Grayson McGraw Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern

Grayson McGraw, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, IMH26839 is practicing under the supervision of Elizabeth Mahaney (Florida, LMHC, MH10069) at Saltwater Souls Counseling.

Please, note: A clinician listed as being “clinically supervised” is completing clinical hours toward their licensure. They have one or more fully licensed clinical supervisors that often have special training to become supervisors. They consult with their supervisor(s) on all of their cases, which means that, when working with them, you are getting the time and expertise of multiple therapists in your treatment.

My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by my own journey of growth and resilience. Early on, I saw how transformative support and understanding could be, both in my own life and in the lives of those around me. These experiences ignited a passion for helping others navigate their challenges and uncover their strengths. As a former Division I athlete, I witnessed firsthand how pressure, identity struggles, and mental health intersect. Later, working as a peer recovery specialist, I saw the profound impact of being a supportive presence for others in their healing process. My time as a school therapist further solidified my calling, as I helped teens and families overcome obstacles and reconnect with their sense of hope. What inspired me most was seeing the power of connection and how a safe, compassionate space can empower people to break through barriers. That’s why I chose this profession: to walk alongside others on their path to self-discovery, healing, and thriving.

Working with me means stepping into a space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported—without judgment. I bring a warm, down-to-earth approach to therapy, blending evidence-based techniques with genuine connection and a touch of humor. I believe laughter can be just as healing as deep conversations, and I’m not afraid to lighten the mood when it feels right. I want you to feel comfortable being yourself, even when life feels overwhelming. Together, we’ll explore your challenges and celebrate your wins, all while keeping the process approachable and collaborative. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating—it can be a place where growth feels natural, and even enjoyable. My goal is to help you leave each session feeling more empowered, resilient, and ready to face what comes next.

The most profound thing I’ve learned as a mental health professional is that everyone has an innate ability to grow and flourish in their own unique way. No matter the obstacles, each person carries a reservoir of resilience, strength, and potential that often just needs the right environment to emerge. Witnessing this growth firsthand has shown me that healing is not about fixing what’s broken but uncovering the parts of you that are already whole. Each client’s journey is a reminder that transformation doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s the beauty of it. Growth can come in small, steady steps or in life-changing realizations—it’s always personal, always powerful. This understanding inspires me to instill hope in my clients and to approach every session with the belief that change is not only possible but inevitable with the right support. Therapy is about tapping into that potential and walking alongside you as you create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

My journey as a therapist has been shaped by diverse and meaningful experiences. I started as a peer recovery specialist, supporting individuals in overcoming challenges and finding strength in their personal journeys. This role taught me the power of connection and the importance of meeting people where they are. Later, I worked as a school therapist at a high school in California, helping teens navigate the complexities of adolescence, from academic pressures to self-esteem and identity struggles. Working with students and families deepened my understanding of the unique challenges young people face today and reinforced my belief in the resilience of the human spirit. Now in Florida, I run my own practice, combining these experiences to provide compassionate, personalized therapy for clients navigating anxiety, identity challenges, and life transitions. Each step of my career has been rooted in empowering individuals to heal, grow, and thrive on their terms, and I bring that same dedication to my work every day.