Our team
Kate Lombardo, Owner, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Kate graduated in 2016 from Palm Beach Atlantic University with her Master’s in Counselor Education with an emphasis in mental health counseling. She is a licensed mental health counselor and the owner of Transformative Counseling and Wellness. She has worked with those from many walks of life and is passionate about providing a safe environment for every person to share their story, believing that this space is sacred. Kate sees patients from all backgrounds, belief systems, and orientations and believes we all have the power to choose how we want to live. She is a certified trauma therapist who uses modalities including Internal Family Systems, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and DBT-informed therapy. Kate’s approach is integrative, with an approach that involves including all parts of your story, so that not only will you find wholeness, but also transformation.
Having firefighters in her family has inspired Kate to work with first responders, including firefighters/EMS, 9-11 operators, and law enforcement. She completed a Clinician Awareness Training both through the Florida Firefighter Health and Safety Collaborative as well as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Finally, as a mom of a child with Type 1 Diabetes, Kate offers a unique counseling perspective to individuals and families as they work on navigating the ever-changing terrain of Type 1. At home, Kate has been married for 13 years and is a mom to a 10 and 7 year old who she cherishes being with. She lives a simple life with her family where she places a large emphasis on being present and doing her own mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical work so she can be fully present with her clients.
Hope Shenk, Client Care Coordinator
Hope graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and double minors in Children’s Behavioral Healthcare and Addiction Studies. She plans to continue her education at the University of Central Florida in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s program.
As Client Care Coordinator, Hope has experience working in counseling and behavioral health settings, including client care coordination, psychiatric care, and exposure to clinical evaluations. She is passionate about helping clients feel welcomed, supported, and connected to the care that best fits their needs. She values faith, compassion, and kindness, and strives to create meaningful connections with those around her.
Outside of work, Hope enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing pickleball, and being outdoors. She also enjoys spending time with her dog, Winnie, a certified therapy Bernedoodle.
Stephanie Gutierrez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Stephanie Gutierrez is a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University, with her Master’s Degree in Counselor Education – Mental Health. She received her undergraduate degree in Religious and Cultural Studies from the University of Central Florida. As a First-Generation American she understands the challenges that come with assimilating into a new culture. She enjoys working with individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds to partner with them and their communities for a holistic healing experience. With a counseling style that is considered active and engaging, Stephanie strives to create a safe space in counseling for people to process their pain. She enters each session with a compassionate and empathetic spirit as therapy becomes the method used for healing. Stephanie’s areas of expertise include individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, adolescents/teens, LGBTQA+, couples in traditional and non-traditional relationships, co-dependency/attachment concerns, and personal growth. Stephanie is a trained EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist which qualifies her to help clients process through trauma and ongoing stressors they face in day to day life. Stephanie has additional training/certifications in Trauma Competency, Adoption Competency and LGBTQA+ Competency.
*In network with Aetna, Oscar, and United Healthcare
To find out more about working with Stephanie please visit her website at www.counselingwithsteph.com.
Shirley Hernandez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Shirley Hernandez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with nearly two decades of dedicated experience supporting children, individuals, and families. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling (2008) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (2005) from the University of Central Florida. To further integrate somatic wellness into her practice, Shirley completed her 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher training at Heartwood Yoga Institute in 2022.
Shirley works with clients across the lifespan, ages 4 and up, offering bilingual therapy services in both English and Spanish. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered, holistic philosophy that honors the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit. Known for her calm, grounded presence and collaborative style, Shirley creates a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients feel truly seen and heard. She views the therapeutic journey as a shared experience, often noting that her clients have been her greatest teachers.
Outside of her clinical practice, Shirley enjoys capturing moments through photography, spending quality time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends.
Stacy Perin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Stacy is an LCSW with both a BSW and MSW from the University of Central Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida. She takes a trauma-informed, holistic, integrative approach that draws from using a variety of evidence-based treatment models. Her methods emphasize person-centered care and are adapted to best suit the individual needs of her clients. Stacy has extensive experience working with children and adults from a variety of backgrounds and she has a passion for empowering individuals through therapy. She believes that everyone can benefit from therapy, and that mental health is an essential component to overall health. Areas of her work with clients include anxiety, depression, coaching, partner/marriage and family relationship issues, autism, and school-based challenges. The mind-body connection is a focus in her work with individuals who are navigating various mental health related issues and life transitions. Included in her toolbox of modalities used, Stacy will often partner with her therapy dog, Adrian to help clients unlock feelings that may otherwise feel inaccessible.
