Counseling • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy • Herbal Medicine
Massage Establishment Lic # MM42694
Scheduling:
(352) 448-5836
Our Founders
On October 1, 2019, Damita and Jason Hartz opened Florida Acupuncture and Counseling. It was the outcome of many years of hard work and a vision that stretched back many years. Damita, a licensed mental health counselor and licensed acupuncturist, began practicing in a small office off 6th Street in Gainesville, FL. At this time Jason, a former contract employee working at the Gainesville VA Hospital, was completing his Masters Degree in acupuncture school with plans to join Damita in practice. Little were they expecting a global pandemic to hit shortly thereafter. During 2020, with the great demand for counseling services, Florida Acupuncture and Counseling quickly became a thriving practice that had outgrown it's former location and soon would be forced to relocate to NW 43rd Street in Gainesville. By April of 2021 the practice had grown into a group practice with 4 additional counselors and had just hired a second acupuncturist and moving yet again into its current location.
Since those early days Florida Acupuncture and Counseling has undergone more changes. The addition of Massage Therapy, Qi Gong, and Yoga classes, Group Therapy, Therapeutic Gaming, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and more have all emphasized our passion in developing an integrative approach that seeks to live out our vision "to foster a healthy, thriving clientele through a team of integrative, client-focused professionals in a supportive, family-oriented environment."
Counseling Team
Damita Hartz
CEO, President, Licensed Acupuncturist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I'm Damita (she/her), as an acupuncture physician and licensed mental health counselor,
I have years of experience assisting clients with many different issues such as chronic pain, mental/emotional issues, addictions, insomnia, trauma, multicultural issues, women’s health issues, men’s health issues, stress management, and gastrointestinal issues. I provide clients with various modalities such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, East Asian medicine, mind-body integration, and person centered therapy. I enjoy include writing, reading, and spending
time in nature.
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Damita is also part of the Integrative Team.
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​Not accepting clients at this time​
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Insurances accepted: Most major insurances
Stephanie Kuhlman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I am Stephanie (she/her) and I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and RRT (Rapid Resolution Therapy - Hypnosis). Over the years, I have often been moved by my clients, their willingness to tolerate immense suffering and do everything in their power to recovery, heal, or move closer to others. I have also noticed that sometimes, despite their best efforts, something seems to get in their way. This something that has nothing to do with motivation. I have been driven to find those answers to those mysterious barriers and help clients break free of the stuck confusing, involuntary, and frustrating symptom.
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Not accepting clients at this time​​​
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Insurances accepted: Most major insurances
S. Allen Kushner
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I am S. Allen Kushner (he/him), and in my practice, I promote an atmosphere of non-judgment. By this, I take great pride in being able to offer what I like to call a "closed mouth and open mind" when clients are expressing themselves. In turn my primary theoretical concepts that I utilize in helping clients are CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT ( Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
I want to encourage you to start taking the needed step/steps towards wellness by reaching out to me. You can be assured that the time spent in sessions is not my time, but it is YOUR time. It is my hope that we will be able to help unlock and process any distortions that may be preventing you from living a productive, happy and healthy lifestyle .
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Now Accepting New Clients​
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Insurances accepted: Most major insurances
Monica Grey
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Massage Therapist (MA50355), Reiki Energy Pra
Monica Grey (she/her) M.S.W, L.C.S.W graduated with a Master’s degree in 1993, from Florida State University, and was licensed in the state of Florida, as a clinical social worker, in 1996. As a healer, and an intuitive therapist, she has worked for many years in the United States and the Canadian mental health systems gaining insight, and understanding, into the treatment of depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma and substance dependence.
Monica became interested in complimentary medicine early in her career, and has studied, and practiced, alternative methods to promote healing. She is an avid practitioner of Energy Psychology to address psychological issues, a Licensed Massage Therapist, a Reiki Master Teacher, and a Certified Inspirational Breathwork Facilitator. Monica is also retired after 10 years of service to the VA, working closely with Veterans to provide support, and address mental health issues.
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Monica is also part of the integrative team
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Now accepting new clients​
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Insurances accepted: Most major insurances
Holland Hall
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I'm Holland Hall (they/them), and my approach to the therapeutic process integrates several cognitive and behavioral therapies to meet the specific goals that are unique to each client. I have a background in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), as well as specialized training in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) through Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). My goal is to provide a safe space for my clients to explore themselves and the concerns that are present in their lives and to work collaboratively to heal and grow through life’s challenges. We all have our own set of values that guide the choices we make in life, and my approach to the healing process includes considering how my clients’ personal values can inspire positive change in their lives.
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Now accepting new clients
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Insurances accepted: Most major insurances
Chevron Williams
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
I'm Chevron Williams (she/her), and I have a true passion for working with all ages and backgrounds which includes but not limited to veterans, families, and couples. My areas of expertise are providing services for clients using cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational counseling, family therapy, couples counseling, and reflective therapy. I have years of experience working with faith/spirituality, substance abuse, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital issues, family issues, multicultural issues, life skills, and ODD.
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Now accepting new clients
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Insurances accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Veterans Administration
Katherine Magee
Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
I'm Katherine (she/her) and I offer an empathic client-centered counseling experience which aims to enhance personal strengths, explore obstacles, and establish realistic goals for the client to achieve life fulfillment as their most authentic self. My specializations include working with adults and adolescents who present with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, perinatal mood disorders, trauma related disorders, personality disorders, relational problems, and adjustment disorders. I utilize an integrative psychotherapy approach which draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation. I believe it takes courage to seek help and support,
and I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space to develop insight, clarity,
and improved well-being.
