OPEN WATERS COUNSELING, LLC
Steering you in the right direction
Navigating through the difficulties of life can seem daunting, uncertain and even scary at times. Some days, the skies are clear, the wind is calm and it is smooth sailing. Other days, the skies are gray, the weather is stormy and you feel completely thrown off course. Let me join you in your journey in navigating these unpredictable waters.
At Open Waters Counseling, I take a holistic approach in treating my clients. I will explore various areas of your life in an attempt to get to the root of your problem. We will then work together, client and therapist, to find solutions that will bring greater peace and insight to your life.
ABOUT ME
“Break old behavior patterns. Challenge negative thinking. Strengthen your relationships. Learn techniques to get you “unstuck” and on the path toward greater insight.” - Linda Seraphin LMHC, therapist
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 17 years in the field. I have an extensive background working with diverse populations and various conditions. I am skilled in treating a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, self esteem among others.
My goal is to give you the tools that will empower you to make the necessary changes (in thoughts, habits and behaviors) in order to reach your goals. With my direct, yet supportive counseling style, I will help you challenge your current obstacles, and perhaps gain a clearer perspective on your issues. I believe in taking a holistic approach: exploring various areas of your life to better understand you and provide a specific plan of action.
HELP CENTER
I’VE NEVER HAD THERAPY BEFORE. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
Congratulations on taking this first step! In our initial session, you can expect to complete several assessments and fill out some demographic information. I will take a complete history as well. This helps me to get to know you better and this will help us to guide the direction of our treatment. From then on, we will meet on a regular basis (weekly, twice a week- depending on your needs) for your therapy sessions. I use a variety of counseling techniques so each client will have a different experience with me. Overall, we will continue to meet until your problem has been resolved or when you are better able to manage your current concern. For some people, the counseling process lasts for several weeks. For others, it may last several months (or years). At the end of our time together, I will make a referral to another resource that might be helpful to you- a support group, perhaps. This is just a good way to help you transition from individual therapy to having another support option after you’ve completed your time with me.
WHICH COUNSELING TECHNIQUES DO YOU USE?
I use several techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Strategies and EMDR to name a few. EMDR, specifically, is a specialized therapeutic technique which has been proven to be effective in trauma treatment.
WHICH INSURANCES DO YOU TAKE?
At this time, I am currently contracted with ComPsych EAP, Morneau Shepell EAP and E4 Health EAP. Contact me regarding additional payment options. If I am out of network with your insurance company, please ask about SUPER BILLS!
HOW LONG DOES EACH THERAPY SESSION TAKE?
Our initial consultation will last 15 mins. This will take place over the phone. Our next meeting will be the “Intake Session”- during this session, I will get to know you better and we will both have an idea of what your therapeutic goals are. This session is expected to last about 90 mins. From then, we will have weekly (or twice weekly) sessions until your goals have been met. These weekly sessions are typically 50 mins.
WHAT ARE YOUR CREDENTIALS?
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and EMDR trained. I am also a Qualified Supervisor and can provide supervision to registered mental health counseling interns in the state of Florida. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University of Central Florida and completed my Master’s Degree at Nova Southeastern University. I have 17 years experience in the mental health/social services field.
I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU OFFER TELETHERAPY? WHAT IS IT? HOW DO I ACCESS THIS?
For many providers, teletherapy is a relatively new way of delivering medical and mental health services. Instead of having an in office visit, you will have a video session. Due to the pandemic, more and more healthcare providers are turning to this way of delivering services. This also saves you time and travel since you won’t have to leave your home. Please note: My practice has always been a teletherapy practice (even prior to the pandemic). I have years of experience in using these tools. Smooth delivery of services, as well as ensuring your privacy are top priority when using this technology. There are a few important things to consider: This will be an actual therapy session. I would ask that no one else listen in on, or view your session (unless, of course, you’ve signed consent). I cannot have a therapy session while you are driving! Your safety matters so we will have to reschedule if you plan to travel during our session time. Also, I use HIPAA compliant software specifically designed for this service. With this program, steps have been taken to help protect your confidentiality. Perhaps, most importantly, not all therapy techniques can be effectively delivered via teletherapy. All of my EMDR sessions must be done in person. Please be familiar with the limitations of your insurance coverage. Some insurances, including certain EAP’s, will only allow for face to face therapy. These are options that we can discuss before beginning our sessions.