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Olivia Otto-Pontano - Therapist in Wellington, FL

Introduction

Hi! I’m Olivia, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I specialize in working with young adolescents, teenagers, and adults who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family structure issues, external stressors, or major life changes. My passion is helping my clients find their strengths in order to overcome difficult life obstacles. My goal is to help my clients navigate through difficult times, learn helpful coping strategies, and develop a plan for a positive future.

Service Specialties

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Family Issues
  • Life Changes
  • Grief
  • Divorce

Education

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Entrepreneurship from Lynn University
  • Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University

Licenses

  •  Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Therapeutic Approach

  • Systemic Therapy
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • Solution Focused Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Insurance

  • Cigna
  • Aetna
  • NOMI Health
  • Seminole Tribe 

Location

In office in Wellington

Virtually throughout Florida

Contact

info@caringtherapistsofbroward.com

What can I expect in my first few sessions with?

In our first few sessions, my goal is to create a supportive, welcoming space where you feel heard and understood. We’ll begin by exploring what brought you to therapy, what you’d like to work on, and any immediate concerns or stressors you’re facing—whether it’s anxiety, depression, family conflict, low self-esteem, or a significant life change.

If you're navigating a major transition—such as changes in family dynamics, parenthood, loss, or shifting roles and responsibilities—we’ll take time to explore those experiences with care and compassion. Life transitions often bring up a wide range of emotions, and therapy can offer a grounding space to process those feelings, reduce overwhelm, and find a clearer path forward.

I also work with adolescents and teenagers who may be dealing with anxiety, academic or social pressure, emotional regulation, or difficulty at home. My approach helps young people feel understood while building tools to manage stress, strengthen self-confidence, and improve communication.

If you're experiencing grief due to the loss of a loved one or another form of loss, we’ll work together to honor your experience, navigate the pain, and find a sense of healing at your own pace. Grief is deeply personal, and therapy can help you feel less alone in the process.

As we continue, we’ll identify your strengths, explore effective coping strategies, and build a plan that supports your personal growth and well-being. I’m here to walk alongside you through challenges and help you move toward a more balanced and hopeful future.

What makes you different from other psychologists?

What sets me apart as a therapist is the balance I bring between compassion and clarity. I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to open up, but I also provide structure, guidance, and practical tools to help you move forward. My work is deeply rooted in helping clients not just process what they’re going through, but truly understand themselves—and then take empowered, meaningful steps toward change.

I bring specialized experience in supporting people through major life transitions—whether it’s adolescence, parenthood, grief, or sudden shifts in relationships or identity. I focus on helping clients navigate these times without feeling overwhelmed or lost, and instead help them reconnect with their strengths and sense of self.

I also take a systems-informed approach, meaning I look at how your environment, relationships, and life context play a role in your mental health. Whether I’m working with teens, adults, or families, I pay attention to the bigger picture, while still holding space for your individual experiences and goals.

Above all, I believe therapy should be collaborative. I’m not here to “fix” you—I’m here to walk alongside you, help you understand what you’re carrying, and support you in creating a life that feels more aligned, grounded, and fulfilling.

What inspired you to become a psychologist?

I became a therapist because I care deeply about helping people through difficult times. We all face moments when life feels overwhelming, and I wanted to be someone who could offer real support. I'm especially passionate about helping people recognize their own strengths—even when they don’t feel strong—and using those strengths to move forward. There's something incredibly powerful about watching someone reconnect with who they are and begin to feel more confident and hopeful again.