Prior to returning to her home state of Florida, Stacy was a member of the Governor’s Council on Behavioral Health Prevention Advisory Committee (PAC) in Rhode Island. She has run therapeutic school programs in Rhode Island for students with complex mental health needs and students in recovery. She has also conducted numerous training courses and webinars for educators in New England on topics that included Self-Care, Stress Management, the Societal Impact of the Covid Pandemic, and Behavior Management. Most recently, Stacy created a therapeutic counseling program for underserved children and families in Central Florida.
Stacy is married and has a blended family that includes two children and two stepchildren. She enjoys weight training, yoga, cooking, and training her two therapy dogs. Making sure that she “practices what she preaches” with her own self-care is a means for Stacy to provide the best possible care for her clients.
Adrian & Rocky
Therapy Dogs
Christy Holt, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Christina (Christy) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults strengthen their mental wellness and build emotional resilience. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Art Therapy from Eckerd College and her Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of South Florida.
In her sessions, Christy strives to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe, seen, and supported. Christy takes a creative and collaborative approach, helping clients explore what matters most, set meaningful goals, and build coping skills that support long-term growth, self-esteem, and inner calm. Her therapeutic work draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, play therapy, and expressive therapies—always tailored to meet clients where they are.
Christy enjoys supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and healing from traumatic experiences. She also has experience working with individuals with ADHD, helping them develop routines and strategies that bring more peace, confidence, and clarity to everyday life. Christy has a special place in her heart for supporting kids who struggle with big feelings, impulse control, and trauma. Christy also enjoys working with parents to address parenting challenges and foster stronger, more connected relationships with their children.
Outside of her counseling work, Christy loves spending time with her husband, two children, and their many family pets. A lifelong creative, she enjoys drawing, painting, and digital illustration. Christy has written, illustrated, and published four children’s books, as well as a variety of digital resources for kids that teach CBT strategies and self-regulation skills.
Katy Strickland, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Kathryn “Katy” and she is an LGBTQAI+ affirming counselor who enjoys mixing music therapy with evidence-based therapeutic approaches to create a non-judgmental safe space to support her clients in reaching their goals. Katy specializes in working with pre-teens/teens (Middle School/High School), adults, families, and relationships (All relationship styles are safe and welcome! Traditional monogamy, Ethical Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, LGBTQAI+, etc.) Katy also has experience in working with those battling substance use disorders/relapse prevention, teens/adults/families who have had interactions with the legal system or “at risk”, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Self-Concept, etc. Katy is a co-parenting specialist and provides counseling to parents and families who may be struggling to parent their kids with solidarity or clear communication. Katy graduated with her Master’s Degree in Counseling/Psychology from Troy University (Florida Panhandle Campuses) in 2007 and became licensed in Florida in 2009. Katy’s clinical experience includes: working in a Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, Department of Juvenile Justice Residential Treatment Centers, Prisons, Jails, Public Schools, and Community Outpatient Clinics. She recently completed the Law Enforcement Culture for Clinicians training at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to further her competency in supporting members of law enforcement. Katy is originally from Ohio and graduated in 2002 with Bachelor’s Degrees in Music Therapy and Psychology from Ohio University in Athens, OH. Katy lived and practiced in Georgia from 2014-2021 and relocated to the Central Florida area. Katy is excited to be back living/working in Florida again and would love to assist and support in any way she can! In her spare time, Katy enjoys doing Taekwondo with her teenage son, spending time with her 4 Sphynx cats, kickboxing, strength training, enjoying outdoor activities, music and reading.
Peyton Townsend, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Peyton graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2022 with her Masters in Counselor Education with an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Prior to her time at UCF, she attended the University of Georgia where she received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science in 2020. Peyton is a licensed mental health counselor who enjoys working with teens, young adults and adults, who have challenges surrounding anxiety, stress, mood disorders, loss, trauma, depression, behavioral issues, communication challenges, relationship struggles and identity questioning. She utilizes client-based therapies, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and other evidence-based practices to best help each specific client on their personalized experience.
