Therapy & Counseling Services

Life can be challenging at times. Have you found yourself stuck in an emotional rut, repeating the same unhelpful patterns? Unsure how to manage anxious thoughts and more effectively navigate life’s challenges? Are you seeking happiness and fulfillment? Together we will overcome these challenges through therapy that is uniquely informed by your strengths, your goals, and your vision for yourself. You will gain perspective about the past and insight into the present while building resiliency, acquiring skills, and overcoming obstacles that are preventing you from living your ideal life.

I have helped adults, teens, and children with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties in relationships, life transitions, stress, low self-esteem, and ADHD. I am also drawn to understanding and healing the mind-body connection.

I use an integrative approach to therapy by incorporating elements of client-centered and cognitive behavioral therapies with mindfulness-based practices, EMDR, and art therapy.

I recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and believe that developing a strong therapeutic alliance is essential for healing to transpire.

If you are ready to take the next step, click here to schedule a time to meet!

Life can be challenging at times. Have you found yourself stuck in an emotional rut, repeating th... Read More

Victoria DeYoung, LMHC, MH 18814

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Victoria is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MH18814, specializing in Expressive Arts Therapy. Her intention is to assist in bettering the lives of others through expressive methods. She attended Lesley University in Cambridge, MA and earned a Bachelor of Arts as well as a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Expressive Arts Therapies. Victoria has experience in all populations from children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric.

In 2014, Victoria relocated to Florida and began working at Park Royal Behavioral Health Services in Fort Myers, FL as a therapist throughout the inpatient hospital. As of most recent, she has managed the Outpatient services for both the Partial Hospitalization Program and Intensive Outpatient Program levels of care. Her knowledge with various psychiatric mental health disorders and her the ability to apply the Expressive Arts with moderate to acute populations makes her adaptable to a variety of your needs. At Florida Arts Therapy Services, Victoria looks forward to continuing providing quality mental health care to the community.

Victoria uses a therapeutic process including Gestalt therapies, trauma therapies, and mindfulness. She implements CBT and DBT skills to continue the practice of understanding one’s own thought processes, actions and behaviors. Expressive arts therapy easily integrates within various forms of theoretical applications and arts models to deepen the therapeutic process. Victoria encourages individuals to better understand their self through mindfulness and self-expression in the arts. These approaches assist clients to gain independence and self-confidence for managing even the most challenging life experiences such as coping with depression, anxiety, anger, paranoid thoughts, and hallucinations. Victoria is open to new practices and evidenced-based theories that improve one’s well-being and ability to take management of their life.

In 2019, Victoria became Basic-Trained in EMDR therapy. As defined by the EMDR International Association, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy is a psychotherapeutic form of therapy that allows the process of healing to occur for individuals who have experienced a single or multiple distressing life experiences. EMDR is useful for those suffering from anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, as well as depression as a few examples. Just as a physical wound heals, EMDR allows the body to restore to its natural form of emotional healing. Victoria has found the bodies way of healing to be of an invaluable resource to our well-being. By utilizing EMDR, she can bring the ability for the individual to encounter the gratifying experience of true acceptance and peace.

To schedule an appointment with Victoria, contact us.

Victoria DeYoung, LMHC, MH 18814 Licensed Mental Health Counselor Victoria is a Licensed Mental ... Read More

Colleen Hentz, LCSW #SW143575

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

I believe that all people deserve the chance to be healthy, happy and productive. I use the skills I have learned working as a social worker to help my clients develop healthy coping mechanisms, recognize unhealthy patterns and empower themselves to make the changes they desire to live at their greatest potential. I draw form a variety of therapy models and theories to individualize my approach for each client. My practice is based in systems theory, and I utilize strength based, behavioral and cognitive behavioral models to help my clients make positive and lasting life changes.

I received my masters from University of South Carolina, where I was able to work with incarcerated youth. Over the years I have enjoyed being able to assist a wide range of clients. When I returned to Florida, I started to work with Community Cooperative serving families at risk of homelessness. I then began working at Hope Clubhouse where I worked with adults with severe mental illness. I work best with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and clients who need help coping with life changes. I enjoy being able to help clients identify life patterns that are no longer working and facilitate the development of new patterns that increase their joy and life fulfillment. Please contact me when you are ready to start your journey.

Colleen Hentz, LCSW #SW143575 Licensed Clinical Social Worker I believe that all people deserve ... Read More

I am a graduate student at Walden University studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Through my healing and observations as an educator during the pandemic, I saw the need for mental health services, compassion, and support increasing exponentially. With that experience, I chose to deepen my knowledge and help individuals more deeply.

I am the conduit to aid in your healing. You are the master of your life. My role as a counselor is to work with you to build your best life. Building awareness and moving into action aid in my approach to healing by utilizing cognitive-behavior therapy and artistic expression. Actions, behaviors, and feelings are all intertwined, isolating the discomfort to plan what shifts to make to help align the three. Art aids in communication, expression, and play. Healing and processing can be uncomfortable, and having a team to support you makes the work a little easier, and I am honored to be part of your journey.

I am a graduate student at Walden University studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Through ... Read More

Alaina Loomis, MS, #MH20327

Art Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Alaina graduated magna cum laude from Nazareth College of Rochester with her Master of Science Degree in Creative Arts Therapy in 2018 and obtained her Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern license in November 2018. She graduated from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh in May 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Studio Art and double minor in Psychology and Art Therapy. Originally born in Northern New York Alaina spent much of her time enjoying the countryside and culture of both New York and southern Canada.

