Meet our Counselors

 

Meet our staff

Get to know our wonderful team of professional helpers.

 
 
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Alicia Pfahler, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $150/hour

I predominantly see children, adolescents, and families and women. I work with a wide range of childhood issues and family issues as well as specialize in trauma care and attachment issues within foster care and adoption. I also specialize with women’s issues that include depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting, abuse/trauma recovery, and overall integration of physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and spiritual wholeness.

Unfortunately, Alicia is currently not accepting new clients. If you have any concerns please contact our office.

More About Alicia
 

Ben Mills, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $150/hour

I specialize in treating trauma and abuse recovery, depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, and sexual addictions, including pornography. I also specialize in working with both married and non-married couples. I offer a dynamic approach to counseling and utilize an Integrative model. I employ several theories in the counseling process including Object Relations Theory, Existential Theory, Gestalt Therapy, Attachment Theory, Relational Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.

More About Ben
 
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alvis duncan, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $150/hour

I’ve always been interested in emotional, physical, and spiritual health.  I believe that all are important components of total wellness. Prior to counseling, I worked in the health and fitness industry of New York City. Often, clients felt stuck and overwhelmed in their quest for physical health. I loved when I was able to help someone putting in tremendous effort but not getting the results they wanted. For the last few years I’ve trained extensively in spiritual wellness at St. Andrew’s Church in Gainesville. Whether working for a gym or church, my joy comes from helping people become unstuck and finding both growth and abundant life.

I work with adults, children, families, and college students. I also treat substance abuse. I counsel more from an approach than a particular theory. I use the Interpersonal Process Approach as my conceptual framework as it is integrative and flexible, allowing me to collaborate creatively with each client. From there, I weave together Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Theory, and Family Systems Theory.

More About Alvis
 

Virginia rivera, msw

Registered Clinical Social Worker

Rate: $120/hour

I relocated to Florida from New York. I am bilingual and provide clinical therapy to children, teens, adults, and families. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work in New York from Fordham University and acquired my credentials as a Licensed Minister while living in New York. I have experience providing counseling to married couples, families, children, youth, and adults. I have worked with youth and adults struggling with substance abuse, children who have migrated to the United States, and persons dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma of various forms. My modalities include but are not limited to Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I love teaching my clients the importance of mindfulness and self-care. 

I believe my faith is an integral part of my passion to assist all persons of all ages, race, gender, beliefs, ethnicity, and backgrounds to experience the freedom that comes from healing.   

I greatly enjoy spending time with my husband, my 4 adult children, my grandchildren, and family and friends. I enjoy nature, the ocean, traveling via cruises, reading, serving in my local church, and taking time for my own self-care regularly. 

More About Virginia
 

Christy wells

Intern

Rate: $60/hour

Hi! My name is Christy Wells, and I am an intern pursuing my masters in Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. I consider the hardships that God has allowed me to experience the path that led me into this field. Having experienced great loss leads me to walk alongside those who are grieving. Adopting twin girls through foster care has given me a heart for children who have experienced trauma, and the families that are caring for them. I plan to focus on trauma informed and grief care. Because trauma and grief do not respect age, I am open to seeing all ages.

Though I will use a variety of techniques, my approach is rooted in both attachment and cognitive behavioral theory. Allowing me to hear your story is a privilege that I do not take lightly. Galatians 6:2 commands us to “bear one another’s burdens.” I desire to do just that.

When I am not counseling, I am a pastor’s wife of 23 years to the love of my life. We have five children ranging in ages from 21 to 11. I enjoy every second I can spend with my tribe watching a movie, singing, or having a game night.

 

Alec Therien

Intern

Rate: $60/hour

I am currently an intern pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Liberty University. Prior to pursuing Counseling, I graduated from Florida State University with degrees in Accounting and Finance, and worked in the private sector for 6 years in management and accounting.

