Individual Psychotherapy
In-person in Pembroke Pines, FL and online
Written by Karli Gallo, LMHC | EMDR-Certified Therapist | Pembroke Pines, FL
What is Individual Psychotherapy?
Individual psychotherapy is one-on-one therapy between you and a licensed therapist. It’s a dedicated, private space to explore what's getting in the way of living the life you want. Individual therapy is tailored entirely to you: your history, your goals, your pace.
We typically start out meeting weekly, and transition the frequency and duration of our sessions to your unique needs. Over time we build a therapeutic relationship that becomes the foundation for real, lasting change. The goal is not just symptom management, but genuine healing and self-understanding.
The therapy I provide weaves together evidence-based theories including Person-Centered, Relational, and Gestalt therapy. I support your growth with authenticity and deeper meaning. My work is not based on psychology fads, quick fixes, or giving advice.
A Supportive Space
Above all, I believe that healing happens in the context of a supportive relationship. In tradition of Carl Rogers’ Person-Centered philosophy, I work to create a space where you feel fully seen, accepted, and valued. Rather than giving you a rigid plan, I meet you with empathy, authenticity, and respect. I believe that you already carry the capability for growth within you.
Gaining Awareness
Often we spend so much energy reliving the past or worrying about the future that we lose touch with what’s happening right now. Gestalt therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness—helping you notice your feelings, thoughts, and body sensations as they unfold. This focus on the “here and now” can bring insight, resolve old patterns, and deepen your connection with yourself and others.
A Genuine Relationship
Our relationships shape who we are and the quality of our lives. Our deepest wounds come from painful dynamics with others. Therefore healing also must happen in relationships. In individual therapy I show up as a real person, in an authentic way. We build a genuine relationship where you explore patterns from past relationships as they show up in the present. You’ll discover how patterns emerge and try new ways of connecting, with safety, openness, and a deeper understanding.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
Specialties
Religious Trauma
I have extensive experience working with those who have been wounded by religious communities. This type of pain and healing is often misunderstood. Questions about principles and doctrine arise, along with anger, fear, guilt, and shame. Whether you wish to build a new relationship with any beliefs or transition away, I am here to support your healing and growth on this challenging journey. I have also completed specialized training in EMDR for healing spiritual and religious abuse.
Leaving PHP/IOP
If you've just completed (or are about to complete) a partial hospitalization program (PHP) or intensive outpatient program (IOP), you're at a critical moment. The intensive daily support ends, and the challenge of integrating what you learned and maintaining your progress begins. Outpatient therapy after an intensive program can help maintain your progress, deepen the work you started, build confidence in sustaining recovery, and stay connected to a consistent therapeutic relationship.
Sexual Trauma
With care and sensitivity, I offer support in healing from any type of unwanted sexual experience. The majority of my clients have experienced this type of trauma—some once, some reoccurring throughout childhood. I have a gentle approach working with survivors. You will not have to share any details you do not want to share. You have permission to decline answering any question I make ask in therapy. Many of my clients seek EMDR for healing sexual traumas. Those who do, are never forced and can always request to stop or pause.
The Mental Load
Many women find themselves carrying an amount that feels impossible to manage—the mental load. They have to make the decisions, take care of the children alone despite being in a relationship, and don’t have the support of others. The result is stress, emotional exhaustion, and resentment. For women who “do it all,” I’m here to offer support, challenge this “normal” in your life, and walk beside you as make challenging decisions.
Eating Disorders & Food Addiction
Whether you're struggling with restriction, bingeing, purging, compulsive eating, or an obsessive relationship with food, this is often rooted in deeper pain. I work with compassion and without judgment, helping you: Understand what's underneath the behavior, heal the source would, rebuild trust with yourself and your body, develop actions for sustainable change, and address the shame that keeps this struggle isolated and silent
Who I also work with:
Members of the LGTBQ+ community
Therapists
Health Care Professionals
Teachers
Pastors, spiritual leaders, and clergy
Those seeking therapy after a negative experience with another therapist