What is Broken Wings Ministry, Inc.?
Broken Wings is dedicated to my brother Jimbo who died of a heroin overdose on Christmas Eve 2014. He was 41 years old. He never received the help he needed from the available residential treatment homes nor AA meetings. The summer before he died God showed me this butterfly below and spoke Broken Wings to my heart. The picture is the actual butterfly with a ripped wing from the garden. The butterfly flew beautifully with no problems at all even in all its brokenness. It was during this time that I realized people who struggle with addiction can also live a life of fullness even being broken down with all kinds of mental health and addiction issues. We want to help people like my brother who never received the help he needed being as broken as he was in life.
Therefore, at my brother’s funeral, we dedicated Broken Wings Ministry, Inc. a 501 c3 non-profit organization to him. We offer outpatient counseling as you will see in this website along with a future anticipation of residential homes for women (Freedom Home), children and lastly men.
Our goal for Broken Wings residential treatment center is to treat our clients like family in a professional, respectful, nurturing, healing, safe environment. To care for clients and to stick closer to them than a brother; when possibly their families cannot. Please visit our residential website www.bwm-inc.org for more information.
THERAPISTS | STAFF
Tammy Carvalho
CEO, LMHC, NCC | Qualified supervisor with the State of Florida | Christian Counselor | EMDR Certified
Tammy is a passionate licensed professional counselor. Her passion helps to meet a client’s needs and wants in life for a healthier sense of self. She aims to come alongside the client and look into their world to help. Tammy has experience working with adults, adolescents and children.
She has experience in helping children and adolescents who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Impulsive behaviors, Bi-Polar, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
Tammy also has worked with adults with developmental disabilities who have suffered from Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders and Major Depression. She has helped clients with life skills, coping skills, anger management, internal struggles and interpersonal relationship issues. Tammy is culturally sensitive with awareness of the client’s culture.
Tammy has worked with children, teens and adults who have been dual diagnosed with a substance abuse and mental health issues. She believes that in order to avoid substance abuse relapse one must address the triggers, patterns and trauma that caused the maladaptive coping skill. Tammy is trained in trauma care with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). EMDR is a highly effective, evidenced based treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Tammy believes in using gardening and animal therapy for clients who prefer to stay outside the office. In home or in school therapy is also available for those who need it, at additional cost. In addition to individual counseling, groups, couples and family counseling is also offered.
Adam Ray
Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Trained
We often lose our place during life’s journey for a variety of reasons, and that’s part of being human. If you’re trying to discover, re-discover, or even re-invent yourself on a new level, I can help. Sometimes it’s difficult to move forward until we know who we are and what our role is in this world–especially when changes happen. I believe identity is often at the heart of growth and development, and your personal story will begin to unfold as you understand the same. I offer services to teens and adults struggling with transition, social anxiety, depression, ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, relationship conflicts, social skills, substance and/or process addictions, anger management, and career disorientation.
I operate from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, narrative, and solution-focused approaches to therapy, and believe there is a spiritual side to a person’s development which is just as important in the counseling process. If you feel stuck and wish to see the next chapter of your story, let’s talk.
Dr. Greg Nute
Licensed Clinical Christian Psychologist and EMDR Trained | PhD, LCCP, LMHC, RPT/S, CMHIMP, CATP, CCTP
Dr. Greg is a licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist and supervisor, certified mental health integrative medicine provider, certified child and adolescent trauma professional, certified clinical trauma professional, and is EMDR-trained. Dr. Nute’s Approach: “Greg enjoys laughing with his clients, connects easily and is very approachable. Greg makes his clients typically feel comfortable in the first session. The relationship is vital and in turn will create a healthy, healing environment. His approach is holistic as Dr. Nute focuses on healing the mind, body and spirit.”Hello! My name is Dr. Greg Nute and I am a seasoned clinician with over 24 years of experience in counseling.