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Now accepting new clients​
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Insurances accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Veterans Administration
Integrative Team
Dr. Lina del Pilar Fandino
DACM, Acupuncture Physician
I'm Dr. Lina del Pilar Fandino (she/her) a licensed acupuncturist, I am deeply committed to natural medicine and holistic well-being. My mission is to restore harmony in the body through practices such as Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Herbal Therapy, and Radiesthesia.
With a doctorate from Pacific College of Health and Science and a master’s degree from Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine. I specialize in Tung Acupuncture, Korean Hand Therapy, Scalp Acupuncture, and more, emphasizing the connection between the body, mind, and spirit.
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I find inspiration in painting, maintaining physical health through yoga and exercise, and enjoying reading in my spare time.
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Currently on Maternity Leave and not accepting new clients
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Insurances accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Veterans Administration, American Specialty Health​​
Dr. German Romero Feigel
LAc, MD Venezuela
I'm Dr. German Romero Feigel (he/him) a licensed acupuncture physician in Florida and a NCAOM Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, with a strong sense of responsibility and extensive medical experience. I hold a master's degree Oriental Medicine and a bachelor's degree in health siceince from Acupuncture and Massage college in Miami, FL. Additionally, I am certified as a Surgical Assistant by the AMerican Board of Surgical Assistants. My expertise spans various medical fields, including geriatrics, preventive care, neural therapy, patient rehabilitation, medication administration, laboratory procedures, aestetic laser treatments, patient advocacy, family and patient education, acute and chronic illness management, intravenous therapy, and aesthetic medicine.
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I have received international education in Venezuela, where I earned a diploma in Laser Aesthetic Medicine from the Universidad Nororiental Privada Gran Mariscal de Ayacucho, and an interational dipoloma in Aesthetic Medicine from the Union Internationale de Medicine Esthetique in Paris, Fracnce. I worked as a general practitioner in Caracas, Venezuela, providing aesthetic medicine, laser treatments, weight management, and pain managementservices.
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Now accepting new clients
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Insurances accepted: Veterans Administration​
Ellen Cunningham
Licensed Massage Therapist (MA45115)
I'm Ellen Cunningham (she/her) and I strive to give people a little bit of peace during their massage session. Physically, relief from chronic pain, increased range of motion and softer fascia. Mentally, time to oneself, relaxing the nervous system so your mind and body can be in the parasympathetic stage. Emotionally, a safe, welcoming space where you feel comfortable.
I believe a caring touch truly enhances one’s sense of wellbeing and lifts one’s spirits.
I balance depth of pressure and speed, listening to where your body is at with a methodical, comprehensive and well rounded massage.
I have been lucky enough to work the last 19 years at an Ayurvedic Health Retreat, busy physical therapy clinics and a home office.
I just bought my first home and am imagining, designing and growing a fruit tree, flower, modern spa themed Airbnb. I’ve never met a dog I don’t like and am inspired by Florida’s gorgeous sunsets.
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Now accepting new clients​
Gabrielle Luke
Licensed Massage Therapist (MA98571)
After gaining three years of experience in massage, along with a background in Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, and fitness, I completed my studies at the Florida School of Massage. I focus on relaxation and Swedish massages, while also demonstrating proficiency in neuromuscular therapy and connective tissue techniques. I find great fulfillment in positively impacting people's lives through my practice, and I bgelieve in the importance of building meaningful relationships with each client. My passion lies in providing personalize dmassages, tailored to meet the unique needs of each person I work with.
Class Instructors
Dr. K. A. Shakoor
DAOM, Class Instructor for Yoga and Qi Gong
Dr. K.A. Shakoor (he/him) has been a student, practitioner and instructor of energetic systems for 50 years. Eventually leading to his career as a Spiritual Life Coach for last 30 years. He was a private student of several masters from Asia, Europe, Africa and America. His diverse teaching background of more than 40 years has brought him to instruct in public and private educational institutions, hospitals, mental health facilities, government and law enforcement agencies, private groups, clubs, and sports teams.
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Dr. Shakoor is an active community health advocate and has coordinated health activities and summits across the United States. He has authored multiple books, including Ghetto Sutras and Maahaah Yoga, published by Jannah Press, as well as his soon-to-be released book, The Treatment of the Shen in Relation to T.C.M. and Tibetan Medicine. His passion for integrated energetic medicine as a tool for medical efficacy, as well as a tool for supporting health and wellness practitioners and care givers, drives the purpose of the AUM Institute for Energetic Medicine.
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Administrative Staff
Jason Hartz
CFO, Vice President
I'm Jason Hartz (he/him) and growing up in a military family, my connection with veterans runs deep. After earning a BA in Sociology from the University of Florida, I embarked on a career journey with the Veteran's Administration. There, I cultivated expertise in business administration, customer service, and claims processing, fueling my intrigue in non-conventional healthcare. This led me to pursue a Masters in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Now, as Office Manager, I integrate these diverse skills to streamline our practice's administrative operations. Beyond work, I find joy in cooking, devouring captivating books,
and immersing myself in good music.
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Samantha Collazos
Office Manager
I'm Samantha Collazos (she/her) and I bring over 15 years of experience in the medical field, having honed my skills through roles in hospitals and private practices. Welcoming clients with warmth is a passion of mine, and I thrive on ensuring their visits are seamless by collaborating closely with clinicians and staff. Currently pursuing further education beyond my Associates degree, I'm committed to continual growth. Outside of work, I'm a happily married mother of four and caretaker of two beloved fur babies, keeping life lively and fulfilling.
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