The Time to Choose You Is Now

In-person sessions in Brandon, FL, and virtually throughout Florida and South Carolina.

When is it finally my turn to feel free?

We learn early that love must be earned, that rest is selfish, and that if we stop performing, everything might fall apart.

So we do it all.

We overthink, over-function, and overextend—until our body starts keeping score.

Until we start asking:

“Why do I feel this disconnected from myself?”
“Why does calm feel unsafe?”
“Why do I still doubt myself, even after everything I’ve accomplished?”

Welcome Home to Yourself!

I created Choose You First Counseling as a space where high-achieving women could stop bracing for the next crisis and start softening into their own enough-ness. A space where you don’t have to shrink, prove, or pretend.

I’m a licensed mental health counselor (FL + SC), an EMDR-certified therapist, and someone who believes that healing isn’t about fixing you—it’s about freeing you. Inviting you to give yourself permission to show up as you are, not matter what and no matter who.

Through EMDR therapy and my R.E.S.T.™ Pathway, I help clients unravel the beliefs that keep them stuck in survival mode. Beliefs like:

“If I say no, I’ll disappoint someone.”
“If I slow down, I’ll fall apart.”
“If I’m not needed, I’m not valuable.”

We explore the emotional habits and nervous system responses that formed long before you had a choice—and we create space for something different: rest, self-trust, and the ability to live from who you are, not who you’ve been expected to be.

What Clients Experience:

  • R – Restore Safety
    Find grounding, comfort, and the ability to pause without guilt.
  • E – Explore Beliefs
    Unpack legacy patterns—like “I have to earn love” or “Rest is laziness.”
  • S – Soothe the Effects
    Allow the body to relax, emotions to settle, know they’re not alone.
  • T – Transform the Story
    Set stronger boundaries, live from values, and trust who they are

Who I Work With:

  • High-achieving women feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or disconnected.
  • BIPOC women, first-gen professionals, caregivers, and women in leadership.
  • Women in law enforcement or helping professions looking to manage work-life stress.
  • Individuals who are ready to get comfortable being uncomfortable.
  • Women who know healing requires more than mindset—it requires deep, nervous-system-level work.

My Values

Compassion

I strive to create a warm, empathetic environment where you feel understood and valued. Your emotional well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you through every step of your journey.

Respect

Your experiences and feelings are valid, and I honor your journey. I believe in acknowledging and valuing your unique story

Integrity

I am committed to being honest and transparent with you, ensuring that you feel comfortable and informed throughout our work together. Trust is fundamental to our therapeutic relationship, and I strive to uphold it at all times.

Empowerment

My goal is to help you recognize your own strength and potential, enabling you to take lead in your life and well-being. Empowerment is about finding your voice and using it to create the life you desire.

What You Can Expect From Me:

A Safe Space

Your comfort and trust is my top priority. I  provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.

Holistic Support

My approach focuses on all parts of you—the adult you are today and the little person within you—because this unique combination makes you who you are.

Collaborative Treatment Plans

Together, we will create a personalized action plan that prioritizes you, enhances self-acceptance, and fosters balance.

Empowerment and Growth

I provide consistent support and encouragement as you work towards your personal growth and healing.

Are You Ready to…

Commit to the Process:

Attend sessions regularly to build momentum and progress.

Embrace Discomfort:

Be open to exploring and confronting uncomfortable emotions and experiences, understanding that growth often involves stepping out of your comfort zone.

Actively Participate:

Use the tools we develop in session, between sessions to reinforce the amazing work done during therapy.

Education & Training

Education

  • Master of Arts In Clinician Mental Health Counseling.
    Webster University, FL
  • Bachelor of Arts in Human Development.
    Eckerd College, FL

Licensure

  • South Carolina Licensed Professional Counselor  #8975PC Verify License

Certifications

  • Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist, EMDR International Association. Verify

Common Questions About Working with Me.

Where are you located?

My office is located at 673 W. Lumsden Rd, Brandon, FL 33511 and I do offer in person sessions.

When are sessions offered?

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday 9am-3pm. ( last session starts at 2pm.)

Do you accept Insurance?

Yes, I accept United Healthcare, Aetna and Cigna. I also accept Lyra and Springhealth EAP.

What can I expect during the first session?

We will review your intake paperwork and discuss some of the challenges that brought you to counseling. We will also explore what you would like to accomplish from our work together and explore ways to make that happen. It’s normal to be nervous about the first session.

Do I need to attend a session each week?

Yes, every client is required to attend weekly sessions for the first 6 weeks. After that time, we will discuss if moving to bi-weekly is appropriate. If you are unable to attend weekly, we would not be a good fit.

I don’t live near your office, do you provide online counseling?

Yes, Click here to learn more.

In Brandon FL and online throughout Florida and South Carolina.

Online Therapy for Women

Convenient and Effective Counseling that meets you where you are!

Are you looking for a flexible therapy option that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle?

Online therapy may be a great fit for you!

What Is Online Counseling?

Online counseling also known as telehealth, or virtual therapy, involves providing mental health services through a secure video call. This approach allows you to receive counseling remotely, without the need to travel.

Benefits of Online Therapy

Convenience

Access therapy from the comfort of your home or any private space, eliminating the need for travel.

Accessibility

It gives you more options to find the right therapist for your needs, regardless of geographical location.

Comfort

Attend sessions from a familiar environment, which can help you feel more relaxed.

