Orlando Therapist Fatally Stabbed at Her Office; Former Client Found Dead in Apparent Suicide

Rebecca White, a 44-year-old licensed mental health counselor who ran Down to Earth Therapy Solutions in Orlando, was fatally stabbed at her office on the evening of Jan. 19, authorities say. A former client, identified as 39-year-old Michael Smith, is accused of attacking White and another client before fleeing; Smith’s body was found the next morning in an apparent suicide.

Details of the Attack

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and local outlets including WESH, Florida Today and FOX 35 Orlando, White had just finished a session at about 9 p.m. when Smith arrived at her office demanding to see her. Deputies say Smith then repeatedly stabbed White and another client, a man in his 30s, who managed to call 911. Both victims were transported to a nearby hospital; White later died of her injuries and the surviving client is expected to recover.

Suspect Background

Public records obtained by FOX 35 indicate Smith was a registered sex offender who had been released from prison in 2022. His parole reportedly required "psychological or psychiatric evaluation geared towards someone who has committed a violent and vicious sexual battery and who has a violent anti-social personality disorder." Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the confrontation.

Discovery and Investigation

Smith’s body was discovered roughly 14 miles from the therapy office the following morning, around 8 a.m. Deputies told reporters they believe he died by suicide. Investigators continue to review surveillance, building access logs and other evidence to understand how Smith gained entry and what led to the attack.

Family Reaction and Safety Concerns

White’s family has publicly raised questions about building access, security measures and surveillance at the office. In a statement to FOX 35 they said: "We are struggling to understand how this could have happened. There are serious and troubling questions surrounding building access, security measures, surveillance, and how an individual was able to enter the premises during those hours."

Aftermath and Support

The surviving client’s mother posted on GoFundMe that her son will have lasting injuries, including a scar on his mouth and possible nerve damage from a hand wound. Authorities ask anyone with information about the incident to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or emotional distress, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 support.

Sources: Orange County Sheriff’s Office; WESH; Florida Today; FOX 35 Orlando; GoFundMe.