Araceli Gauna-Scattolini, LMHC, NCC, PMH-C, Qualified Supervisor

Araceli Gauna-Scattolini, LMHC is a licensed mental health counselor in Lakeland, Florida, providing therapy for children, teens, and adults. She specializes in LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy, trauma and PTSD treatment, and supporting children and teens navigating divorce or blended family transitions.

Araceli is a member of the Hispanic/Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities, and Spanish is her first language. She offers culturally responsive counseling and understands how cultural identity, systemic influences, and family dynamics shape mental health and coping. Her goal is to create a safe and affirming space where clients feel understood and supported.

Araceli approaches therapy from a holistic, trauma-informed perspective, viewing each client as a whole person rather than focusing on symptoms alone. She integrates developmental, systemic, and psychodynamic perspectives to help clients understand their experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

Her work considers important aspects of identity and life experience, including age, gender identity, sexuality, family culture, spiritual beliefs, and personal values, when developing treatment goals collaboratively with clients.

Araceli has received specialized training in evidence-based trauma treatments, including:
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

She also holds advanced credentials as a Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C) and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC).

Since 2018, Araceli has worked in community mental health agencies, academic settings, and private practices across Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Polk counties. Her diverse clinical experience allows her to support individuals with both high-acuity and lower-intensity mental health needs.

Araceli believes that community connection is essential to healing and self-confidence. As part of this commitment, she:
Facilitates a free LGBTQ+ Teen Support Group;
Volunteers with local organizations including Rose Dynasty Foundation;
Serves on the boards of No Covers / Little Bus Books, FOR Lakeland, and EMERGE Lakeland; and
Participates in Leadership Lakeland as part of Class XLII (https://www.lakelandchamber.com/chamber-blog/lakeland-chamber-of-commerce-announces-leadership-lakeland-class-xlii-42)

In addition to providing counseling, Araceli is a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructor offering Mental Health First Aid training in Lakeland and throughout Polk County.

Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based certification course that teaches community members, organizations, and workplaces how to recognize the early signs of mental health or substance use challenges and respond effectively. The training equips participants with practical skills to support someone experiencing a mental health crisis or developing concern until professional help is available.

Araceli offers Mental Health First Aid trainings for businesses, schools, nonprofits, and community organizations in Lakeland and surrounding areas.