Amanda Brunson | Dragonfly Counseling & Consulting

Meet the Team

The Dragonfly Counseling team is a group of compassionate, skilled, and client-centered therapists dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and pursue meaningful growth. With diverse clinical backgrounds and specialized training, our team offers a wide range of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where healing and transformation can take place.

DCC Owner/Therapist

Amanda Brunson, LCSW, MCAP

Amanda is a Level II trained therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She integrates EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based approaches to support clients through trauma recovery, substance use and recovery, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. Amanda specializes in working with veterans and military families, offering culturally informed care tailored to their unique experiences.

Originally from the Midwest, Amanda relocated to Florida in 2010. Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children.

Therapist

Joan Sonnier, LMFT

Joan Sonnier is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who offers compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in helping clients navigate challenges such as communication difficulties, relationship conflict, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.

With a warm and collaborative approach, Joan is dedicated to helping clients build stronger connections and foster personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. She integrates a variety of therapeutic methods—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and systems-based approaches—to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs.

Joan works with adolescents, adults, and couples from diverse backgrounds and is committed to providing an inclusive, affirming space for all clients.

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD: Trauma can have a profound impact on a person's mental and emotional well-being. It may lead to a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms, including anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and difficulty concentrating. Coping with trauma can be challenging, but therapy and support can help individuals heal and regain a sense of control over their lives.

Life Transitions: Life transitions are significant changes or shifts in a person's life circumstances or roles. They often mark important milestones and can be both anticipated and unanticipated. Life transitions can have a profound impact on a person's emotions, identity, and daily routines. They can be accompanied by a mix of emotions, challenges, and opportunities. It's important to recognize that individuals may respond to these transitions differently, and seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can be valuable during these times of change.

Anxiety: It is important to distinguish between normal, manageable anxiety and an anxiety disorder. Occasional anxiety is a common part of life, but when anxiety becomes chronic, severe, or interferes with daily functioning, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder that requires professional help and support.

Relationship Issues: Relationship issues refer to difficulties, conflicts, or challenges that arise in the context of personal relationships, whether they are romantic, familial, or friendships. These issues can be common and are a natural part of any relationship but may become problematic when they are persistent, intense, or detrimental to the well-being of one or more individuals involved. Addressing relationship issues often involves open and honest communication, empathy, compromise, and, in some cases, professional assistance through couples therapy or counseling. The specific strategies and solutions to address relationship issues will depend on the nature and severity of the problems and the willingness of all parties involved to work towards resolution and growth.