As a clinician, Peyton brings an engaging energy to every client relationship, while facilitating a safe, nonjudgemental space. She enjoys connecting with others, and that enthusiasm shows in how she communicates, collaborates, and problem-solves. Peyton believes great work happens when people share a strong rapport, so balancing professionalism with personality is something she strives to achieve.
Outside of the office, Peyton loves to read fantasy books, going to Universal Studios, as well as spending time with her partner and their three big, cuddly dogs. She also decompresses by going to the beach and riding her bike on the trails by her home.
Chantal Dalabona, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Chantal holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She works with individuals and couples across the lifespan, specializing in trauma recovery, major life transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether addressing post-traumatic stress, grief, or divorce, Chantal’s therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, and integrative. She draws on a variety of techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic psychotherapy, and expressive arts to help clients navigate their healing journey. Chantal’s focus is on fostering a deeper connection to self through mindfulness, empowerment, and self-discovery.
Chantal’s path to counseling began 24 years ago as a personal trainer and yoga teacher, where she first honed her ability to support individuals through physical and emotional challenges. This foundation led her to explore neuroscience, psychology, and the mind-body connection. A lifelong learner, Chantal is deeply committed to continuing her education, reading extensively and staying informed on the latest therapeutic techniques.
Outside of her clinical work, Chantal cherishes quality time with her family, enjoys playing pickleball, and has a passion for travel - seeking new experiences and cultural insights to enrich her personal and professional life.
Nicolle Uribe Hoyos, Registered Social Work Intern
Nicolle is an RCSWI with a Master's in Social Work from the University of South Florida and a passion for making therapy a little less intimidating, and maybe even a bit fun. With experience spanning youth, families, and adults in settings like substance use residentials, prevention programs, inpatient hospitals, and homeless/runaway shelters, she’s open to all—and she’s ready to help you navigate your own story.
Nicolle’s expertise lies in life transitions, stress/burnout, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship dynamics. She brings creativity into the mix, utilizing art and play therapy as powerful tools for self-expression and healing. (Yes, doodling and games are therapeutic!) Especially as 'play' is a form of communication for young children. She’s a firm believer that tapping into your inner child is a major step to unveiling peace and developing compassion for others and yourself.
Her approach is all about collaboration—tailoring each treatment to fit your unique life, culture, and experiences. Nicolle provides a safe, trauma-informed space where you can unpack life’s chaos, build skills, and rewrite your narrative with encouragement along the way.
As a proud member of the Latino community from an immigrant family, Nicolle understands the importance of honoring cultural identities. In her downtime, she’s either painting, hiking, watching movies, or hanging out with her mini-zoo of animals and insects. She’s on a mission to turn her cat into a certified therapy animal because everyone could use a little more purr in their life!
Jazlyn Ramos, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Jazlyn remembers growing up thinking life would be easier. She felt deceived. She realized life is hard. As she grew up, she went to school and gained knowledge about life but did not learn how to live it. She came to the understanding that living life requires emotional risk. How could she risk emotionally when that wasn’t safe? Have you felt the same? You are not alone. Allow Jazlyn to journey with you to uncover and discover your hidden gems that make life worth living. Since life is hard, your gems may have been buried because they were vulnerable and raw and beautiful and that was not safe. But you don’t have to hide them anymore. Allow Jazlyn to provide the emotional safety you need, that you may have the courage to go into the hidden places of your soul and find your hidden gems. They are there, worth discovering, and sharing with those you love and who love you.
Jazlyn enjoys working with teens, adults, couples and families. She graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University with her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2022. She is currently a Registered Mental Health Intern slowly working towards her licensure while also raising a family of four rambunctious lovely children with the support of her loving husband. Jazlyn enjoys nature, cooking, reading, coloring, bracelet-making, adventures with her family and the quiet moments where she gets to sit and soak in all of life’s blessings
Keith Pittman, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Keith believes people grow when they feel truly seen and heard, and that healing often begins in the relationship itself. He brings a warm, down-to-earth presence to every session, the kind that makes it easier to stop performing and start talking.
He works with adolescents, adults, and couples facing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship conflict, questions of identity and self-worth, and big life transitions. He is especially drawn to those who are learning to open up, to anyone who has wondered whether therapy is really for them, and to people carrying the lasting effects of church hurt. He works with couples at every stage, whether they’re dating, engaged, or years into marriage, and occasionally he and Maegan see couples together.
