Panama City Beach is a well-known destination for Spring Break for college students from  around the country. Resident businesses enjoy the boom in commerce from these week long parties. But life cannot always be a party. In fact, even in the midst of a party life can seem desolate and unmoving. When you feel that you can no longer take joy in the little things, it may be time to ask for help. Counselors in the Panama City Beach area are available to offer this type of assistance. The therapists can examine why you are unable to feel the joy you once did, and help you get that joy back into your life. Contact a counselor today.

This is Jeanine Overton's avatar and link to their profile

Jeanine Overton

Offering therapy in FL
License: M.Ed, Ed.S., LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issues
17 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor(LMHC) in Florida with 15 years of experience working with a wide range of challenges including: grief and loss, parenting, relationship and family conflicts, and issues specific to our military. I graduated from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Education Specialist degree in Counselor Education. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and a member of the American Counseling Association. I have had the pleasure of working in many different environments including not-for-profit organizations, hospitals, schools, and with the military. My counseling style is warm, reflective, compassionate, and empowering. I enjoy incorporating cognitive-behavioral, narrative, solution-focused, and family systems perspectives into my overall counseling approach. I also use a multi-cultural counseling perspective to meet my clients where they are at and listen to their needs. I will strive to work with you to find the right approach for you and recognize that you are the expert of knowing what works for you. Thank you in advance for allowing me a glimpse into your life and having the bravery to ask for help. I know that together we can make some changes that will improve the life you are living today. I look forward to working with you!

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LaVerne Kalafor

Offering therapy in FL
License: EdS, ,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

I love to help others deal with life challenges to help them feeling happy, productive and whole again. Using combined a client-centered, humanistic approach, I have had years of experience working with all ages and helped many deal with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD and life transition issues. Positive psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are used to improve self-esteem, motivation and confidence. I include interpersonal hypnotherapy, guided meditation, EFT and mindfulness techniques to deal with anxiety, panic attacks, traumatic experiences, loss and grief. My view of therapy is that it is a joint process, taken at a pace that is comfortable for the person seeking services. Sometimes we just get stuck. Sometimes we just need to learn skills. Sometimes we just need someone outside of a situation to talk to for insight or support. What ever the issue, together we agree upon a plan based upon what is most pressing for you. I offer my knowledge and skills that I think would be most helpful to address your concerns, learn ways to make changes you want to make happen and move forward with life! I am here for you so take that first step and get in touch with me. I will be happy to answer 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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Dr. Shawna Haley

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,EdD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Doctor in Counseling and Education. I am licensed in the state of Florida as a Clinical Social Worker. I have over 20 years experience in mental health counseling working in private practice, inpatient acute care hospital, and outpatient mental health clinic. My professional experience include working with individuals, groups, and families who are facing difficulties in life or coping with grief and loss. I have a specialty in women's issues specifically infertility issues and post-partum depression. In addition to this, I work with clients experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges and more. You will find me caring and compassionate with a focus on supporting you with your desired changes. My counseling approach is tailored to your unique situation as I am well trained in many therapeutic approaches including, Cognitive-Behavioral Approach, Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focus Therapy. I am a great listener and will provide practical guidance based on your individual goals. I am here to partner with you to help you live your best and most meaningful life. I know seeking support is not always easy but trust me, you are worth it and I am here to empower you and help you explore your greatest self. Allow me to help you through this next journey. Activities that I enjoy are reading, meditation, yoga, walking, traveling, mindfulness, beach, and art.

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Ekaterina Maza

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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! My approach focuses on building on your strengths and emphasizing your personal goals for the future. I help and support you through challenges and the fears you are facing while increasing your self-awareness and self-worth. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and strength based approaches throughout our sessions together. Additionally, I am fluent in Russian. I look forward to helping you move towards the person you desire to be.

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Kelsey Majcher

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

I am here to support and empower you! I am a Licensed Mental Health counselor with over 4 years experience working within the substance abuse field, and am currently the Clinical Director at a substance abuse facility. As a LMHC I teach day-to-day goal reinforcing skills related to sobriety, healthy habits, and self-care routines to those struggling with addiction and co-occurring disorders. I have helped client’s with a variety of issues including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, OCD, low self esteem, family issues, stress, co-dependency, and lack of motivation in life. I love having the ability to spread love, gratitude, and hope to others daily and help them on their purpose through this life.

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Suzanne Brabant

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, Anxiety
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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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This is Arthur D. Barfield III's avatar and link to their profile

Arthur D. Barfield III

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
39 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have worked in a number of clinical settings. I recently retired from the Dept. of Veterans Affairs as a Therapist (Tampa VA Hospital) assigned to the PTSD /Trauma clinic for the past 15 years. I am a Veteran and served for 6 years on active duty. I have worked in Forensic Psychology (incarcerated inmates), private practice, large hospital settings as well as group practice. Additionally, I was an adjunct professor at a local Community College where I taught a number of undergraduate Psychology courses. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger / emotional regulation, depression, adjustment issues (often observed in our veteran population) as well as issues related to emotional trauma and guilt. Finally, I have a number of years experience in group settings (i.e., psychoeducational and process groups as well). In closing, I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that may challenge you. Taking the first step to pursue therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to working with you toward your therapeutic goals.

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Khalilah Garrett

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Travis McCord

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

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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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How to find counseling in Panama City Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach. 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 Panama City Beach, 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach, elsewhere in Bay, 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 Panama City Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach, 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 32407 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach, 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.

Panama City Beach 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 Panama City Beach.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Panama City Beach:

32407, 32413

Popular cities near Panama City Beach, FL

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