Our therapists offer PTSD & trauma therapy in Clearwater, FL

Denise Ludwig-Coe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Denise is also a Clinical Nurse Specialist for 40+ years and is highly motivated to play a part in helping others to decrease the pain that often accompanies many life challenges. Denise works well with all people because of her deep respect for the diversity, yet sameness, among all people; especially when at times there may be overwhelming feelings in trying to adapt to illness, loss/grief, transitioning to older age, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, alcoholism/addiction, pain, and a sense of helplessness, and not knowing where to turn. Her passion is to offer a sense of comfort and hope to those who reach out for help. Because of Denise’s dual career choice, she has also been active in helping those in the medical field, including nurses with mental health and substance use issues and who may be involved in an alternative to discipline program in Florida. Her approach is person-centered and eclectic. She draws from the field of positive psychology and coaching, and uses mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, as well as 12-Step Facilitation therapy, and stress management practices.

Denise completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a clinical specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing at Syracuse University. She worked many years in direct clinical work with mental health clients in hospitals as well as in the community. Denise also worked in Public Health dealing with mental health and family issues among Spanish-speaking families living in Syracuse. She wasprivileged to teach and clinically supervise nursing students at the associate and bachelor's degree levels. Recognizing many of the stressors inherent in the health professions and wanting to play a part in strengthening caregiver resiliency and decreasing compassion fatigue, Denise returned to school and completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling at Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Later, becoming more aware of how trauma and adverse childhood experiences impact the extended physical and mental health of people, she returned to school at Capella University to seek a PhD with a focus on the impact of trauma and later addictions in women. Due to her needing to become the primary caregiver to her dying parents, Denise did not complete the dissertation and instead received a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services. She has been a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) in Florida. She also served as a nurse in the US Army reserves and worked in a combat support field hospital. Because of her diverse experiences in mental health, Denise has a broad base of knowledge and expertise. She is currently a Clinical Supervisor for Mental Health Counselor interns.

Part of being human means we all go through difficult times, when we don't know what to do and we feel unable to think straight. We may make decisions that make our situations even more complicated. We may feel shame or fear of loss (job, relationship, esteem of others) if we were to say out loud our thoughts and feelings. Maybe we are grieving and feel our pain will never end, BUT talking to a mental health professional can help. Talking to someone who listens with compassion, never judging or telling you what to do, but listens, and by being fully present, helps you to feel less alone, and more able to regain the direction for your life. If you are ready to reach out, Denise is ready to join you in your journey. Schedule an appointment with her today.

Victoria Baca is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 8 years of experience working in a wide variety of settings with a focus on individual counseling. She also holds an MCAP (Certified Master's Level Addiction Professional). Her specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and immigration/acculturation problems.

Victoria completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in General Psychology and her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University. Her approach to therapy comes from the belief that every individual is their own expert and possesses the inner wisdom to guide them to find the right path. Victoria’s role as a counselor is to help uncover her clients' inner wisdom and resiliency. Her theoretical orientation is eclectic, combining cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches with mindfulness and motivational interviewing.

Victoria will guide and support you in your journey by providing the necessary tools to increase your resiliency and achieve your goals. We all go through challenges in life and Victoria is ready to walk along with you through the recovery path.

Shannon is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to her clients.

Shannon Schaal has been a valuable member of the healthcare field since 2012. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Shannon worked as a registered nurse with patients in a variety of settings, including medical-surgical units, oncology, and pediatrics. Soon after, she transitioned to mental health, where she found her passion. After seeing that she could make a difference in the lives of others, she decided to further her education.

Shannon graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then graduated with high honors from Regis College with a Master’s of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has experience working with clients in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and addictions. Shannon possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with her clients.

We all go through challenges in life. Shannon is confident that she can support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with.

Hi, I'm Nikkia Gattuso, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, insomnia, mood disorders, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck and are looking for practical solutions and lasting relief. My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I take the time to listen, understand your goals, and create a treatment plan that helps you improve your mental health, build resilience, and feel more like yourself again.

My approach is collaborative, supportive, and focused on practical solutions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders in adults and older adults. You can expect personalized care, thoughtful medication management, and a safe space to build resilience, confidence, and lasting emotional wellness. 

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Whether you're facing a difficult season or looking for lasting change, I'm here to help. When you're ready, I welcome the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Brett Burlone is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals and couples navigate various challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, marriage and relationship issues, and life transitions. He provides a warm, empathetic, and respectful space to meet clients where they are and work toward therapeutic goals at a comfortable pace.

Brett received his Master’s in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University. He uses a compassionate, client-centered approach grounded in evidence-based practices including mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral strategies, and motivational interviewing to help clients gain insight and find practical solutions.

If you’re ready to begin your journey, Brett would love to help you get started. Please feel free to reach out to schedule your first session. Brett believes therapy is a partnership and is here to guide and support you through whatever life may bring.