For those seeking online therapy options, Panama City, FL offers a variety of licensed professionals dedicated to helping clients improve their mental well being. These therapists provide psychotherapy services designed to address a range of issues and foster personal growth.

Therapists in Panama City often create a supportive environment to ensure clients feel comfortable and understood. This compassionate understanding can help clients manage stress and develop effective stress management techniques. The goal is to build a strong connection with clients, helping them deal with current challenges and plan for a healthier future.

Whether you are in Panama City Beach or the surrounding areas, you can find professionals who are committed to your well-being. Instead of commuting to a main office, you can receive therapy from the comfort of your home with online therapy. Engaging in therapy can be a significant step towards achieving lasting mental well being and personal growth.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

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Psychologist Betty Acierno providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Betty Acierno

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW12905
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Florida. I have more than 14 years experience in the medical and mental health field. I received a masters degree, bachelors degree, and aging certificate from Florida Atlantic University. I graduated with highest honors from the college of social work. I have dedicated half my life to the field of mental health, in particular, codependency and empowerment. I completed my internships and was hired by a local hospice. My specialties there were grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger. My treatment approach is rather laid back, but is set on the foundation of having a therapeutic relationship, to include using theory's such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness. It has been an honor and privilege to assist people through some of the most difficult times of their lives. I love to watch people grow and become empowered to make their own life choices and decisions.

Psychologist Penny Howland providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Penny Howland

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW1238
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

Penny has always practiced in a blend of medical and mental health settings in various venues and with many different populations, including dialysis, the terminally ill, grieving, substance abuse, adjustment disorders of all kinds. Penny uses whatever treatment modality is best to meet patients' goals . She believes strongly in the mind-body connection and has great respect for the resilience of the human being and the ability to adapt to life with balance and comfort. Penny received her BA and MSW from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. She is a member of ACSW and NASW. Also CAP for all addictions.

Psychologist Valerie Johnson-Cardoso providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Valerie Johnson-Cardoso

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH5690
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Karrie Dolan providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Karrie Dolan

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW16927
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with clients with grief and loss, perinatal and maternal issues such as grief and loss and fertility issues, caregiver and caregiver burnout support, support for parents or caregivers with children with autism and clients who have been diagnosed with complex medical issues. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, positive, respectful, and safe. I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in doing great things and overcoming your challenges. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and draws heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am looking forward to working together to identify your goals and work to achieve them!

Psychologist Crystal Rischer providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Crystal Rischer

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW14999
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
6 years offering treatment

Welcome, I’m truly honored to support you in creating your best life. We all have something we’re working on or working through, and it’s my goal to help guide you through that journey. I believe we each possess unique strengths—sometimes hidden—that, once recognized, can transform the way we approach life’s challenges. As a divorced single mother, I’ve experienced the many facets of life—the beauty, the hardship, and everything in between. It’s this combination of personal experience and professional training that allows me to connect with and support my clients in a deep and meaningful way. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, tailoring your experience to you—because no two people are the same, and therapy should reflect that. I specialize in areas such as divorce, separation, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I genuinely look forward to meeting you and working together to help you move closer to the goals you have for yourself. Once we schedule your first session, I’ll ask you to complete two brief forms: a HIPAA form and an intake questionnaire. This intake allows me to gain a holistic understanding of who you are so that we can begin our work together with clarity and intention right from the start. Warmly, Crystal Rischer MSW, LCSW

Psychologist Pattra Dodd providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Pattra Dodd

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW11360
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, with a particular emphasis on supporting older adults, veterans, and young professionals. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to therapy, drawing from extensive clinical expertise in addressing communication difficulties, social anxiety, isolation, and self-esteem concerns. My work is deeply rooted in understanding each individual's unique journey and helping them develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and person-centered, designed to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strengths. I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they work towards healing, self-understanding, and positive life changes.

Psychologist Dr. Shannon  Holliker providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Dr. Shannon Holliker

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW12708
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years offering treatment

