Palmetto is a small, quiet city filled with the palmetto trees that give it its name. But even in  a small city or town, it is quite possible for things to go awry. If you are suffering from personal stress, emotional distress, or mental illness, you do not have to fight alone even though you live in a small community.

Counselors in the Palmetto area are available today to talk to you and offer their support. These confidential therapists are able to assist you with any personal, mental or emotional problems that you might have. Contact a counselor today.

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Jamie Matthews

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC-Florida,LPCC-Ohio
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Jamie Matthews and I have been working as a counselor since 2007, and really enjoy helping people reach their treatment goals. I believe that counseling is about change, and believe people can change any behavior not working in their life. I started my career working in community mental health where I worked with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, and gained a great deal of experience helping individuals manage symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, severe depression symptoms, and severe anxiety symptoms. From 2007-2015 I did mainly group counseling sessions, and some individual counseling sessions using evidence based practices. From 2015-2021, I have worked as an Outpatient Therapist where I have worked with children, adults, and families in a community mental health setting. Currently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist people in staying present focused and learning the role thoughts, feelings, and behaviors play in the development and maintenance of family health, relationships and mental health problems. I do believe that it is important to learn to live your day-to-day life before discussing past experiences that may be holding people back. I am a strong believer in being solution focused, and learning ways to focus on current issues. When working with me I will not try to push you to share past experiences, but only work on current behaviors that are not working for you in your life. I also will not try to stop you from sharing things from your past that have been bothering you because I understand the value of having someone to hear and really listen to your needs. I look forward to working with you.

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Donald Ford

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,MCAP,TIRF
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefEating disorders
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Master's Level Addiction Professional who has focused on diagnosing and treating a variety of clinical symptoms and disorders including substance abuse, addictions, eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as low self-esteem for over 10 years. I have often treated clients who have experienced persistent and varied emotional and cognitive symptoms resulting from long-term relationship traumas and abuse. I have worked with individuals of all ages with severe and persistent psychopathology, including psychosis and severe behavioral and relationship problems. I have worked in all settings, from private practice to long term residential treatment facilities, as well as psychiatric hospitals. I have developed an appreciation for each client's perspective, unique needs, and challenges in treatment. I prefer to work in the framework of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapeutic modality, one of the most empirically validated treatment approaches. I am also certified in Traumatic Incident Reduction, or TIR, a therapeutic procedure that allows a person to desensitize painful experiences and reduce or eliminate the negative impact of traumatic, overwhelming events. I often integrate other theoretical orientations of therapy such as Client Centered, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, and Gestalt, focusing on reaching the client's goal(s) in therapy in addition to addressing and working to resolve the historical problem(s) that led to the distressing experience(s) that made the individual(s) seek help. Areas of expertise include addiction (substance and process), eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and communication.

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Katie Landrum

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA,LMHC,BCBA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. Whether you have a diagnosable condition or you just feel like you could be living better, happier, and/or more accordance with your values, I'm here to help. 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! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. My education and professional background in both mental health counseling and behavior analysis gives me a unique and effective approach to counseling. My approach is to collaborate with clients and work as a team as we experiment with new strategies to address painful thoughts, feelings, and memories. As a therapist, I also work with clients to determine the life they want to lead and the person they want to be, and I assist in creating behavioral goals with clients to achieve these goals. I love research and evidence based treatments especially about happiness and getting the most out of life. I hope we can work together to get you to a place where you are living more intentionally.

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Dr. Stephanie Keane

Offering therapy in FL
License: LPC,LMHC,MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stephanie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have been working in the helping profession for roughly 7 years. I am also currently enrolled in a PhD program for Counselor Education and Supervision. I am very passionate about working in the helping profession. I have never wanted to do anything else. Throughout my life, I have always intended on being a professional counselor. I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, which has provided me the opportunity to work with a wide range of different clients. This has been one of my favorite parts of working in this profession. I love having the opportunity to get to know so many different people and walk with them on their journey to improved mental health. I have a laid back approach to counseling that focuses on the here and now. I approach counseling from a DBT approach, but I also adjust my approach to meet my client's needs. I value honesty and transparency, they are the guiding principles of my life, both personal and professional. I understand that finding the right therapist can be a difficult process. I am here to help! It's what I love to do. I look forward to being a guide for others and helping them realize their full potential. **Please note to contact me directly to schedule sessions. All the best, Stephanie Vitolo, LPC, LMHC. MS

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Arlene Bishop

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,CAP
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinician in Florida and a transplant from New York with over 24 years of experience working as a Psychiatric Social Worker. I have worked with a diverse group of clients including from the Caribbean, seeking assistance for several diagnoses such as ADHD, Bipolar Dis., Depression, Anxiety, Addiction to Relationship issues, Career Challenges, and PTSD. My counseling style can be described as eclectic drawing from my wealth of experiences. I integrate many clinical approaches such as Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness therapies I believe everyone needs a good listener to talk to at times. I believe by creating a treatment plan to empower and guide you through the ups and downs of life‘s challenges will lead to a successful outcome. I am ready and able and I am looking forward to walking that journey with you.

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Cindy Paillant

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida with over 17 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and parenting issues, teen concerns, LGBT, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. My Counseling style is warm, compassionate and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion and loving kindness. My approach combines solution focused, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and positive psychology. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am a Holistic therapist and coach who believe that the mind, body and spirit are connected. It takes courage to want to do the healing work to lead a happier and more fulfilled life. 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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Cecilia Bezi

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Cecilia Bezi. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an exceptional ability to listen. I am very empathetic, enthusiastic, and I can motivate you to produce the needed changes to grow. Life is dynamic, and sometimes crises are challenges to produce those changes in ourselves and in our environment. I will be active with you in your journey. I have plenty experience, more than 15 years, working with Behavioral and Cognitive therapies. I work with EMDR to elaborate past events and traumas, so the present can be lived fully.

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Amaogechukwu (Amaoge) Acholonu

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issues
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress, depression, anxiety & relationship issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Client-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused therapy. I tailor my approach to meet the needs of my clients. 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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Rose Lott

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
23 years of experience

My name is Rose Lott. I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 23 years of experience. I have been providing tele-health since the pandemic, providing individual and family therapy via online. My goal is to provide a casual, trusting and safe atmosphere; one that allows you to feel comfortable. Goals during our first session include developing trust and rapport and working together on your treatment goals. You can expect an experienced, empathetic, compassionate, knowledgeable, humble and caring therapist to assist you with your mental health needs. I have experience in a variety of areas including, but not limited to working with adolescents and adults ages (13- 70 +) with sexual behavior problems, anger, addiction, anxiety, depression, family functioning, resolving trauma/abuse, grief/loss and self esteem. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida. 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. I utilize a variety of therapeutic tools and modalities including, but not limited to cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, gestalt therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, person centered therapy, relapse prevention, spirituality if requested, anger management and self-esteem building exercises. Also, I utilize grounding , mindfulness and my go to is an overall holistic approach.

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Emilie Ansay

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am an LMHC with 5 years of professional work experience. I am skilled in LGBTQIA+ affirming care, transgender care, dialectical behavioral therapy, grief counseling, and trauma work specializing in interpersonal traumas. The primary techniques I use in my therapy sessions are validation and genuine empathy, mindfulness and grounding strategies, insight-oriented treatment, and supportive psychotherapy. 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 Palmetto

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto, 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 34221 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto 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 Palmetto, 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.

Palmetto 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 Palmetto.

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

34220, 34221

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