Meet Our LIFTers

Stacy O'Mara has been a clinician in Central Florida since 2001. She has been established in private practice where she works with individuals, couples, and families. Stacy is well versed in multiple modes of therapy modalities, but has a particular proclivity for Jungian approach. She is a big believer in the unconscious mind and its power to influence behavior. Stacy believes that through examining our deeper motivations, we can understand our current behaviors. In addition, Stacy uses CBT, Positive Psychology and Solution-focused therapies in her work.
 

I’m a firefighter paramedic with over 30 years of experience, and now I’m training to become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My background in emergency services taught me a lot about stress, identity, resilience, and what it means to show up for others in tough times.
I work especially with first responders and LGBTQIA+ folks, and I’m here for anyone navigating the pressures of college life—whether that’s academic stress, figuring out who you are, dealing with anxiety or trauma, or just needing someone to talk to who gets it.
My counseling style blends Gestalt therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which means I focus on helping you stay present, explore your emotions without judgment, and make choices that align with your values and goals.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need a safe space to start. I’m here to walk with you through it.

 I’m a graduate student at the University of Central Florida, pursuing my Master’s degree and training to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from UCF, where I built a solid foundation in psychological theory, research, and therapeutic practice.

My clinical experience includes working with children, young adults, and couples, supporting them through a variety of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. I take a person-centered approach to Adlerian Therapy, focusing on helping clients deepen their awareness of their thoughts, emotions, bodily experiences, and relationship dynamics. I also work with clients to identify the stories—or scripts and schemas—that often subconsciously guide how they live their lives, which Adler referred to as their “lifestyle.”

I believe meaningful change happens when someone strives for personal growth from a place of contentment. Rather than seeing change as a shift from “broken” to “fixed,” I view it as something that occurs best when people radically accept their present selves while still aspiring to grow. I help clients explore how accepting who they are right now can create the space for healing, growth, and deeper connection. 

 "We must befriend the self we seek to know.  We must receive it with hospitality, not hostility.  No one—not even your own self—can be known apart from such a welcome." 
David G. Benner 

 I'm currently completing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Central Florida. My counseling journey started through my work with college students, which inspired me to pursue a career in mental health. Now, I’ve come full circle — I'm once again supporting students through my clinical work at LIFT.

In my work, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Adlerian Theory, which allows me to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs. I value helping clients process their past experiences, build emotional regulation skills, and identify personal goals they can actively work toward.

I strive to create a collaborative and supportive environment where clients feel understood and empowered to explore meaningful change. I believe that growth happens through both self-reflection and intentional action, and I’m committed to walking alongside my clients as they navigate their path toward healing and fulfillment.