Outside of the office, faith and family serve as the cornerstones of Keith’s life. He and his wife, Maegan, met in high school in Delaware, have been together for more than 30 years, and earned their counseling degrees together at Southeastern University. He is a proud father of three and grandfather of three. He finds real joy in cooking, especially on his smoker, and loves nothing more than feeding the people around him. A Philadelphia sports fan through and through, he bleeds green for the Eagles. He also has a lifelong love for 90s hip-hop and BMW's.
Maegan Pittman, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Maegan is passionate about helping people find hope and healing in seasons that feel heavy. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Leadership and her Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Southeastern University.
In her sessions, Maegan creates a calm, welcoming space where clients can be honest without fear of judgment. She listens first, follows her clients’ lead, and brings in practical tools when they’re ready, whether that means reshaping the thoughts that keep someone stuck or gently getting to know the parts of themselves that still carry old pain. She works with teens, adults, and couples navigating depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and questions of self-worth. Couples are a particular joy for her, whether they’re preparing for marriage or working through conflict, and she and Keith occasionally see couples together. People healing from church hurt will find her patient and unhurried.
Outside of her clinical work, Maegan’s life is full. She and Keith have been building a life together for more than 30 years, a story that began in Delaware and carried them side by side through graduate school. They share three children and three grandchildren. Her faith anchors her life, and she loves time with friends and family, traveling, singing, dancing, a good laugh, and a good puzzle.
Paola Torres Sotelo, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Paola is a bilingual, person-centered Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern committed to empowering her clients as they learn to navigate life. She incorporates therapeutic techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to supplement her person-centered approach.
She received two Bachelor’s degrees, one in Health Sciences and the other in Psychology, from the University of Florida in 2022. She also completed her pre-med studies as an undergraduate before fully transitioning into the field of psychology. Afterwards, she completed a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Central Florida. This unique educational path instilled a strong belief in the power of a holistic approach to understanding all aspects of health, including physical and mental health.
Her work has primarily focused on collaborating with her clients to address harmful thoughts and behaviors and teach effective coping skills to maintain recovery in substance use and eating disorder treatment. Through this work, she has helped clients process exposure to trauma, grief/loss, infertility, interpersonal conflict, and low self-esteem. By collaborating with her clients, she has supported them in addressing and managing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Outside of the clinic, she can be found chasing after her four chihuahua mixes, watching Disney movies, singing along to Broadway musicals, and playing video games with friends. She is a proud self-proclaimed nerd; you will likely encounter Avatar: The Last Airbender and Pokémon plushies in her office.
Ultimately, Paola strives to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can freely express themselves. Her approach is guided by her values of compassion, empathy, and patience. Her overarching goal for each client is to help foster growth and empowerment as they transform their potential into reality.
Dr. Laura Casey, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Laura Casey a Board Certified Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Integrative Mental-Health provider based in Florida. She graduated with her Doctorate of nursing practice degree in 2016 from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She works primarily with adults, with an expertise in treating depression, anxiety, and OCD. Additionally, she has professional and personal experience working with and caring for neurodivergent individuals. She has been working in the field of psychiatry for 11 years. Laura offers a patient-centered, holistic approach to psychiatry, taking into account the person’s mind, body, soul, and community. She utilizes evidence-based approaches in her practice, using traditional psychiatric medications, as well as non-pharmacological or complementary treatment modalities. Laura offers a safe, non-judgmental place for patients to be themselves and receive the support they need.
Tanya Jilkevorkian, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner
Tanya Jilkevorkian, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. With a background in emergency medicine, critical care, primary care, and psychiatry, she takes an integrative, patient-centered approach that recognizes the connection between mental, physical, and emotional health.
Tanya specializes in the evaluation and management of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, insomnia, and women's mental health. She develops individualized treatment plans that combine medication management with supportive psychotherapy while also addressing lifestyle, nutrition, sleep, hormonal health, and other factors that can significantly impact mental wellness.
In addition to traditional psychiatric care, Tanya has experience providing advanced treatments for treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine therapy. She believes in partnering with patients to create personalized treatment plans that blend evidence-based medicine with an integrative approach, empowering them to achieve lasting improvements in their mental health and overall well-being.
Tanya is committed to creating a welcoming, collaborative environment where patients feel heard, supported, and respected throughout every stage of their mental health journey.
