VoyageMIA
Hidden Gems: Meet Addison Reekes Juffin of Florida Relationship Institute
Today we’d like to introduce you to Addison Reekes Juffin.
Hi Addison, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My path to becoming a relationship therapist wasn’t a conventional one. I began in education, but over time my interests expanded beyond the classroom. What began as a career in education gradually became a broader interest in understanding people; their experiences, their relationships, and the different ways they make sense of the world. That curiosity led me to study history and psychology, teach history overseas, learn new languages, and immerse myself in different cultures. Over time, it also led me to graduate school again to study marriage and family therapy. Since then, I have transitioned into private practice, where I have the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families each day.
Looking back, my journey turned out to be the perfect preparation for therapy. It taught me that every story has multiple perspectives, and that understanding requires curiosity, careful listening, and a willingness to suspend judgment. Today, those same principles continue to guide my work. When working with my clients, we’re often trying to understand how their history shaped the present, then using that understanding as a foundation for creating meaningful and lasting change. I feel incredibly fortunate to do work that puts those lessons into practice, helping people better understand themselves and their loved ones, strengthen their relationships, and move forward with greater connection and fulfillment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have certainly been challenges along the way, as there are in anyone’s journey. But, at the same time, I recognize that I have been fortunate in so many ways that I don’t wish to define my story by the obstacles I’ve encountered. I’m more inclined to focus on gratitude, growth, and making the most of the circumstances I’m given. I try to approach life with a sense of agency and empowerment, while also recognizing that not everything is within our control. That’s something I try to carry into my work as well: honoring the experiences that have shaped us while also embracing our capacity to create meaningful change.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Florida Relationship Institute?
The Florida Relationship Institute was created out of a simple belief: relationships deserve specialized care. We believe couples are the heart of the family, and that healthy, connected relationships enrich our lives in profound ways. Strong families give individuals the foundation needed to thrive. That belief is at the heart of everything we do.
We recognize that relationship therapy requires a different approach. Too often, couples and families are treated as a collection of individuals, rather than as relationships with their own dynamics, patterns, and needs. FRI is dedicated exclusively to relationships, with a proprietary approach built around understanding the dynamics between people, tailoring solutions to their personalities and strengths, and leveraging time as a tool for change. Our programs are intentionally focused and concentrated, helping couples and families interrupt patterns, get re-centered, and get back to enjoying the relationships that matter most.
Ultimately, we want the Florida Relationship Institute to continue being known as a center of expertise in relationship psychology. We are working to publish our model, create more accessible content, and contribute to a part of the field that we believe has been underserved. We are proud not only of the work we do with couples and families, but of the opportunity to help advance how relationship therapy is understood and practiced.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
When I think about my favorite childhood memories, it’s difficult to choose just one. The memories I look back on most fondly tend to be the simple times spent with my family; vacations to the beach, trips to get ice cream, holidays, birthdays, and all of the little traditions that brought everyone together. What I remember most isn’t necessarily what we were doing, but how it felt to have the people I loved all together in one place. Looking back, I think those moments gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of family and for how much meaning can come from simply being together.
