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.
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.
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