Our Independent Providers and Support
We are a team of independent practitioners with a heart for holistic and trauma informed mental health services. We share space, connection and collaboration
Click on our links below for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Vania M Simon, LMHC-QS, EMDR-C CCTP-II CCFT
Co-Founder, Licensed Trauma Therapist
As a therapist practicing out of South Florida for over 20 years with a commitment to providing trauma informed care through individual, family, and group therapy. I have a passion for helping and empowering others in a journey of growth and self compassion. I provide community outreach, collaboration and support through trainings, consulting, advocacy and client centered mental health services. Most insurances are accepted.
Vetted to work with the First Responder population, bringing trauma informed care to compassion fatigue support, psychodynamic and post traumatic growth groups, parent support groups, outreach and prevention, certified and qualified supervision, EMDR and MBSR, continuing education and training for professionals.
Samuel M Simon, MSW NCPRS CCFP CIT
Co-Founder, Peer Support, Clinical Social Worker
I am a 20-year veteran first responder and National Certified Peer Specialist with a Masters in Social Work with a Specialization in Trauma from Barry University and a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from The University of Miami, with certifications in CISM, CIT, CCFT. I provide one-on-one peer support as well as host monthly peer support group meetings to military and first responders in conjunction with Bleeding Blue Foundation. I provide trainings in first responder wellness and cultural competency for clinicians interested in working with the first responder community.
Complimentary and anonymous monthly meetings are held at our location every third Saturday of the month and open to any active or retired first responder or military service personnel seeking support, direction and connection with others on their journey.
Angie Dominguez, MS LMHC CAIP CTP
Mental Health Counselor
Are you or a loved one struggling with trauma, anxiety, or major life changes? I provide therapy to help navigate challenges and foster personal growth. Whether you're dealing with unresolved trauma, chronic stress, or emotional difficulties, I offer a safe and compassionate space for you to explore these feelings. Together, we’ll work on developing coping strategies, improving communication, and building resilience. Let’s move toward greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and healthier relationships. Start your journey to a more empowered life today.
Using CBT, mindfulness, play therapy, and trauma-informed practices, I help you explore emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience. Together, we’ll enhance emotional balance, communication, and self-awareness. I provide support to first responders and their families as vetted and culturally competent clinician and a member of Bleeding Blue’s Mental Health Committee.
Dr. Lourdes Garcia-Carrillo, Ph.D. LMHC CCTP I CAAP I
Psychologist and Licensed Trauma Informed Therapist
With a Doctorate Degree in Developmental Psychology from Liberty University and as a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in guiding individuals of various ages and life stages through their unique mental health journeys. My expertise encompasses a wide range of challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, dual diagnosis, relationship issues (couples therapy,) substance abuse, and trauma.
At the heart of my practice is the creation of a safe, compassionate environment where you can freely express yourself and explore areas of desired change and growth. I believe in the power of a holistic therapeutic approach, tailoring each treatment plan to the individual needs of my clients.
Ruth Cuzan, MS LMHC CRC
Licensed Therapist, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
As a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive mental health counselor, my work is grounded in the belief that healing begins with understanding—not only of the individual’s inner world, but also of the cultural, historical, and systemic forces that shape their experiences. I hold a Master of Science in Counseling and Education from FIU and I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with experience in residential trauma treatment for women, outpatient mental health settings, and community-focused programs supporting individuals affected by substance abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, and court-mandated treatment. I specialize in complex trauma, ketamine-assisted therapy, anger management, and the treatment of bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I am culturally competent to work with first responders; drawing from modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, CPT, mindfulness, complex grief counseling, and relationship counseling with a focus on intimacy and infidelity recovery.
Lisney Rodriguez Gutierrez, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hi, my name is Lisney Rodriguez, I’m an approachable Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I specialize in assessing and treating various mental health conditions, offering both therapy and medication management. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered on your journey toward better mental health
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am best positioned to serve a diverse range of clients, particularly those experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders, ADHD. I work effectively with individuals seeking both medication management and therapeutic support and mental health challenges related to trauma, stress, or life transitions.
Dr. Belkis Plasencia, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
I am Belkis Plasencia, I'm a double-board certified Nurse Practitioner in Florida. I have a Doctorate Degree from South University, and a Post Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Miami. I am also a board certify Adult- Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. Fluent in Spanish, I diagnose and treat a range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders. I am currently accepting new patients for in-office visits as well as Telehealth consultations and I accept various insurances. Under my care you will be prioritized, listened to, and understood.
Seeking help takes courage, and I honor the strength it takes to take this step. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to turn, please know you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can work toward creating a space of healing, balance, and hope. I invite you to reach out when you’re ready—your journey to wellness can start today.
Olga Davis, Intern
Mental Health Counseling Intern
I am a student counseling intern at Minding The Gap currently finishing my Masters program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Nova Southeastern University. My own journey of navigating life’s challenges inspired me to pursue this field, and I’m passionate about walking alongside others as they heal and grow. I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where people can feel truly seen, understood, and free to be themselves. I draw from evidence-based approaches while keeping the counseling process collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each client. I have a special interest in trauma recovery, resilience, and helping clients reconnect with their strengths and sense of self.
I am trained in cultural competency to work with First Responders and have experience with group therapy and trauma informed care.
Alanis Puig, Intern
Mental Health Counseling Intern
A last year Masters student counseling intern at Minding The Gap currently finishing my Masters program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Florida International University. I am trained in cultural competency to work with First Responders and have experience with evaluations, counseling children, teens and young adults using trauma informed care practices.
Having worked with developmental milestones, anxiety and adjustment disorders, I am ready to assist with life difficulties. My focus in compassion fatigue drives me to address student and young adults experiencing burn out and adjustment to their professions. After many years of working with this team as a coordinator and behind the scenes, I am excited to join the counseling team!
Be on the look out for upcoming support group to address burnout and fatigue.
Madi Simon
Social Content Manager, Media Specialist
I’m a 20-year-old nursing student and the Media Specialist and Social Content Manager for Minding the Gap. I manage our digital presence and create content designed to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and open up real conversations around mental health—especially within the first responder community.
My passion for both healthcare and communication drives the work I do. I use social media as a tool to make mental health information more accessible, relatable, and impactful. I believe that when people feel seen and understood, it becomes easier to ask for help and start healing.
Through my role, I aim to bridge the gap between mental health awareness and real connection one post, one story, and one conversation at a time.
