Stephanie Rios LMHC owner of SMR Mental Health Counseling

About Me

Get to know your therapist

I’m Stephanie Rios. Thank you for coming to my website. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Florida MH15456), and I’m also a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Counseling Interns preparing to be licensed. I’ve been practicing for over 16 years. I’ve worked in different settings such as group private practices, non-profit organizations, and substance abuse treatment centers. I’ve worked with different populations in my career such as adults, teens, families, Veterans, survivors of the Stoneman Douglas Shooting and their family members, and teachers as well as other education professionals with the Broward County School District. I also have experience working with the homeless population, and the LGBTQ+ community.

I’ve been passionate about helping others struggling with mental health issues such as having low self-esteem, Depression, Anxiety, and past trauma for many years even before deciding to become a therapist. In my sessions, I encourage clients to be as open as they want as being vulnerable is part of the process of working through issues. I use humor with my clients. Cursing is allowed when working with me! There may be tears. Maybe some tough conversations. Sessions are meant to be as real for clients as there is opportunity for growth and recovery.

I work best with clients who are tired of doing the same things, who are willing to do the work in making changes, and who are willing to learn along the way. My job isn’t to change you. You have to be the one to make the change. I’ll be there to give you support when it gets tough. Therapy can be scary and intimidating at times, but what’s scarier is when things stay the same. That’s when therapy can be helpful for you especially when you’re stuck.

During therapy, I may challenge you when needed. I’ll point out the things you need to explore and process. I’ll cheer you on when there are wins. I’ll be there supporting you on your therapeutic journey. Contact me to begin the process. Free consultation is available.

EDUCATION

-Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University in 2003

-Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2008

-Licensed in Florida (#MH15456)

-Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns