Tara Buffington

I’m Tara Buffington.  I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) in the state of Florida. I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Southwest and hold a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from New Mexico State University. My background in mental health, criminal justice, and leadership provides a unique perspective that I bring to my work with clients.

I work with young adults, adults, older adults, veterans, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, career and workplace concerns, interpersonal and relationship challenges, and other life stressors. My approach is person-centered, collaborative, integrative, and goal-oriented. I believe that each person is more than a diagnosis and that counseling should be tailored to the individual, their experiences, strengths, needs, and goals.

My work draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness, supportive therapy and other evidence-based approaches based on each client’s individual needs and goals. When working with couples, I focus on strengthening communication, navigating conflict, rebuilding connection, and developing healthier relationship patterns. I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and supported while developing practical tools that promote personal growth, resilience, and meaningful change.