Meet the MH CARES Team
FOUNDING OWNER AND PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Makahala Hepburn LCSW
Certified Florida State Qualified Supervisor for CSW
Florida Board of Clinical Social Workers
Makahala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offers a holistic approach to therapy, drawing from a diverse range of modalities to support her clients' unique needs. With expertise in EMDR, group therapy, Somatic Experiencing, individual therapy, family and couples counseling, and end-of life counseling.
Makahala is committed to providing comprehensive care to individuals from young adults to senior citizens.
With over 20 years of experience, Makahala creates a warm and safe environment where
clients can explore and heal from emotional and overwhelming mental stress. She utilizes
validation, active listening, support, mindfulness, reflection, and problem-solving techniques to guide her clients through their therapeutic journey.
Passionate about empowering her clients, Makahala works collaboratively to develop
individualized treatment plans aimed at achieving realistic and positive outcomes. She fosters compassion and support, helping clients unravel painful issues and equipping them with effective tools to move forward and thrive.
Makahala specializes in trauma and victim therapy but also addresses a wide range of
concerns, including crisis intervention, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, divorce, separation, and work-related challenges. Her intuitive, compassionate, and down-to-earth approach makes therapy accessible and transformative for all her clients.
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EMDR
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Group Therapy
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EFT/TFT
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Individual Therapy
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Family & Couples Counseling
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End of Life Counseling
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Trauma/Victim Therapy
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Rapid Resolution Therapy
Metaphysical Practitioner
20th Level Reiki Master
Dr. Spiritual Development
Mnstr. Mary Nunez
Maria Nunez is a deeply intuitive and spiritually attuned Metaphysical Practitioner, author, and holder of a Doctorate in Spiritual Development. With 20 years of experience helping individuals explore and align with their highest selves, Maria specializes in guiding clients through personal transformation, energetic healing, and self-discovery.
In addition to her spiritual practice, Maria is also a Florida Licensed Facial Specialist with a unique focus on working with the upper chakras, integrating both beauty and energy healing into her holistic approach. She blends her expertise in facial treatments with energy work to support clients in achieving balance, rejuvenation, and spiritual alignment.
Drawing upon a rich blend of ancient wisdom and modern spiritual practices, Maria offers a holistic approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Whether through one-on-one sessions, group workshops, or spiritual counseling, she works to empower clients by unlocking their innate potential, balancing their energies, and enhancing their connection to the universe.
With a strong foundation in Human Design, Reiki, astrology, crystal healing, energy work, shamanism, intuitive readings, and all facets of the Metaphysical world, Maria combines a variety of metaphysical tools and techniques, including Metaphysical and spiritual Counseling/Guidance, live and customized guided meditation, guided visualizations, chakra balancing, energy healing and more. Her work is grounded in love and compassion and a deep respect for each individual’s unique spiritual journey, helping clients navigate challenges, find clarity, and tap into their intuitive abilities.
Maria believes that true healing comes from understanding one’s inner truth and aligning with the energies that govern the universe. Whether you're seeking emotional healing, spiritual guidance, or personal growth, Maria creates a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your path and embrace your fullest potential.
Through her work, Maria aims to guide clients to greater peace, empowerment, and spiritual fulfillment, ultimately helping them live with more purpose, authenticity, and joy.
Licensed Psychotherapist
Paul Briggs, LCSW, LICSW, SEP, BC-TMH
During a 13-year career in industry working as an engineer, I became inspired through a steady variety of volunteer work helping others within my community. I returned to school and earned my Master of Social Work degree. Recognizing that our body actively participates in all of our life experiences, I completed my Massage Therapy Certification. As I continued to work with more people in therapy, I learned about a novel approach that I could use to bridge these two disciplines, and I became a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner.
For over 30 years I have worked with people within adolescent, adult, and elder populations who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria, mood disorders, psychosis, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and chronic pain and illness. Specializations include holistic mental health care for folks in the LGBTQIA+ and gender fluid community in the areas of gender identity, coming out, transitioning, and gender affirming HRT and surgery support. Also, working with military veterans from all eras and their families.
Utilizing multiple approaches, I provide support and psychoeducation about the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); introduce aspects and tools of mindfulness; and assist with developing and increasing knowledge regarding felt senses and further awareness of how the body participates in recognizing and managing symptoms through somatically based interventions. My goal is to hold a safe space where people can feel supported as they journey on their path to better health. Thank you for allowing me to work with you.
Individual Therapy
Group Therapy
Somatic Experiencing®
Gender Affirming Support
End of Life Counseling
Grief and Loss
Chronic Pain
Meet Taika Semoins!
First and foremost, I want to say congratulations for taking a step into becoming a healthier version of yourself. Life can be difficult, and we are constantly dealing with changes whether it is at work, relationships, family or just within ourselves. With a passion for helping others and a commitment to fostering growth, I have been dedicated to the field of therapy for the last 8 years. My experience spans across various areas, including substance abuse, mental health, and family dynamics, where I have worked with individuals, couples, and families to support them on their journey toward healing and self-discovery.
I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is client-centered and tailored to meet each person’s unique needs, integrating evidence-based practices with empathy and understanding.
Whether you’re seeking guidance through life’s challenges, looking to strengthen relationships, or working through issues related to addiction or mental health, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we’ll work to uncover your strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change in your life.
I look forward to supporting you on your path to a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Meet Sandra Freedman!
Licensed Psychotherapist
My greatest passion is bringing healing to people who experience trauma and life stressors. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients in healing and reaching their goals. I help my clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relations so they can know themselves and that they are peaceful, complete, whole and safe.
I believe no signal approach is the right one for everyone. So, I am trained in a range of modalities. My tendency is Cognitive Therapy. Knowing what we think and feel creates our world.
I have my Masters in Social Work from the University of Denver. I have a wide range of experience. I became a Licensed Clinical Social (LCSW) Worker in the 1990’s. I worked in Senior Business Management prior to becoming a LCSW.
Meet Jose Davila!
Jose “JJ” Davila is a seasoned therapist and former first responder with a passion for supporting individuals through trauma and crisis. With over two decades of experience in both fields, J.J. brings a unique perspective to his therapeutic practice, blending his trauma-informed clinical expertise with firsthand knowledge of emergency situations.
J.J. is a passionate advocate for holistic wellness, integrating mindfulness and somatic practices into his therapeutic approach. With a deep commitment to personal growth and self-discovery, J.J. regularly attends meditation retreats to deepen his understanding of mindfulness and its transformative effects on mental health.
Throughout his career, J.J. has worked with diverse populations, including individuals navigating major life transitions, first responders, survivors of abuse, and clients looking to be the best versions of themselves.
In his therapy sessions, J.J. creates a supportive and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their inner experiences, cultivate self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies. Drawing from his own experiences in meditation retreats, he guides clients in cultivating mindfulness, managing stress, and finding greater balance in their lives.
Meet Miles Davis
Miles Davis is a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist with a passion for mental health and well-being. Miles is committed to helping individual navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional growth through a holistic, client-centered approach.
Miles specializes in specific areas of interest, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues and he is passionate about integrating evidence-based techniques, such as CBT and mindfulness to support clients on their path towards healing.
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We are always proud of our team and the incredible work they do.
561 777 8345