My name is Michael Zolondek. I am a registered mental health counselor intern who serving both individuals and couples both in Gainesville and throughout the state of Florida through telehealth since 2022. I have clinical experience working with those who have struggled with complex trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual), depression and anxiety, family and romantic relationships, and religion/spirituality. In both my personal experiences and professional work, I have seen how healing a supportive presence can be for those who might be struggling in various areas of their lives, and I look forward to working with you wherever you currently find yourself in life in order to help you discover ways to heal!

 

What treatment areas do you specialize in?

I have found that a so many clients have responded well when using a foundation of person-centered therapy while bringing in more directive interventions derived from cognitive behavioral therapy theories and practices. In addition to this, in many cases where clients have struggled with finding purpose and meaning in life, I have found that elements of Viktor Frankl’s existential therapy can be quite helpful.

 

Why did you choose to become a therapist?

After spending more than 10 years in academia, I felt as though I wanted to pursue a career that served my community more directly. This led me to become a Behavior Interventionist at a Title 1 elementary school, which was an incredibly fulfilling role. As I worked with the school therapist to help our struggling students, I became inspired to pursue a Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling so that I could work with individuals on a deeper level.

 

What can a client expect to experience in session with you?

I strongly believe in an individual’s ability to heal and change in positive ways when they are offered a safe and affirming environment in which to do so. When we are in session, I will offer you a supportive and non-judgmental space in which you can process your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. I am also aware that many of us do not even know how to begin doing this and that everyone’s therapeutic journey will look different. So our sessions will often also include working together in an effort to determine your unique needs and discover how to help facilitate your healing in the ways that work best for you.

 

What does Diversity, Equity, and Justice mean to you?

I believe identity equity and justice means working to balance or counteract unequal, unfair, and/or oppressive elements in our society, which can exist in the realms of education, healthcare, human rights, politics, etc. I also believe it requires action on the part of those who hold positions of power or privilege because of their race, gender, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, etc.

 

How do you believe change happens?

I feel as though change is more than a destination that we reach after doing X, Y, and Z. Instead, I believe that it is an ongoing process that we can take an active role in directing. I believe this process involves people working through their past experiences in a positive way, finding acceptance in who and where they are in the present, and remaining hopeful for their future. This will not necessarily be a linear process, and we will all certainly face setbacks, but in doing these things I believe that we can change throughout our lives in ways that bring us peace and joy.

 

What is your go to coffee order?

I’m going to need a judgment free zone here but… I don’t regularly drink coffee. If I am at a cozy bookstore or café with a friend who’s having a cup, I usually go with some sort of mocha since I’m a chocolate lover.

 

What made you want to work at Arise?

I have always felt that community is extremely important in order to grow in healthy ways, be that in one’s personal life, relationships, and career. At Arise, there is a group of clinicians and administrative staff who genuinely care about each other and the success of everyone’s clients.