Dr. Carlos Garcia

Welcome! I’m Dr. Carlos Garcia, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the proud owner of Tampa Counseling and Wellness. I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward healing can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling stuck, weighed down by anxiety or depression, navigating grief, or working through the effects of trauma, I’m here to help guide you toward lasting change and a more fulfilling life.

For over 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals break free from the patterns that hold them back — empowering them to rebuild their confidence, uncover their inner strength, and step fully into the lives they’ve always imagined. My work goes beyond simply managing symptoms. I’m passionate about helping my clients explore the deeper layers of their experiences, understanding the unconscious fears and beliefs that may be keeping them stuck. Together, we work to cultivate lasting transformation, not just temporary relief.

My areas of expertise include supporting individuals through challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, and post-traumatic stress. I also have a deep understanding of how faith and spirituality intersect with mental health, and I enjoy helping clients navigate those aspects of their journey. Additionally, I work with those who struggle with motivation, self-esteem, and finding clarity in their purpose — helping them reconnect with their inner wisdom and build the confidence to move forward.

My background gives me a unique perspective. Before becoming a psychologist, I served as a United States Marine and later as a firefighter and paramedic. These experiences instilled in me a profound understanding of resilience, discipline, and the importance of staying grounded through life’s challenges. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed my residency at Rutgers University. But beyond my formal education, my own personal journey of growth and self-discovery has given me an even deeper appreciation of what it takes to overcome obstacles and thrive.

I believe that true healing happens when we do the inner work. I’ve spent over 25 years immersed in self-development and know firsthand that the best therapists and coaches are those who have walked the path of transformation themselves. My commitment is to walk alongside you with compassion, curiosity, and unwavering support — creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered to become the person you’re meant to be.

If you’re ready to take that next step toward healing and growth, I’d be honored to help guide you on this journey. You don’t have to navigate this alone — and I’m here to help you discover the strength, clarity, and confidence that already exist within you.

Dr. Saarah Nicolas

My name is Dr. Saarah Nicolas, and I’m a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of specialized experience in helping people overcome trauma. Utilizing evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions, I have aided numerous clients in managing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other trauma-related issues.

Have you experienced a traumatic event that has left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move forward? Or perhaps grew up in a home that left you struggling to feel safe or worthy of love? If so, I want you to know that you are not alone. Trauma can really disrupt our lives, affecting our identity, relationships, work-life balance, and our ability to feel comfortable in our own skin. Whether you have experienced a single traumatic event or a pattern of ongoing trauma, I am here to assist. Together, we will explore your experiences and develop practical tools to help you overcome trauma and reclaim your life.

As a biracial-black Jamaican woman, I firmly believe that incorporating cultural responsiveness into therapy is essential to helping all clients feel seen, heard, and understood. I have extensive experience working with Veterans, women, male sexual trauma survivors, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC individuals, and I understand the unique needs of these populations.

I received my Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi, a nationally recognized top-ranking counseling psychology graduate program. My career began at the Bay Pines and Tampa Veteran Affairs healthcare systems, where I specialized in treating individuals with complex trauma backgrounds from across the country using the evidence-based treatments that I now offer in my private practice. Besides being a therapist, I am deeply passionate about providing education and advocacy for trauma survivors and social justice. I have conducted numerous workshops and presentations on trauma-informed care and culturally responsive care for mental health professionals, community organizations, and educational institutions.

As someone who has experienced several traumas, I understand firsthand how they can change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. Through my work with a therapist, I was able to overcome my fears and experience deep healing. This journey inspired me to become a psychologist and give others the invaluable gift of mental and emotional freedom. I believe that authenticity is key to building trust, safety, and connection with my clients, and I take great pride in providing the supportive, down-to-earth environment necessary for healing.

If you are ready to begin your journey to healing, I invite you to reach out to me. With compassion, empathy, and evidence-based approaches that include cultural responsiveness, we can work towards a brighter future, one where you are free from the effects of trauma and living a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.

Dr. Ashton Peltz

By taking a compassionate and warm approach, I help my clients heal from the past and make meaningful change in the present. My priority is to create a safe environment where you feel free to be yourself. Within this safe space I work to build authentic, honest relationships with my clients. Through building a trusting relationship, my hope is that you feel comfortable to explore your emotions and unpack painful experiences in a judgment free zone. I am passionate about working with teens and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, and trauma.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I also specialize in psychological evaluations for adults.

Through working together, I help my clients understand their story, gain freedom from their past, and move toward a more fulfilling life. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and I am here to listen, help foster personal growth, and alleviate suffering.

Jordan Talbot, LMFT

Hello, my name is Jordan Talbot and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  I specialize in working with couples and individuals that are struggling in their relationships. I help them overcome issues such as communication, lack of connection, and infidelity.  In my work, I take a solution focused approach to help couples overcome the struggles they’re facing in order to begin building trust again. I believe in finding the root cause behind an issue in order to enact long lasting change.

In terms of my methods, I am experienced in several modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Strategic Therapy. I am also certified in EMDR and work with many individuals who have faced significant trauma in their lives. EMDR is a powerful technique used to help the brain process trauma, in order to bring about greater emotional and psychological health.

I’m very passionate about what I do because I genuinely enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to find solutions.  As much as we may enjoy working together, my ultimate goal is to make sure a client doesn’t need to see me forever– I want to see them heal and progress. I look forward to building a strong and trusting relationship with you. When I am not working, I enjoy playing basketball, golf,  and spending time at the beach. I have been married for 16 years and have two beautiful daughters.

