Dr. tamaru Phillips, LMFT
​founder & clinical director 

Dr. Tamaru N. Phillips, LMFT, is a premier leader in couples counseling and the founder of the Sunflower Institute for Therapy & Life Coaching. She is known for helping couples move from disconnection and resentment to clarity, intimacy, and emotional security. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed and culturally responsive care, but what truly sets her apart is her ability to address relationship dynamics head-on while keeping the process human, honest, and transformative.

Dr.Tamaru's approach is direct, insightful, and compassionate, with just enough humor to make the hard conversations feel possible. She doesn’t allow couples to stay stuck in surface-level discussions; she helps them understand the patterns underneath and teaches them how to shift those patterns in real time.
From her Miami office or through secure virtual sessions, Dr. Tamaru works with ambitious, growth-oriented couples who want more than survival., they want partnership that feels aligned, energized, and emotionally safe. 
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Torika Smalls,LCSW
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Torika Smalls is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over six years of experience supporting clients through life's transitions and emotional challenges.  She specializes in providing individual therapy for adults and teens, creating a warm and culturally sensitive space where clients feel truly heard and understood.  


Torika's work focuses on helping individuals navigate emotion instability manage life changes and address the lasting impact of childhood experiences.  She utilizes evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients uncover the root of their struggles and achieve healing, growth, and lasting change. 


Torika is passionate about working with women, minorities, and young people, and is dedicated to empowering her clients to find resilience and clarity at every stage of life. 
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Gerilynne mendez, LMHC

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over three years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. Gerilynne provides individual and family therapy for concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, selective mutism, and other emotional and behavioral challenges.

​Gerilynne's work is client-centered and strengths-focused, with a strong emphasis on emotional regulation, practical coping skills, and collaboration with families. She works with clients from early childhood through adulthood and tailors treatment to meet each person’s unique needs. 

Elena cruz-rivera
​Client Care Coordinator

Elena Cruz-Rivera serves as the heart of the client experience team.  With years of experience in wellness administration and client support, she ensures that every interaction is seamless from the first inquiry to ongoing care.  Elena is highly skilled at managing scheduling, onboarding, and client communication with warmth and professionalism.  Her approachable nature helps clients feel valued and cared for, while her organizational expertise ensures that daily operations run smoothly.  Elena believes that small acts of kindness and attentive listening make a big difference in every client's journey. 
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Carrie Ortiz
Life Coach & Wellness Facilitator

As Life Coach & Wellness Facilitator, Carrie Ortiz is passionate about guiding individuals toward clarity, balance, and growth. With a background in coaching and holistic wellness, she helps clients identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and create sustainable strategies for success. Carrie’s approach blends practical tools with compassionate support, making her a trusted partner for those navigating life transitions, stress, or personal challenges.
She believes that wellness is more than self-care—it’s about building resilience, confidence, and alignment in every area of life. Through one-on-one coaching and group wellness initiatives, Carrie creates empowering spaces where clients feel seen, supported, and motivated to thrive.