Alyssa Visalli, LMHC, Executive Director

My Philosophy

I feel that it is very important to build a trusting relationship with my clients. Also, parent involvement is very important because often I am working with children and their family is part of the therapeutic process as well. Gaining as much information as I can from my client’s family background will help the therapeutic relationship and process grow. After that information is gathered and goals are set, then we can begin the journey together and create positive changes that my client and their families are striving to obtain.

Our initial session is what we call the “assessment”. This can be difficult for some people because we are asking personal information to be disclosed. My goal will be to make my client and the parent or guardian feel as comfortable as possible. We offer a playroom for the children to help ease the anxiety as well. This session is primarily spent with the parent or guardian of the client to go over the paperwork. We will identify the problems and goals of treatment at this time. (Note: These may change over the length of treatment). Typically, the first session is devoted to the obtaining information and does not allot much time for the “child”, therefore, the next session is devoted to the child and letting him or her get comfortable with me.  As far as treatment modalities, I base my framework on empirically based research. I tend to use behavioral, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, play therapy, psychotherapy, and brief short term play therapy. Depending on the needs of my client and their situation, short-term and long-term therapy is offered.

My Background

I completed my Bachelors Degree at the University of South Florida in December 2005 with a degree in Psychology. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at St. Leo University in May 2008. I have been in child care services for about 14 years. I mentored a student for a year in the Brandon area. I was a substitute teacher for Hillsborough County for a little over a year. I worked at Gulf and Lake Academy, a residential facility where I worked with the adolescent girls in the program. Also, I served my internship with Lifespan Services and became part of their team for about 10 years now. I obtained my Licensed in 2011 to practice mental health.

Clients

I have worked with a variety of clients. My target population is mostly children from Birth to 18 and young adults.  I work with all genders including those who are part of the LGBTQ community. I enjoy working with younger children, especially children who struggle with behaviors at home and/or school. I feel comfortable in helping children who have difficulty expressing feelings, anger management, ADHD, impulse control, depression, hyperactivity, coping skills, and other various challenging behaviors.

If there are any further questions or concerns, please contact us. I look forward to meeting with you.