My decision to change professional fields was fueled by my years of volunteering with the Salvation Army, serving individuals who were homeless or in nursing home facilities. I had the honor of listening to people’s experiences that shaped their personal narratives and intervene in their time of distress. These years of experience then shaped my own story and helped me build skills to be a helper.

My approach to therapy involves listening to my clients’ stories with empathy and without judgement. I collaborate with my clients to set their own goals, using evidence-based techniques to help meet these goals. These techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), narrative work, and trauma-informed care skills. Faith has played a significant role in shaping my worldview to provide a safe place for everyone to process their own stories and set their own goals. I can integrate faith into counseling for those clients who request this.

I spend my free time with my wife, our dachshund, and my friends. I enjoy going on hikes, practicing Jiu Jitsu, watching football, and playing video games.

 

Jessica Rhome

Registered Clinical Social Worker

I’m a compassionate, client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to address a wide range of emotional and relational concerns, helping clients build insight, strengthen connections, and develop tools for growth and healing.

My approach is trauma-informed and strengths-based, shaped by my experience in outpatient, residential, and community-based care. I collaborate closely with clients and families to create individualized treatment plans that promote resilience, regulation, and overall well-being.

Grounded in an adoption-competent framework, I integrate evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-sensitive practices. I’m passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow.

Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with family, exploring nature, and finding creative ways to bring mindfulness and connection into everyday life.

 

Ellie pfahler

Office Manager

I graduated from Wilkes Honors College of FAU in May 2025 with a degree in International Studies and Spanish and a minor in Environmental Science. I’m currently exploring potential careers, particularly in the fields of nonprofit management and public administration. In my free time I love baking, going to the gym, and connecting with friends and family!

 
 
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Christy Hall, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

I offer counseling for Individuals, Couples/Marriages, and College/Graduate Students who are experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce and affair recovery, self-worth, or burnout. I also offer grief counseling for all ages.

Christy Hall is not currently accepting new clients.

 

Tonneika buchanan, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $140/hour

I received my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling and Guidance from Webster University. I have experience with at-risk youth and young adults who battle addiction and self-esteem issues. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, identity issues, and trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.

My interest in becoming a mental health counselor began while working in child welfare. As a Family Care Counselor, I collaborated with school administrators, counselors, and psychiatrists to help each child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and I like to travel. In my spare time, I provide necessities such as toiletries, blankets, and sweaters to those less fortunate in my community. 

 

Tracey Konopka, Lmhc

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $150/hour*

I believe that being a counselor is a calling and that we all can benefit from therapy when we are seen, supported, and validated. I view therapy as a collaborative process where clients are supported as they work through life’s challenges.

I received my Master’s degree from the Counselor Education Program at the University of Florida. I have over ten years of experience and training working with adolescents and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, peer/relational issues, divorce adjustment, and grief. In addition, I have counseled women in all stages of life, including grief issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, work/life balance, caregiver issues, and spiritual growth. I have an integrative approach to counseling and I utilize different theoretical approaches of counseling depending on the individual.

I have been married for 22 years and I have twin teenagers. I enjoy finding time to “be still”, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

*Tracey is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, so price may differ for BCBS members.

 
 

Tovah VArgas, MA

Registered Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $120/hour

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I’m an EMDR-trained therapist who provides trauma-informed care in a way that feels safe, supportive, and non-judgmental. In our work together, I draw from evidence-based approaches like EMDR, CBT, ACT, and DBT to meet you where you are and help you move toward where you want to be.

I have experience walking alongside children and adults facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe therapy is most effective when it feels collaborative—you’ll never be alone in the process. My role is to listen, guide, and create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and valued for who you are.

My hope is that therapy gives you not just relief from struggles, but also the confidence and tools to thrive. Together, we can work through the hard parts and uncover the strengths that are already within you.

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, hiking, the beach, watching movies, and spending time with my family and friends. 

I offer free 15 minute consultations. Sliding scale is available. Current availability is limited to evenings. 

