Meet Makenzie
A LITTLE ABOUT ME, MY APPROACH, AND WHY I LOVE THE WORK I DO.
Hi, I’m Makenzie Cheney, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 14 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges.
I truly love what I do, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside people during some of life’s most difficult, and meaningful moments.
My Approach
I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. My goal is to create an environment where people can open up quickly by being personable, nonjudgmental, open-minded, and genuine.
I don't believe in wearing a "therapy mask." When we're together, you'll see my genuine reactions and expressions. If something is funny, we'll probably laugh. If something is difficult, you'll know I'm sitting with you in it. I'm human too, and I believe authentic connection is an important part of the therapeutic relationship.
I also believe you shouldn't have to pretend to have it all together when you walk through my door. Whether you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, or simply trying to make sense of life, I want therapy to be a place where you can show up exactly as you are.
While creating a supportive environment is important, I also believe therapy should be practical. My goal isn't simply to listen, it's to help you better understand yourself, recognize patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and leave sessions with tools you can begin using in your everyday life.
Education & Experience
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Business Management and my master’s degree in Counselor Education, both from the University of Central Florida.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked in residential facilities, schools, community mental health, and private practice. During my time in community mental health, I also served as a Clinical Manager and Program Director, where I had the opportunity to supervise and support other clinicians. I am also a Florida Qualified Supervisor, allowing me to provide supervision to registered mental health counselor interns pursuing licensure.
Passion for Learning & Working with Couples
One of the reasons I enjoy this career so much is that I'm constantly learning. I love reading, attending trainings, and continuing to build on what I know. Every opportunity to learn ultimately helps me better support the individuals and couples I work with.
My passion for couples work grew as I began seeing the relationship principles I was learning positively impact my own relationships. That experience inspired me to continue expanding my knowledge through the Gottman Method. I have completed Levels 1, 2, and 3 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, am trained in The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work program, and will soon begin pursuing Gottman Certification.
A Little About Me
Outside of the office, I’ve been married 9 years and am a mom to three energetic boys. In the spare moments that I occasionally have, I enjoy reading, being active, and spending time outdoors.
I love being a wife and mom, and I also feel incredibly fortunate to have a career that I find so meaningful. Counseling allows me to use strengths and interests that are different from the ones I use at home, and I appreciate the balance that brings to my life.
Oh, and this is my cute pup. Hoping one day you’ll see her in the therapy room with me.
