
Julie McDermott, LCSW, CCTP II
Empathic & Collaborative Therapy
Trauma-informed therapy in West Palm Beach & online throughout Florida.
Schedule a free consultation.

Trauma-Informed Therapist for Professionals & Creatives in Florida
My work as a trauma-informed therapist grew from a desire to understand people more deeply. I have always been curious about the emotional and behavioral patterns that shape our experiences, the stories beneath our behaviors, and the ways difficult or traumatic experiences can influence how we see ourselves and the world around us.
This curiosity sparked a passion that would shape my career. I earned my BA in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and later spent many years studying Fine Arts, exploring how emotions, experiences, and personal perspectives can be expressed through visual art.
My background in both psychology and the arts ultimately led me to pursue graduate study in social work. I earned my Master of Social Work from Florida State University and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Today, I bring together my clinical training, curiosity about human behavior, and appreciation for individual expression to provide thoughtful, collaborative, trauma-informed therapy to professionals and creatives throughout Florida.
Graduate Research in Trauma, Secondary Trauma & Compassion Fatigue
My clinical interest in trauma began during my graduate education at Florida State University, where I focused my studies and research on trauma and related mental health concerns. As part of my graduate training, I conducted an independent research study examining secondary trauma and compassion fatigue among medical and mental health professionals.
This work deepened my understanding of how continually witnessing or responding to the suffering of others can affect the professionals and caregivers who provide that care. Today, this perspective informs my work with healthcare professionals, mental health providers, caregivers, and others who may experience chronic stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, or secondary trauma while continuing to meet the needs of others.
Certified Trauma Therapist with Specialized Domestic Violence Training
I completed more than 80 hours of direct-service training at domestic violence shelters, where I gained experience working within the context of intimate partner violence and its emotional and psychological impact. This experience deepened my understanding of interpersonal trauma, complex trauma, and the challenges that can continue long after an abusive relationship has ended.
I continued my professional training by becoming a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II (CCTP II). I was also invited to speak to the Palm Beach Unit of the National Association of Social Workers during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, presenting on “Intimate Partner Violence: After They Leave.”
Fine Arts Background Supporting Creative Professionals in Therapy
My professional background brings together psychology, clinical social work, and more than two decades of study in the fine arts.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years studying painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and art history in both academic and studio settings. My training included lost-wax casting, fine art photography, and metalsmithing, along with years of ongoing creative practice.
This background gives me a particular appreciation for artists and creative professionals who may experience the world visually, intuitively, or nonverbally. I understand that creativity can be an important part of how people make meaning of their experiences and understand themselves.
Mindful Observation & Creative Exploration
My own creative interests have continued to evolve over the years and now include recreational freediving, snorkeling, and underwater photography. These experiences allow me to slow down, observe closely, and engage with the natural world in a different way.
That same attention to observation informs my work as a therapist. I pay attention not only to what clients say, but also to patterns, emotional nuances, and the experiences that may be difficult to put into words.
Therapy for Professionals, Creatives & Caregivers
Today, I work with professionals and creatives throughout Florida who are navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, and significant life transitions. My clients often include people working in healthcare, science, the arts, and other high-responsibility or high-performance environments.
Many are thoughtful and capable people who have spent years taking care of others, meeting demanding expectations, or simply pushing through difficult experiences. From the outside, they may appear to be functioning well while privately struggling with anxiety, emotional exhaustion, unresolved trauma, or the effects of chronic stress.
Therapy provides an opportunity to step outside of that role and take a closer look at what you have been carrying. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized, with attention to both your current concerns and the experiences that may have shaped them.
Respect for Every Person's Story
Every person brings a unique history, identity, culture, relationships, and life experiences into therapy. These experiences influence how we understand ourselves, relate to others, and navigate the world.
I work with people from a wide range of backgrounds and approach each client with openness, curiosity, and respect. My goal is to understand your experience rather than make assumptions about it. I will listen carefully to what has shaped you and work collaboratively with you to determine what feels most meaningful and helpful.
Evidence-Based, Trauma-Informed Therapy
My approach integrates evidence-based treatments with trauma-informed care. Depending on your individual needs, therapy may incorporate Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and other clinically appropriate approaches.
Together, we can explore patterns that may be contributing to anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, emotional distress, or other concerns. Therapy can also focus on developing practical skills for emotional regulation, understanding the effects of past experiences, and creating more effective ways of responding to the challenges you face today.
Education & Credentials
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Master of Social Work, Clinical Concentration, Florida State University
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Central Florida
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida #SW17344
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Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II (CCTP II)
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Member of the National Association of Social Workers
Ready to begin?
I offer virtual therapy throughout Florida for medical professionals, creative professionals, caregivers, and other high-responsibility individuals seeking thoughtful, in-depth therapy.
If you are looking for support with trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, or a significant life transition, I invite you to reach out. We can begin with a consultation to discuss what you are experiencing and whether my approach is a good fit for your needs.
Prefer to reach out directly? Call or text 561-437-2930 to inquire about appointments.
Schedule a free consultation
My Approach to Therapy
My counseling style is empathic and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when we work together to understand what you are experiencing, identify what is getting in the way, and explore changes that feel meaningful and realistic for your life.
My approach integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, trauma-informed care, empowerment, mindfulness, and solution-focused strategies. I do not believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I tailor our work to your individual needs, experiences, strengths, and goals.
I am interested in the ways our thoughts, perceptions, and past experiences can shape how we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. The meaning we assign to events and experiences can affect us in subtle or significant ways, sometimes without our full awareness. As awareness grows, new perspectives and possibilities for change can emerge.
Change does not have to happen all at once. Often, meaningful progress begins with small, manageable steps. Together, we will explore patterns, develop practical strategies, and identify solutions that work for you. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, feel more equipped to navigate challenges, and make changes that can improve your enjoyment of life and relationships.
I also hope that when you leave a session, you feel heard, understood, and lighter than when you arrived.