

CHRIST-CENTERED COUNSELING
For new appointments complete the form below or call the church office: 407-884-7223
Our “Hope Starts Here” Ministries exist to support the mental and emotional wellness of our church family and the broader community. Through trusted partnerships with licensed professionals and supervised counseling interns, we offer Christ-centered counseling services at our Apopka campus.
Our counseling partners integrate faith-based principles with evidence-based clinical practices to provide compassionate, ethical, and professional care in a safe and confidential environment. Counseling Interns receive appropriate professional supervision as part of their clinical training.
Appointments are generally available Monday through Friday. Specific times may vary, and weekend availability is determined by each counselor’s schedule and client needs.
We walk alongside individuals and families facing anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, eating disorders, addiction, relationship challenges, trauma, and more. Our desire is to create space for healing, restoration, and growth, where individuals can rediscover strength, resilience, and renewed purpose.
No matter where you find yourself today, you do not have to walk alone. Hope starts here, and we would be honored to walk with you.
Our counseling partners integrate faith-based principles with evidence-based clinical practices to provide compassionate, ethical, and professional care in a safe and confidential environment. Counseling Interns receive appropriate professional supervision as part of their clinical training.
Appointments are generally available Monday through Friday. Specific times may vary, and weekend availability is determined by each counselor’s schedule and client needs.
We walk alongside individuals and families facing anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, eating disorders, addiction, relationship challenges, trauma, and more. Our desire is to create space for healing, restoration, and growth, where individuals can rediscover strength, resilience, and renewed purpose.
No matter where you find yourself today, you do not have to walk alone. Hope starts here, and we would be honored to walk with you.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis that may result in imminent harm or danger to yourself or others, call 911, go to the nearest hospital emergency room, or contact the National Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
AVAILABLE COUNSELORS

WILLIAM “SHANDS” CARTER • LMHC MH23399
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Bio
William "Shands" Carter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience in helping individuals and families navigate a variety of challenges, including adolescent development, ADHD, men’s issues, developmental delays, divorce, relationship dynamics, and a wide range of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and stress management. Recognizing that each client brings a unique perspective and set of experiences, Shands offers a warm, collaborative, and client-centered approach to therapy.
With expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Psychodynamic approaches, Behaviorism, and Reality Therapy, Shands tailors treatment to suit each client’s individual needs. By drawing on these varied approaches, Shands effectively supports clients in enhancing self-awareness, developing healthier coping skills, improving work-life balance, and achieving peak performance in both personal and professional areas.
In addition to supporting clients through difficult life transitions, Shands is committed to providing a validating and goal-oriented space where clients feel empowered to take meaningful steps toward change and personal growth.
With expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Psychodynamic approaches, Behaviorism, and Reality Therapy, Shands tailors treatment to suit each client’s individual needs. By drawing on these varied approaches, Shands effectively supports clients in enhancing self-awareness, developing healthier coping skills, improving work-life balance, and achieving peak performance in both personal and professional areas.
In addition to supporting clients through difficult life transitions, Shands is committed to providing a validating and goal-oriented space where clients feel empowered to take meaningful steps toward change and personal growth.

IXCHELLE HICKS • LMHC MH25061
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Bio
Ixchelle Hicks is a licensed mental health counselor with a deep commitment to helping individuals, children, and families heal, grow, and thrive. She believes that when we support the whole family system, we create stronger, healthier communities. She has worked with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, family conflict, and parenting challenges.
Ixchelle’s approach is supportive, patient, and encouraging. Her philosophy is that people already hold the answers within themselves- and her role as a counselor is to help clients uncover them. Using a blend of evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral activation, and trauma-informed care, Ixchelle tailors her treatment to meet the needs of individuals and their goals. She focuses on building practical tools and highlighting clients’ inner strengths.
From a very young age, Ixchelle knew she wanted to work with children and families. That calling came from personal experience- growing up in foster care. This led to Ixchelle working with the Department of Children and Family Services and the Juvenile Justice system, which has given her valuable experience supporting young people and families navigating complex systems.
She completed both her degrees; a bachelor’s in psychology and master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. She is a mother to two daughters 16 and 22 years old. In her free time, Ixchelle can be found at the gym, attending small groups, facilitating her mental health book club and connecting with friends and family.
Ixchelle’s approach is supportive, patient, and encouraging. Her philosophy is that people already hold the answers within themselves- and her role as a counselor is to help clients uncover them. Using a blend of evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral activation, and trauma-informed care, Ixchelle tailors her treatment to meet the needs of individuals and their goals. She focuses on building practical tools and highlighting clients’ inner strengths.
From a very young age, Ixchelle knew she wanted to work with children and families. That calling came from personal experience- growing up in foster care. This led to Ixchelle working with the Department of Children and Family Services and the Juvenile Justice system, which has given her valuable experience supporting young people and families navigating complex systems.
She completed both her degrees; a bachelor’s in psychology and master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College. She is a mother to two daughters 16 and 22 years old. In her free time, Ixchelle can be found at the gym, attending small groups, facilitating her mental health book club and connecting with friends and family.

