Stefanie D. Meyer-Goodwin, MA, LMHC, LMFT, NCC, CCMHC, ACS is the owner and Clinical Director of The Meaningful Life Center. Stefanie is licensed in the state of Florida as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Earning a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Certificate in Family and Relationship Counseling from Rollins College, Stefanie is experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in developing the meaningful life they deserve. Stefanie has received additional training in the clinical use of Mindfulness Meditation, Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and is a national Approved Clinical Supervisor, and state qualified supervisor for interns in mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy. Professional development is a lifelong pursuit for Stefanie, and she is currently working towards her doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. Stefanie’s primary clinical and research interests include: polyamory, BDSM/kink dynamics, trauma and dissociation, chronic health and chronic pain conditions, blended family concerns, and relationship enhancement.
Prior to starting The Meaningful Life Center, Stefanie has worked in non-profit organizations within the Central Florida community. During her time in the non-profit sector Stefanie had the privilege of working within programs serving: homeless veterans, LGBTQ youth, children and teens in the DCF and DJJ systems, community based mental health, preventative mental health, substance abuse services, and providing community and school-based services to families throughout Orange and Seminole County. During these experiences, Stefanie developed skills in working with individuals from all walks of life and strives to provide services that incorporate the cultural needs and values of her clients. Currently, Stefanie continues her advocacy work by serving as President-Elect on the board for Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida (MHCCF).
Before becoming a mental health professional, Stefanie served in the U.S. Army, is a Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and worked as a martial arts instructor for children with disabilities. A published author and professional presenter, Stefanie is passionate about helping individuals to live their lives more meaningfully by breaking free from the pain of trauma and illness. Outside of her working hours, Stefanie serves as an Adjunct Professor at Rollins College and enjoys spending time with her family, reading, playing piano, singing, writing, meditating, playing “geeky” games, enjoying all things Marvel comics, and volunteering in her community.
Stefanie can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 300 or by email at stefanie@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Sandra Maria Johnson, MA, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Program Director at The Meaningful Life Center. Sandra earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Additionally, she holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. Sandra is passionate about helping people discover their strengths and experience personal growth as they face life’s challenges. She has received additional training in the clinical use of Mindfulness Meditation, Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure.
Before joining The Meaningful Life Center, Sandra gained her clinical experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse. These experiences have developed Sandra’s skills in working with trauma.
Sandra’s nonclinical experience includes writing and editing on various subjects ranging from nutrition and wellness to unconscious bias. In her free time, Sandra enjoys making art, writing poetry, and spending time with loved ones.
Sandra can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 500 or by email at sandra@themeaningfullifecenter.com
William C. Jarvis, MA, LMHC, NCC is the Clinical Manager of The Meaningful Life Center. Will earned his Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor, Will is experienced in working with individuals and families is developing tools to author their own life stories. Will is a demonstrated leader and mentor in the counseling community and is a state qualified supervisor for intern in Mental Health Counseling. Will has advanced training in mindfulness meditation, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure.
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Will has served in leadership and supervisory roles in non-profit organizations throughout Central Florida. He has had the privilege of working in diverse settings including: inpatient hospitalization, crisis stabilization, community based mental health, substance abuse services, and assessment/diagnostic services. These experiences afforded Will the opportunity to hone skills in working with individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and various levels of treatment needs.
Will comes from a family devoted to the helping profession and values empowering others to take ownership of their lives. Outside of his role at The Meaningful Life Center Will develops himself through his creative passions. He holds a love for theater, debate, science fiction, and community engagement. During his personal time, Will can often be found reading at a coffee shop, writing, running, and spending quality time with his family.
Will can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 400 or by email at william@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Jessica N. Johnson, MS, LMHC, CCTP is the Program Manager at The Meaningful Life Center. Jessica earned her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Jessica has experience helping clients gain insight into the complexities of how trauma integrates into daily functioning, as well as grief and loss. She provides a sacred and safe space for healing. Jessica has additional training in Clinical Hypnosis, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Julie Galassini, MA, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at The Meaningful Life Center. She earned her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida. Julie takes a collaborative approach in her work with clients, understanding that each client holds the inner resources and wisdom needed for their healing. For her part, Julie hopes to bring the benefit of her professional knowledge and guidance into this shared therapeutic work.
