About
Many people start therapy because they think they need to learn something new. New ways to cope. New ways to communicate. Better boundaries. Healthier ways to show emotions. These are all important things.
Let’s UNLEARN!
We believe there’s an important step before all of that. Therapy with us is just as much an “unlearning” experience as it is a journey toward all those wonderful new skills.
All those years of experiences, patterns, behaviors and ways of looking at yourself and life have led to how you currently function. Understanding and unraveling all that is packed up, pushed down and hidden helps you get clear about why you held onto it in the first place.
About Alexa
Through my career, my training and my own personal experiences, I’ve learned that emotional wellness involves a lot more than just talking about your feelings. My approach to therapy includes looking at the whole person and all that influences who you are – the physical, social, spiritual and psychological aspects of your life. I find that when all these areas are thriving, that is when you reach your optimal self!
After earning my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Gulf Coast University, I’ve spent 15 years working in non-profit agencies in the Ft. Myers area. My positions and training focused on mental health assessment and treatment, crisis intervention, stress management, abuse/neglect and trauma. In 2016, I opened my private practice. In my practice, I combine my training and education with my passion for how the brain and body connection works.
Who am I outside the therapy office?
I have lived in SW Florida my whole life. In my off time, I am spending time with my husband, our two daughters, and our mini Dachshund, Stella.
I love to read and learn about neuroscience, nutrition, and exercise. I genuinely believe all people deserve the opportunity to live their best life. I’d love to help you start moving in that direction!
About Angela
Hello! I am Angela Pyles and I understand what it is like to be “stuck” in the same patterns that contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. I also recognize how traumatic experiences impact our ability to “just move on” and shape our responses to life’s stressors.
I help my clients identify and work through their own patterns and experiences that keep them “stuck”. Together we will develop sustainable, healthier ways of functioning. Helping clients do this is my passion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Miami University in 2000 and my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University in 2020. I am also an expert registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance since 2010 and have excelled in helping others create a sense of well-being and peace in their lives.
I look forward to working with you!
About Kendra
Hi, I’m Kendra Pugh. I’ve had many people tell me over the years that I have a knack for working with “hard to reach” clients. I guess that’s because, to me, there is no special science behind strong emotions other than the need to be heard. Although anger usually gets a bad rap, it tends to be the bodyguard of all other emotions and usually comes forward as the protector to feelings of hurt, vulnerability, grief, and loss. I create an environment where those walls can come down and you can gain understanding and relief.
I’ve always had a passion for helping people. Growing up in a small town in rural Illinois, my dreams always extended far beyond the area in which I was raised. My empathy and desire to help people led me to Florida where I obtained my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. From there I went on to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have spent the last 7 years of my career working with at-risk clients in the non-profit sector cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. I am now ready to bring that experience and skill to Renew Counseling & Wellness.
I’ve come to realize that everybody, no matter how put together their lives are, have some strong emotions to sort through at one time or another. I’d love to be the person to help you sort through yours!
About Heather
Hi, I’m Heather Gorny and I’m happy you’ve found your way here. The ongoing stress, overwhelming feelings and anxious thoughts life sometimes brings can leave us mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted. When these feelings go unresolved they take control of our lives and prohibit us from living to the fullest. Life can leave us with wounds from trauma, relationship patterns and unhealthy cycles we naturally fall back into. Therapy can help you understand these feelings, sort through events, identify patterns and gain new understanding to help you move forward.
As your therapist, we will work together to build resilience and healthy ways to cope with stressors. My education and work experience provide me with the tools to help you function better in all aspects of life. I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 2005 and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work in 2007 both from Florida Gulf Coast University. I have worked with clients dealing with addiction, as a forensic interviewer and in mental health inpatient and outpatient settings. Through these roles, I’ve gained the skills and knowledge to work alongside you to heal.
I look forward to connecting with you and celebrating your progress along the way!