About Us.
Laura C Franco, PhD, LCSW
ABOUT LIFE SOLUTIONS SERVICES
Compassionate Care, Experienced Professionals
Meet the multidisciplinary team serving individuals, couples, and families throughout Brandon and the Tampa Bay area.
OUR APPROACH
Care Built Around the Whole Person
Our clinicians bring diverse training, specialties, and lived experience to one shared purpose: helping every client feel heard, respected, and supported with individualized mental health care.
FOUNDER & CLINICAL DIRECTOR
Laura C Franco, PhD, LCSW
Founder of Life Solutions Services
Dr. Laura Franco is a highly experienced psychotherapist with extensive clinical practice across the United States and Europe. As the owner of Life Solutions Services, she is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care, offering psychotherapy, medication management, Discernment Counseling, and psychological evaluations for immigration purposes.
Dr. Franco holds a Doctorate in Clinical Sexology, a specialization that has equipped her to work extensively with sexual trauma, female sexual dysfunction, and gender dysphoria.
Dr. Franco is a Certified Trauma Specialist and is a member of the Trauma Institute International. She has extensive experience with PTSD and is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR). She actively collaborates with the Franciscan Center of South Tampa in facilitating their First Responders Post Trauma Training, a unique program tailored to help police personnel, EMTs and firefighters in processing and resolving traumas Lee is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences on trauma, autism, and mental health, and is passionate about bridging the gap between mental health services and neurodiverse communities.
CLINICAL TEAM
Tianna Audet, LCSW
Tianna Audet is a psychotherapist who specializes in trauma work, mood disorders (anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder), substance abuse, first responders, family conflict and severe and persistent mental health conditions. Additional areas of expertise include schizophrenic disorders and work with the LGBTQ population.
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Tianna holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. She has many years of experience in various mental health settings and is currently also serving as the Program Director of a local program who partnered with police departments, providing alternative response to social services 911 calls. Tianna has worked as a co-responder with law enforcement to active 911 calls since 2014. She has been on several expert panels focusing on first responders and mental health.
In 2019, Tianna was the recipient of the Pinellas County Hero Award.
Her approach to therapy allows you to be an active participant in your treatment, with open discussion and collaborative decision making. This allows her as your therapist to adjust her approach based on your unique situation. She understands everyone comes to therapy for different reasons; therapy is not a one-size-fits-all and needs to be individualized to maximize your success. You can expect to take away tools to work towards positive and productive outcomes, the ability to use your strengths as a way to help problem solve, and
Dr. Laura Franco is a highly experienced psychotherapist with extensive clinical practice across the United States and Europe. As the owner of Life Solutions Services, she is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care, offering psychotherapy, medication management, Discernment Counseling, and psychological evaluations for immigration purposes.
Dr. Franco holds a Doctorate in Clinical Sexology, a specialization that has equipped her to work extensively with sexual trauma, female sexual dysfunction, and gender dysphoria.
Dr. Franco is a Certified Trauma Specialist and is a member of the Trauma Institute International. She has extensive experience with PTSD and is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR). She actively collaborates with the Franciscan Center of South Tampa in facilitating their First Responders Post Trauma Training, a unique program tailored to help police personnel, EMTs and firefighters in processing and resolving traumas associated with their line of work.
Dr. Franco is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an approach based on the scientific study of attachment theories, adult love and bonding processes in relationships. This approach is designed to address distress in the intimate relationships of adults. Beyond its application in couples therapy, EFT strategies are versatile and can effectively enhance emotional attachment and connectivity within family dynamics. She is also a Certified Discernment Counselor, an innovative approach uniquely designed for couples facing uncertainty in their relationship. This method is particularly beneficial when one partner is hesitant about the future of the relationship (leaning out), while the other is committed to reconciliation and growth (leaning in). Through Discernment Counseling, Dr. Franco assists couples in navigating this delicate juncture, providing guidance and support tailored to each partner's needs and aspirations.
In addition, Dr. Franco’s expertise includes Facial Expression Recognition, and she is a member of the Italian Association of Facial Recognition Analysts.
