Engage in beneficial behaviors and thought patterns Remain neutral Help with accountability Ian's work as an adult medical social worker has given him useful insight and experience in helping people overcome grief, manage mental health issues, and find helpful resources in your area. When you're confronted with a personal crisis, talking to a trained therapist can help you conquer those things that hold you back. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Ian T Aiuto MSW, LCSW

Beth Williams
I am passionate about helping the clients I serve as they navigate life challenges. With nearly two decades of experience in wilderness settings as well as clinical settings, I have helped my clients with trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, aging, and family dynamics. I seek to build a connection of trust, understanding, and empathy with my clients. Listening to your concerns and helping you discover the best path for your circumstances is always my primary focus. I use a variety of techniques in treatment, tailoring to best meet the individual needs of the client. Some of my favorites combine mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy such as meditation, mindfulness practices, identifying unproductive thought patterns and reshaping them to create new behavioral patterns.

Sophia Mas
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of work experience. I have worked with individuals with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, and the full range of psychotic symptoms and mood disorders. I also have experience and am comfortable working with couples and families, addressing issues such as communication problems, conflict resolution, and relationship enhancement. I am a practical, interactive solution-focused therapist who incorporates a blend of conventional and alternative approaches - drawing upon various styles and techniques in the process. I have worked with a diverse population of clients and in many different settings-from acute emergency-based care to community mental health setting to private practice. I take special pride in cultivating a spirit of caring and respect for everyone I see regardless of the problems or issues they might bring to counseling. It takes courage to embark on the healing journey that is counseling. My focus is to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. I achieve this by actively listening, providing empathy, and maintaining confidentiality. As they commence the process, that will lead to a sense of wellbeing and vitality. Working at a thought and feelings level can be the catalyst for unraveling the puzzle that is our lives and can lead as well to the resolution of problems and issues that limit our capacity to lead productive and happy lives as we develop the skills needed to navigate the difficulties encountered in daily lives. My passion is to support each individual’s journey with hope as they travel the road to wholeness, wellness, freedom and empowerment. It takes courage to undertake this venture and I am grateful and honored to be able to encourage and validate the personal strength and willingness needed to take this big step forward.

Dr. Kim Miner
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Thomas Mitchell
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Kasey Moore
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of mental health experiences including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, aging concerns, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to therapy by integrating physical health and nutritional counseling with an array of different mental health approaches to better personalize each therapeutic interaction. Thank you for reaching out for help. Recognizing that there are changes you would like to make is the first step toward living the life you envision for yourself. Please feel comfortable to reach out to me or any other therapist if you have any questions or concerns about the therapeutic process.

Margarita Ruiz
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Adriane Jackson
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a therapist serving clients in Florida
What types of therapists are available to clients in Gulf Gate Estates?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Gulf Gate Estates that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Gulf Gate Estates available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Gulf Gate Estates therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Gulf Gate Estates therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Gulf Gate Estates region and in the state of Florida.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Gulf Gate Estates can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Gulf Gate Estates may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Gulf Gate Estates offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.