Our Port Charlotte Team
Alexa Santana, RMHCI
Alexa believes in creating a safe environment that fosters a meaningful therapeutic relationship in order to help her clients build the skills they need to reach their highest potential. Alexa obtained her Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University. She has a variety of past experiences, including working in inpatient mental health and substance abuse, outpatient mental health and substance abuse, and community based mental health services. Alexa offers counseling for children 5 and up, adolescents and adults. Through the use of various modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, treatment is tailored to meet her client's individual needs. She enjoys helping others work through life challenges, including behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, self-harm, stress management, life transitions, and substance abuse issues.
Amanda Warner, RCSWI
Amanda Warner is a Graduate of the Masters of Social Work program at the University of South Florida. She also holds an undergraduate degree in Religious Studies from American University in Washington, DC. Prior to receiving her education, Amanda served in the U.S Army as a Healthcare Specialist. Amanda understands the importance of strengths-based, client-centered therapy. She is also comfortable integrating faith-based components with evidence-based practices. Amanda’s goal is to assist clients through providing support, encouragement and evidence-based treatment to empower them to make positive growth and change. Amanda’s desire is to help clients build off of their innate gifts and empower them to overcome difficult times while restoring a sense of hope and peace in every area of life. Amanda believe every individual is unique and she aims to tailor treatment to each person's specific need(s).
Amy Grose, RMHCI
Amy Grose is a clinical mental health counseling intern, working towards licensure in Florida. She has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Amy works with clients from age 2 to adult.
Amy helps individuals and couples on issues like feelings of isolation, alienation, and meaninglessness.
Her treatment is trauma-informed and holistic, considering factors like spirituality/religion, dietary habits, self-care, and psychoeducation, tailored to the preferences of each client.
She uses a variety of therapy approaches including: DBT, CBT, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused and Person-Centered Therapies.
Anabel Perez, RMHCI
Anabel is a dedicated and empathetic Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with an undeniable passion for Mental Health. Anabel enjoys helping individuals, particularly teens and adults, navigate the complexities of life and regain control of their emotional well-being. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, facing life’s challenges, or experiencing compassion fatigue, Anabel is committed to providing a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and embark on a journey towards personal growth and healing. Anabel received her Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Hodges University.
Brenda Hodges, LMHC, MA, LPCC, MRC
Brenda Hodges has 13 years of experience and is licensed in both Florida and Kentucky and she holds masters degrees in clinical counseling and rehabilitation counseling. Her experience includes both inpatient and outpatient settings. Brenda is passionate about working with adolescents and adults (age 16 plus) who are struggling with effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and chronic illness. Her approach varies from person to person depending on the client and desired goals. Brenda is adept in a range of modalities to meet individual needs. She works collaboratively with clients to choose their own individual paths to relief and the restoration of hope. Brenda considers working with and helping others through difficult times in their lives both an honor and a privilege. All clients are unique and respected for their individual challenges and needs.
Jennie Moses, LCSW
Jennie, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience working with children and in medical settings. She works primarily with adults completing assessments using a strength-based approach. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology in 2005 and completed her Masters in Social Work in 2011, both from The Ohio State University. She strives to help clients see their strengths, build on those and create a healthier mindset. She empowers clients to make changes when they are ready and to help them accomplish their goals. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy and a strength-based approach when supporting clients. She is excited to work with clients through in-person and virtual counseling sessions.
Jennifer Gravesen, LMHC
Jennifer is a licensed mental health counselor who works with children and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment related concerns, issues related to adoption or foster care, parenting/co-parenting concerns, problems in school and with suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviors. Jennifer utilizes person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, play therapy, EMDR, Child Parent Psychotherapy and the Circle of Security parenting program.
It is Jennifer's goal to dig deeper and help clients gain a better understanding of the underlying root of presenting symptoms for better long-term results. Jennifer is welcoming of all clients, with an understanding of neurodivergence, cultural competency and issues facing the LGBTQ+ Community. Therapy is a collaborative process and the client is always the expert on their own experiences.
Lori Davis RCSWI, FDC, CPST
Lori received her Master’s degree in social work at Walden University, participating in the advanced standing class and graduating with honors. She earned her National Family Development Credential from The University of Connecticut in 2018. She is a member of Suncoast Safe Kids, trained as a child passenger safety technician. She is experienced with understanding a child’s grief due to the death of a special person. She has over 20 years of experience working with children and families, meeting each unique individual where they are in life.
Lori enjoys working with children to develop strengths through personal growth. Children learn through play, art, role-playing, talking, observation, and other individualized approaches. My goal is to work together with the entire family to find a mindful therapeutic approach that will build on each ones strengths.
Nicole, Allen, RCSWI
Nicole received her master's degree in Social Work and her bachelor's degree in Psychology and has experience working with adults, children, couples and families, and extensive experience in the child welfare system. Trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, and depression are just some of the areas Nicole enjoys working in. It is Nicole’s goal to create a non-judgmental, safe, therapeutic relationship, while providing space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, identify their therapy goals, reach greater levels of personal growth, increase in self-understanding, coping skills, and self-compassion. Nicole is looking forward to working with you either in person or virtually.
Vanessa Lera, RMFTI (Virtual)
Vanessa obtained her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University and is currently working toward licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Vanessa enjoys working with children, young adults and families. She has been providing counseling services since 2018 and has experience working with children, families, individuals, and groups. Vanessa has experience providing services in outpatient settings, in client homes and in residential facilities. Vanessa uses an eclectic approach to therapy that allows clients to identify and use their passions to learn and apply new skills for well-being. Vanessa strongly believes in externalization and helping her clients identify what may be strengthening and/or weakening the presenting problems. She has a knack for supporting others with great patience, warmth, creativity and compassion, using mindfulness and other techniques. Vanessa has a passion for meaningful conversation and listening, and is now accepting new telehealth clients.
Rebekkah Schwartz, LCSW, EMDR Trained (Virtual)
Rebekkah enjoys working with children and adults (10 years old and up) who are experiencing trauma and/or anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Rebekkah’s focus is to provide a safe space for healing to occur. She enjoys helping people find balance and grounding. Rebekkah provides clients with tools to help them manage stress and anxiety, work through unpleasant past experiences, and uncover their strengths. She utilizes a mindfulness-based approach and has been trained in EMDR and other trauma-focused interventions. She provides therapeutic services virtually.