Sandra Rico , LMHC

Sandra Rico is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in Florida with 16 years of experience supporting people through life's difficult transitions. She offers a compassionate, affirming approach that honors each person's identity and lived experience, and she provides therapy in both English and Spanish to better meet the needs of bilingual clients.

Sandra specializes in work with LGBT individuals and addresses a broad range of concerns including relationship and family dynamics, intimacy issues, parenting challenges, stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar. She also supports people facing eating and sleeping difficulties, anger and self-esteem struggles, career concerns, ADHD, and coping with life changes, as well as a variety of additional focus areas such as blended family issues, caregiver stress, and substance use concerns.

Grounded in evidence-based methods, Sandra blends client-centered care with cognitive and mindfulness-based techniques to help clients develop better communication skills, process strong emotions, and build resilience. She works collaboratively to tailor treatment to each person's goals and preferences and is accepting new clients, including those who live outside the United States.

Approaches That Translate Well to Online Therapy

Sandra Rico integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness therapy into her online practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where the therapist listens deeply and follows the client's lead to support personal growth and self-understanding. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be effective for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Mindfulness therapy teaches practical skills for staying present and managing intense emotions, often helping with stress, trauma symptoms, and everyday reactivity.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process, and Sandra works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She adapts techniques over time so treatment remains relevant and effective as circumstances change.

Online sessions by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging offer flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, attend sessions from home or while traveling, and connect with licensed professionals even when in-person visits are difficult to arrange.