Hope Garafalo, Intern in Florida
Are you or your child navigating anxiety, stress, or challenges that feel difficult to put into words?
Have you or someone you love faced challenges related to special needs, confidence, or feeling understood by others?
Are you looking for a space where you can feel heard, recognize your strengths, and work through life's challenges without judgment?
I believe everyone has a story worth hearing and deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. My goal is to create a welcoming, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable being yourself while navigating life's challenges. I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they explore their experiences, better understand themselves, and work toward meaningful growth. I am especially interested in supporting those navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, confidence, and challenges related to special needs and family dynamics.
My background in education has greatly shaped the way I approach working with others. I have six years of experience in education, including working with students with special needs. Through those experiences, I have learned the importance of patience, encouragement, and meeting people where they are. I believe people are more than their challenges, circumstances, or diagnoses, and I value helping others recognize the strengths they may not yet see in themselves.
My approach is influenced by person-centered counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Gestalt therapy. I value helping clients develop greater self-awareness, understand the thoughts and experiences that may be shaping their lives, and build practical tools they can use outside of the counseling room.
My Christian faith is an important part of who I am and shapes the compassion and care I bring into my work. At the same time, I welcome clients from all backgrounds and beliefs and want each person to feel respected, supported, and comfortable in their own journey.
I work with children, teens, adults, and families. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and families through the different seasons of life. Whether you are navigating the uncertainties of childhood and adolescence, adjusting to adulthood, working through relationship challenges, or facing unexpected changes and difficult circumstances, I believe every season presents opportunities for understanding, growth, and healing. My hope is to provide a space where you feel supported through both the difficult moments and the transitions that come with each stage of life.
I don't believe you need to have everything figured out before beginning the counseling process. Sometimes, growth begins with simply having a safe place to unpack what you've been carrying and taking one small step forward at a time.
Locations
Providing services in Wesley Chapel or telehealth.
Education
BA - Psychology (University of South Florida - Tampa)
Currently Pursuing MS in Mental Health Counseling
Payment Accepted
Private Pay
Cigna
Primary Therapeutic Approaches