Julie’s work with individual adults and adolescents is informed by evidence-based clinical practices including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). She is certified in clinical hypnosis and trained in EMDR. Julie also frequently offers mindfulness exercises and other stress management techniques to help clients find a renewed sense of safety and stability as they progress through their therapy.
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Julie provided counseling in both community non-profit agencies and private practice. She has provided services in women’s and men’s residential treatment centers for alcohol and substance use disorders. She has also served youth (11-18) and their families through home-based care. In private practice, Julie saw adult and adolescent clients with a range of issues including anxiety, workplace stress, anger, grief, relational problems, impulsive behaviors, and childhood trauma.
Before becoming a mental health counselor, Julie acquired more than 10 years of experience as a teacher in college, high school, and adult education classrooms. She also has experience as a high school career advisor, an academic advisor, and as a higher education IT business analyst. Julie is currently a member of and legislative chair for the Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida (MHCCF) and serves as a member of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA). For relaxation, Julie enjoys reading fiction, sharing time with family and friends, and the occasional Netflix binge.
Julie can be reached directly at (407) 534-0186, Ext 700 or by email at julie@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Nur Has, MA, NCC is a registered mental health counselor intern at the Meaningful Life Center. With a BA in Counseling Psychology from Bogazici University in Istanbul/Turkey and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Central Florida, Nur passionately supports clients to reclaim their own life with authenticity, vitality and clarity. She is committed to assisting you in building the thriving life you have always desired through her dedication to bringing quality to blocks or life-limiting patterns of behavior that get in your way. We often view our life by conflict or chaos. Nur will not only help you heal your wounds, more importantly, she will help you listen to your own unconscious wisdom. You already have the answers; you simply need to be asked the right questions. It is a courageous act to reach out and seek therapy, and Nur is intimately aware of the pain one must be in to take this next step on their healing journey.
Nur has several areas of healing expertise, including but not limited to adults and teens with depression, anxiety, low self-worth and self-criticism, moving through grief and loss and adults and teens navigating all different types of relationships –especially the one with themselves. She has received additional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy Clinical Training, Advanced-level Addiction Treatment, Adlerian Play therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, and Intensive Self-Compassion Training.
For fun, Nur loves to have outdoor adventures, spend time with her family, read and engage in small acts of kindness such as volunteering at various organizations.
Nur can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 900 or by email at nur@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Susel de la Cruz, MA, LMHC, NCC is a licensed mental health counselor with over sixteen years of experience in the mental health field. Susel has a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College, with an additional certification in College Counseling. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Central Florida after immigrating from Cuba. She is passionate about Mindfulness and helping others achieve a state of being in which their behaviors and relationships are aligned with their values.
Susel has experience supporting client in addressing concerns related to substance use, disordered eating, trauma, and multicultural challenges. Susel is certified in case management and Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy and has received additional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. As a bilingual therapist, Susel is skilled in providing counseling services in both English and Spanish.
Susel can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 600 or by email at susel@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Luisairis (Iris) Soto, MA, LMHC, CCTP is a licensed mental health counselor and certified clinical trauma professional. Iris earned her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. She is trained in EMDR and uses a person-centered and humanistic approach within the counseling space. Currently, Iris is pursuing her doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Capella University.
During her journey towards becoming a mental health counselor, Iris completed the guardian advocate training and worked alongside individuals who have been baker acted and advocated that they receive appropriate mental health treatment. Iris also completed the Firefighter Culture Clinician Awareness Program Training as she saw there was a need for more culturally competent counselors working with first responders.
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Iris gained her clinical experience working with clients within inpatient, outpatient and residential settings. She has provided individual and group therapy, and crisis intervention. Iris has experience working with individuals across the spectrum from psychosocial stressors to severe mental health challenges from the ages of 13 and up. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, stress management, HIV and AIDS care, LGBTQ+ empowerment and gender-affirmation, substance use, anger management, developmental and attachment trauma.
Iris can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 301 or by email at iris@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Ben Coberly, MA is a registered mental health counseling intern at The Meaningful Life Center. With a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ben helps clients identify recurring themes across their lives and draw on strengths to participate more fully in the present and forge a better future. They are particularly passionate about counseling’s ability to give clients a space to be their authentic selves, give voice to their feelings and experiences, and be heard without judgment.
