Heathrow Psychology

by Jane Edelstein

If you think all psychology and in-person therapy practices are basically the same, take a closer look. There’s one local practice that stands out based on its complete commitment to its clients – Heathrow Psychology.

Dr. Erica Karlinsky, founder of the 19-year-old firm, practices what she preaches: “Learn what emotions are motivating you and why. That’s what   leads to lasting change.”

That mantra has been a good script for Erica’s own professional and personal growth, as well as for her clients.

Since its inception, Heathrow Psychology has grown from one psychologist to 15 therapists, students, interns, and administrative staff. The thriving practice has an office in Lake Mary and a new location at 320 Crown Oak Centre Drive in Longwood, allowing its therapists to serve an expanded client base.

“In Longwood,” says Erica, “we found a space that we loved – one where our existing clients could go to either location, if necessary.” 

Heathrow Psychology offers individual, couples, adolescent, family, and play therapy, and its client base is diverse in just about every way, including age. 

“We have very young children as clients, all the way up to our new 96-year-old client,” says Bob O’Brien, the practice’s co-partner alongside Erica.

A former information technology professional, Bob realized what he really wanted to do was care for people. He went back to school to complete his clinical coursework in psychology and in 2021 joined Erica in the practice.

Both Bob and Erica attribute Heathrow Psychology’s growth to their strong partnership and the willingness of their clients to do the hard work necessary to change.

“One of the biggest problems we see among young people is that they became teens and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Erica. “They were socially isolated, and with the explosion of social media, they became withdrawn, insecure, and anxious. We work to help them get to know themselves in a new way, a way that makes them feel comfortable in their own skin and with their peers.” 

Erica and Bob’s shared goal is to continue growing the practice in a manner that best serves their team and clients.

“Helping people just brings us joy,” says Erica.

To learn more about what sets Heathrow Psychology apart, visit HeathrowPsychology.com.