Hi there! I’m Alex Karydi (She/Her or They/Them).

With over two decades of experience in behavioral health, suicide prevention, and guiding individuals through life's most challenging moments, I provide caring, evidence-based therapy to individuals, couples, families, and teens. As a licensed therapist, certified death doula, and licensed addiction counselor, I am deeply committed to advocating for the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. I work with people from all walks of life, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and empowered on their path to healing.

Welcome to Floating Seed Therapy. You're more than just a client; you’re someone with a unique story, and I’m here to listen, guide, and support you. Whether you’re navigating grief, overcoming addiction, or seeking relief from emotional pain, together, we can nurture your growth at your own pace in a supportive, compassionate space.

My Approach to Therapy

I believe every challenge is like a floating dandelion seed—holding the potential for growth and transformation. Those seeds can take root and blossom into meaningful progress with the right care and support. While I’ve led national initiatives like the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, my true passion lies in helping individuals like you find healing and resilience.

I take a holistic, client-centered approach, blending evidence-based practices with culturally responsive care. My training includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Crisis Intervention, with specializations in suicide prevention, substance use, and the mental health needs of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your emotions and build the resilience you need to thrive.

In addition to my work in suicide prevention and addiction, I incorporate trauma-informed care, family systems theory, and grief counseling into my practice. Whether you’re facing grief, perfectionism, addiction, or relationship challenges, I’m here to help you create positive, lasting change.

Certifications and Specializations

Here are some of the certifications and specializations that shape my practice:

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in New York, Virginia, and South Carolina

Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), South Carolina

Certified Death Doula (IAPCC)

Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapist (BTECH)

Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS)

Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD)

Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), New York

Certified SafeTALK, ASIST, and Suicide 2 Hope Trainer (LivingWorks)

Certified Integrated Attachment Theory Coach (Personal Development School)

Certified Member of the International Association for Suicide Prevention

These credentials reflect my dedication to offering a wide range of support to those facing grief, mental health crises, substance use issues, and personality disorders. I’m ready to walk with you toward healing and growth.

Degrees

Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Northcentral University, 2018

Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology | American Academy of Clinical Sexology, 2014

M.A. in Clinical Psychology | Argosy University, 2009

Publications

Harris, B. R., Gallant, K., Cohen, H., Karydi, A., & McPherson, T. L. (2024). Communication and support as suicide prevention for LGBTQIA2S + youth: Perspectives of professionals, parents, and youth. Journal of LGBT Youth. https://doi.org/10.1080/19361653.2024.2377661

Karydi, A. (2013). Lesbian sexual health: Reaching a vulnerable population. The Academy of Clinical Sexology.

Nagle, M., Joshi, K. G., Frierson, R. L., Durkin, M., Karydi, A. (2020). Psychiatrists' knowledge about the gun rights of persons with mental illness. Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, 49(1).

Career Highlights

Director of State and Territory Initiatives at the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, leading the 2024 US National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, endorsed by the White House.

Former Program Director at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, where I established the first State Suicide Prevention Office.

A recognized LGBTQIA2S+ and youth mental health expert, serving on various advisory panels and media platforms to discuss mental health interventions.

Here's the completed list of media mentions for Alex Karydi:

Media Mentions

• Crain's New York Business (June 27, 2024)
  Alex Karydi has been recognized as one of the Notable LGBTQ+ Leaders in 2024. The article highlights her role as the Director of Behavioral Health Product Development at VNS Health, emphasizing her contributions to advancing mental health services.
  Read more here.

• WACH (July 20, 2015)
  This piece features Dayna Smith, an openly transgender woman from Columbia, discussing her journey and how she has used her experiences to help others in the transgender community. While not directly about Alex, it aligns with her advocacy for LGBTQ+ issues.
  Read more here.

• Mashable (September 2, 2023)
  Alex Karydi is quoted in an article about recognizing symptoms of suicidal behavior in teenagers and how to approach the conversation about mental health with them.
  Read more here.