Her practice serves adults, couples, and families, addressing a wide range of concerns including mood and psychotic disorders, ADHD, neurodiversity, trauma recovery, relationship issues, and grief. She has extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, military families, and group dynamics. Dr. Franco is also an approved supervisor for clinical social workers in the state of Florida and is available to work with interns towards their licensure.
Additionally, she holds an advanced certification in Hospice and Palliative Care and has played a pivotal role in the field of grief therapy, including the establishment of one of the first suicide loss support groups in Hillsborough County.
Dawn Addison, APRN
Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Addison is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. She specializes in supporting adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related concerns, grief, life transitions, and other emotional and behavioral health challenges.
Dawn believes that effective mental health care begins with truly listening and understanding each person’s unique experience. She provides a warm, supportive, and judgment-free environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to participate in their treatment journey.
Her collaborative approach combines individualized medication management with evidence-based strategies that consider the whole person—including emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors. Dawn works closely with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their goals, values, and needs.
Dawn earned her Master of Science in Nursing from South University and completed her Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate through the University of Cincinnati. She is also trained in clinical hypnotherapy and incorporates additional therapeutic techniques when clinically appropriate.
Dawn is passionate about helping individuals move beyond symptom management toward greater hope, resilience, and balance. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside her patients as they work toward improved mental wellness and a more fulfilling life.
Susan Becker Ph.D., LCSW
Dr. Susan Becker works with clients with anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, low self-esteem and difficulties with interpersonal relationships. Additionally, she has broad expertise in couples and family therapy including sex therapy. She is skilled in cognitive behavior therapy, trauma therapy, interpersonal therapy and emotionally focused couples therapy.
Dr. Becker has many years of experience in various mental health settings across the US and also had own her own private practice overseas. She has been faculty at the University South Florida Department of Psychiatry for the last few years.
Dr. Becker holds a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Social Work/Psychology from Rutgers University, MSW from University of Pennsylvania and Master’s Degree in Public Health from Harvard University. She is the author of several publications in psychology and medical journals.
Francesca Bartoccini, Ph.D., RMHC
Dr. Francesca Bartoccini is a highly respected provider, EMDR Therapist, and ICISF Certified Instructor with over two decades of experience in crisis intervention, trauma recovery, and psychological resilience. She has served as Clinical Director for multiple national and international programs, providing leadership in the areas of stress resilience, critical incident response, aviation safety, and humanitarian mental health.
A dedicated trauma-focused clinician, Dr. Bartoccini has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families, helping clients navigate complex emotional landscapes including PTSD, grief, chronic stress, and relational conflict. Her psychotherapeutic approach integrates neuroscience, systemic family therapy, and EMDR, tailored to support healing and long-term resilience. She is known for her capacity to hold space for the most difficult human experiences while guiding her clients toward hope, balance, and renewal.
Dr. Bartoccini has led clinical services across high-stakes environments—from military and civil aviation to emergency response teams and trauma recovery organizations. As the President of Mayday Italia and Clinical Director of SRMS (Stress Resilience Management System), she has supervised and trained hundreds of professionals and peers in crisis response, psychological first aid, and trauma-informed care. She also implements and oversees Peer Support Programs for numerous aviation organizations under EASA guidelines, ensuring the mental health and operational readiness of aircrews and emergency personnel.
Francesca is a published author, having written multiple books on trauma, aviation psychology, and peer support. She has lectured across Europe and the United States, and her work continues to shape best practices in critical incident stress management, family assistance, and systemic trauma recovery. A deeply compassionate professional and a grounded leader, Dr. Bartoccini brings a unique combination of clinical depth, cross-cultural insight, and operational experience to her work with individuals, couples, and organizations navigating the aftermath of crisis and change.
Lee Daly, L.C.S.W., Q.S., M.S.W., M.Ed.
Lee Daly is a seasoned psychotherapist with over two decades of diverse experience in mental health, education, and trauma-informed care. She specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, grief, relationship challenges, LGBTQ+ support, and navigating life with neurodiversity.
