Our Team
A Practice Rooted in Compassion and Inclusion.
Welcome
Hi, I’m Stephanie Safos-Moriarty. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Connecticut and soon to be in Washington. With more than 20 years of combined experience as an educator and counselor, I bring both professional expertise and deep compassion to my work with clients.
My Approach
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe, supported, and understood. My practice is rooted in affirmative care, with a special focus on supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Many of my clients come to therapy as they explore their gender identity, navigate life transitions, or work to strengthen their relationships. My goal is to provide an inclusive, nonjudgmental space where you can show up as your authentic self.
I draw on a blend of approaches — including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques. Rather than offering a “one size fits all” model, I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll build coping tools, increase resilience, and foster growth.
Areas of Experience
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families, children, and older adults. My clinical experience includes supporting people with:
LGBTQIA+ identity and gender exploration
Anxiety and depression
Trauma and life transitions
Relationship and family challenges
Parenting support
Stress management and coping skills
I’ve also facilitated groups such as Batterer’s Intervention Programs, worked in partnership with the Department of Juvenile Justice, and supported survivors of human trafficking. These experiences have strengthened my ability to walk beside clients through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
My Philosophy
Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you — it’s about affirming your worth, helping you find clarity, and walking alongside you as you discover new paths forward. My warm, collaborative approach is grounded in the belief that you already hold the capacity for change, and together we can create the space for growth and healing.
Growing Center Counseling is built on the belief that therapy should be a safe space for every identity, every relationship, and every story.
At Growing Center Counseling, we believe healing happens in connection. Our team of therapists is united by a shared commitment to affirming, inclusive, and growth-focused care. Each clinician brings unique training, lived experience, and therapeutic style, but we are all dedicated to creating safe spaces where clients feel respected, valued, and supported.
Whether you’re exploring your identity, navigating relationships, managing anxiety or depression, or coping with major life transitions, our therapists walk beside you on your journey. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, resilience, and meaningful change.
Welcome
Hi, I’m Sarita Slade, a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. I work with individuals who are navigating depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and personal growth. I truly believe that “learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all,” and I am passionate about helping clients on that journey.
My Approach
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you can begin the healing process. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps us explore the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors — and how small shifts can create meaningful change.
I am here to ensure you feel supported, encouraged, and empowered throughout your journey.
Areas of Experience
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Bloomfield College, a Master’s degree in Business from Ashford University, and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Springfield College. These experiences have shaped my commitment to meeting each client with both compassion and practical tools for growth.
My Philosophy
I provide compassionate, inclusive care. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate challenges and find pathways to healing in a supportive environment. I provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can begin the healing process. I am here to help you feel supported and encouraged.
Specialties: Inclusive, Affirming Care, Stress & Coping Skills, Identity & Self-Discovery, Relationship Support.
Welcome
Hello, my name is Betsy Leon MS in Clinical Mental Health. I have my provisional license in clinical mental health. I have nine years of experience as a therapist. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults through individual therapy. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, family conflict, trauma, and other life experiences.
My approach
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, which allows me to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts that contribute to distress, then reframe them into more balanced perspectives while practicing new behaviors. In brief-solution focused therapy, I help with building solutions and highlighting resources clients already have.
Areas of Experience
I earned my associate degree in Mental Health and Counseling form Hillsborough Community College, a bachelor’s degree in human development from Eckerd College, a master’s degree in counseling and psychology clinical Mental Health and Counseling from Troy University. My education has allowed me to develop advanced clinical skills, deepen my understanding of evidence-based practices, and strengthen my ability to work with diverse populations in professional counseling settings. Altogether, these degrees have taught me not only the theoretical knowledge of mental health but also the practical, compassionate skills needed to support and empower individuals in their personal growth and healing.
My specialty
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) which is used with children and teens to process past trauma. My role is to help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can process and heal.
