Since graduating from Florida State University’s Clinical Social Work Program in 1994, I have been working in various fields of social work, including overseeing community-based programs, youth programs, a program focused on providing supervision and business education dedicated to graduates of mental health master degree programs, and working in my private practice. I have experience working with couples at all stages of marriage. The State of Florida has licensed me as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have obtained certifications as an addiction professional, sex therapist, and trauma professional. Throughout my career as a licensed clinical social worker, the Association of Social Workers has awarded me Social Work Student of the Year, Social Worker of the Year, and Social Work Educator of the Year. For the past 20 years, I have been the owner of Earl Ledford, LCSW, ACF Therapy Associates, Collaborative Counseling Associates, and Continuing Education Services and Seminars in Melbourne, Florida. My current role as a therapist on TotalLife.com enables me to focus on supporting older adults during my years as an older adult.
About I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 28 years of experience focusing on improving the quality of life for individuals, couples, and families. My experience includes working with younger adults and older adults. In sessions, I focus on using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies to help clients achieve changes identified through a collaborative effort. I often collaborate with clients to address finding ways for individuals to overcome depression and anxiety, for couples to stay together and overcome infidelities, and for individuals to overcome substance use disorders and addictive behaviors. My counseling style varies, depending on the needs of each client. A number of my colleagues refer to me as a “straight shooter” and many of my clients have said, “Earl gets me.” It is important to me to take the time to listen to and understand each client’s story. For me, it’s a pleasure to accompany clients on their different journeys! In my spare time, I like to work with plants in my backyard, walk over to the beach, lay around the pool, and read. One of my favorite quotes is, “A failure is not making a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying,” by B.F. Skinner because it is one of the examples of how viewing therapy from a place of growth and healing reframes the process.