The beauty of the world is all around you, but you may not be able to see it as clearly as you would like. When depression and anxiety have their grips on your life, it can be very tough to focus on much else. Problems like this impact many people and you should not feel ashamed of what you are going through. Help is available and you can reclaim your happiness with the help of others who care.

Taking the time to speak to a counselor in Gulfport will allow you to make progress. A counselor from the Gulfport area that truly understands what you are going through will prove to be a great ally. The beauty of the world around you will appear vibrant once again and you will be able to look at the world with new eyes.

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Andrea Neeb

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
18 years of experience

Andrea A. Neeb, M.S., LMHC Co-Author, “Functional Family Therapy for Adolescent Behavior Problems” I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida, MH 7930. I earned my Master of Science degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2001. My expertise is in working with individuals, families, and couples who are experiencing relationship and communication issues. I am passionate in aiding children, adolescents, and adults struggling with a lack of bonding and attachment to those closest to them. For the past 16 years, I have focused my clinical work on family/couple’s treatment and training other therapists in the practice of family therapy. My clinical experience has focused on externalizing behavioral issues, anger management, adjustment difficulties, parenting issues, family conflict, marital conflict, mood and anxiety disorders, and substance dependency. I have used well researched therapeutic approaches including Functional Family Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for 16 years to assist people in meeting their personal treatment goals and to develop meaningful relationships. I believe that everyone can obtain personal growth and positive change in ways that are most comfortable to them. I work closely with all my clients to ensure a specific treatment approach is developed based on your unique needs and therapy goals. I hold strongly that the therapy experience will aid you in learning about yourself, your relationships, and how to strive towards positive changes.

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Wendy Hall

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
26 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, with 26 years of experience working in the medical profession as a counselor. Working many years with hospice and oncology patients and families has been a blessing to me. I specialize in issues seniors can face on a daily basis. I work with a wide range of concerns including grief and loss issues, family conflict, and difficult life transitions. I am very sensitive to concerns caregivers face and have facilitated years of caregiver groups and individual therapy, for those who are taking care of a loved one in person or at a distance. You should discuss depression and fears with a professional. If you are isolated or lonely, I want to listen to what is important to you. Your entire wellbeing can improve with professional guidance. With honest validation and new coping skills that I can teach you, I know you can feel much better. My counseling is to support you, assist you with a fresh perspective, and help you create a life worth living. I look forward to meeting you!

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Sharon Wright

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience specifically working with family violence and addictions. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, working with the whole person in their environment. My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral and rational-emotive counseling. I will focus our interaction and treatment plan based on what you need and what you would like to accomplish. I know it is often difficult to seek help and to make changes in your life; congratulations on having the courage to to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I look forward collaborating with you to make those changes!

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Chad Spencer

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
21 years of experience

My approach to treatment is very much informed by how I try to live my own life. As the saying goes “teachers teach what they most need to learn themselves”. I am not a big proponent of some of earlier styles of Psychoanalytic treatment whereby the therapist gives little information to the client about themselves, and then waits passively for the patient to begin a process of “projection”. While I do think boundaries are very important within the therapeutic relationship, boundaries that are too rigid can impede treatment and create an atmosphere of distrust on the part of the client. Oprah Winfrey was once asked the question in an interview “what do you know for sure”. She was so stumped by the question that she started to use the question in her own interviews with some of her guests. So here is one thing that I know for sure after 20 years of practice: Clients cannot heal in an environment where they do not feel safe. So, first and foremost, my job is to create a therapeutic relationship that fosters a sense of safety. Once that is established, exploration of things that may have once seemed to be too frightening to look at, suddenly seem less daunting and manageable to explore. My job is to create an environment that feels safe and free of judgement, so that the client is able to explore solutions, or process experiences that may have felt too overwhelming to address in the past. Healing only takes place when human beings feel safe enough to be vulnerable, to experience and express feelings that may have long remained in the unconscious. To my thinking, the purpose of therapy is to raise consciousness, increase mindfulness, improve coping skills, and assist clients in discovering their own innate abilities and personal strengths.

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Debra Stone - LCSW

Offering therapy in FL
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Lilybel Gomez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! My Name is Lilybel Gomez! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with managing and coping with stress, anxiety, addictions, anger management, trauma, personality disorders, depression, among many other areas. I believe in a collaborative patient-therapist relationship to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I also believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and providing a safe and supportive environment to allow you to comfortably share your experiences. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started and choosing me as your therapist.

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Catherine Story

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than twenty years of experience. I have have worked extensively with providing therapy to adults, couples, groups, children and families. My work has included helping people with a wide variety of concerns , including life adjustments, parenting issues, loss, stress, illness, trauma, , relationships, personal growth and development as well as grief and bereavement. My therapy style is warm and accepting with a strength based approach that supports a client centered outcomes you desire. I incorporate approaches that draw upon insight oriented, trauma informed, mindful and holistic living. I have specific training in grief and bereavement, trauma, as well as evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy. I have training and knowledge in spiritual direction and will support you in your own spiritual path.

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Irenaida Diaz

Offering therapy in FL
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseEating disordersCoaching
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, substance abuse, process addictions & executive and professional coaching. 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.

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Monica Crespo

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Melissa DiGregorio

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA,BS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

As a licensed mental health professional, I have extensive experience in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviors. I am passionate about working closely with clients by providing them with a multi-faceted method of care including but not limited to: cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and existential treatment. I believe that the mental and emotional well-being of an individual is improved through creating a safe, judgment-free space to express concerns while a therapist listens empathically in an effort to build a rapport necessary for healing. I have both a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health and Wellness from New York University. My experience as a student at New York University afforded me the opportunity to glean a deep understanding of multiple components of the psychological field; the coursework and professional lectures were an integral part in shaping my professionalism and overall comprehension of psychological counseling.

How to find counseling in Gulfport

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport, 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 33711 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport 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 Gulfport, 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.

Gulfport 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 Gulfport.

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

33707, 33711

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