Desarae Herard, LMHC

Desarae Herard is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who helps people reclaim a sense of control and move forward from difficult life moments. She combines compassionate, empathic listening with practical feedback and strategies so individuals can address stressors, build coping skills, and pursue more fulfilling lives. Her approach emphasizes meeting people where they are and offering interventions tailored to each person’s needs so they can develop lasting skills for emotional well-being.

Originally from the northeast, Desarae relocated to Jacksonville in 2002 to begin her undergraduate studies. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Jacksonville University in 2006 and completed a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Capella University in 2011. She is credentialed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), is a National Certified Counselor, and serves as a Qualified Supervisor in Florida.

Over more than a decade of practice, Desarae has worked in diverse settings and supported people at many stages of life, including crisis situations and everyday challenges. Her primary goal is to guide clients toward positive personal growth and help them reach their full potential through skill-building, empathy, and practical therapeutic tools.

Therapeutic Approaches and Accessible Online Care

Desarae Herard draws on client-centered therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support people in online sessions. Client-centered therapy focuses on empathic listening and building a trusting therapeutic relationship - it helps individuals feel understood and encourages exploration of personal values and goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured, problem-focused approach that identifies unhelpful thoughts and patterns and teaches practical skills to manage symptoms such as anxiety and low mood.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Desarae works collaboratively with each person to determine what fits best for their needs, goals, and preferences. She integrates compassion with evidence-informed techniques so treatment reflects the client’s pace and priorities.

Online therapy with Desarae is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, which makes scheduling more flexible and helps people access care from wherever they are. These options allow continuity of care and make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives while working with a licensed professional.