Haley Gunther, MS, LMHC #MH17483

 I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with over seven years of experience using evidenced-based treatment approaches with individuals, couples, and families. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology, my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Play Therapy certificate from Stetson University. I work with many different populations but am particularly skilled at helping those who experience challenges coping with stressful or traumatic situations, depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, and mental health crises.

I provide therapy for all ages and my specialty is with young children between the ages of 4-12. I believe early intervention is key, and work with children using their natural form of communication - play. Through play children have a safe place to reveal unconscious worries, fears, and desires, and can more effectively process, heal, and grow. I look for patterns and themes in their play and utilize both non-directive and directive play therapy interventions to help children make progress. I also develop a plan with the parents to form a closer bond and strengthen the child-parent relationship, as well as provide parent coaching to help the caregiver practice new and more helpful ways of interacting with their child. I collaborate with the caregiver to address concerns they may have for their child, such as emotional or behavioral difficulties, as well as ways to hone their child’s strengths.

People often cope in ways that may hinder relationships and inhibit their full potential, sometimes forming unhelpful beliefs that work against them. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore those beliefs and process their story while reframing and forming healthier perspectives on themselves and the world so they can live more fully. My clients can expect a warm and compassionate presence, with a non-judgmental safe space to work through the difficulties they experience. Together we find insight and meaning in their lives. I believe my clients are the experts on themselves, and I’m here to elicit their own hopes and motivations while discovering their personal strengths, resiliency, and supports to help them reach their goals. I feel honored walking with my clients on their journey, wherever they may be or are heading.