Stella has been a counselor in the addictions and mental health community since 2008. She has a heart for anyone suffering and desires to help clients empower themselves to live a more authentic lifestyle. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Addiction Studies, and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. She is a Certified Addictions Professional with the state of Florida and is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. Stella has over 17 years of experience enjoys working with all adult populations; however has an affinity for women, those in the LGBTQ+ community, trauma-related issues, sex workers, and dynamics associated with spirituality, the elderly and helping people find purpose and meaning. Stella provides a framework of counseling where she and her clients collaboratively create treatment goals and work together closely to establish different pathways to help achieve healing and success. Within this process, Stella helps to provide clients with the necessary encouragement, compassion and structure, all of which aid in supporting her clients throughout their therapeutic journey.

Stella’s primary ethical approaches are first do no harm and secondly, do unto others as I would have them do unto me. Clients are treated with respect, honoring their autonomy, establishing trust through confidentiality and a non-judgmental attitude, rigorous honesty and radical acceptance. I adhere to an integrative approach which includes developmental, person-centered, existential and psychodynamic models and ethical practices regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, affectional orientation, socioeconomic status or religious/spiritual practices.