Lee brings an exceptional depth of experience working with complex trauma, autism spectrum disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, and family systems. Her work is grounded in a trauma- focused, strengths-based approach that integrates clinical expertise with a deep respect for the individual’s lived experience. She is trained in EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Imago Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method for couples, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Lee draws from these evidence-based approaches to support healing, emotional growth, and meaningful connection.
Her professional background includes key roles at the University of South Florida's Trauma- Informed Schools Project and the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, where she led mental health initiatives across 14 counties and championed the development of inclusive, effective services for individuals with ASD. Lee also has extensive experience working in integrated care and community mental health settings, where she provided direct services and led interdisciplinary teams.
Lee is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences on trauma, autism, and mental health, and is passionate about bridging the gap between mental health services and neurodiverse communities.
Tianna Audet, LCSW
Tianna Audet is a psychotherapist who specializes in trauma work, mood disorders (anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder), substance abuse, first responders, family conflict and severe and persistent mental health conditions. Additional areas of expertise include schizophrenic disorders and work with the LGBTQ population.
Tianna holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. She has many years of experience in various mental health settings and is currently also serving as the Program Director of a local program who partnered with police departments, providing alternative response to social services 911 calls. Tianna has worked as a co-responder with law enforcement to active 911 calls since 2014. She has been on several expert panels focusing on first responders and mental health.
In 2019, Tianna was the recipient of the Pinellas County Hero Award.
Her approach to therapy allows you to be an active participant in your treatment, with open discussion and collaborative decision making. This allows her as your therapist to adjust her approach based on your unique situation. She understands everyone comes to therapy for different reasons; therapy is not a one-size-fits-all and needs to be individualized to maximize your success. You can expect to take away tools to work towards positive and productive outcomes, the ability to use your strengths as a way to help problem solve, and gain a greater sense of insight into yourself/your situation. You can also expect a laid-back atmosphere and leave feeling respected and validated.
Lindsay Lauderdale, MSW, LCSW
Lindsay is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, a proud alumnus of the Master of Social Work program from the University of South Florida and of Louisiana State University for her Bachelors in Sociology. Lindsay’s approach to mental health care is as warm and inviting as the Gulf Coast sun. She has dedicated her career to the wellbeing of her clients, focusing on creating a space where self-care and healing are not just concepts, but lived experiences. She strives to provide a sanctuary of healing and growth which embodies compassion and professionalism.
Lindsay specializes in navigating the complex terrain of emotional wellness. In Tampa’s bustling environment, she stands out as a tranquil provider where individuals, families, and couples can learn, grow, and prioritize their mental health. Her commitment to her clients is evident in every personalized therapy session, providing tailored strategies that foster self-awareness, improve quality of life, and resilience.
Whether you’re looking for guidance on self-care, seeking to heal from past trauma, or hoping to build resilience, Lindsay brings her extensive expertise and heartfelt dedication to every session. Lindsay began her career working with Veterans at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital. She utilizes a strength-based and client-centered approach to help clients achieve their desired goals. Lindsay is well versed in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, (DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, and is a Basic Accelerated Resolution (ART) Practitioner. Lindsay has experience with adolescent through older-adult age groups, working with mood disorders (Anxiety, Depression, and Bipolar), substance abuse, panic disorders, life transitions, personal growth, esteem issues, trauma, self-injurious behaviors, and suicidal ideations.
Her approach to therapy allows for collaboration between provider and client in which there is no hierarchy. She believes the client’s voice is just as powerful as the clinician’s knowledge and together the path to recovery is made. This collective approach will allow the clients to feel more at ease and know that their treatment will be curated to their path to healing and self-discovery. Clients can expect to leave their session feeling valued, heard, hopefully feeling as if their voice matters, and empowered to make positive changes.
Ashley Couch, LCSW
Ashley Couch is a psychotherapist passionate about helping others become their most authentic selves. She utilizes a strength-based, person-centered approach to empower her clients to cultivate courage, vulnerability, and deep self-compassion. A firm believer in radical self-love and the connection between mind, body, and soul, Ashley guides clients toward inner balance and sustainable healing through both traditional clinical and embodied practices.
