Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in Maitland, FL

Denise Ludwig-Coe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Denise is also a Clinical Nurse Specialist for 40+ years and is highly motivated to play a part in helping others to decrease the pain that often accompanies many life challenges. Denise works well with all people because of her deep respect for the diversity, yet sameness, among all people; especially when at times there may be overwhelming feelings in trying to adapt to illness, loss/grief, transitioning to older age, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, alcoholism/addiction, pain, and a sense of helplessness, and not knowing where to turn. Her passion is to offer a sense of comfort and hope to those who reach out for help. Because of Denise’s dual career choice, she has also been active in helping those in the medical field, including nurses with mental health and substance use issues and who may be involved in an alternative to discipline program in Florida. Her approach is person-centered and eclectic. She draws from the field of positive psychology and coaching, and uses mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, as well as 12-Step Facilitation therapy, and stress management practices.

Denise completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a clinical specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing at Syracuse University. She worked many years in direct clinical work with mental health clients in hospitals as well as in the community. Denise also worked in Public Health dealing with mental health and family issues among Spanish-speaking families living in Syracuse. She wasprivileged to teach and clinically supervise nursing students at the associate and bachelor's degree levels. Recognizing many of the stressors inherent in the health professions and wanting to play a part in strengthening caregiver resiliency and decreasing compassion fatigue, Denise returned to school and completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling at Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Later, becoming more aware of how trauma and adverse childhood experiences impact the extended physical and mental health of people, she returned to school at Capella University to seek a PhD with a focus on the impact of trauma and later addictions in women. Due to her needing to become the primary caregiver to her dying parents, Denise did not complete the dissertation and instead received a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services. She has been a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) in Florida. She also served as a nurse in the US Army reserves and worked in a combat support field hospital. Because of her diverse experiences in mental health, Denise has a broad base of knowledge and expertise. She is currently a Clinical Supervisor for Mental Health Counselor interns.

Part of being human means we all go through difficult times, when we don't know what to do and we feel unable to think straight. We may make decisions that make our situations even more complicated. We may feel shame or fear of loss (job, relationship, esteem of others) if we were to say out loud our thoughts and feelings. Maybe we are grieving and feel our pain will never end, BUT talking to a mental health professional can help. Talking to someone who listens with compassion, never judging or telling you what to do, but listens, and by being fully present, helps you to feel less alone, and more able to regain the direction for your life. If you are ready to reach out, Denise is ready to join you in your journey. Schedule an appointment with her today.

Jennifer Marvin is a 63-year-old Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LHMC) with over 40 years of experience working in various parts of the mental health field. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults in order to help them find solutions and relief, especially those who are suffering from substance and alcohol use-related problems, addiction, anxiety, depression, and gender identity and transgender concerns. 

Jennifer completed her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University-Orlando. Jennifer utilizes multiple approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational emotive therapy (REBT), empathic listening, solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and behavioral therapy (BT). 

Jennifer is ready to help you to explore your options and solutions in order to ease your experience through life's challenges. If you are ready to make positive changes and to work towards resolving the issues that are holding you back, schedule an appointment to see her today.

Margaret Keig is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 15 years of experience collaborating with adults, teens, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, relationship issues, sexuality, and spirituality. Additionally, she is a premarital course provider in Orange County, FL and is pursuing a sex therapy certification at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. Margaret has many years of experience with LGBTQ+ communities, including work in HIV/AIDS and gender identity. 

Margaret received her Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University. She primarily utilizes solution-focused, motivational interviewing, EMDR, and Gottman Method approaches to therapy. 

Margaret tailors treatment to meet the needs of the individual, couple, or family. She strives to develop a nonjudgmental relationship with all clients and collaborate to build on your strengths, reach your goals, and live the life you imagine.

Nathan Morris II is a Registered Mental Health Intern with over 1 year of experience. His background blends sports science, clinical mental health counseling, and a passion for music therapy. He focuses on helping veterans and athletes tackle PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, depression, and motivational challenges. With a holistic approach that integrates sonic psychology, Nate aims to create a safe space for healing and growth.

Nate earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. He uniquely helps clients by blending clinical mental health expertise with music therapy and sports science. He loves exploring the subconscious and how to influence it through sonic psychology, offering a holistic approach that fosters resilience and growth.

Life’s challenges can feel like walking through fire. As your counselor, Nate will walk through that fire with you, because the hottest fires forge the strongest armor. Reach out, and let’s build that strength together.

Zaria Myers-Thomas is a Registered Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience working in community mental health and telehealth settings. She has worked with clients ages 6-52, including children, adults, teens, couples, and families. Zaria specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, and stress. Zaria’s passion for therapy stems from her understanding of how the mental health stigma in many communities causes many to suffer in silence, leaving them feeling unheard and fearful of seeking the treatment and support they deserve.

Zaria earned her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Baruch College. She provides a culturally sensitive approach drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, person-centered therapy, internal family systems, somatic techniques, and mindfulness practices. Zaria tailors her treatment to address each client’s unique needs.

Zaria is committed to helping clients feel empowered and heard as they reconnect with their inner voice, explore their struggles without shame, and pursue lasting change. She honors the courage to seek support and creates a safe, welcoming space for healing and self-discovery.