The Lord called me into counseling at an early age and He has used me mightily for the past 20+ years sharing the love of Christ through the Gospel and helping to heal the hurts that so often affect us. I have always believed the counseling I do to be a ministry, bringing glory to God and it is by no means separate in scope to the other ministries I do. Professionally, I am a licensed clinical Christian psychologist through the Federal Association of Christian Counselors and Therapists (FACCT), a licensed mental health counselor through the State of Florida, have a certification as a mental health integrative medicine practitioner, and am a registered play therapist-supervisor with extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults with a wide range of mental health issues. I am also an ordained minister.
The certification in integrative medicine I have is based on my belief in that foods also affect mood and inflammation. Being a good steward of what we put in our body is important not only for our physical health but also our mental. My approach is very eclectic, with an emphasis on building and strengthening the relationship. I use of cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, as well as creative therapies such as play therapy, role-playing, figurines, art, music, clay, humor and sand trays to help both children and adults overcome their hurts. Creative therapies are very effective at getting to the heart of the matter very quickly.
I have worked as a therapist for prominent community mental health agencies, providing services to children and adolescents in their homes, schools, and the clinic throughout the Orlando tri- county areas, with the use of Spanish in some sessions.
In the private sector, I worked with Christian Counseling Associates for 8 years doing individual counseling with adults, families, children, and couples as well as having my own practice in the Oviedo area. Pastors and their wives are also of special interest to me as they often have no one to talk to in a confidential way.
I have extensive training and experience working with these populations and uses many creative and eclectic styles of therapy to help them overcome their hurts and find peace. Whether you are looking for in-person or remote teletherapy, I would love to get to know you and develop a therapeutic relationship that can help you grow mentally, physically, and spiritually. Make an appointment today!
Stefania Villacis
Registered Marriage and Family
Therapist Intern
I have worked with families, teenagers , young adults and children. Before becoming a Marriage and Family Mental Health Clinician, I worked for fifteen years in Orange County Public School system providing support to children that struggled with behaviors, emotional distress and learning disabilities. During those years I worked closely with children diagnosed with Autism, Hyperactive, Oppositional Defiance disorders. It was an emotional and enriching experience to be able to transform lives at a young age. My approach comes from Humanistic perspective that focuses on your own capacity to overcome pain and emotional distress. Therapeutic play and expressive art will be valuable tools to help parents and their children to overcome what is causing dysfunctional and unhealthy family relationships . I am a bilingual therapist that will be delighted and honored to meet you were you are, to help you succeed, and become a healthy emotional individual.
Itamara Stocker
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR Trained
Are you going through a difficult time? Maybe you are struggling with your faith or searching for meaning in your life. Perhaps you’re battling intrusive thoughts, dealing with a toxic relationship, or struggling with past wounds. If you’re feeling unheard, overwhelmed, or unmotivated I’m here to help.
I am certified in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR trained. Picture experiencing a breakthrough in the right direction: feeling purpose and hope, less intrusive thoughts and controlled emotions, a deeper connection with others, or finally facing the past challenges you endured. If you are ready to begin a new chapter in your life journey, I would feel honored to walk with you.
While I specialize in counseling that integrates the Christian faith with clinically proven interventions, I greatly care for and respect every individual who comes to see me on their life journey. I offer my services in English and Spanish and in person or via remote teletherapy. I currently work with women in all stages of life, teenagers, and children.
I believe that we can find meaning and purpose even in the most difficult of times and that true healing can happen when we find our purpose and place in God’s ultimate divine plan. I enjoy using the Bible and prayer in counseling and my goal is that you will feel the love of Jesus Christ as we dive into whatever you may be facing.
Krystyna DuBose
Licensed Mental Health Therapist and EMDR Trained
Krystyna DuBose is a licensed mental health therapist who has a passion with helping clients be the best version of themselves they can be. She believes in working to heal the whole person through therapeutic approaches and other methods. Krystyna works to meet clients where they are at and to find the best treatment in therapy for each individual. She has a passion to work with teenagers and adults struggling with depression, anxiety and grief as well as those with PTSD, conduct disorder, trauma, ADD, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Krystyna has helped clients learn coping skills, life skills, anger management and how to manage life struggles. Krystyna uses a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral therapy and person centered therapy. Krystyna provides individual, couples, and family therapy and looks forward to helping you on your own therapeutic journey.
