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Therapist Fatally Stabbed by Former Patient in Florida

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On Monday night in Orange County, Florida, Rebecca White, a 44-year-old therapist, was fatally stabbed by her former patient Michael Smith, 39.
Smith, with a criminal history, attacked White and another patient before taking his own life hours later.
Witnesses reported the incident as police arrived.
The community expressed grief and highlighted White's impact.
White founded Down to Earth Therapy Solutions in 2022 and specialized in individual and couples therapy.

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Story summary

On Monday night in Orange County, Florida, Rebecca White, a 44-year-old therapist, was fatally stabbed by her former patient Michael Smith, 39.
Smith, with a criminal history, attacked White and another patient before taking his own life hours later.
Witnesses reported the incident as police arrived.
The community expressed grief and highlighted White's impact.
White founded Down to Earth Therapy Solutions in 2022 and specialized in individual and couples therapy.