Meet the Counselors 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 have worked at this office since 2010.
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.
Alina Ghitea, MA, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist MT 4867
I am Alina Ghitea, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master’s in
Marriage and Family Therapy in 2013 at California State University, Sacramento
and I have over 12 years of experience as a therapist working in various settings
with 6 years post licensure.
I am passionate about partnering with individuals, couples and families
and empowering clients to find healing and higher levels of personal growth.
I approach anxiety and depression related issues using a Cognitive-Behavioral
Model (CBT) to challenge negative messages and dysfunctional thought patterns.
In our modern world, as couples experience higher levels of stress and disconnection
I am here to help clients improve relational intelligence and build unity.
In couple’s sessions I provide tools for improved communication, empathy and
authenticity. I believe relational skills are essential in today’s world where there
is a continual flow of communication and constant need for engagement.
I am a warm and dynamic therapist, integrating faith and spirituality in our sessions.
I look forward to building connections with you and empowering you on your
healing journey.
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.
Kristin Schwartz, MS, LMHC
Licensed Counselor MH 23955
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Since earning my Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Southeastern University in 2019, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. In addition to being a former teacher for 15 years, I have three years of experience working in public schools as a school counselor. I have also worked in community health agencies in Polk County, such as Tri-county, Children’s Home Society, and Life stance Health. I am certified in CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy.
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I use evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness-based CBT to help my clients overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and past trauma. My passion is to help you discover your strengths, gifts, and purpose to live a more fulfilling life.
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I believe that our environment affects every aspect of our lives, so I use a holistic approach in therapy with a faith-based lens. Healing is not one-dimensional; it includes emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. My goal is to help you build a plan that truly fits you, integrating every part of your journey as we move toward healing and growth.
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Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my husband and 2 adult children as we explore different parts of Florida, including the beautiful beaches, parks, and butterfly gardens. My desire is to help you find joy despite the difficulties of this life.
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.
Blake Lawhorn, MS, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist MT 4673
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have earned my Master’s degree from Southeastern University. I am certified in Family Therapy using a Strategic, Family Focused and Brief Approach and Pre-Marital Counseling Certified through SYMBIS. I have been blessed to work with children, adults, and families for the past 8 years. I am passionate about supporting my clients through all of life’s difficulties using a genuine, and empathetic approach that values all aspects of personhood, including faith.
I have experience assisting clients with challenges such as problematic behavior (children) and behavior management (parents), conflict management, anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life changes and transitions,co-parenting,behavioral management, communication, and marital difficulties.
I believe that authentic, genuine empathy is a catalyst forchange. I take time with each client I work with using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a focus on strategic and strength based solutions. With my families, I use Strategic Family Therapy with a focus on the power of strengthening its members to make long lasting change. Through these approaches, I know that my clients will take away something that they will use for years onward.
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In my off time, I enjoy board games with my wife, friends, and family as well as exploring and writing fiction. I can often be found on bike rides with my Border Collie Pippin (named afterthe character from Lord of the Rings).
Izella Walls
Certified Christian Wellness Coach
I have a Masters Degree in Counseling which I obtained from Webster University. I am certified as a Christian Wellness Coach teaching balance and boundaries in relationships.
I am also an author (Joy For Your Journey, There is Life After Divorce) and a Seminar Speaker. I can assist you with improving communication skills, parenting issues, practicing gratitude, learning to set boundaries , managing stress and helping with strategies for your journey in life. I am equipped to encourage and empower you through crisis such as grief, loss, rejection and abandonment.
I have been called to be a mother , worship leader, pastor, school teacher, mental health counselor, wellness coach and seminar speaker.
One of my greatest gifts has been to grow in family values, morals and spirituality. My other gift and joy was raising two sons, who are successful leaders in their community, careers and church. I enjoy spending time with my adult children and my grand daughters who are the light of my life. God has greatly blessed me with the ability to help others during the hardships of life.
Leah Best
BBA Director of Business Operations & Accouting
I have been with a part of New Directions Counseling Center since its opening in 2010. I oversee the practice's daily business operations and accounting. I truly enjoy what I do and and always happy to assist with insurance or billing questions.
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Outside of the office, I value spending time with my husband, children, and church family. My relationship with Jesus and family are the most important parts of my life!
Contact
To set up an initial appointment or inquiry,
contact our office!
Phone: (863) 606-5922
Email: ndcclakeland@gmail.com