Longboat Key, Florida in the county of Manatee is along the central west coast between the Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It is a relatively new city, incorporated in 1855 and has a population of just 7320. The town made it through the 1921 hurricane outbreak and then built up the roads and bridges in the years soon afterward.

There are a plethora of mental health care professionals in and around Longboat Key who are available to help anyone who needs it. If you are struggling with a mental illness or just have some mental or emotional concerns, contact one of the many counselors or therapists in the Longboat Key area.

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Maylin Gonzalez

Offering therapy in FL
License: M.S., LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

It takes a strong person to realize help is needed. I am glad you found the courage to seek support in your journey of personal growth. My goal is to help you navigate your individual difficulties, big or small, hoping you gain the ability to always become a better version of yourself. My name is Maylin Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients, and different disorders along the years. I realize there is not a “one size fits all” therapy manual, and it must be individualized to your specific needs. I want you all to feel heard and understood throughout our sessions, and that you learn to find strength within yourself to achieve your goals. Thank you for choosing me to guide you through the healing process.

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Valerie Johnson-Cardoso

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,CAP for 20 years
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I have worked as a mental health counselor for over 30 years. My locations of employment are Florida and Pennsylvania. I have worked in Residential Mental Health and Residential Substance Abuse. I was a school teacher for 16 years teaching students with learning differences, emotional issues, autism and developmentally delayed (adults, teens and children). While working as a a teacher I had a private practice in the evenings and weekends. I have knowledge in the area of Religious trauma syndrome and faith transitioning. In Pennsylvania. I worked in homes and day treatment facilities with children and adults. There were people of all ages during my private practice and working for agencies. There are different ways to address issues for each of us. What works for one may not work for another. Working as a team helps us all to deal with our issues to make our lives more peaceful and calm. There are many times we can make a few changes in our life to acquire these. Life is a journey. We have the opportunity to learn ways to cope with our lives. Change is a process on our journey. Many times we have control only of our actions and our response to these changes. Our critic can be our worst enemy and can be relentless in beating us up. Our critic was educated from childhood. My goal for my life for quite some time has been to disarm my critic and love myself. I am looking forward to working to build trust and make it safe environment for you to express your feelings without feeling judged.

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Jonathan Nelson III

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger management
10 years of experience

Asking for help is hard…admitting to yourself that you need help is even harder. I know. I’ve been in many dark, cold and scary places in my life and admitting that you are wounded and need help is a very real battle that so many people choose to ignore. The alternative is to “suck it up” and “press on” and “suffer in silence” …or at least at a volume that won’t disturb others. Is there something that you’re avoiding or thinking about how to navigate? How to plan? How to tell? How to let go and say goodbye? Or how to say hello? Life is anything but predictable, and for many of us, living on auto-pilot can seem like a good option, until it’s not. I challenge people to switch off auto-pilot, to be an active participant in their thoughts, feelings and perceptions as opposed being a passive observer watching life go by. I challenge people to actively engage their thoughts, feelings and perceptions, to ask hard questions, test assumptions and then summon the courage and gather the strength needed to judge their thoughts, feelings and perceptions and change them into something new. The Bible provides some great insight into the therapeutic process in a very simple way. Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” I believe there is profound wisdom in that very simple verse. My role in helping individuals over the past 10 years has been to provide a safe and secure environment where individuals can begin to “examine” their ways, their thoughts, their feelings, opinion, assumptions and beliefs. The examination process is critical to understanding the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of any particular issue or challenge. Furthermore, the therapeutic environment I provide is a place where we “test” or challenge those thoughts, feeling, opinions, assumptions and beliefs and where you are given the opportunity to decide what action steps you want to take. Therapy can be challenging. It is my joy to engage with individuals who are ready, willing and able to take the necessary steps to improve the quality of their lives. Reflection and problem analysis has its place and is important, however, clear and decisive action is what is required to create momentum towards change and learning to be patient with the process of change is the key to lasting change. Lastly, I believe that your perspective greatly influences your confidence and ability to embrace personal change. Transformational power resides not in assigning blame, but in assuming responsibility. You need to be willing, ready and able to make the hard decisions necessary to courageously face that which you may have been running from. When the storms of life come and confusion hovers around you like a fog, correcting the course of your life can be a frightening and challenging task. My role is to help you make some course corrections in your life, so you can get to where you want to be. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Anger Management Treatment Specialist as well as a Certified Facilitator for Prepare/Enrich Ministry (Marriage Preparation). I specialize in all forms of addiction-related issues and subsequent problems (stress and anger control issues, conflict resolution challenges, trust and reconciliation difficulties etc.). I have been in the helping and service field for nearly 10 years, serving in a variety of capacities from clinical administration, supervision and mentoring to direct clinical psychotherapy serving non-profit organizations, correctional settings (Department of Corrections and County Jail) along with private practice, and currently with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. There is hope are you ready to get to work?

