Melinda M. Sowka, LMHC, MCAPFlorida Qualified Supervisor

My name is Melinda Sowka and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I earned my degree in Psychology at Binghamton University in New York and my masters’ degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Webster University in Ocala, Florida. I have been serving the needs of at-risk youth and adult populations for over 15 years in various capacities, first as a computer instructor and later in job searching and career counseling prior to working in the mental health field. I have always had a passion for helping others since I was a little girl and the reasons have only increased as I have grown.

I am more familiarly known as Mindy or ‘Miss Mindy’ depending on your age and to me, therapy is the development of a give and take relationship. One of the reasons I help others is because others have helped me, and we may have that experience together as well.

I often use analogies to create a story for illustrative purposes when describing the therapeutic process, to the sea or water, building, navigation, planting, landscaping, sailing or dancing, because it fits! Stories make sense to people, more so than the clinical speak. If you’re curious about that we can do that too—whatever works! After all, this is your story.

So then… where have you been, and where do you wish to go from here?

Antrecia RussellPsychotherapist

Antrecia is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern who believes that EVERYTHING is figureoutable. She has the heart to walk through the murkiest and toughest part of life’s journey with those she works with and is dedicated to being there and serving as a guide through those shuffling through their issues of life.

She specializes in providing a safe, non-judgmental, space for her clients to speak those things they may never speak out loud to anyone else. She believes that no one should suffer in silence. “I believe we have to say some things out loud, in the presence of someone who is trained to handle it, so we can face it and heal.”

She received her Bachelor’s degree from Southeastern University in Psychology and went on to receive her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She is now working on her Doctorate degree in Developmental Psychology. She’s known since she was 11 years old that helping others in the area of mental health is what she wanted to do with her life. “If I can help one person find the path to healing and mental health, I have fulfilled my purpose.”

Xavier KellyPsychotherapist

Xavier is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern who is dedicated to empowering his clients to reach their personal goals and improve their overall well-being.

He specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and mindfulness techniques to help individuals manage anxiety, depression, and other forms of stress. He holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida and is committed to providing holistic and evidence-based therapy in a supportive environment.

With experience providing services in child sleep testing, corrections, substance abuse, and hospital settings, Xavier is happy to work with clients of any age with any problem. Whether it be stress as a result of a medical diagnosis, relationship struggles, behavioral issues, or everyday stress, Xavier will be there to help you through it.

Erika Del Moral PerezPsychotherapist

Erika is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern who believes in the importance of mind-body-spirit connection. She knows the challenges and stigma around mental health can make it difficult to seek out help, and works hard to make sure therapy is a safe and comfortable space for all of her clients. She believes therapy is a collaborative process and is always learning and adapting to help clients get what they want out of the therapeutic space.

Erika is passionate about working with clients in marginalized populations, such as the LGBTQ+ community, and has vast experience in working with issues like anxiety, stress, identity challenges, and PTSD. Erika utilizes an eclectic approach that pulls from modalities such as ACT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, and is IFS-informed.

Erika believes community and social connections are important and vital to us as humans, and hopes to foster that sense of connection with all of her clients through a cultural and trauma-informed lens.

Mia ReusOffice Administrator

Mia Reus is the welcoming face and voice of our front office, currently serving as Receptionist and preparing to grow herself in this industry. She works closely with all areas of the practice and specializes in customer service, organization, and ensuring every client feels comfortable and supported from the very moment they reach out.

As a proud mom of three amazing kids, Mia brings warmth, empathy, and a natural ability to connect with people into everything she does. She truly views this office as a second family and is passionate about being part of a team that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others every day.

Nirvani KhanOffice Assistant

Nirvani brings dedicated customer service and administrative experience from a variety of settings, including medical offices, the hospitality industry, as well as in the mental health field. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree. Nirvani lives by the quote, ” “No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Nirvani greets each and every client with empathy as they enter the doors at Sowka. She feels honored to help you schedule your very first appointment in your healing journey, and to support you with any questions you may have about the intake process.

Sarah CameronTherapy Intern

Hi! My name is Sarah Cameron, and I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. I received my B.A.S. from Western Michigan University. For the last 15 years, my professional experience has been in academic, competitive, team-building, and adventure settings with kids from major cities like Chicago and Detroit, the suburbs, rural communities, and international backgrounds ranging from ages 4–17.

I have experience as an academic tutor and working in the foster care system with boys removed from their homes due to abuse. I help kids learn to work together and overcome negative mindsets.

I’ve served in various church roles as a Drama Director, quiz coach (a competitive Bible knowledge team), and Director of VBS last year. I enjoy creative opportunities to work with people and help them make sense of the various difficulties they face.

I aspire to help individuals find the courage, confidence, and joy necessary to navigate and overcome life’s challenges. I see counseling as a transformative experience where positive connection challenges negative beliefs. I emphasize acknowledging the past while working in the present to achieve a better future — a future with balance, intention, and hope.

Stacey WaffubwaOffice Administrator

Stacey Waffubwa is a dedicated and detail-oriented healthcare professional with experience in medical records management, patient care coordination, and customer service. With a strong background in HIPAA compliance, medical terminology, healthcare coordination, and emergency response, Stacey has consistently demonstrated the ability to manage sensitive information accurately while delivering compassionate support to patients and clients.

Stacey previously worked in roles where her responsibilities included coordinating care services, managing schedules, supporting patients and families, and streamlining healthcare processes. Stacey holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Lake Sumter State College and has earned both EHR and CMAA certifications through the National Healthcareer Association.

As a bilingual professional fluent in English and Swahili, Stacey is committed to delivering high-quality work, maintaining confidentiality, and creating positive experiences for both patients and colleagues.