My Story

My specialization is working with the neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ population. I’m deeply passionate about supporting the transgender, non-binary and intersex community. I host a bi-weekly support group for transgender young adults, ages 18-24. I also lead a monthly clinical consultation group for gender-affirming providers in the Tampa Bay area. I deeply care about helping my clients understand their gender in a safe and affirming space, using lots of humor and self compassion as we explore. 

My other area of expertise is supporting Autistics presenting with complex cases, including PDA, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and OCD. I often see clients who have sought out many providers, looking for answers and feeling lost as to where to turn for help. As an Autistic person myself, I often find that it takes another neuro-complex individual to understand a child or adult who is deeply struggling! We can have massive suffering and distress responses when something in our environment or world is out of alignment, and it often takes another Autistic to help a child and family in understanding how we need to be supported. From a young age, I was acutely aware of the ways I differed from my peers, from being overwhelmed by sensory inputs to facing challenges in learning new skills and managing fears. These early experiences, marked by a struggle for understanding and acceptance, were the first steps on my path to discovering my own neurodivergence – a journey that has shaped my approach to therapy. 

Prior to joining Autism Spectrum Counseling, my work experience includes working with young adults in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization, crisis counseling, and supporting Autistics in creative and fun spaces! I am also a long-term mindfulness practitioner and meditation instructor and like to incorporate this into my work when appropriate. I am currently especially interested in integrating IFS parts work to support Autistic clients in developing deeper self-understanding, self-compassion, and internal safety. On a personal note, my special interests are exploring nature, building community and creative spaces with friends, watching Arcane, pop culture, sociology, and spending time with my two cats, Mr. T and Tiny. I am from a big, neurodivergent family- which greatly informs my work in supporting adults, children and family systems!

Training & Experience

I have a dual Master of Arts in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. My work experiences include:

• Mental Health Counselor at Discovery Mood and Anxiety: As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I supported adults, teens, and families through individual and group therapy in a safe, non-judgmental, and autism-affirming space.
• Wellness Coach at University of South Florida (USF): Supported teens and college students with autism and ADHD in transitioning into adulthood and its challenges through coaching and counseling.
• Program Educator at Project Return: Facilitated support groups, meditation classes, and mindful movement exercise classes for more than 100 neurodivergent folks at a local community center for people with significant mental illness. 

I also have the following training(s):

• Mindfulness and Meditation at Florida Community of Mindfulness (2016 – 2023):
• Mindfulness Practices for Emotional Healing and Transformation
• Mindfulness of Breath and Body
• Mindfulness Wisdom teachings 

Counseling Fee & Location

My hourly rate is $200 per 50-minute session.  I counsel both online and in our Tampa office.

License

I am licensed as a mental health counselor in Florida.  My license number is MH24575.

Schedule A Consultation With Jennica

Jennica offers free 20-minute consultation calls.  Text or call her to schedule at (941) 677-5788. Or email her at jennica@autismspectrumcounseling.com.