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Our compassionate therapists offer evidence-based counseling for adults, teens, children, and families across Florida. Based in Kissimmee, we proudly serve clients throughout the state with compassionate, expert care.
Let me introduce
Shannon Flake, M.S., NCC, is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH26784) specializing in individual and couples counseling. Shannon is currently under the supervision of Catalina Lasso, LMHC (#MH14362). She has extensive experience working with teens and adults, particularly those facing low self-esteem, ADHD, life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, family conflict, grief, and stress management. She is also skilled in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals.
Shannon earned her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bellevue University and a B.A. in Theatre Technology and Design from UCF. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore challenges, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve personal growth. Committed to ongoing professional development, she offers an empathetic, client-centered approach that fosters trust, resilience, and lasting well-being. Shannon is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) through the NBCC.
Shannon is now accepting new clients! Take the first step toward growth and healing—schedule your appointment with her today.
Let me introduce
Melany Estela, M.S., is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH28578) specializing in individual counseling. Melany is currently under the supervision of Lillianis J Cruz, LMHC (#MH14082). She has extensive experience working with children, teens and adults, particularly those facing emotional regulation concerns, anxiety and depression. She is also skilled in supporting adolescents and children.
Melany earned her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and a B.S. in Clinical Psychology from UCF. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore challenges, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve personal growth. Melany is committed to ongoing professional development, she offers an empathetic, client-centered approach that fosters trust, resilience, and lasting well-being.
Melany is now accepting new clients! Take the first step toward growth and healing—schedule your appointment with her today.
Let me introduce
Yaneily Diaz graduated with her Bachelor’s in Arts in Worship Ministries in 2023. She is a Student Intern in her second year of her Master’s in Social Work at Southeastern University. Yaneily under the supervision of Lillianis J Cruz, LMHC (#MH14082). She specializes in children and young adults as she has experience working with children and youth. Yaneily provides support to clients facing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship conflict, and life transitions. She is also skilled in providing services to faith-based clients.
Yaneily has experience in the education system as she has taught in elementary schools for three years. She uses a warm, client-centered approach in her therapy sessions. She is committed to creating a safe environment that will help foster the clients’ growth and empowerment.
In addition to counseling, Yaneily enjoys spending time with family, volunteering, trying new foods and baking.
Yaneily is currently has a waitlist for low cost counseling services at a rate of $50 per session. Please complete our Waitlist for Low Cost Counseling Application or call us at (407) 906-5214.
Let me introduce
Hello! I am a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH24828) with a deep passion for creating a safe and healing space for those seeking support and guidance; especially for men, couples, families. I believe in the power of faith, compassion, grace, empathy, and understanding as tools for personal growth and transformation. In 2017, I graduated with my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Orlando and I also currently work under the direct supervision of the Chief Executive Officer of Hope Behavioral Health, Lillianis J Cruz, LMHC (#MH14082). My journey in therapy is marked by a commitment to helping people navigate life’s challenges and find purpose and healing through it all; using the things we can control as tools to help us navigate the things we can’t. I believe we all already possess the tools we need to inspire change in our lives, we just need to tap into them. I draw inspiration from my faith and use it as a foundation for addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being (whenever requested). My warm and empathetic approach aims to inspire you to embark on a therapeutic journey, where together, you can explore your inner world, build resilience, and find the strength to overcome obstacles; working towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Ready to invest in your well-being? Oniel is accepting new clients—book your session with him now and start your journey toward positive change.
Let me introduce
I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH25875) an earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Play Therapy from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Orlando. I like to integrate Play Therapy techniques with people of all ages to help them tune into unspoken emotions by using the play language. As an EMDR Trained therapist, I am able to integrate this innovative modality to treat PTSD and other trauma-related concerns. I also currently work under the direct supervision (#MH14082) of the Chief Executive Officer of Hope Behavioral Health, Lillianis J Cruz, LMHC. My modalities include Adlerian Therapy and Adlerian Play Therapy, and I am open to integrating modalities that best fit my clients’ needs. I am fluent in English and Spanish. My goal is to create a safe space where my clients can explore past experiences and patterns that have an impact on their present while giving them tools to build confidence.