Ashley Smith is a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and self-esteem challenges. With a holistic and nonjudgmental approach, Ashley helps clients explore all aspects of themselves—including those they may perceive as negative—to foster personal growth, achieve their goals, and cultivate greater fulfillment in life. Ashley’s ideal client is someone open to deep self-exploration and ready to embrace meaningful change with support and guidance.

Ashley received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. With a client-centered approach, she tailors therapy using diverse methods to meet individual needs. Ashley utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing.

Ashley understands seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. With warmth and empathy, she’s here to support you in exploring your struggles and strengths. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, or self-doubt, Ashley will walk alongside you. Reach out today to take the first step toward healing.

I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 8 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals enhance their mental well-being, build stronger relationships, and rediscover purpose. Using a personalized, client-centered approach, I've worked across various treatment settings providing crisis stabilization, short-term, and long-term care in intensive psychosocial rehabilitation, outpatient clinics, and residential facilities. I've supported adults with severe and persistent mental illness, including forensic backgrounds, as well as adolescents, adults, and couples addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, communication issues, and life transitions.

My approach is rooted in strengths-based and compassion-focused care. I believe in tailoring each therapeutic experience to honor your unique identity, values, and goals. My clinical framework integrates evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, positive psychology, and creative therapeutic techniques to support your journey toward healing and growth.

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward meaningful change. Whether you're navigating life stressors or working toward long-term healing, I'm here to guide you on your path to wellness and a more empowered life.

Lysmarie Rivera is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with 2 years of experience collaborating with adolescents, adults, and seniors to address a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, mental stress, and life transitions. She is passionate about helping people become the best version of themselves by using her professional training and a unique blend of genuineness, charisma, humility, and honesty.

Lysmarie has her Master’s in Christian Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She uses clinical approaches geared toward client needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based techniques that focus on mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Lysmarie has experience integrating psychology and Christianity into counseling sessions.

If you are feeling anxious or depressed, find yourself unable to heal from an emotional wound, or are carrying the weight of guilt or unforgiveness, you’re in the right place. Lysmarie knows that your mistakes don’t define you and that no matter what you are facing today, there is hope. She will guide you into becoming the best version of yourself.

Lysmarie Rivera es una Interna Registrada en Consejería de Salud Mental con 2 años de experiencia colaborando con adolescentes, adultos y personas mayores para abordar una variedad de preocupaciones como la ansiedad, la depresión, la ira, el duelo, el trauma, el estrés mental y las transiciones de vida. Ella es apasionada por ayudar a las personas a convertirse en la mejor versión de sí mismas utilizando su formación profesional y una combinación única de autenticidad, carisma, humildad y honestidad.

Lysmarie tiene una Maestría en Consejería Cristiana de la Universidad del Gran Cañón. Ella utiliza enfoques clínicos orientados a las necesidades del cliente, incluyendo la terapia cognitivo-conductual y otras técnicas basadas en la evidencia que se centran en la salud mental, emocional y espiritual. Lysmarie tiene experiencia integrando la psicología y el cristianismo en las sesiones de consejería.

Si te sientes ansioso o deprimido, no puedes sanar de una herida emocional, o llevas el peso de la culpa o la falta de perdón, estás en el lugar correcto. Lysmarie sabe que tus errores no te definen y que, sin importar lo que enfrentes hoy, hay esperanza. Ella te guiará para convertirte en la mejor versión de ti mismo.

Danielle Mickla is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 years of experience helping the Central Florida community heal from traumatic experiences. In addition to her work with trauma, she also has experience in treating addiction, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and abuse. Danielle is also familiar with suicide prevention. She enjoys seeing her clients grow through their experiences and is passionate about helping clients who may be ambivalent about change. Danielle is a lifelong learner who enjoys attending professional training and engaging in local issues that directly impact her community.

Danielle completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Central Florida. She utilizes customized interventions based on client needs such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness through various types of meditation.

Dealing with the curveballs that life throws at us can be so challenging. Danielle is ready to support and guide you through what you are experiencing by offering a safe place to explore and embrace your authentic self. Reach out to her today to schedule an appointment!

Saundra is a clinically licensed mental health counselor with 25 years of experience of adults and families. She is experienced with using cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, client-centered therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed therapy, grief therapy and strength-based therapy and other treatment modalities. Christian Counseling is available upon request. Throughout the process of therapeutic engagement and collaboration, the client’s treatment goals are identified and a unique and personalized treatment plan is developed. A holistic view is employed, with an increasing understanding of the client’s emotional, physical, spiritual, relational and other mental health concerns and unique goals. Saundra provides a safe, comfortable, confidential, nonjudgmental environment in which the client feels supported, heard, accepted, motivated and empowered to face their challenges, acquire positive coping skills, and to achieve a stable, authentic and emotionally healthy life. A time of crisis is not required for productive therapy. Saundra looks forward to joining with you to form an alliance to achieve your mental health goals and to begin an extraordinary journey of personal development.

Please note that she provides talk therapy and not assessment and evaluation for diagnostic purposes or level of care.