Destin is most known for its white beaches. Although it is a tourist attraction, many permanent residents of Destin enjoy the peace and calm of the white beaches throughout the year, even when tourism is at a low during the winter months. However, just because there are white beaches and calm emerald waters does not mean that you are always happy.

If you don’t feel the calm and joy from the white sands and emerald waters like you used to, you might want to talk to a therapist. Counselors in the Destin area are available to help you discover why you cannot feel calm and happy, and help you find those feelings of peace and joy once more. Contact a therapist today.

This is Daniela Romano's avatar and link to their profile

Daniela Romano

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

**NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I am dedicated to empowering individuals to take actions that will move them closer to their goals and values. These values guided changes many times lead to an improvement in mental health and overall wellness. I have extensive experience implementing clinically tested and evidence based interventions . I have collaborated with clients seeking help for various concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and adjustment disorders. My counseling style is integrated and collaborative. I promote a supportive, nonjudgmental space for my clients that is conducive to values guided changes and self-awareness in my clients lives. My approach combines acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psycho dynamic and relational counseling. In many cases, it may feel difficult or overwhelming to identify our goals, and the actions needed to get there. It takes insight, willingness and dedication to move in the direction of a more fulfilling life. If you feel you are ready to make meaningful changes, I am here to support you during your journey. I look forward to working with you! COMMUNICATION OPTIONS *PLEASE NOTE: The on-line venue does not allow for emergency response, therefore if you have a crisis/emergency please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Below is information about the communication options I offer. Please read carefully so you can determine if I would be a good fit for your needs in terms of the communication. Recommended Structure My clinical recommendation is 1 live (video or phone) 45-minute session once a week and 1-3 e mail exchange for follow ups if needed. This offers the opportunity for clients to process outside of session and apply some of the skills that may be discussed during sessions. *I offer the E mail/messaging as an adjunct to live sessions but not a standalone modality of therapy. Communication Modalities 1.Email/Messaging o Response time 24-48 hrs. M-F, between 9 am -5 pm EST. o Emails sent via the Better Help platform 2.Video (Similar to Skype): o 45-minute session per week o by appointment (M-F) o Conducted using the Better Help platform. o Advantages > Non-verbal communication. > Real-time discussion and response 3.Phone: o 45-minute session per week o by appointment (M-F) o Conducted through BetterHelp ‘s phone routing service o Advantages > Real-time discussion and response Areas of Focus: Stress Life Coaching Adjustment Disorders Anxiety Depression Relationship Issues Women’s Issues romano-lmhc.com

This is Kimberly Sharpe's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Sharpe

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC, CAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kimberly, and today, I challenge you to embark on the journey of becoming a better you. "Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional." I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Certified Addictions Professional. I provide therapy to those struggling with a variety of mental health issues, and will help you acquire skills necessary in coping with life's challenges. I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse/addiction, grief and loss, sexual abuse and trauma, adjustment disorders, anger management, and couples/relationship issues. I have been practicing for 20 years, and have worked in numerous mental health settings throughout the years. I embrace the opportunity to help you overcome life's challenges, and find the peace you deserve. Let's work together to create the positive change and personal growth you desire. I look forward to assisting you on life's journey.

This is Gwen Zorc's avatar and link to their profile

Gwen Zorc

Offering therapy in FL
License: M.Ed,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Gwen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who is passionate about helping others! My goal is to help you improve relationship skills, resolve inner conflict, and increase feelings of well-being. While we aren't able to change the pain of the past, we can choose to take positive action to help find solutions to challenges and reverse negative habits to begin moving towards a future filled with purpose. If you are ready to step in a new direction in life, that day can be today! I will utilize evidenced based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Family Systems. I also use a 10-Step wellness check to assess if clients are keeping in balance healthy living. I combine these strategies with art, nature, and creativity to help you reach your highest potential, achieve your goals, and overall improve your life. I received my Master’s Degree from Florida Atlantic University and my Bachelor’s Degree from Barry University. To obtain licensure in the state of Florida, I completed over 2000 post-graduate supervised hours. I look forward to meeting you in this online forum and I hope I can help you with your current struggles in life.

This is Dr. Igor Belokon's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Igor Belokon

Offering therapy in FL
License: PhD,PsyD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am a psychologist licensed in Florida with over 20 years of experience working as a psychologist, neuropsychologist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and assisted them in their process of reaching sought after goals. My experience has provided an opportunity in working with a wide array of clients from different cultural/ethnic backgrounds and ages. My counseling style is compassionate, encouraging and collaborative with you. I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and rational-emotive approach, and also incorporate techniques from other perspectives as needed and when it might be beneficial and fitting. It is important to recognize, your attempt and effort to work on yourself as a demonstration of your strength, your perseverance and resilience, and I trust together we'll be able to work toward your desired outcomes. Be well and I’m looking forward to our engaging and productive work together!

This is Dawn Palumbo-Madera's avatar and link to their profile

Dawn Palumbo-Madera

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,CAP,NCC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Dawn has been a licensed therapist for five years and has a positive and energetic approach to therapy. She has spent the past twenty years working with individuals and families suffering from severe mental illness and/or addiction providing education, training, resources, and support on their individual journeys towards mental wellness. Part of this support included assisting with goal-setting; to help individuals realize their dreams and make positive lifestyle changes that benefit their overall health and well-being. Dawn has spent a considerable amount of time working within local communities providing therapy and mental health support to children, adults, and the geriatric population. While her current focus is on the adult population, she believes all people can benefit from therapeutic support to help them get to new perspectives in life in a different light. Dawn received a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Healthcare from the University of South Florida, Tampa Florida and obtained a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, Minneapolis Minnesota. In her free time, she loves interacting with her rescued pitbulls Fred and Wilma and enjoys taking them on road trips as she travels, explores, and documents her adventures. Additional hobbies and interests include but are not limited to: tattoos, spirituality, ax throwing, cryotherapy, listening to music with the car windows down and singing along as loud as you can, sharing my knowledge with others, and enjoying my journey.

This is Matthew Pearce's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew Pearce

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 5 years of therapy experience and 10 more years of social work experience. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked with young adults on helping to come up with plans for their futures and to be able to make life maps. I have worked with parents and am trained in Conscious Discipline, an evidenced-based parenting system. 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!

This is Antonio Vega-Pacheco's avatar and link to their profile

Antonio Vega-Pacheco

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
29 years of experience

I am a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 29 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and group therapy. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, abuse history, and domestic violence survivors and perpetrators. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am a good listener and a very patient human. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Geraldine Darrell's avatar and link to their profile

Geraldine Darrell

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA ,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Lara Dickerson's avatar and link to their profile

Lara Dickerson

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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!

This is Simona Cook's avatar and link to their profile

Simona Cook

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Destin

Finding the best therapist close by in Destin 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 Destin. 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 Destin, 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin, elsewhere in Okaloosa, 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 Destin area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin, 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 32541 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 Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin, 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.

Destin 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Destin.

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

32540, 32541

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist