Dr. Amanda Werdann-Mendez, DSW, LCSW

Hi! I’m Dr. Amanda Werdann-Mendez, a Doctorate in Social Work, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and trauma-informed therapist. I specialize in trauma and borderline personality disorder.

I provide virtual therapy services throughout Florida for individuals and couples who help adults with trauma, mood swings, anxiety, depression, poor ability to manage anger, poor communication patterns, and borderline personality disorder. In addition to therapy services, I also provide qualified supervision for registered clinical social work interns working toward licensure in Florida.
Many of the clients I work with feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, constantly overthinking, or reacting in ways they later regret. Some of my clients experience suicidal thoughts and difficulty finding joy in their life. Together, we work on slowing down these patterns, improving emotional regulation, strengthening communication, processing trauma, learning to be mindful and in the moment, reducing impulsive responses/ intrusive thoughts, and building a stronger sense of self-trust and stability.
My work integrates evidence-based approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and strength-based approaches. I use a trauma-informed care model to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs and goals because I understand that healing is not one-size-fits-all. I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore your experiences openly and build confidence in your ability to move forward. A trauma informed care (TIC) approach means that it is Collaborative approach - you steer the boat and I am giving you the tools to get to where you want to be. Life is a map and if we do not know where we are going, we are never going to get there. I will look at your map, identify your destination and the steps it takes to get there. I create a Safe and Trusting environment, I think communication is important and work with you to break avoidance patterns which has helped many of my clients feel comfortable with themselves, improve their relationships, and feel more free. Part of the TIC is Choice, you have the autonomy to choose what you want to do with your life, I will never tell you if something is right or wrong, I will explore each of your choices - create a pros and cons list and help you determine if something you want to do will help you reach your destination or steer you in the wrong direction. Finally, Empowerment is involved and a major aspect of our work together. You already have all you will ever need to get you to your destination, even if it feels out of reach. I will help you explore your strengths and use them in different ways. Your biggest weakness could be your biggest strength but used incorrectly. Every coping skill you have (drinking/smoking/biting your nails/avoidance/shutting down, etc.) are all there because they helped you to survive. The problem is, it's no longer helping you and it is creating problems for you. We will look at how those skills helped you to survive, what you want to adjust in your life, work to change negative thoughts, and find out how we can flip your script so we can use what was working against you as a way to push you forward.
I am super passionate about what I do and helping you reach your goals. If a therapy approach is not working I can accommodate and switch to something else. I like to make our therapy sessions welcoming and comfortable, which I do by bringing in humor and teaching you ways to laugh about stressful things. Laughter has so many mental health benefits and I aim to achieve that together. I am excited for you to take this next step in therapy with me. Reach out to learn more about if we are a good fit for each other!