Solid Ground Counseling

Deland, FL

Located in a historic building in downtown DeLand, Florida, Solid Ground Counseling provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, life transitions, and maternal mental health. Our clinicians also offer specialized support for complex conditions, including substance use disorders, eating disorders, and the emotional challenges of living with chronic health conditions.

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Our Team

  • Founder

    I have been providing individual counseling to the Deland Community since 2021. My background prior to starting my practice was in inpatient trauma, substance use, and mental health treatment. I am trained in several modalities including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I am trained as a specialist in perinatal mood disorders and love working with parents as they navigate pregnancy and early parenthood.
    My approach to therapy is collaborative and cooperative.
    You are the expert of your life and you know what you need to be well. My job is to work alongside you to help you discern and better understand your unmet needs and less-than-helpful behaviors that might be getting in your way.
    I am client centered and holistic in my approach. I am not here to waste your time and I do not want to be the kind of therapist that you need to see forever. We will have a clear goal and we will work hard to get there. You will take away tangible ways to better manage your day-to-day life and will identify way to increase effectiveness in all areas of your life.

A young woman with long light brown hair and a black top standing outdoors in front of green tropical plants and palm leaves, smiling at the camera.

  • My name is Cara Salvati, and I’ve been working in the field of mental health since 2020. I support adults and adolescents as they navigate grief and loss, chronic illness and pain, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed and strengths-based, and I tailor treatment to the needs, goals, and lived experiences of each client.

    In our work together, I draw from evidence-based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). No two clients are the same, and I blend approaches to fit what feels most supportive and effective for you. I aim to help you build resilience, clarify your values, and create meaningful changes in your life. My hope is to offer a grounded, collaborative space where you feel understood and supported throughout your healing process.

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  • Hello and welcome. I am grateful to be on this journey with you.

    I believe counseling to be a collaborative partnership between the client and the counselor. My approach to counseling integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy. These theories of therapy work well with anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, and grief. We will implement tools like journaling, progressive muscle relaxation, cognitive restructuring, and assessment worksheets. However, you are in charge, and if you are uncomfortable with anything at any time, please feel free to voice your concerns so we can explore an alternative approach that works for you.

    I provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for you to explore and process your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. I will also work to foster warm and professional relationships while maintaining ethical boundaries between counselor and client, which are vital to a successful therapeutic relationship. I aim to create the best therapeutic relationship and environment for your journey.

    As a student intern, my sessions are supervised by Katie Chapin, LCSW. As my supervisor, she will play both a direct and indirect role in your care. I am currently earning my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in women’s studies. I am a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), Florida Counseling Association (FCA), and the Florida ASERVIC branch.

  • Hi! I'm Whitney and I have been providing individual and group therapy since 2020.

    I am passionate about helping teens, women, and new moms create lives that feel good to live—not just ones that look good on the outside. Together, we’ll explore how your past experiences may still be showing up in your present and build a toolbox to reconnect with your authentic self.

    My approach to therapy is holistic, which means we’ll look at the full picture of your life—your mental and emotional health, your physical well-being, and your relationships. We’ll gently challenge the thoughts, feelings, and patterns that aren’t serving you anymore, and work toward building ones that feel more aligned, supportive, and true to who you are.

    In our sessions, you’ll get the real me.  I’ve been on the other side of the therapy relationship too, so I understand how vulnerable this process can feel. You won’t find a blank slate here—just someone who’s in it with you.