Ashley has extensive training in trauma-informed care and is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional (CMIP). She specializes in working with individuals ages 12 and older navigating trauma, abuse, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, self-harm, LGBTQIA+ related issues, eating disorders, neurodivergence, life transitions, burnout, and self-esteem.
In addition to her clinical work, Ashley integrates somatic practices, nervous system regulation techniques, and mindfulness-based interventions to help clients feel safe in their bodies and build emotional resilience. As a 200-hour certified yoga teacher, she weaves meditation, breathwork, and body awareness into the therapeutic process, creating a holistic experience that honors the whole person.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Saint Leo University and has over 15 years of experience working with youth, families, and adults in various clinical settings. Ashley integrates a variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and body-based healing practices.
Caitlin Vijayanagar, LMHC, LMFT
Caitlin is a dually licensed therapist (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor) and her focus are individuals, couples and families. Caitlin specializes in trauma work, mood disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse and group work. She utilizes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and positive psychology techniques individualized to the client. She employs an overall Rogerian approach allowing clients to take more of a lead in sessions, believing that they are the master of their own life and with some guidance can help uncover their path towards healing. It is her joy to help point out an individual’s strengths and bolster a client’s self-esteem and autonomy through their therapeutic journey. Caitlin is trained in in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a technique used for trauma treatment that is similar to EMDR. She is also currently working on obtaining her certification as a master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP).
Caitlin has experience working in a variety of settings including crisis stabilization units, detox/residential facilities, and partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient programs. She is passionate about her work and became a qualified supervisor to encourage young professionals in the field.
Miriam Allman, MFT
Miriam Allman, MFT is a registered Marriage and Family Therapist intern, with a Masters Degree from Argosy University, Tampa. She specializes in working with individuals dealing with substance abuse, trauma, marital distress, grief/loss, anxiety and Depression. She has worked in the field of addictions and trauma for 13 years. She has also completed a study abroad at Universidad Internacional de Cuernavaca where she furthered her studies of the Spanish language allowing her to provide services in Spanish.
Miriam utilizes different approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered Therapy and Gestalt Therapy. Miriam believes in a holistic approach to therapy and that therapy shouldn't be a rigid experience: communication is the key that helps us transition from one thing to the next. Sometimes all you need is someone who's non-judgmental to talk to.
Jennifer Allen, Office Manager
Jennifer is a dynamic and result oriented professional with over 18 years’ experience in office management. She joined Life Solutions Services in January 2019 as the Administrative Assistant. In September 2021 she became Office Manager responsible for overall coordination of a broad range of services/resources that allow the organization to operate efficiently. In general Jennifer is the “Go to” person. Jennifer was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Syracuse, NY. She attended the University at Albany in Albany, NY with a major in History and a minor in Business and Communications. She moved to Florida in 2003 at which time she helped her family start a small flower shop in Valrico, FL. She later worked as an office manager for a private practice before starting her own business in medical billing in 2015. She also finds great joy in giving back to her community. Jennifer and her husband have two daughters and enjoy traveling, spending time with family and being involved in youth sports. She has volunteered for various YMCA basketball programs and established a local girls travel basketball team for middle and high school girls. Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations; never give up!
Emma Ciani,Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Emma serves as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Life Solutions Services, where she leads the practice’s strategic communication and digital presence. Her work focuses on translating the clinical mission of Life Solutions Services into clear, authentic, and engaging messaging across all digital platforms.
Currently completing her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Brand Management at the University of Greenwich in London (UK), Emma combines academic insight with practical experience to develop thoughtful marketing strategies that reflect the organization’s values and compassionate approach.
Her expertise includes social media strategy, content design, and audience engagement, ensuring every message resonates with warmth, professionalism, and integrity.
Emma is passionate about fostering connection and accessibility through communication, helping individuals discover support, education, and a sense of belonging within the Life Solutions Services community.