Hello and Welcome! It is great to see that you have decided to take this step into further self-discovery, self-growth, and reflection. Therapy is a process, but doesn't necessarily require you to know exactly what type of support you might need. Actually, many people enter therapy to discover they have other things they also want to address. Sometimes, it's about the rewarding process to self-discovery that can be the motivation. Regardless of how you got here, my goal is to provide you with unconditional support. My approach is about honest dialogue. Too often there is a belief that saying 'certain things' in therapy is not acceptable. The reality is that it is the best place to have such discussions about feelings, thoughts, and approaches to challenges. It is also equally important to celebrate what may even feel like small victories. As we reach adulthood, we can tend to think that celebration is less important when it is super important. I hold a PhD in Public Affairs (Social Work Focus). This credential has provided me the opportunity to continue teaching college and doing research in critical areas of mental health. I have two Masters' degrees, in Social Work and Child Development and Education. I went back to pursue my second Master's in Early Childhood because one of my specialties is parenting and providing counseling support to very young children, supporting families affected by trauma or stress due to issues with their young child, and trauma response. I am passionate about helping parents with their own anxiety and depression (or other challenges), providing support to families affected by medical stress (a child with a chronic illness or in the NICU or a parent with medical concerns), assisting with support for intervention of developmental or behavioral concerns, fertility, and/or any concerns related to your family dynamics. My experience has also been in providing different therapy interventions to young children (0-5 years) with their family. I have assisted many families in identifying and addressing family challenges that could contribute to their young child's emotional or behavioral concern. Through this platform, our focus would be on your concerns or challenges in parenting and/or mental health or other areas, and we would work together for an end goal. I am also passionate about providing individual therapy to support anxiety, problem-focused depression, burnout, and effects of trauma. These challenges can present differently for different people and no feelings are 'wrong.' Our world is filled with a variety of unique cumulative stressors and this can make it sometimes difficult to identify the cause. Things such as, burnout, from the daily challenges can create more complex feelings of loss, confusion, and depression because they are often minimized by our own beliefs. I want to conclude by sharing that not everyone requires walking through their past to understand their current circumstances. There are lots of approaches to therapy as it is just a form of support. The duration of therapy also depends on many factors, but I believe that you and I should always form goals we can track progress. I'm happy you decided to stop by and that you are considering the process of therapy. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Kelly Morana-Piazza providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Kelly Morana-Piazza

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9789, FL LMHC MH20445
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I graduated from St. John's University with two master's degrees my first master's degree is MPS which is master's in professional studies in 2007 and my second MSEd which is master's in clinical mental health counseling in 2013. I am originally from New York City and moved to the sunshine state in 2014. Prior to getting into counseling, I worked as a paralegal in various settings. I decided that I wanted to be a mental health counselor in my late twenties, and I am so glad that I made this career change. I feel my life experience and my education can help my clients with their everyday challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, 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!

Psychologist Austin Kerker providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Austin Kerker

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW13441
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.

Psychologist Diann Toney providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Diann Toney

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH21531
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, veterans, military families, and individuals facing multicultural and interpersonal challenges. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship transitions, caregiver stress, or personal identity concerns, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, process complex feelings like guilt and shame, and develop healthier relationship patterns. My goal is to empower you to reconnect with your inner strength and create meaningful, positive changes in your life.

Psychologist Michael Schwing providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Michael Schwing

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW9379
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Cheryl Breining providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Cheryl Breining

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW21533
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Psychologist David Grimm providing different types of therapy in Panama City

David Grimm

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT952
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with over 40 years of professional experience. I agree with the philosophy that crisis is a combination of danger and opportunity. Human beings are very delicate emotionally and can suffer tremendously. My clinical experiences over the years have been very broad from child service agencies to residential treatment to outpatient psychiatry. Currently I work with individuals and families who struggle with with anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. I welcome longer term, deeper therapy work as well as problem-focused counseling with cognitive-behavioral interventions. Psychotherapy is essentially the process of understanding and embracing the givens of our biology and personality and why we behave and feel the way we do. No more and no less. Responding proactively to problems in one's health, career, and close relationships can create significant opportunities for positive changes and personal growth. Being married for 42 years (still), raising two kids and contributing to the domestic tranquility with extended family and close friends has been my most challenging and rewarding experience. The quality of my relationships and the quality of my persistent inner dialogue along with my physical health determine the QUALITY of my life.

Psychologist Kimberly Plummer providing different types of therapy in Panama City

Kimberly Plummer

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT5344
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I believe healing happens when we feel safe enough to listen to ourselves with curiosity and compassion. My work is grounded, relational, and gently informed by spirituality, meaning-making, and inner wisdom. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), which helps clients understand and care for the different “parts” of themselves — especially the ones shaped by pain, protection, or survival. I’m LGBTQ+ affirming and enjoy working with clients exploring identity, relationships, burnout, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I aim to create a space that feels calm, respectful, and real — where you don’t have to perform or have it all figured out. Therapy with me is collaborative and paced to your needs. Together, we’ll work toward greater self-trust, clarity, and a deeper sense of alignment with who you are and what matters to you.

Find a Therapist Near You in Panama City , Florida

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida

When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Florida

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Panama City.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Panama City can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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