Florida Service Area

We provide online counseling services to:

  • Riverview
  • Apollo Beach
  • Ruskin
  • Tampa
  • Sarasota
  • Orlando
  • Jacksonville
  • Tallahassee
  • Surrounding cities

South Carolina Service Area

We provide online counseling services to:

  • Charleston
  • Summerville
  • Ladson
  • Columbia
  • Greenville
  • Clemson
  • Surrounding cities

Common Questions About Online Counseling.

How Does Online Therapy Work?

You will receive a secure link to join a video session via email. All you need is a reliable internet connection and a private space.

Is Online Therapy Effective?

Yes, research shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

What Do I Need for Online Therapy?

A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and a stable internet connection. Ensure you are in a quiet, private space for your sessions.

In Brandon FL and online throughout Florida and South Carolina.

Invest in a Life That Chooses YOU First.

Accepted Insurances and EAPs

United Healthcare, Aetna and Cigna 

Spring Health EAP  and Lyra EAP

Private Pay Rates

Intake Session

50-55 MINUTE SESSION
$225

Individual Session

45-50 MINUTE SESSION
$200

Group Counseling

45-50 MINUTE SESSION
$55

Missed Appointments/ Late Cancellations

$150

A 24 hour notice is required for all appointment cancellations/reschedules to avoid being charged the late fee.

Accepted Forms of Payment

All major credit cards and health savings accounts.

You have the right to receive an estimate of costs for your care. To read more about your rights, visit Good Faith Estimate.

Ready To Get Started? Here’s How It Works:

1

Book a Consultation

Schedule a free 10-minute consultation so we can decide if working together is right for you to ensure you feel comfortable. If you are ready to begin, click below to schedule your first session.

2

We’ll Jump Right in

We’ll meet weekly to identify the root of the problems you’re experiencing and work on effective and realistic strategies for improving them.

3

Feel Better and Embrace Freedom

My goal is for you to leave each session equipped with practical tools you can use in your daily life. As our sessions continue, you’ll be able to look back and see the incredible progress you’ve made in fully living your truth!

Common Questions About Fees and Insurance.

How do I find out what my out of network benefits are?

  1. Call the customer service Phone number on the back of your insurance card.
  2. Ask about your out-of-network benefits for an “In-Office Outpatient Psychotherapy Appointment” with CPT Code 90837(intake).
  3. Find out how much you will be reimbursed per session.
  4. Inquire if any additional paperwork is needed for reimbursement.

How do I find out what my copay will be prior to our sessions?

  1. Call the customer service Phone number on the back of your insurance card.
  2. Ask about your out-of-network benefits for an “In-Office Outpatient Psychotherapy Appointment” with CPT Code 90837.
  3. Find out how much you will be reimbursed per session.
  4. Inquire if any additional paperwork is needed for reimbursement.

What if I don’t see my insurance listed?

That means Choose You First Counseling and Consultation, LLC is an out of network provider for your insurance. However, If your insurance covers ‘out-of-network providers’ (typically PPO insurance plans) they may reimburse you for part of my fee. Contact them to determine what your plan offers.

What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a benefit provided by many employers to support the well-being of their employees. EAPs offer a range of services, including confidential counseling, usually at no cost to the employee for a set amount of sessions. Contact your employer to inquire about this benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions.

How do I get started?

Where are you located and do you offer in person sessions?

my office is located at 673 W. Lumsden Rd, Brandon, FL 33511 and
yes, I offer in person counseling.

What is virtual or telehealth therapy?

Virtual therapy also called (telemedicine, online counseling, and telehealth), consists of meeting with a mental health professional by video on your computer, smartphone or other device.

Online counseling, although convenient, is not appropriate for everyone. We will discuss during your free 15-minute consultation if this would be a good fit for you.

I offer virtual therapy for clients throughout Florida and South Carolina.

When are sessions offered?

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 9am and 3pm. ( Last session starts at 2pm)

Do you accept Insurance?

Yes, I accept United Healthcare, Aetna and Cigna. I also accept Lyra and Spring health EAP.

If you don’t see your insurance listed, that means I am an out of network provider. Click here to learn more

What are your Fee’s?

$225 for the intake and $200 for ongoing sessions.

Do you counsel couples?

No, my focus is on helping individual clients.

What can I expect during the first session?

We will review your intake paperwork and discuss some of the challenges that brought you to counseling. We will also explore what you would like to accomplish from our work together and explore ways to make that happen. It’s common to be nervous about the first session.

What is a good faith estimate?

By law, if you’re not using insurance or don’t have insurance, healthcare providers must estimate the cost of medical services and items.
You’re entitled to a Good Faith Estimate that outlines the total anticipated cost of non-emergency services, along with any associated costs like diagnostic tests, prescription medications, equipment, and fees related to hospital care.
Your right to receive this Good Faith Estimate in writing should be provided at least one business day before your scheduled service or item. Feel free to request a Good Faith Estimate from your healthcare provider—or any other provider you’re considering—before scheduling a service.By law, if you’re not using insurance or don’t have insurance, healthcare providers must estimate the cost of medical services and items.
You’re entitled to a Good Faith Estimate that outlines the total anticipated cost of non-emergency services, along with any associated costs like diagnostic tests, prescription medications, equipment, and fees related to hospital care.
Your right to receive this Good Faith Estimate in writing should be provided at least one business day before your scheduled service or item. Feel free to request a Good Faith Estimate from your healthcare provider—or any other provider you’re considering—before scheduling a service.