Ready to begin your healing journey? Whether through Play Therapy, EMDR, or personalized approaches, I’m here to help you explore emotions, process trauma, and build confidence in a safe and supportive space.
Take the next step toward growth—book your session online today and start experiencing the difference therapy can make.
Let me introduce
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#MH14362) in the State of Florida, with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University (2014). Since then, my work has focused on helping individuals improve their emotional functioning and overall well-being. Trained in EMDR, I also serve as a Qualified Supervisor for counselors in training. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I strive to create a supportive, collaborative environment for growth and healing.
I am not currently accepting new clients, but I do maintain a waitlist. If you would like to be added, please join my waitlist today to reserve your spot.
Let me introduce
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#MH20594) in the State of Florida. I graduated with my Master’s in Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University and ever since, I am passionate about providing a safe space for clients to confront and heal from life’s challenges. My therapeutic approach emphasizes exploring family history to foster self-understanding and address past trauma. I value cultural awareness and integrate clients’ religious views into therapy when desired. Bilingual in Spanish and English, I am committed to supporting individuals of diverse backgrounds.
I am not currently accepting new clients, but I do maintain a waitlist. If you would like to be added, please join my waitlist online today to reserve your spot.
Let me introduce
Veronica Ortiz is a bilingual (English/Spanish) dedicated mental health counselor intern who graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University in August 2019. Certified in play therapy and trained in Gottman Level 1 as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Veronica brings a compassionate and skilled approach to her practice. She specializes in supporting young adults (ages 20-35), teens (ages 13-19), and children (ages 8-12), providing a safe space for them to grow and heal. Outside of her counseling work, Veronica finds joy in being outdoors, especially near the water. She cherishes quality time spent with family and friends and enjoys unwinding with a good book at a local coffee shop. Veronica is not available to see new clients at this time.
Let me introduce
Lillianis J. Cruz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University, earned in 2013. She is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based therapy for treating PTSD, and is one of the few bilingual EMDR practitioners in her community. In 2016, Lillianis founded Hope Behavioral Health, where she serves as CEO, providing clients with a safe, non-judgmental environment. As a Qualified Supervisor, she also mentors aspiring mental health counselors in Florida. Additionally, Lillianis is a recipient of Prospera USA’s Success Stories Award in 2022 and has been nominated for the prestigious Don Quijote Awards in both 2023 and 2024. A passionate mental health advocate, she has been featured on Univision Orlando, Channel News 13, podcasts, social media, and in OrlandoVoyager magazine for her entrepreneurial and advocacy efforts.
Lillianis is no longer accepting clients, as she now serves full-time as CEO of Hope Behavioral Health, focusing her efforts on leadership, advocacy, and expanding access to quality mental health care in her community.
Are the therapists at Hope Behavioral Health licensed in Florida?
We have fully licensed mental health professionals in Florida, including LMHCs and LCSWs. We also have qualified interns and provisionally licensed counselors who work under the direct supervision of experienced, licensed clinicians to ensure high-quality care.
What is an intern or provisional therapist?
Interns and provisional therapists are qualified mental health professionals in training who are completing supervised clinical hours toward full licensure. They work under the close guidance of licensed clinicians to ensure clients receive safe, ethical, and effective care.
Do you offer therapy for children, teens, and adults?
Absolutely. Our team includes specialists who provide age-appropriate therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, including support for family and parenting challenges.
Can I book a telehealth session with a therapist in Kissimmee?
Yes. We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth therapy sessions for residents across Florida, including those in Kissimmee and surrounding areas.
How do I choose the right therapist for me or my child?
Each therapist’s bio includes their credentials, areas of specialty, and experience. If you’re unsure, our intake team can guide you in selecting the best fit based on your goals and needs.
What types of therapy do your clinicians provide?
Our therapists are trained in a wide range of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, family systems therapy, and more — tailored to your unique situation.
To find out more about our team or if you have more questions about starting with us, please reach out to us here or call us at (407)906-5214.
