
Julie McDermott, LCSW, CCTP
Empathetic & Collaborative
Trauma Therapy
Specializing in anxiety, depression and trauma for professionals in the arts and sciences
Providing virtual therapy from West Palm Beach, FL & Throughout Florida

"If the ocean can return to stillness, so can you."
- Nayyirah Waheed
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 of others, the patterns beneath behavior, and the influence of traumatic experiences. Questions about what makes each person unique and complex sparked a passion which would shape my career. This led me to earn a BA in Psychology at the University of Central Florida. I then studied Fine Arts for many years, exploring how emotions and personal statements can be expressed through the visual. While I worked as an art teacher for persons with disabilities, I became inspired to get my graduate degree and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to further pursue my passion for helping others.
Graduate Research in Trauma, Secondary Trauma & Compassion Fatigue
Starting in graduate school at Florida State University, I focused my education and research on the treatment of trauma and related diagnoses. During graduate training, I conducted an independent research study on secondary trauma and compassion fatigue, exploring how medical and health mental professionals are impacted by the suffering they witness and treat. This clinical focus has shaped the way I support medical professionals, mental health providers, and caregivers who are often managing high levels of stress, burnout, and secondary trauma while continuing to care for others.
Certified Trauma Therapist with Specialized Domestic Violence Training
I completed over 80 hours of direct service training at domestic violence shelters, which deepened my understanding of interpersonal trauma, complex PTSD, and the long-term impact of intimate partner violence. To continue building clinical expertise, I became a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I was also invited to speak for the Palm Beach Unit of the National Association of Social Workers during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, where I presented on the topic “Intimate Partner Violence: After They Leave.”
Fine Arts Background Supporting Creative Professionals in Therapy
In addition to my clinical education, I have a longstanding background in the fine arts. For more than twenty years, I studied painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and art history in both academic and studio-based settings. My training included focused work in lost wax casting, fine art photography, and metalsmithing, alongside ongoing creative practice. This background informs my work as a therapist for artists, creatives, and highly sensitive individuals who process experience visually or nonverbally.
Mindful Observation & Creative Exploration
In recent years, my creative interests have expanded to include freediving, snorkeling, and underwater photography, which allow me to engage with the natural world in ways that support reflection, presence, and observation. This connection to visual storytelling and sensory experience continues to shape how I show up in the therapy room—with attention to detail, emotional nuance, and the things that often go unsaid.
Therapy for Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression in High-Functioning Professionals
Today, I work with professionals navigating trauma, anxiety, and depression, including those in healthcare, science, and the creative arts. Many of my clients are thoughtful, introspective professionals who have spent years taking care of others or pushing through high-performance environments while suppressing their own mental health needs. I offer a compassionate and collaborative space for long-term trauma therapy, tailored for those seeking depth, clarity, and sustainable change.
Approach & Evidence-Based Methods
My approach integrates evidence based treatment, including Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and an understanding of how the body stores traumatic experiences. This mind-body focus supports clients in identifying patterns, building emotional regulation skills, and working through long-standing distress that may be rooted in past trauma.
Ready to begin?
I offer virtual therapy sessions for medical professionals, creative professionals, and other high-responsibility individuals across Florida. If you are seeking a supportive, in-depth approach to address trauma, anxiety, or burnout, I welcome you to reach out. My practice is designed for those who want to explore the root of their experiences in a thoughtful and collaborative space.
Schedule a free consultation
My Therapeutic Approach
My counseling style is empathic and collaborative. At the end of each session, I hope you will feel lighter. My approach combines client-centered, cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed, empowerment, and solution-focused counseling. I believe people can make changes in their lives. My approach also works with perceptions of self and life in general. As perceptions change and grow, so do people’s lives. The meaning we assign to events and experiences can impact us a little or greatly. Sometimes, we may not even be aware of it. When awareness grows, change can occur. I enjoy seeing people make changes, either small or large, to improve enjoyment in life and relationships. Change does take effort and I believe it is best to start with small changes. As we work together, we will attempt to find solutions that work for you.
Specialties
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Grief and Loss
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Domestic Abuse Survivors
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Intimate Partner Violence Survivors
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Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Finances
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United Healthcare
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Aetna
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Anthem
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Evernorth/Cinga
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Blue Cross Blue Shield
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Tricare
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Self Pay $277
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Super Bill
Location
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Virtually across Florida