Share via email
My name is Whitney Catoe, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I'm passionate about whole-body wellness and taking a holistic approach to assessing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
My approach
My approach to providing therapy is client-centered. I help to provide guidance while you pave the way for your healing. The three main approaches I take when providing care are attachment-based therapy, somatic therapy, and polyvagal theory. I have found that understanding how we relate to people around us, the health of our nervous system, and listening and connecting to our body's responses can start to help people piece things together and become empowered to heal, feel safe, and truly connect.
My focus
I have worked with clients struggling with a number of different obstacles. I have a history of working in the substance abuse field (detox facilities, methadone clinics, dual diagnosis), mood disorders (anxiety and depression) as well as trauma. Many of my clients have experienced some level of hardship and are looking to understand and overcome while honoring the impact their experiences are having on their minds and body.
My communication style
I like to create a very open and receptive environment. Connecting with my clients and helping them feel safe and grounded is one of my most important goals in establishing rapport. I always encourage feedback: if something is working really well, let me know! Additionally, if something isn't working or you'd like to take another direction, please let me know! This process is yours, and I am here to ensure you get what you need from working together.
My journey to mental healthcare
I've loved supporting people for as long as I can remember. I know what it's like to be confused, lonely, and unable to find purpose. I never want anyone to feel that way. Even in the hard, I'll be walking right alongside you. Together we can take on challenges, celebrate wins and find harmony in our life.
My goals for you
I like to approach goals on different levels. We'll have a few long-term goals, essentially looking at what brought you to therapy and the path you want to take. Then we'll also look at more regular goals (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.) to help give you a direction for continued work outside of the session. What can you take from the session to practice/implement/reflect on to help you see progress?
My first session with you
During our first session, we are looking to get to know each other. I want you to feel respected, comfortable, and safe. I like to start gathering a bit of information in terms of symptoms, previous counseling history, what you expect from counseling, and any other pertinent life information to facilitate the most appropriate path to take.
