Kari Russo

With over 25 years of clinical experience, Kari Russo stands at the forefront of mental health care as the Director of the First Orlando Counseling Center. Her dual licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) underscores a comprehensive approach to healing that spans individual struggles to complex family dynamics.

Kari's commitment to excellence in mental health care is evident not only in her individual client sessions but also in her leadership of other mental health professionals. She has positioned herself on the cutting edge of the counseling and psychotherapy field, continually expanding her therapeutic toolkit to offer clients the most effective and innovative treatments available.

A cornerstone of Kari's practice is her expertise in trauma-focused therapies. She is proficient in a wide array of evidence-based modalities, including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), and Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). This diverse skill set allows her to tailor treatment plans to each client's unique needs, particularly those dealing with trauma and PTSD.

Beyond her clinical work, Kari is passionate about advancing the field of psychotherapy. She takes an active role in educating other therapists, sharing her knowledge of successful modalities such as ART and TBRI. This commitment to professional development ensures that her impact extends far beyond her individual practice, elevating the standard of care across the mental health community.

Kari's areas of specialization are broad and deep, reflecting her extensive experience. She offers expert care in trauma and PTSD, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling, and ADHD. Her practice welcomes a diverse clientele, from pre-teens to adults, and includes specialized support for veterans and first responders. This wide-ranging expertise allows her to address the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges, providing holistic care that considers the full spectrum of a client's experiences and needs.

At the First Orlando Counseling Center, Kari Russo embodies a blend of seasoned experience, cutting-edge expertise, and compassionate care. Her approach is not just about treating symptoms but about fostering profound healing and personal growth, empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and hope.