 

Katherine Napoleon

Registered Mental Health Counselor

Rate: $120/hour

Hi! A little about me, I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2022 from the University of Florida and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University in 2025. I have completed coursework in a variety of areas and consider myself to use various approaches. I am so deeply passionate about pulling out the inner strengths that individuals already carry within themselves. Thus, my counseling style is to truly know an individual and through the use of solution-focused interventions and cognitive-behavioral therapy help them discover the tools they need to succeed. While I have a focused passion for working with children and teenagers I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. 

I have many years of experience working in youth ministry with adolescents and their families and am so energized when working with them. The hope and healing I have found in Jesus and the restorative work He has done in my life have been an anchor and constant reminder that He is the one who restores our souls. I desire to show each individual I encounter in this profession and in this life the love of God and the hope that abounds. 

In my free time, I love going to the beach relaxing with friends, and swimming. Whether it is playing a game of Catan or watching a movie altogether I am purposeful in letting my community be people that refill me as we all do life together! I am bilingual and love getting to explore my Cuban and Puerto Rican heritage through food, music, and cultural events!

 

Austin Smithson

Intern

Rate: $60/hour

Hi! I’m Austin Smithson, a master’s-level intern currently completing my clinical mental health training (with a focus in marriage and family therapy) at Colorado Christian University. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they work toward healing, connection, and hope. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and aim to create a warm and collaborative space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. Before entering the counseling field, I earned my undergraduate degree in music from the University of Florida and spent several years working in education and customer service. These roles taught me how to connect with people from all walks of life and deepened my belief in the importance of listening with empathy, curiosity, and respect. That same mindset guides me in the counseling room today.

My clinical approach is grounded in evidence-based practices like Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and the Gottman Method for couples. I am also a trained Brainspotting practitioner (offered in-office and telehealth), and I enjoy incorporating expressive arts as well as somatic-based practices to support the healing process. If desired, I am happy to integrate faith into counseling. I believe our spiritual lives are deeply connected to our emotional well-being, and I welcome the opportunity to explore those connections with clients who seek a faith-informed perspective. 

I enjoy spending my free time with my wife and our two young children. I love reading, gardening, cooking, and spending time on local trails whenever I can.

 

Sarah Falk

Registered Art Therapist (ATR)

Rate: $100/hour

As a registered Art Therapist (ATR), I offer a unique approach to mental health. I encourage clients to explore their mental well-being using artistic expression as a guide. My methods blend the creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. By tapping into the intuitive and creative right side of the brain through art, clients can access unconscious thoughts and feelings that may be challenging to reach in traditional talk therapies.  

I have worked with youth and families facing emotional, behavioral, and social challenges within residential treatment, with children diagnosed with Autism and related disorders, and alongside veterans facing challenges and healing soul wounds by sharing the belief that art can heal. I have a passion for helping women and girls thrive in life and relationships by establishing healthy boundaries and encouraging them to see themselves holistically. 

Spirit Led Art Therapy is rooted in the belief that we have an innate need to create. For those who wish, I can offer services from a faith-based perspective, approaching Art Therapy by integrating God's word to renew the mind within various psychological approaches. It empowers individuals to recognize the advocate within themselves and process difficulties.

I received my Master’s in Art Therapy from Nazareth University. I am an Upstate NY native, the wife of a veteran, and a dog mom to a black lab named Gunner.


Christina Brooks

Intern

Rate: $60/hour

Hi there! My name is Christina Brooks, and I am currently an intern pursuing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I seek to form genuine and meaningful relationships with clients. I recognize that trust may take time and effort to form, and I believe that having an authentic and compassionate presence is powerful in its establishment. My goal is to help every client feel known and cared for, regardless of where they have been and what they have experienced.

As a practitioner, I seek to provide person-centered care to individuals of all ages. My counseling is trauma-informed, non-judgemental, integrative of somatic therapy techniques, and collaborative.

I grew up in the Tampa Bay Area and earned a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida. I am deeply excited to endlessly grow as a counselor in empathy and skill. Outside of my professional practice, I can likely be found running, baking, caring for my houseplants, or reading.