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Shelley Dodt

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW,BCPA
Self esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
5 years of experience

My clients say that they really appreciate the feeling that I am "on their side" helping them understand how to cope and deal with life. I always say if the behavior you are doing is getting you what you want out of life, keep doing it! If not, let's work together to see what we can change so you can get what you want out of life. I am a good listener and try to be the kind of counselor that I needed myself but never could find. I use mindfulness in my practice and truly believe Jon Kabat Zin when he said " As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than wrong with you, no matter what is wrong". I work with my clients to help them develop insights. I try to teach them coping skills and tools so they can recognize life's little landmines and be able to navigate through and around them. Everyone has strengths and we explore yours so you can put them to the highest use in your life. Let's face it, life is not supposed to be painful and confusing. For some people it is. A good therapist can help you find your way out of the woods and to feel better, do better and prosper. I really love working with clients and am proud of the progress my clients in my private practice have made. Maybe I can help you too. My goal is to help you find better solutions through mindfulness, kindness, compassion and to add a little humor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Patient Advocate. I am also Certified as a Life Coach. But most importantly, I am a human being just like you and people say I have the knack for helping them feel better.

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Tyrina Pinkney

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,MSW
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

When life gives us the unexpected sometimes, we need support systems that may seem untraditional to some. As, a therapist, I welcome all the doubts that you may have to engage in the therapeutic process. Therapy is a partnership, meaning, I will be there to motivate and challenge you to arrive at the desired outcome. Most of my career has had a focus of working with individuals that suffer from dual diagnosis, trauma, and poor coping skills. Each treatment plan is developed personally for each individual meeting their own personal needs. My primary treatment orientation includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. My interaction from beginning to end will also include trauma-informed care. My education path is via Lynn University of Boca Raton and Barry University of Miami Shores, Florida. I, thank you, in advance for letting me help you achieve one of your many goals in life, freedom from the bondage that is holding you from your peace!

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LaToya Stevenson

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Greetings! My name is LaToya Stevenson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups providing counseling for 8 years through community-based mental health and social service agencies. I possess both Bachelor and Masters degrees in Social Work and Certification in Child Welfare. I specialize in working with addiction, behavioral health, multicultural issues, family/relationships, esteem, and existential crises (sudden changes/alterations in lifestyle). I am highly trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which I have utilized within individual, group, and family therapy. I, also, regularly utilize solution-focused therapy and motivational therapy in session. My goal as a therapist is to utilize my skill and expertise to guide and assist my clients in addressing their presenting problems to facilitate healing. I pride myself in creating a warm and inviting therapeutic environment centered on trust. I am here to work with you if you are ready to take the steps towards change. I look forward to working with you and being able to support and empower you in this journey!

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Shawndre Leydon

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical therapist in Massachusetts and Florida with over 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Sha'Leda Mirra

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Psychologist and licensed clinician in the state of Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I am also a Christian-focused therapist and a Certified Addictions Professional with a passion for fostering healing and transformation in the lives of the clients I serve. Specializations include: helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Other specializations include couples therapy, PTSD and racial trauma, and complex grief. I believe it is a divine gift to partner in the therapeutic journey with clients and treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Lee Monahan

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am an LCSW, licensed in Utah, Oregon and Florida. I've been working in the field for over 20 years, and am proficient working with clients addressing multiple issues; grief and loss, the effects of past traumas, anxiety and depression, self esteem issues, LGBTQ challenges, and believe we all do the best we can given the information and skills we have. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral, Brief Solution Focused, and Acceptance Commitment therapeutic approaches in my work with clients. It's an honor to be invited into client's lives as they uncover their potential, overcoming and defusing old messages/beliefs, moving forward with newfound skills and courage in reaching their own personal goals of wellness.

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Marcus Litterst

Offering therapy in FL
Self esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mercy Suarez

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,MA,EDS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, career or work related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Ayinde Reid's avatar and link to their profile

Ayinde Reid

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you've been turned away, faced road blocks in your search for help. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Telisa Hayden's avatar and link to their profile

Telisa Hayden

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Anna Maria

Finding the best therapist close by in Anna Maria can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Anna Maria. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Anna Maria, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Anna Maria or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Anna Maria area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Anna Maria, elsewhere in Manatee, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Anna Maria area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Anna Maria therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Anna Maria due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Anna Maria may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Anna Maria, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Anna Maria above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Anna Maria helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Anna Maria therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Anna Maria therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Anna Maria therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 34216 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Anna Maria counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Anna Maria licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Anna Maria, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Anna Maria has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Anna Maria.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Anna Maria:

34216

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