Demetric Watkins, LMHC, NCC
(He/Him/His)
About Me
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) dedicated to helping individuals heal from trauma and rediscover a sense of balance, resilience, and self-worth. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and grounded in empathy and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, affirming space where clients can process painful experiences, explore new perspectives, and build sustainable coping strategies that foster long-term growth and emotional wellness. I believe that healing is not only possible but deeply personal—and that every individual has the innate capacity to move from surviving to thriving with the right support and tools.
Education & Experience
I earned my Master of Arts in Rehabilitation & Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida and have extensive clinical experience working with diverse and underserved populations, including youth, adults, veterans, and members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. I am EMDR-trained and specialize in the treatment of trauma-related and mood disorders, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and identity-related trauma. My clinical focus also includes burnout and compassion fatigue, self-esteem and self-concept development, and supporting clients in building emotional regulation and resilience skills. In addition to my clinical practice, I provide consultation and training for community organizations and nonprofit leaders to enhance mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and promote equitable, person-centered care across systems.
Professional & Volunteer Affiliations
President & CEO, NAMI Hillsborough, Inc. Member, EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) Member, American Counseling Association (ACA) Member, American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) Member, Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA)
Specialty Area
- Anxiety/Panic Attacks
- Depression
- Family Issues
- Gender Identity
- Mood Disorders
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Race, Culture, Ethnicity Issues
- Stress Management
Population Served
- Adolescents (13-17)
- Adults
- BIPOC
- Couples
- Families
- LGBTQ+
Language
- English
Insurance
- Aetna
- Cigna
- UnitedHealth
Ascension (SmartHealth), Oxford (Optum), Oscar (Optum), Carelon Behavioral Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Quest Behavioral Health