Brianna Stallings
Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Trained
I have a passion for working with clients that have been survivors of trauma. The effects of any kind of traumatic experience can be devastating and often is accompanied by a myriad of symptoms that can greatly impact daily life. My first priority will be to help you cope with the symptoms your trauma has caused in your life. I will not end our session without providing a coping skill to get you through the next week! My second step will be to help you heal the underlying issues, thoughts, and patterns that may be contributing to the traumatic reaction as well. EMDR therapy is my most often used modality to heal trauma and symptoms. My main therapy modality is EMDR due to the amazing effectiveness I have seen for clients with this approach. If you would prefer talk therapy instead, I also provide client centered talk therapy and incorporate mindfulness and some CBT techniques as well. I will always meet you where you are in your healing process!
My goal is to be someone who makes a difference in the lives of individuals I work with. I will empower, inspire, encourage, and support every individual in my care. I aspire to always be empathetic, present, and worthy of the title of Counselor.
Darcy Brown
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
I am a social worker licensed in Florida with 10 years of experience working as a faith-based counselor. I want to help cultivate a purpose-driven life that expresses a positive, life-affirming view of your identity. Understanding and walking out the root causes in the areas where you feel inadequate, anxious, and depressed will bring freedom into your life and relationships. Christian counseling is unique as it allows me to combine faith and principles of the Bible with other counseling methods such as motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I want to partner with you in your healing, to help bring joy back into your life. Investing in your healing to bring out how God has created you is each one of our responsibility. You were fearfully and wonderfully made and need to understand how that relates to your humanity.
Patrice Anderson
Registered Mental Health Counseling
Intern and EMDR Trained
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
There are periods in our lives when we go through rough times, and we need to develop the tools that will help us get through the season. My personal life experiences as well as my professional background has helped me become a compassionate and empathetic counselor.
I have over 20 years of experience in working in the human services field and have worked with children and families through all facets of life.
My expertise is to provide individual, couples and family therapy, focusing in on anxiety, self-esteem, grief, depression, and other life struggles.
My passion is assisting my clients with identifying their struggles, focusing on a solution, and
encouraging healing. We will work together to develop a wellness toolbox.
Brittnay Parsons
Registered Mental Health Counselor
Intern, M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and EMDR Trained
I am a registered mental health counseling intern with 5 years of experience counseling children, teens, couples, families, and adults of all ages. I provide faith-based counseling, mental health counseling, career & academic counseling, and more. I’ve worked with clients managing anxiety, depression, stress overload, relational issues, anger management, grief, PTSD, processing trauma, autism, ADHD, personality disorders, addictions, and other mental health and wellness needs. My number one goal with any client is to empower you to be the best version of you – whatever coping level that looks like, even if we have to rediscover who you truly are.
My approach in counseling is very person-centered, focusing on developing a good relationship where we can process together as a team and work on your goals at your pace. I focus on using a variety of skills and techniques such as solution-focused and choice therapy ideals. I value holistic care and provide a variety of practices to continue your wellness outside of therapy. While I value working with clients of all ages and backgrounds, I have a special interest in working with children and teens and empowering parents.
Having been through therapy myself, I know it is so important to find someone that you connect with, who makes you feel understood, comfortable, valued, and who can adapt to your individual needs while being compassionate and insightful. It is my hope that together we can define your own needs and meet those to ensure you can grow to be a better you! Therapy isn’t always easy as a client, and my goal is to help make that step easier and worthwhile. Let’s talk about what that looks like and help you get the tools to pour into your wellness!
Olushola Thomas
Registered Mental Health
Counselor Intern and EMDR Trained | M.A.
It is through sharing our deepest fears, struggles, and aspirations that we create a space for healing to unfold. I encourage my clients to embrace vulnerability as a strength, a source of power that allows us to connect with our own humanity and the shared experiences of others. By creating a non-judgmental space, I aim to support clients as they navigate their unique journeys toward self-discovery and healing. Having worked in a residential substance abuse treatment center for men, I have gained valuable experience in supporting individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges. I understand the significance of providing a safe and nurturing environment that addresses the unique needs of each person in their journey towards recovery. My role involved implementing individualized treatment plans, facilitating group therapy sessions, and fostering a sense of community among residents.
