Meet the Staff of
New Directions Counseling Center LLC
Below is a brief introduction for each of our counselors and staff.
Carrie Cook, MA, LMHC, P.A.
Licensed Counselor MH 3915
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I received my Masters Degree from the University of South Florida and have over twenty years experience with fifteen years of licensure. I worked for eleven years at Winter Haven Hospital and Hope Counseling Center for seven years.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples and families. I have extensive experience working with a variety of issues including: relationship/ couple counseling, stress management, behavior modification, Christian counseling, parenting issues, anxiety, communication, work related issues, depression, grief, women issues and more.
I use an interacting and encouraging but direct approach for improving relationships and over all functioning. I bring a Christian perspective into counseling and recognize the importance of your faith.
I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your New Direction.
Sheena Donley, MA, LMHC
Licensed Counselor MH 13553
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I received my Masters Degree from Webster University and have 15 years experience post licensure. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, private practice, and in home mental health services over the years, working with ages 3 to 70. Across the lifespan, I've been able to help walk people through the ups and downs of life. What an honor!
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I provide counseling for individuals and families. I have experience working with life adjustments, stress, anxiety, depression, parenting concerns and OCD.
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I believe it is important for us to partner together during your sessions and use a conversational, collaborative approach to therapy. I rely heavily on Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in the treatment of OCD as it is the gold standard and helps you recover quickly. I also offer Christian counseling, when requested.
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It is my joy to help you through the difficult moments if you will trust me to do so. I look forward to meeting you!
Kimberly Favaro, MS, LMHC
Licensed Counselor MH 21186
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have earned my Master's degree from Southeastern University. I have been blessed to have spent the last 8 years working with children from all walks of life and the past 4 years at the Children's Advocacy Center of Polk County. I enjoy working with children and adults.
In my time counseling, I have gained valuable experience working with kids and adolescents through Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Autism, Behavioral issues, Identity, Major Life Changes and Trauma as a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist.
I enjoy approaching life's many struggles empathetically and with hope for the future. Time with me will often involve approaches such as CBT, Talk therapy, Christian perspective or Play therapy. I enjoy working with kids and families to overcome difficulties and begin seeing positive changes.
When I am not here, you will often find me enjoying time with friends, family, and nature. I always find time to learn something new and add to my physical training.
Nicole Petry, MA, LMHC
Licensed Counselor MH 13553
I’m Nicole Petry, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and certified ART therapist in Florida. Since earning my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling in 2012 and becoming a Licensed Counselor, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside individuals of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—on their healing journeys. I specialize in trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and abuse recovery.
With experience across schools, shelters, hospitals, rehabs, and outpatient centers, I use evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, MRT, ART, and mindfulness to create personalized treatment plans that foster healing, purpose, and resilience.
Whether through individual, couples, or family therapy, I approach each client with compassion, hope, and a deep commitment to helping them regain freedom, confidence, and clarity. I also offer Christian counseling.
Outside of therapy, I love making memories with my husband and three children, enjoying nature, staying active, and traveling. Helping people thrive is not just my work—it’s my passion.
Leah Best
Office Manager
I have my Bachelor Degree in Business Administration. I have been the Office Manager at New Directions Counseling Center LLC since opening in 2010. I am happy to assist clients with any insurance or billing questions. I enjoy all outdoor activities with my husband and children.
Contact
To set up an initial appointment or inquiry,
contact our office!
Phone: (863) 606-5922
Email: ndcclakeland@gmail.com