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Ben gained their clinical experience working with LGBTQIA+ and homeless adolescents and young adults, providing a trans-affirmative and eclectic approach to their care. They have experience working in multiple areas of mental health, including inpatient and outpatient settings, developing their skills in crisis management and working with clients with a variety of presenting problems.
Outside of their clinical practice, Ben is an active musician, playing multiple instruments, DJing, and participating in Central Florida’s diverse music community. They also greatly enjoy exercising, binging video essays, reading philosophy, and spending time with loved ones.
Ben can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 201 or by email at ben@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Michelle Ilugbusi, MA, is a registered mental health counselor intern at the Meaningful Life Center. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Central Florida and continued her education at Rollins College, pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an additional certification in college and university counseling. Michelle believes that we all have an innate desire to live as our most authentic selves but that the roadblocks of life can sometimes prevent us from attaining that goal. In order to navigate the roadblocks, Michelle approaches the therapeutic relationship in a collaborative manner and being mindful of the many intersecting identities you exist within. Her work with clients is founded in humanistic, multicultural and feminist perspectives, implementing aspects of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), psychodynamic and gestalt.
Prior to joining the Meaning Life Center, Michelle worked in higher education as a non-clinical case manager for college students experiencing a plethora of issues, guiding and connecting them with on and off campus resources. She has created and presented workshops and webinars on the topics of intersectionality, anti-racism, and healing from racial trauma. Michelle gained her clinical experience working in a college counseling center and meeting the mental health needs of traditional and non-traditional students through individual and group therapy, as well as crisis intervention. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, OCD, racial stress/trauma, identity development, religious abuse/trauma, LGBTQ+ and religious trauma, adult children of immigrants, and college students of all ages, especially those who identify as first generation.
In her personal time, Michelle is an avid reader and enjoys exploring town for new boba and tea shops. She finds that she best connects with herself through nature and goes kayaking, hiking and to the beach as much as possible.
Michelle can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 501 or by email at michelle@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Jorge Alberto Valladares, MA, MS, is a registered mental health counselor intern at The Meaningful Life Center. Jorge is a dedicated clinician and educator, working part-time with clients as therapist, and serving students full-time as a professor of psychology at Valencia College. He holds an Associate in Arts degree from Valencia College, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Behavior from Rollins College, a Master of Science degree in General Psychology from Nova Southeastern University, and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College.
His graduate fieldwork focused on providing individual and group counseling to patients with psychiatric and medical needs at a baker act receiving facility in a hospital setting. Jorge is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, and has extensive experience working with adult learners in a college setting providing instruction, academic advising, and career counseling. In counseling, Jorge works with clients on academic and career issues; mental health issues around stress, anxiety, depression, and phase-of-life transition issues; parenting, peer relationships, and couples counseling, among other client needs. Jorge’s primary interests in counseling include serving clients from low-income communities of color; clients experiencing issues of acculturation, and clients who benefit from a multicultural and social justice counseling approach. Additional areas of professional interest include trauma-focused care, suicide prevention and crisis counseling, and cultural identity development, and gender identity development.
Beyond his educational and professional experiences, Jorge identifies most strongly with his heritage as the son of undocumented immigrants from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, his childhood in Brooklyn, NY, and his present roles as a husband, father, brother, and uncle. He is a guitar player of 25-years, and more recently, a bass player focused on Blues, Soul, Afro-Caribbean and Latin styles of music.
Jorge can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 601 or by email at jorge@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Brandon Rothenberg, MA is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern at the Meaningful Life Center. Brandon has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Counseling, from Northwestern University. Brandon is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology and a Certification in Sex Therapy from Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. Brandon is a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists.
Brandon has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families related to anxiety, depression, ADHD and anger management. He believes in practicing mindfulness and developing coping strategies to assist clients in increasing self awareness, life satisfaction, and pursuing passions. He has received post-graduate training in the treatment of sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, sexual performance, sexual health as well as gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity and LGBTQ+ specific issues. Prior to joining the Meaningful Life Center, Brandon provided counseling in community mental health organizations in the Central Florida area. His areas of expertise in the sexual health field include sexual desire discrepancies in couples, sexually impulsive and compulsive behaviors and survivors of sexual abuse.