In my tenure as a Child Protective Investigator for the Department of Children and Families, I developed a keen understanding of the complex issues that individuals and families encounter. This experience equipped me with strong assessment and intervention skills, enabling me to approach situations with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Additionally, I incorporate Strength-Based Therapy, recognizing and building upon your innate strengths and resilience. In Client-Centered Therapy, I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. As a practitioner of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, fostering a deeper understanding of the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
In our sessions, we will work collaboratively to identify and address the challenges that may be hindering your growth as an individual, couple or family. Together, we will explore coping strategies, spirituality, cultivate resilience, and celebrate the victories, both big and small.
Leticia Bellon
Registered Mental Health Counselor
Intern | M.A.
One of the greatest gifts one person can give to another is the gift of listening. It can be an act of love and caring. Tough times have taught me how to listen patiently and empathetically to clients’ deep, hurting stories to help them take guided action as a faith-based counselor for the wellness of life. My areas of focus include mentoring couples and helping clients with problems of depression, loss and grief, anxiety, and life transitions.
I have helped many people with multicultural backgrounds navigate difficult transitions in life. I have directed a counseling center and worked cross-culturally with leaders and their spouses for over ten years. Counseling is not about fixing someone; it is holding a client’s hand to find solutions that best suit them. The ‘person-centered theory’ is fundamental to my approach because I believe clients inherently have the ability for positive growth if guided by a counselor. As a faith-based counselor, I thrive on connecting with people in my neighborhood through walks and fellowships.
Patti Hovey
Registered Mental Health Counselor
Intern and EMDR Trained | M.A.
There are times in life when we feel exhausted and overwhelmed. We want to change, but it can be difficult to know which direction to take. Whether you are navigating a painful transition, feeling stuck, dealing with trauma, anxiety, or depression, reaching out to receive help can feel intimidating. In the therapy process, you must feel supported, safe, and heard at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, teens and senior adults dealing with a variety of issues including relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergence and autism related challenges. Together we can discover practices, coping techniques, resources, and practical ways to address challenges and spur growth. I approach counseling from an integrative and holistic perspective encouraging clients to bring their faith into counseling.
Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including, acute mental health care, substance disorder treatment, geriatric care, faith-based counseling and have experience in professional organizational training. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families find health and wholeness. I believe your story and situation are important and want to give you tools, support, and hope that change is possible.
Ruth Cedeno
Registered Intern Social Worker
Ruth is a registered intern social work. Ruth is a dedicated professional with experience as an outpatient and in-home therapist and hospital chaplain, with a passion for helping children, youth and adults dealing with life-changing events, including mental and behavioral health. She has a passion to work with teenagers, adults and seniors struggling with anxiety, depression, and grief as well as those with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, ADD, bipolar disorder and Autism.
Ruth has focused her approach on Grief Disorders, including Prolonged Grief Disorder, helping clients of all ages to manage their grief over the loss of a loved one. Experience working with people from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds utilizing evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15
Debra Polodna
Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern, EMDR trained
While external circumstances may be difficult, our inner attitude, faith, and actions can light a path forward. Even during life’s most challenging times, happiness can still be found, but it requires an intentional shift in perspective. Debbie’s desire is to assist you with turning the lights on by helping you discover your power to find the light in the darkness, to assist change in your mindset, and by focusing on the good, even when things seem bleak. Debbie is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. With a passion for helping individuals navigate personal challenges, Debbie is dedicated to providing supportive, empathetic care in a client-centered environment. As part of her work at Broken Wings Ministry, Debbie works with clients facing a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Drawing from evidenced-based practices like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Debbie tailors her therapeutic approaches to meet the individual needs of each client. She is committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and foster personal growth. In addition to her clinical work, Debbie is passionate about continuing education and professional development, staying current on the latest research and best practices in mental health counseling. She is excited to grow as a practitioner and a Christian while making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families.
