Tara Dixon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Taking care of your mental health is equally as important as taking care of your physical health. Whether ongoing or temporary experiences related to stress, inability to sleep, ADHD/ADD symptoms, anger, trauma, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, marital problems and other challenges - often can affect many areas of life, including personal relationships, school and work.

I am a Trauma Informed Clinician with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals and families in various roles to include: High School Social Worker, Domestic Violence Victim Advocate, Child Welfare Specialist, Foster Care Placement Specialist. By using a Client Centered, Solutions Focused approach free of judgement, blame or shame I assist clients in understanding their emotions, resolve emotional or behavioral obstacles or compulsions, improve interpersonal relationships, get a better night's sleep, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to support their                                                           journey to wellness while remaining in control of their own treatment.

Jacquita (Jay) Elston Licensed Clinical Social Worker

I am originally from New York City and have resided in the Sunshine State for over 10 years. I have over 15 years of experience providing therapy to children and adults in New York, North Carolina and Florida. I've worked with children and families in foster care, group homes, schools and home settings. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Grief and Loss, ADHD, Anger Management and Adoption. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space for you to share your feelings and thoughts without judgement. I will support you on your journey towards Emotional, Physical and Mental Health One Step at a Time.  

Maritza Figueroa, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

I am a native of New Jersey and have resided in Central Florida for over 20 years. I have over 25 years of experience working with inner city and at-risk youth and their families in New Jersey and in Florida.  I have worked as a Behavioral Tech and as a Program Manager of a specialized therapeutic group home and a residential group home and in 2012 opened Created Families, Inc. a non-profit organization providing services to foster care youth in residential group care home setting. 

 I have served as a board member of the Child Advocacy Center, Osceola Healthy Babies, Membership Chair for Osceola County Children’s Cabinet, and on the Executive Board as the Secretary for Osceola County Children’s Alliance and Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida.

In 2018 I joined the Osceola County Schools system where I work as a School Social Worker at a  High School.  This experience allows me to work closely with students and their families                                                                          providing individual counseling, emotional support, resources, and referrals.  My areas of                                                                        expertise include Bipolar Disorders, Depression, Anxiety and ADHD.  

Deana Shurba, Provisional Clinical Social Worker

Deana is a passionate therapist who is dedicated to help individuals improve their mental health, achieve their goals, find their purpose in life and pursue a healthier and happier lifestyle. Deana received her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University in the state of New Jersey. She relocated to Florida in 2021 to take on a full-time role as School Social Worker and works closely with children and families in the local community. Deana volunteered with Harbor House of Central Florida Young Professionals Board to raise awareness about domestic violence and            continues to advocate for those who need safety and security from domestic abuse. Deana works part-time as a therapist with children and adults ranging from 6 to 50 years old. Deana is                                                                         working towards her credentials to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and specializes in                                                               working  with children who have Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Her specialties also                                                                   include trauma, substance use, PTSD, depression, anxiety, parenting support, relationships                                                                     issues, grief and loss, self-esteem, stress, and developing healthier coping skills. When she is not                                                             working he enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.