• Parade.com (August 3, 2023)
  This article discusses the viral "fairy-flying" trend and the concerns it raises among mental health professionals, including insights from Alex Karydi on its impact on youth mental health.
  Read more here.

• WIS News 10 (August 15, 2018)
  The report covers the tragic suicide of a star from My 600-lb Life, including statements from family members and mental health professionals, offering context on the pressures of reality television and mental health.
  Read more here.

• Lowcountry Mental Health Conference (February 11, 2020)
  Alex Karydi, Ph.D., LMFT, was featured for her research and clinical work on the effects of minority stress on LGBTQI+ individuals, showcasing her expertise and commitment to mental health advocacy.
  Read more here.

• Suicide Prevention Resource Center (March 25, 2022)
  This article discusses the reaffirmation of support for LGBTQI+ youth by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, featuring contributions from Alex Karydi regarding suicide prevention efforts.
  Read more here.

• Qwoted (August 5, 2023)
  As a source for the Education Development Center, Alex Karydi discusses her expertise in technical assistance, communications planning, and sustainability in mental health programs.
  Read more here.

• Sharpen Health (April 12, 2021)
  Featuring Dr. Alex Karydi, this article discusses the offering of the Sharpen Colleges app for free in response to university and student feedback during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its benefits for mental health support.
  Read more here.

• Facebook (May 2, 2018)
  South Carolina Department of Mental Health - South Carolina Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative director Alex Karydi, PhD, spoke to a crowd about the importance of supporting youth mental health initiatives and reducing stigma.
  View the post here.

• GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission, Inc. (September 28, 2018)
  Coverage of the Youth Leadership Professional Development Conference, where GLEAMNS student India Rice spoke during the event's luncheon, highlighting youth empowerment efforts, with mentions of Dr. Alex Karydi's involvement.
  Read more here.

• PBS Guam (June 3, 2024)
  A program focusing on bullying and suicide prevention, featuring insights on how social issues affect student health and learning processes, including contributions from Alex Karydi.
  Watch the program here.

• VNS Health (July 12, 2023)
  An article detailing efforts to build safe pathways for at-risk youth, featuring coalitions of providers and highlighting the contributions of mental health leaders, including Alex Karydi.
  Read more here.

• Resiliency Technologies (July 22, 2019)
  The leadership team at Resiliency Technologies is highlighted for their expertise in mental health technology and behavioral health treatment, with Alex Karydi being recognized for her contributions.
  Learn more here.

• Youth Today (November 30, 2023)
  In this article, Alex Karydi discusses parental concerns over social media use and its impact on youth mental health. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these effects to develop effective prevention strategies and support systems for children.
  Read more here.

• Video: “You are incredible, there is NOTHING you cannot do” - Alex Karydi (January 25, 2020)
  In this inspiring video, Alex Karydi, Director of Project 2025, emphasizes the importance of collective action in reducing the suicide rate.
  Watch the video on Facebook.

• Video: Bill Brassard and Alex Karydi - SHOT TV Studio (February 4, 2020)
  This video features a discussion between Bill Brassard and Alex Karydi about the partnership between the National Shooting Sports Foundation and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
  Watch the video on Facebook.

• Video: Dr. Alex Karydi -- We Need to Talk About Suicide (September 2, 2020)
  In this video, Dr. Alex Karydi discusses the necessity of open conversations about suicide prevention and best practices in postvention.
  Watch the video on Vimeo.

• Video: Koko! with Alex Karydi - SC Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative (March 23, 2017)
  This episode features Alex Karydi discussing youth suicide prevention initiatives in South Carolina, aiming to raise awareness and promote support.
  Watch the video on YouTube.

• Video: Carolina Classrooms - Bullying and Suicide Prevention (September 28, 2016)
  Guests include Alex Karydi, Ph.D., who addresses the impact of bullying on mental health and the importance of prevention strategies in schools.
  Watch the program on PBS Utah.