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LaKendra King

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
8 years of experience

Starting a lifestyle change can be challenging so picking the right heart to listen shouldn’t be! If you are looking for a therapist that will not only listen but provide solutions that will take you to the next level, there is no need to search any longer. My name is LaKendra King, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 8 years of experience. I’ve also worked with a wide array of client’s coping with depression, anxiety, trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional abuse/violence) and everyday life stressors. I have a background in couple’s counseling , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) , solution-focused therapy, mindfulness therapy, as well as reality therapy. Transparency and trust are the core values of my therapeutic approach with a mixture of honest love. Say good-bye to unhealthy thinking and build a healthier relationship with yourself and others. Learn how to manage trauma and stress that stop you from achieving your goals, there is a light at the end of the tunnel so let’s reach it together. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Jorge Garcia

Offering therapy in FL
License: M.S., Ph.D., D. Min.
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
36 years of experience

My name is Jorge Garcia. I have been a psychotherapist and school psychologist for 35 years. My experience covers mental health in private practice, hospitals and school psychologist in schools and colleges. I'm bilingual (English/Spanish) graduated from Florida International University in Miami, FL with a B.A. in Psychology and M.S. and My Specialist in Educational Psychology with concentration in Mental Health and School Psychology. I also received a Doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology. I have work with clients with a wide range of challenges including ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress, autism, learning issues, traumas, personal coaching for athletes, and personal coaching for the general public. I hope to be able to assist you in reaching all your personal goals in the future. Thank you so much Jorge Garcia, Ph.D.

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Elizabeth Aly

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

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, stress, coping with addictions, PTSD, Abuse, Depression, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mallerie Mulhall

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I received my MSW in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 2010 and my BS in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2008. Over the years, I have worked with many different populations in a variety of settings, ranging from private practice, substance abuse treatment centers to schools. I specialize in working with clients dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and panic, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, substance abuse related difficulties, self-esteem problems, attachment-related issues, and/or interpersonal relationship difficulties. I am proficient in multiple evidenced-based interventions and I have significant experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My counseling approach is empathetic and interactive. I believe strongly in the importance of the therapeutic alliance and rapport between client and therapist. I draw heavily from psychodynamic and relationship-based counseling techniques, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. Seeking assistance in developing a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage and strength. When you are ready to take that first step, I am here to help and guide you. Looking forward to working with you!

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This is Aabeda Fatmi's avatar and link to their profile

Aabeda Fatmi

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Lindsey Shatters's avatar and link to their profile

Lindsey Shatters

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping 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, relationship issues, family conflicts, 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. 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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Kristen Thompson

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & career difficulties. 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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How to find counseling in Longboat Key

Finding the best therapist close by in Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key. 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 Longboat Key, 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key, 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 Longboat Key area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key, 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 34228 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key, 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.

Longboat Key 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 Longboat Key.

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

34228

Popular cities near Longboat Key, FL

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