Dr. Sherese Stewart

Growth can be painful, but not impossible. I am Sherese Stewart, and I am a Post-Doctoral Fellow. I am a graduate of Florida School of Professional Psychology at National Louis University, where I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. My background is in child/adolescent psychology, and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who experience depression, anxiety, and trauma. Taking care of your mental health can be difficult with so many life demands and challenges. My aim is to guide clients to healing by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral skills to tackle intrusive thoughts and unhealthy behaviors. I also specialize in psychological testing to assess for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, and personality testing.

My therapeutic approach is to move at the pace of the client, while also facilitating an environment where growth can take place and you can become your best self. I truly enjoy building relationships with clients during the therapeutic process and collectively implementing ways to grow together. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can be the most powerful tool in therapy, and here you will learn skills that will help you be the best that you can be.

Camila Lasso

I’m Camila Lasso, a counselor-in-training at Tampa Counseling and Wellness. I am currently in the Master’s Degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marital, Couples, and Family Therapy at Barry University. I studied Clinical Psychology at Universidad de Las Américas in Quito, Ecuador, and hold a Master’s Degree in Third Generation Psychological Therapies from the International University of Valencia, Spain. I have experience working with young, middle, and older adults. I also have had the opportunity to work in many settings, including hospitals, foundations, and private psychology centers.

When we go through difficult times, our emotions intensify and it is difficult to understand what is affecting us most. So, the path to finding solutions becomes darker and smaller. My biggest goal with each of my clients is to make them understand their situation by paying attention to their emotions and needs. Each human being is a different and world; therefore, they each need personalized attention and it is important to avoid generalizing psychological techniques, using a single type of therapy, or diagnosing without a complete evaluation.

Welcome to this safe space, free of judgment or criticism. Here you are the protagonist, and you will be listened to and accompanied on your healing journey based on what your needs are in these difficult moments. I will focus on first understanding you and only then finding the best way to work on your aspects, ways of coping, and perspectives that may not be working at this stage of your life.

Mitchell Carr

I’m passionate about creating a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. My work is grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when we feel truly seen, heard, and supported. With a foundation in Human Communication from the University of Central Florida and advanced training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University, I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. I believe our histories, relationships, and lived experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world, and I strive to help clients make sense of these patterns in ways that foster clarity, growth, and self-acceptance.

In our sessions, I aim to cultivate a warm, collaborative environment where you feel heard and understood. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or personal growth, we’ll work together to uncover patterns, build self-awareness, and empower you to make meaningful changes. I have an integrative approach that works to address the deeper emotional and relational dynamics that may be influencing your well-being.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Makayla Sullivan, MA

I am a recent graduate from the University of South Florida, with a Master’s in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. I practice from a Psychodynamic approach, which I use to help my clients identify and process unresolved past experiences. I believe that so many of us carry heavy burdens from our past every day, sometimes without even realizing they are there. My goal is to help my clients release this weight through helping them gain a better understanding of their past experiences and the impacts they have had. Reaching out to get help takes an incredible amount of strength and bravery. Together, we can continue taking steps towards mental wellness, understanding, and acceptance. Our past does not define us, but it can shape us, and I want to give you the power back to mold your life.

In our sessions, I will focus on creating an individualized experience to best meet your needs. Bringing up the past can feel like jumping in the deep end, so our journey starts wherever you are most comfortable. I pull from a variety of frameworks and interventions to help guide clients towards symptom reduction. I work with my clients to create toolboxes of coping skills and strategies to help them tackle everyday challenges.

I have experience working in a variety of settings including inpatient hospitals, the Clearwater Public Defender’s Office, and the counseling center at The University of Tampa. I believe every person from every walk of life deserves to be seen, heard, and understood. Whoever you are, know that I have the utmost respect for you and your journey. It may not feel like it right now, but a life where you are thriving and not just surviving is possible, so let’s get you there.

Jessica McNally

Have you experienced something that changed how you see yourself, others, or your faith-for the worse? Maybe it wasn’t a single event but a lingering feeling that your perspective is holding you back or even harming you and those around you. If this resonates, you’re not alone. I’d be honored to walk with you toward healing and clarity.

I’m Jessica McNally, a third-year Master’s student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Concordia University Irvine, with a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science from Florida College. My approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and attachment-based, fostering healing and connection. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, self-esteem challenges, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I’m here to help you find clarity and healing.

I’m especially passionate about helping individuals break free from shame-the deep belief that they are somehow less than others. I also support those struggling with spiritual anxiety, scrupulosity (spiritual OCD), and religious trauma, offering validation and healing while honoring their faith.

Life can sometimes feel like being stuck in a deep, dark well, with voices above calling down advice: “Everything happens for a reason.” “It’s not that bad.” “Other people have it worse.” Maybe you’ve even told yourself these things. But what if what you really need is someone to climb down, sit with you, and say, “I’m here”?

If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Jillian Ciotoli

Hi! My name is Jillian Ciotoli and I am the Administrative Assistant at Tampa Counseling and Wellness. I care deeply about the mental health and well-being of others. I am passionate about prioritizing self-care and the healing of one’s inner child. I got my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida in Psychology-Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience and I will soon be pursuing a Master’s degree to eventually obtain licensure and become a therapist myself. I love working with kids and families, and even minored in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences. I’m also a huge animal lover and very crafty and creative. I’m honored to serve the needs of our clients and the Tampa Bay community. We are here for all of your mental health and wellness needs.

Sofia Fonseca

I am an Administrative Assistant at Tampa Counseling and Wellness. Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about helping others and invested in the field of psychology. I have earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida in Psychology with a minor in Forensic Behavioral Health. I am currently applying the Doctoral programs in Clinical Psychology with the long-term goal of working as a Forensic Psychologist. I place great importance on mental health and physical wellbeing. I am also a Florida local who loves dogs and being on the water! I am committed to ensuring our clients feel understood, cared for, and appreciated. I am so grateful to work alongside this amazing team in order to support those in need. Please feel free to reach out to me, I am happy to support you in whatever you may need.