Before becoming a mental health professional Brandon worked as a youth mentor within the foster care and adoption systems. Brandon is dedicated to the communities he serves and strives to bring quality care and compassion to people from many different walks of life. Outside of the counseling room, Brandon enjoys spending time with friends, family and pets. Brandon is invigorated by being outdoors and his hobbies include cycling, hiking, kayaking and gardening.
Brandon can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 701 or by email at brandon@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Shannon Barna, MFT is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern at The Meaningful Life Center. Shannon earned her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Southern Connecticut State University. Shannon takes a systemic approach in her work with clients, remembering that every person has connections with other people which plays a large role in the therapeutic process. She is committed to listening and understanding your story and collaborating with you to adopt new skills and tools to help you grow as a valued person.
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Shannon completed a 9 month long internship at a residential substance abuse treatment facility. She worked very closely with many individuals in recovery and collaborated intensely with colleagues. Shannon hosted group therapies with focuses on mindfulness, emotions, recovery skills and interpersonal relationship skills. Her participation at this internship has given her experience in working with individuals on all areas of the recovery spectrum; from just beginning, to maintaining years of sobriety. Shannon also has experience working with couples and families during her practicum training during Graduate School. She facilitated a safe, comfortable space for couples to work through disagreements and learn new skills to strengthen relationships. She listened and understood parents and children navigating the worlds of school life and home life as a family. Shannon is driven by being able to facilitate change and growth in her clients.
Outside of therapy, Shannon enjoys caring for her 2 cats, in addition to playing games and spending quality time with friends and family. She enjoys skiing, video games, and jigsaw puzzles.
Shannon can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 ext. 801 or by email at shannon@themeaningfullifecenter.com.
Alyssia Keys, B.A. is a student mental health counselor intern at The Meaningful Life Center. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of South Florida in 2012. She is currently working towards her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Webster University. Alyssia is passionate about helping individuals recognize their strength and ability to take on and cope with the curveballs of life. Alyssia is trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Prior to joining The Meaningful Life Center, Alyssia worked in the mental health field providing various services, such as, case management, assessment, and counseling. While working for nonprofit organizations, she had the honor of providing services related to individuals of all ages who experienced difficulties with being Baker Acted, trauma and crisis, substance abuse, child welfare, and incarceration. Her clinical areas of focus include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, stress management, LGBT issues, self-confidence, relationship related concerns, polyamory, BDSM/kink, and trauma.
Alyssia can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 401 or by email at alyssia@themeaningfullifecenter.com
Sarai Denney is the Office Manager for The Meaningful Life Center. She has many years of experience as an admin and in customer service. Sarai will earn her Bachelors of Science in Communication and Conflict from the University of Central Florida in 2020. She is passionate about making your experience at The Meaningful Life Center as comfortable and effortless as possible. Her main priority is for every client to feel welcomed and cared for.
Outside of work Sarai spends her time caring for her two cats and three ducklings, drag-racing at the local race track and spending quality time with friends and family. She is also passionate about art, journaling, and exploring the outdoors.
Sarai can be reached directly at 407-534-0186 Ext 100 or by email at sarai@themeaningfullifecenter.com
As a Central Florida organization, we are passionate about improving the lives of members of our community. The Meaningful Life Center values advocacy work and is committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals without regard to their sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, social class, ability/disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Associations
- American Counseling Association (ACA)
- National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC)
- EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
- Mental Health Counselors of Central Florida (MHCCF)
- Central Florida Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (CFAMFT)
- American Mental Health Counselor Association (AMHCA)
- Florida Mental Health Counselor Association (FMHCA)
- American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT)
- NCSF Kink Aware Professional
- The Open List-Poly friendly therapists
ACA Division Membership
- Association for Assessment and Research in Counseling (AARC)
- Association for Creativity in Counseling (ACC)
- Association for Humanistic Counseling (AHC)
- Association for Multicultural Counseling and Development (AMCD)
- Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES)
- Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Counseling (ALGBTIC)
- Counselors for Social Justice (CSJ)
- International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC)