Lovely Aristilde, Ed.S.
University of Florida Clinical Mental Health- In Progress
Sometimes it feels like there’s nowhere that we can be completely real about who we are, what we’re feeling, and what we’re thinking. I am a graduate student therapist, and I want to provide a place where you’re allowed to be real without having to worry about being “too much” or that you said the wrong thing or created too many expectations. I believe that you are valuable and capable and that a caring, safe, genuine connection can help provide support for you to make the changes you want to see in your life. Whether you are an adult, a child, or somewhere in between, I believe in the power of connection to help us all grow and heal. I love to provide opportunities for creativity and exploration in a non-judgmental, space. I also love to connect, laugh, and enjoy the process.
I am available for youth aged 2-18 as well as young adults.
Why did you become a therapist?
I like to joke that I became a counselor due to the “butterfly” effect. I took a psychology class in high school that opened my eyes to a whole new world. In undergrad, I realized mental health impacts so many other aspects of our lives. When we take the time to address our mental well-being the same way we address different aspects of our health, we work towards holistic wellness. Being from a Caribbean background, mental health wasn’t something we talked about, let alone addressed, which is something I hope to change over time.
What can a client expect to experience in session with you?
When working with me, clients can expect to be able to bring in all the different parts of their identity and the freedom to show up in their most authentic selves free of judgment. Clients can expect me to be warm and curious and for me to use an artistic metaphor or silly joke from time to time. I tend to work from a systems lens that values looking at the whole picture to get the most context. I’m here to hear your story and walk alongside you towards the ending you want.
If you could be the therapist to one celebrity, who would it be?
Probably a musician of some sort. I love listening to music and think it can be healing in so many different ways. From listening to great songs, creating your own music, or even just having a dance party, there are such ways that music can be used as part of your healing journey.
How do you spend your free time?
When I’m not at work or class, I spend a large chunk of my time being a dog mom to my terrier mix, Casper! Together we love to go on nice long walks and watch tv series. I also love to spend time with loved ones, explore the town, create art, play video games, and rollerskating.
What’s your favorite quirk about yourself?
Probably how connected to my inner child I am. I love showing up authentically and doing things that make me happy.
What does social justice mean to you?
To me, social justice means intentionally working towards challenging and disrupting systematic harm. It means curating spaces that promote safety and equality for the traditionally disenfranchised—at the same time, supporting individuals from these communities to move into positions of empowerment. It is a lifelong commitment that will look different from person to person. How do you believe change happens? Change happens with time. It’s often unavoidable but happens best in places of safety and community. When people have a support system that they can lean on as needed, they’re able to take chances while working towards getting what they need.
How do you believe change happens?
Change happens with time. It’s often unavoidable but happens best in places of safety and community. When people have a support system that they can lean on as needed, they’re able to take chances while working towards getting what they need.