Aime Sanchez de Aragon
LMHC, NCC, Qualified Supervisor and Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am dedicated to equipping clients and their families with effective tools to navigate challenges related to mental health, addiction, and trauma. I provide a supportive environment where clients can address complex issues through evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques.
I customize each counseling session to meet the individual needs of my clients, empowering them to build essential skills in regulating their emotions and building resilience. By providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, I support clients as they explore their challenges, uncover personal strengths, and discover new ways to shift their thoughts and behaviors.
Grounded in evidence-based practices, professionalism, and empathy, my approach reflects a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve. I believe counseling reflects the redemptive work of Christ by restoring people. I am committed to helping clients increase mental, psychological, and spiritual wellness. I am also fluent in both English and Spanish.
Chantena Elizer
Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern, MS
Mental health can be a complex topic, especially in the Black community and Caribbean families, where silence is often seen as strength. The blend of culture, family expectations, and faith can complicate relationships with counseling. While spirituality provides hope, seeking professional help can enhance, not contradict, faith. As a counselor, I aim to change the conversation around challenges like anxiety and depression. As a Christian woman of color, a first-generation college graduate, and the daughter of a single mother, I understand how much strength it takes to overcome cultural and societal expectations. However, strength does not mean suffering in silence. Phrases like “Just pray about it” or “God will make a way” can unintentionally minimize the need for professional mental health care . In my practice, I take a hands-on approach rooted in Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My role is to walk alongside you, offering empathy, understanding, and tools to help you rediscover your inner strength. Healing takes time, but YOU are the expert of your own life, and you deserve that healing. Let’s work together to build that brighter future.
You are so much stronger than you know!
Hart Meyrich
Billing
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TAMMY CARVALHO
Chief Executive Officer
Welcome to Broken Wings! I will be handling all of your calls! I will take your insurance information, tell you your copay, book your appointment with one of our therapists and directly work with our billing department. If you have any questions or concerns at all, don’t hesitate to let me know. It’s certainly my pleasure to help you throughout this process!
NORM CARVALHO
Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Norm Carvalho is an anesthesiologist in Orlando, FL, and is affiliated with Nemours Children’s Hospital. He received his medical degree from University of Cape Town Faculty of Medicine, and has been in practice for more than 20 years. Norm is Board-Certified, and his specialty is anesthesia; his subspecialty is pediatric anesthesia. He loves traveling with his wife, Tammy, and spending time with their family.
KAYLIN FISHER LUU
Board Member
Kaylin Fisher Luu is a licensed clinical social worker, Board-Certified behavior analyst, and certified addictions professional who specializes in working with children and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain. She has served children, teens, and their parents for over 20 years, and is passionate about impacting our community to improve the mental health outcomes of our youth.
MARIBEL CORDERO
Board Member
Maribel Cordero is a member of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners in Orlando, FL, representing District 4. She is a registered family and marriage therapist, and is a wife, mother, and grandmother herself.
RITA SENECAL
Board Member
Rita Senecal is the CEO and co-founder of Everybody’s Counseling Center. In her free time, Rita likes to spend time with her family.
MARNIE FORESTIERI
Board Member
Marnie Forestieri is the CEO and founder of Young Innovators. She is an education entrepreneur, curriculum writer, and an author. Marnie considers herself a lifelong learner, and loves to travel the world.
XAVIER VILLACIS
Board Member
Xavier Villacis is a journalist and media communication specialist since 1994. He was a news anchor for Univision and a news reporter for Telemundo (NBC-Telemundo). He was also a radio broadcaster for IHeart radio station with his own show “Línea Abierta” . Xavier currently has his own TV show “360 by Telemundo” and is broadcasting in a Christian radio station. His experience also extends inside tv programs for CNN , Primer Impacto and International media.
Xavier’s well-known experience allowed him to be part of two presidential campaigns as a news reporter for President Obama in 2008 and President Trump in 2016 . He has also lead campaign strategies successfully in Central Florida. Xavier has his own media production company “XV group”, which provides support as a media analyst and marketing strategizing.
Regardless of all the success he’s had in his career, Xavier says his most important success is having a strong spiritual foundation, since he strongly believes this is the key of any new entrepreneurship.