BRITTANEY BASAK • ISW20495
Registered Mental Health Clinical Social Worker Intern
Registered Mental Health Clinical Social Worker Intern
Bio
Brittaney obtained her B.S. in Psychology through Liberty University and her Masters Social Work from Florida State University. Brittaney has worked with individuals and families from all walks of life helping them to reach their goals.
She believes people absolutely can have an abundant life full of joy and peace! She is honored to be a part of your journey to abundant life. The bravest thing a person can do is to seek help from others. We all need help at times, life is full of trauma, stress, and obstacles. It is her goal to collaborate with clients making sure to prioritize their dignity and strengths to help them accomplish their goals.
You can find healing physically, spiritually, and emotionally. You do not have to live overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck. She wants you to understand your story, your goals, and help you find the skills that will benefit you most.
She works with clients adapting to their individual needs utilizing a strengths-based approach and treating clients as the experts on themselves. Empathetic listening and compassion are at the forefront of every interaction. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy in sessions.
She believes people absolutely can have an abundant life full of joy and peace! She is honored to be a part of your journey to abundant life. The bravest thing a person can do is to seek help from others. We all need help at times, life is full of trauma, stress, and obstacles. It is her goal to collaborate with clients making sure to prioritize their dignity and strengths to help them accomplish their goals.
You can find healing physically, spiritually, and emotionally. You do not have to live overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck. She wants you to understand your story, your goals, and help you find the skills that will benefit you most.
She works with clients adapting to their individual needs utilizing a strengths-based approach and treating clients as the experts on themselves. Empathetic listening and compassion are at the forefront of every interaction. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy in sessions.

DON ZERBIAN • IMH28866
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Bio
Don is a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University, where he earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. He brings over 30 years of professional experience supporting individuals, couples, and families, including extensive work with FamilyLife, an organization focused on strengthening relationships and family systems.
Don has a particular interest in working with men and providing couples counseling. He is trained in narrative-focused trauma care through The Allender Center and has experience helping clients address issues such as trauma, compulsive sexual behaviors, and relational wounds, including those connected to harmful or disappointing institutional experiences.
Don has been married for 34 years and is the father of four adult children. Outside of his work, he enjoys playing soccer, surfing, and pickleball.
Don has a particular interest in working with men and providing couples counseling. He is trained in narrative-focused trauma care through The Allender Center and has experience helping clients address issues such as trauma, compulsive sexual behaviors, and relational wounds, including those connected to harmful or disappointing institutional experiences.
Don has been married for 34 years and is the father of four adult children. Outside of his work, he enjoys playing soccer, surfing, and pickleball.

BRENDA DANIELS • IMH 28902 MS, RMHCI
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Bio
Brenda earned her master’s degree in Counseling Education with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Christian Counseling from Liberty University. She has received additional training in EMDR, play therapy, and art therapy and is passionate about the connection between the mind and body in trauma healing. She is especially interested in polyvagal and somatic theories, as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS), and enjoys thoughtfully integrating these approaches into her work.
Believing that each person is the expert in their own life, Brenda views therapy as a collaborative process. Rather than assuming she has all the answers, she walks alongside her clients, helping them discover solutions that fit their individual needs, experiences, and goals. Her approach is compassionate, supportive, and highly individualized, with an emphasis on helping clients connect their mind, body, and spirit as they move toward healing and growth.
Drawing from existential perspectives and evidence-based practices, Brenda may incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, art therapy, EMDR, and other therapeutic tools based on each client’s unique circumstances. Her goal is to help clients develop lasting skills, improve their mental health, and create meaningful change. Above all, she believes people are resilient and capable of growth when given the right support and encouragement.
Brenda has experience supporting clients through a wide range of concerns, including adoption, infertility, grief, anxiety, ADHD, anger management, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, childhood trauma, premarital counseling, relationship enrichment, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, adjustments following weight-loss surgery, and the emotional demands of business ownership. She works with children ages six and older, teenagers, and adults in Mount Dora and Apopka.
As a mother of four and grandmother of five, Brenda understands both the joys and challenges of family life. She loves gardening with her grandchildren and jokingly says that her favorite part of being a grandmother is spoiling them before sending them home to their parents. Outside of counseling, she enjoys reading, watercolor painting, drawing, relaxing at the beach with her poodle, Daisy, and taking on building or appliance-repair projects.
Believing that each person is the expert in their own life, Brenda views therapy as a collaborative process. Rather than assuming she has all the answers, she walks alongside her clients, helping them discover solutions that fit their individual needs, experiences, and goals. Her approach is compassionate, supportive, and highly individualized, with an emphasis on helping clients connect their mind, body, and spirit as they move toward healing and growth.
Drawing from existential perspectives and evidence-based practices, Brenda may incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, art therapy, EMDR, and other therapeutic tools based on each client’s unique circumstances. Her goal is to help clients develop lasting skills, improve their mental health, and create meaningful change. Above all, she believes people are resilient and capable of growth when given the right support and encouragement.
Brenda has experience supporting clients through a wide range of concerns, including adoption, infertility, grief, anxiety, ADHD, anger management, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, childhood trauma, premarital counseling, relationship enrichment, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, adjustments following weight-loss surgery, and the emotional demands of business ownership. She works with children ages six and older, teenagers, and adults in Mount Dora and Apopka.
As a mother of four and grandmother of five, Brenda understands both the joys and challenges of family life. She loves gardening with her grandchildren and jokingly says that her favorite part of being a grandmother is spoiling them before sending them home to their parents. Outside of counseling, she enjoys reading, watercolor painting, drawing, relaxing at the beach with her poodle, Daisy, and taking on building or appliance-repair projects.

