About Fit Counseling
Alicia Mercedes
About
Alicia Mercedes, M.Ed., is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and the founder of Fit Counseling, a telehealth private practice. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. With a rich background and diverse experience, Alicia has supported individuals and groups from a variety of cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Alicia specializes in working with adults navigating trauma, self-esteem, body image, eating concerns, and anxiety. She is also deeply committed to supporting women through the unique mental health challenges of pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, and parenting. Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Alicia uses evidence-based approaches to help clients process and heal from distressing experiences.
In addition to her clinical work, Alicia is a qualified supervisor for the state of Florida, business owner and coach for therapists and entrepreneurs. She is passionate about helping mental health professionals build aligned, sustainable private practices while maintaining their own wellness. Her coaching empowers other professionals to grow with clarity, confidence, and authenticity.
Throughout her career, Alicia has guided individuals through a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, anger, and family dynamics. She is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where clients of all races, gender identities, and sexual orientations can explore their experiences without fear or judgment.
Alicia’s professional journey includes clinical training and work at Henderson Behavioral Health, Legacy Healing Center, The Beachcomber Rehabilitation, The Faulk Center for Counseling, and private practice. Her approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative—helping clients reconnect with themselves, build healthier relationships, and cultivate lasting emotional well-being.
Education
- Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University
- Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Florida State University
- Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice/ Criminology from Florida State University
Certifications and Trainings
- Trained in EMDR Trauma intervention
- Gottman Level 1 Couples Counseling Certification
- Motivational Interviewing Certification
- Severe and Persistent Mental Illness Certification
- Dual Diagnosis Certification from the Florida Department of Health
- Co-Occurring Disorders Certification from the Academy of Addiction Professionals
- Cultural Sensitivity Training from Broward Health
- Trauma-Informed Care Certification from the Florida Department of Health
- Florida State Qualified Supervisor
- Florida State Family Mediator
Traci Schreibman
About
Traci Schreibman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the State of Florida. She earned her master’s in clinical social work from Florida Atlantic University. Traci’s experience includes working with clients from diverse backgrounds by implementing individual, family, couples, and group therapy interventions.
She has assisted in improving the lives of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, anger, grief, family and relationship conflict, trauma, and various addiction and other behavioral issues. Traci has experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and geriatric populations.
She has worked in several mental health and behavioral health settings including, substance abuse, corrections, adult therapy, telebehavioral health, and group private practice.
Her training sites include 1st Step Behavioral Health, Legacy Healing Center, Florida House Experience, Southeastern Correctional Complex, Judge Nancy R. McDonnell Community Based Correctional Facility, Health Recovery Services, Inc. Bassett House, BetterHelp, and group private practice.
Traci is passionate about supporting individuals in accomplishing their goals and finding solutions to the challenges they may be facing. She views the therapeutic relationship as the most important aspect of therapy and understands that you are the expert of your own unique, life experiences. She creates an empathetic environment that allows her clients to feel understood and treats each individual with respect, compassion, patience, and acceptance. Traci is looking forward to joining your journey of change, growth, and empowerment to re-balance your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual state of well-being.
Education
- Masters of Clinical Social Work from Florida Atlantic University
- Bachelors of Social Work from Ohio University
Certifications and Trainings
- Trained in EMDR Trauma Intervention by EMDRIA approved Envision Counseling & Consulting, Inc.
- Bobcats Who Care (Suicide Prevention & Crisis Management) Certification from Hudson Psychological and Counseling Services
- Integrating Interpersonal Neurobiology into Couples Therapy Certification from National Association of Social Workers
- Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT-AUDIT) Certification from South Florida Coalition Alliance
- Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Training from KidSafe Foundation
Devon Staropoli- Kellum
About
Devon Staropoli, M.S., is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. Devon completed her master’s degree program in Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University. She is skilled in working with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Although she has worked with individuals of all ages, she specializes in working with teens and young adults. Devon has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, impulse control, emotion regulation, conflict resolution/problem solving, and self-esteem. She is very passionate regarding her work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Devon has worked in a variety of settings such as community mental health, a lock down facility for juveniles, a psychiatric hospital, and now primarily provides services in the school setting during the day and telehealth in the evenings.
She brings an eclectic perspective to the counseling experience and truly believes in meeting the client where they are. She utilizes practices from evidence-based models and believes in focusing on an individual’s strengths to overcome their challenges. She provides a safe and welcoming space for clients to come as they are and to feel free to work through their challenges without judgment.
Education
- Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University.
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida Gulf Coast University w/ a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Certifications and Trainings
- Board Certified Cognitive Specialist trained by The International Board of Credentialing and
- Continuing Education Standards
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional trained by Pesi Inc.
- MBF Prevention Education Programs Certified Facilitator Training (Monique Burr Foundation for Children)
- Incorporating Positive Psychology in School Psychology Practice: Promoting
- Students' Complete Mental Health in Multi-Tiered Frame trained by School Social Services
- Solution Focused Brief Therapy for Mental Health Team & PASS
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy trained by Pesi Inc.
- Trauma Focused and Informed Care
Anastasia Sabga
About
Anastasia specializes in supporting couples who are dedicated to enhancing their lives and deepening their sense of self-efficacy, support and communication both individually and together. Whether you're dealing with familial conflict, codependency, infidelity challenges, or issues with confidence and self-worth, she is here to help.
During sessions, Anastasia will collaborate to develop coping skills to manage any relationship and mental health conditions or difficulties. You can expect to be met with empathy, compassion, and a gentle challenge to foster growth. Her goal is to guide you in recognizing and building upon your strengths, both as individuals and as a couple.
Anastasia provides a safe and confidential space where both partners will feel heard, seen, and understood. She has extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, those facing substance abuse issues, and clients diagnosed with mood and personality disorders.
Opening up and expressing vulnerability, especially with your partner, can be daunting—particularly if you've been taught to keep your feelings to yourself. Taking the first step to seek help is a courageous act, and Anastasia will help navigate this journey with you. Let's work towards a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.
Education
- Masters in Social Work with a Certificate in Marriage and Family from Tulane University
- Bachelors in Science in Psychology from Tulane University
Certifications and Trainings
- Trauma Focused and Informed Care Training
- Gottman level 1 Couples Counseling
Heidi Coggins
About
Heidi Coggins is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern passionate about helping children, teens, adults, and couples navigate life challenges with greater clarity, peace, and purpose through compassionate mental health counseling. She earned her bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Florida State University before discovering her true calling in helping others through therapy and emotional healing. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief and loss, ADHD, low self-esteem, boundaries, and more
She integrates evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These approaches provide guidance and clarity while creating space for curiosity, perspective, compassion, and deeper self-understanding. Counseling with me is collaborative and skills-based, guiding you to manage intense emotions, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and live in alignment with your values.
Counseling with me is a collaborative and compassionate process where you lead the way. I see each person as a unique individual with an inner world worthy of being understood, seen, and nurtured. Together, we create a safe and supportive space for healing, growth, and discovering your strengths, resilience, and sense of purpose.
Education
Master's in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University
Bachelor in Civil Engineering from Florida State University
Certifications and Trainings
-Trained in EMDR Trauma Intervention and currently working toward EMDR certification under consultation.
-Certified in TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
-Currently pursuing Level 1 training in Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Alida Rodriguez
About
Alida Rodriguez is a student intern pursuing a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Wellness at NYU Steinhardt. She is passionate about supporting individuals navigating trauma, grief, identity exploration, and life’s challenges through a therapeutic space rooted in empathy, authenticity, and genuine human connection. As a first-generation college student and Latina woman, she brings a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and compassionate perspective to her work, shaped by both lived experience and years of supporting vulnerable communities.
Her professional background includes case management work with undocumented families, youth, and survivors of trafficking, which deepened her commitment to trauma-informed, ethical, and culturally sensitive care. Through this work, she developed a strong understanding of systemic barriers, displacement, and complex trauma, as well as the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel safe, believed, and supported.
Her clinical interests include trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and supporting individuals from underserved and marginalized communities. She is also a disability advocate who strives for inclusivity in all aspects of her work, with a strong commitment to accessibility, equity, and creating spaces where all individuals feel a sense of belonging. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in humanistic and existential principles, emphasizing meaning, dignity, and each person’s capacity for growth, while also integrating cognitive-behavioral techniques to support insight into the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
She is committed to providing LGBTQ+ affirming care and fostering a safe, inclusive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel respected, valued, and free to show up as their full selves. She recognizes the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals may face and is dedicated to culturally responsive care that honors each client’s identity and lived experience.
Through empathy, collaboration, and authentic connection, she works alongside clients as they navigate healing, strengthen resilience, and move toward meaningful personal growth.
Education
Georgia Henges
About
Georgia Henges is currently a student intern at Fit Counseling, supervised by Alicia Mercedes. She is pursuing her master’s degree in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness at New York University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Central Florida.
She has always had a deep passion for understanding the human condition and strives to apply it in active practice. Her undergraduate studies provided her with the tools necessary to balance psychological theories with active listening, encouraging growth, self-awareness, and self-compassion.
She has experience working in community centers, including non-profit organizations, shelters, and ABA clinics, where she had the privilege of applying her curiosity and drive for human connection into compassionate work.
She aims to create an environment filled with warmth, safety, and empathy to support clients on their journeys of healing, growth, and personal discovery. She finds value in understanding the totality of a client’s identity, particularly when it is shaped by systemic structures, marginalization, and multicultural frameworks. Her trauma-informed background has inspired her to approach clients with an openness to understand the complexities of their experiences and support them as they navigate the spectrum of meaning in their lives.
In her work, she aims to create balance for her clients through integrative approaches, including a supportive, client-centered environment, narrative dialogues, acceptance and commitment mechanisms, and a humanistic approach to psychodynamic principles. At her core, she works to empower clients emotionally while emphasizing the development of intentional meaning-making practices.
She has a strong interest and commitment to social justice and authentically supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities, and children. In developing her cultural humility, she relies on authenticity, advocacy, and compassion to create a safe, open-minded, therapeutic space.
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