If you are in a crisis, call 2-1-1 where support is available 24/7.
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES AT THE
YBOR YOUTH CLINIC
Your mental health matters! By using services provided by the Ybor Youth Clinic (YYC), you have the option to access free mental health counseling. This service can be accessed in-person or virtually.
Connect with a navigator and schedule your first session by filling out the referral form:
MEET OUR COUNSELOR
Rusmery Freeman, MSW, RCSWI
Social Worker
University of South Florida
Hi, I’m Rusmery Freeman. I moved from New Jersey to Tampa a few years ago and am bilingual in English and Spanish. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rutgers University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University, and I’ve spent over 11 years working alongside people through life’s transitions, stressors, and healing moments. My work has spanned child welfare, healthcare, and community-based mental health support. I’ve served as a Family Service Specialist with the Department of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P), supporting families during periods of crisis, uncertainty, and emotional overwhelm. I’ve also worked as a Medical Case Manager for individuals living with HIV/AIDS, helping people navigate complex systems while honoring their emotional well-being, autonomy, and lived experience. During my graduate internship at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, I worked with interdisciplinary teams to provide clinical social work services to veterans, with a focus on trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, and adjustment to life changes. I worked closely with supporting older adults through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), where I conducted assessments and helped create care plans that support not only physical health, but emotional wellness, identity, and independence. In addition, I currently work part time providing high- quality therapy through telehealth and in-person services with Hope Psychotherapy and Consulting Services. I provide therapy for individuals, couples, children, and groups using a collaborative, client centered approach that creates space for reflection, growth and healing. At the core of my work is a therapy-informed approach: meeting people where they are, creating space for honest conversations, and recognizing that healing isn’t linear. I believe in normalizing conversations around mental health, burnout, boundaries, and self-worth, especially for young adults navigating change, pressure, and identity shifts. Growth can be uncomfortable, but with connection, reflection, and support, it can also be deeply empowering.
MEET OUR COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS
Gina Cruz
I have worked with vulnerable and marginalized communities since 2002, when I was first introduced to the field of social work while completing my studies at Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, New York. Since that time, my professional experience has spanned a wide range of populations and settings, including women and children, survivors of domestic violence, undocumented individuals, and families involved in child abuse prevention and intervention services. My work has consistently focused on advocacy, empowerment, and providing culturally responsive support to individuals facing systemic barriers and social inequities. Through both direct practice and case management, I have developed a strong understanding of trauma-informed care and the importance of meeting clients where they are while honoring their lived experiences. In addition to my professional experience, I bring a deeply personal perspective to my work with the LGBTQ+ community. As the mother of a woman who identifies within the LGBTQ+ community, I have gained firsthand insight into the challenges, strengths, and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals and families. This experience has further shaped my commitment to providing affirming, inclusive, and respectful care to this population. I am a registered clinical social worker currently working toward full licensure. Presently, I work in the field of nephrology as a medical social worker, supporting patients and families as they navigate complex medical, emotional, and psychosocial needs. In addition, I work part-time as an in-home therapist, primarily serving children and their families. Across all roles, my practice is grounded in social justice, cultural humility, and a commitment to supporting marginalized communities with compassion and professionalism.
Rory Yegge
I am a compassionate and attentive counselor specializing in work with children, adolescents, and families. I’m a licensed mental health counselor and a registered marriage and family therapy intern. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community. I utilize systems theory along with specific trauma treatment modalities such as trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive processing therapy. Each client is unique and my use of these therapies is tailored to the individual. I strive to create a safe therapeutic environment that allows clients to heal and grow.
Marissa Witter, LCSW, QS
Owner and Therapist, For the Love of You, LLC
Hello! My name is Marissa Witter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I attended the University of South Florida where I received a master’s in Social Work along with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My diverse experiences in the mental health field range from facilitating grief support groups, case management, outpatient counseling/therapy, and working as a school social worker in a primary and secondary setting. I have over 8 years of experience working with children and their families where I have gained the necessary skills to help address concerns with anger, anxiety, challenging child behaviors, depression, interpersonal challenges, and grief. I enjoy working with clients to find their passion in life, removing barriers that are keeping them from being the best version of themselves and learning to thrive while living the life they’ve always dreamed. I am eager to use For the Love of You to foster self-love and empowerment in adolescents and young adults in the community I have always called home.