KATHLEEN FONVILLE • RI #IMH28929
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Bio
Licensed Registered Intern. A graduate from Palm Beach Atlantic University with Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. While raising a family in the Orlando area, felt a deeper calling to work closer with others for optimal growth as individuals. Attending Church in the Son in Orlando, I had the opportunity to grow in many personal areas of my life and hence, wanted to give back to family and others.
My experience includes working with those in substance abuse programs and more. It is with great humility that I walk with each individual to help each one determine the best direction for their unique needs and goals. I believe in the client driven therapy and will utilize the best approach for each, whether it be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solutions Focused Therapy. Adolescents and individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, I would consider it a privilege to help each navigate the best direction for healthy lifestyle skills.
I am excited to continue my growth as a therapist and help build strong client, therapist relationship for the best results for client and their goals. “
My experience includes working with those in substance abuse programs and more. It is with great humility that I walk with each individual to help each one determine the best direction for their unique needs and goals. I believe in the client driven therapy and will utilize the best approach for each, whether it be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solutions Focused Therapy. Adolescents and individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, I would consider it a privilege to help each navigate the best direction for healthy lifestyle skills.
I am excited to continue my growth as a therapist and help build strong client, therapist relationship for the best results for client and their goals. “

DUSTIN YORK • IMH27025
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Bio
Dustin is a registered mental health counselor intern who earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University.
After serving over a decade in the Marine Corps, roughly fifteen years in both private and government real estate, and raising two children, he felt called to become a mental health counselor. His motivation stems from the urgent mental health challenges facing the United States and the world. He is dedicated to addressing the shortage of mental health professionals to help meet this growing need.
With a background in economics and statistics, Dustin combines his life experience and analytical skills to create a personalized therapeutic experience that is grounded in scientifically proven interventions and supported by current, objective peer reviewed research.
He enjoys supporting individuals and families through a variety of challenges. Most of us have not been provided with an instruction manual for navigating relationship struggles, negative thoughts, anxiety, feelings of isolation, child behavior issues, or the struggles of single parenting. If you feel stuck or need a partner to help you find your way forward, Dustin would welcome an opportunity to work with you on your unique path.
After serving over a decade in the Marine Corps, roughly fifteen years in both private and government real estate, and raising two children, he felt called to become a mental health counselor. His motivation stems from the urgent mental health challenges facing the United States and the world. He is dedicated to addressing the shortage of mental health professionals to help meet this growing need.
With a background in economics and statistics, Dustin combines his life experience and analytical skills to create a personalized therapeutic experience that is grounded in scientifically proven interventions and supported by current, objective peer reviewed research.
He enjoys supporting individuals and families through a variety of challenges. Most of us have not been provided with an instruction manual for navigating relationship struggles, negative thoughts, anxiety, feelings of isolation, child behavior issues, or the struggles of single parenting. If you feel stuck or need a partner to help you find your way forward, Dustin would welcome an opportunity to work with you on your unique path.

CRYSTAL BRUNTON
Master's Level Intern
Master's Level Intern
Bio
Crystal Brunton is a master’s-level clinical mental health counseling intern with over 20 years of experience in church leadership. As both a pastor’s daughter and pastor’s wife, she has a deep, firsthand understanding of the emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges of ministry life and the ways it can place strain on individuals, couples, and the family system as a whole.
Crystal is passionate about integrating spiritual principles with evidence-based clinical interventions and treatments to support meaningful, ethical, and effective healing. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals working in the helping professions, including ministry leaders, medical professionals, and others in service-oriented roles who may experience compassion fatigue, burnout, or role strain.
Her experience includes working with individuals navigating church hurt, religious trauma, and ministry fatigue, and she provides a compassionate, respectful space where clients can explore faith, meaning, and emotional well-being at their own pace.
Crystal has been married to her husband for 27 years, and together they have two young adult children. She values walking alongside clients as they seek healing, balance, and renewed purpose.
Crystal is passionate about integrating spiritual principles with evidence-based clinical interventions and treatments to support meaningful, ethical, and effective healing. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals working in the helping professions, including ministry leaders, medical professionals, and others in service-oriented roles who may experience compassion fatigue, burnout, or role strain.
Her experience includes working with individuals navigating church hurt, religious trauma, and ministry fatigue, and she provides a compassionate, respectful space where clients can explore faith, meaning, and emotional well-being at their own pace.
Crystal has been married to her husband for 27 years, and together they have two young adult children. She values walking alongside clients as they seek healing, balance, and renewed purpose.