Prior to joining Florida Art Therapy Services, LLC, Alaina worked as a mental health counselor at the Children’s Advocacy Center of SWFL, a teacher for grades K-12, as an aid for children on the Autism Spectrum in an Applied Behavioral Analysis program, and as a respite care provider for children with Autism. Alaina also works as a mental health counselor at a school in southwest Florida, with kids grades K-8.

She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults with PTSD and trauma, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disorders, developmental delays, Alzheimer’s/Dementia, depression, and anxiety.

Alaina utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, combining elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Jungian Therapy in addition to Art Therapy and Play Therapy techniques to facilitate growth, self-exploration, and change. She believes that incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into therapy provides opportunities for individuals to enhance their inner strengths and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.

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Alaina Loomis, MS, #MH20327 Art Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Alaina graduated mag... Read More

Malissa Maki, MSW, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Malissa Maki, MSW, LCSW, graduated Cum Laude from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and earned a Certificate in the Arts & Community Practice. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Florida Gulf Coast University.

She began her career as a special education teacher and has experience working with individuals with Autism. Additionally, she has been a provider of therapeutic counseling in a variety of settings since 2015.

Malissa has facilitated groups focusing on trauma, domestic violence, and grief care. She has helped clients who have experienced anxiety, depression, PTSD, and past emotional or physical abuse.

Her counseling style is warm, accepting and client-centered. She uses a variety of counseling modalities such as cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and solution focused. Malissa is from southwest Florida and enjoys spending time with her family. Her favorite activities include animals, nature, and traveling.

Malissa Maki, MSW, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker Malissa Maki, MSW, LCSW, graduated Cum L... Read More

Leeanna Mantica, MS

Art Therapist

I will laugh with you, cry with you and be with you on your journey to healing. My goals are your goals: To be the best version of yourself, whatever that looks like.

I specialize in children, teens and women’s issues. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction issues, trouble adjusting or have a trauma background, I use art therapy and expressive materials to help you in session. I’m an art therapist with extensive experience in using a variety of evidence based practices.

My clients are motivated to change but may need a different approach. Past clients have described my therapeutic style as “real,” “honest” and “very caring, but she’ll call you out.” My ideal client is willing to try and venture into the unknown because they live outside of the box. Often my clients are bullied or excluded because they identify as LGBTQIA+, differently abled and/or neurodivergent. As an artist, I can empathize with feeling alone in this world.

Sound familiar? Reach out to me for a free 15 minute consultation. I offer individual sessions, group therapy and family therapy options. I do not take insurance but will provide a receipt for out of network mental health services. My scheduling is flexible with evening hours and telehealth (virtual therapy) options. I’m here to answer any questions you may have!

Michele, will be facilitating Girls Art Therapy Group on Tuesday Evenings and Leeanna has plans to offer an Art Therapy Group for teens who identify as LGBTQIA on Thursday Evenings (Start Date TBD).

Leeanna Mantica, MS Art Therapist I will laugh with you, cry with you and be with you on your jo... Read More

Life is hard, and that’s ok! For children and adolescents, their world can be filled with chaos and uncertainty. During this important stage in their lives, life can feel pretty overwhelming. Maybe you have noticed that life changes have had a greater impact on your little one, and the world feels like it’s moving too fast around them? Maybe you notice your child feeling lost, or stuck inside their mind, and unable to communicate their emotions? Maybe they need some guidance and support in self-expression and their identity? If any of this sounds familiar, your child may need some support in their self-confidence while coping with various life adjustments.

Hi, my name is Skyler and I’m here to help. It is important to connect with my clients at a human level. Therapists refer to this as “person-centered or humanistic”. This means that we are both here as human beings. It means I will recognize and honor your unique individual needs in the therapy process. I strive to maintain a supportive, authentic & caring relationship with those I serve. I honor the pace at which they set in their therapy journey, and will advocate for their needs both inside and outside of the therapy sessions. My extensive experience and passionate involvement working with individuals with autism has helped mold my empathetic, patient, and compassionate approach to counseling. I care deeply about the success of my clients, and will maintain a safe and encouraging space while I work with you and your child to reach their individual goals.

Life is hard, and that’s ok! For children and adolescents, their world can be filled with chaos a... Read More

Michele Sanfilippo, MA, #MH 20517

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern

Hello! First, I would like to thank you for taking some time to learn a little bit about my educational and professional background.

I earned my master’s degree in Art Therapy at Marywood University and my bachelor’s in Psychology at New Jersey City University. I utilize a person-centered, humanistic approach. I believe every person has the capacity to fulfill their own potential and I am honored to be a part of each story. To facilitate this individualized process, I create a safe space for clients to identify their struggles, set intentions and reach their therapeutic goals.

My goal is to create a relaxing environment where you feel safe to breathe deeply, sink into your seat and unwind. Once grounded into the space, we can explore different emotions using a variety of artistic mediums. I am there as a witness to your expression and a facilitator to help you make sense of what you created.

My specialties and interests include anxiety, depression, intellectual disabilities, LGBTQIA+ issues, sexual violence, and trauma.

Michele Sanfilippo, MA, #MH 20517 Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern Hello! First, I woul... Read More

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Located at: 5280 Summerlin Commons Way #804 , Ft Myers
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