Is your child having trouble in school or maybe the teacher is complaining that he is not paying attention, acts out in class, and does not sit still. Your child may have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is a mental condition that needs treatment. There are quite a few great counselors in Punta Gorda who can help. 

Punta Gorda is proud of their history and has 10 places that are on the National Register of Historic Places such as Villa Blanca, Old First National Bank of Punta Gorda, and the A. C. Freeman House. These are excellent places to teach your child about history. However, if they have untreated ADHD, they cannot fully enjoy the concept. Get treatment for your child today. 

This is Dr. Louise Mitsianis's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Louise Mitsianis

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,NBCC,MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years of experience

Please let me introduce myself, I am Dr. Louise Mitsianis, and my job as a therapist is to assist in helping you to overcome the issue(s) and/or concern(s) that you are currently experiencing. Let me tell you about my credentials. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, (LMHC), National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC), Master Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), International Certification Alcohol and Drug Counselor, (ICADC), Reciprocity Consortium (RC) all approved by the State Board of Florida. Forward Facing Trauma Therapy (FFTT), I have acquired the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively implement Forward-Facing Trauma Therapy skills and principles in my work. My dedication to achieving and maintaining excellence in the area of treating traumatic stress is highly valued. These credentials mean is that I can help with mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders. I have been a therapist for a variety of clients for at least 15 years. I have worked with clients with issues/concerns listed here: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Specialty in substance Abuse/Addiction, Depression, Stress, Coping Skills with Addictions, Coping with Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Family Conflicts, Trauma and Abuse, Sleeping Issues, Motivation, Self-esteem, Confidence, Bipolar Disorder, Coping with Life Changes, Compassion Fatigue, Multicultural Concerns, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Co-morbidity, Codependency, Communication Problems, Isolation/Loneliness, Social Anxiety, Guilt and Shame, Control Issues, Caregiver Issues and Stress, Impulsivity, and Women's Issues. Some of my theoretical (therapy style) approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focus Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, and Forward-Facing Trauma Therapy. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, empathy, and compassion. We will work together to develop your goal(s) to meet your unique and specific issues/concerns that can be accomplished together. I do want to share with you, that is okay to be nervous when meeting someone for the first time. Especially, when that person will be asking personal questions about your feelings and emotions, however, without any judgment, belittling, or negative criticism. If you have any questions, you may ask them at any time when we are working together in a session. All I ask of you is to be honest, so that I may be able to help you and completely understand your issues/concerns that you may want to address in therapy. It takes valor and strength to seek help from a professional and/or stranger, however, I am here to put you at ease and work through issues/concerns in your life together as a team. Thank you for taking the first steps towards a change. I am here to support, guide, and empower you. Please keep in mind that discussing difficult times can increase symptoms of uncomfortability, but we will walk through those together. Therapy is generally considered safe as it is under guidance with a supportive and collaborative relationship. Sincerely, Dr. Louise Mitsianis, LMHC, NBCC, MCAP, ICADC, RC, FFTT

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Dr. Karla Sapp

Offering therapy in FL
License: EdD, LPC-S, LMHC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Dr. Karla is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor-Supervisor (LMHC-S), and a 500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-500), with a strong background in mental health counseling and well-being practices. With a genuine passion for helping individuals, she works with clients who are seeking to transform themselves into their best versions by focusing on their mental health, lifestyle, and overall wellness. Dr. Karla's primary goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through effective counseling techniques, she guides them through various challenges they may face, such as managing stress, overcoming anxiety or depression, improving relationships, and developing coping strategies. One of Dr. Karla's key strengths lies in her ability to tailor treatment plans to fit each client's unique needs. She takes a holistic approach to mental health and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle and wellness practices. This may include incorporating techniques and strategies like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, yoga techniques, nutrition guidance, exercise routines, and self-care routines into the therapy process. Dr. Karla believes in the power of personal growth and transformation and is dedicated to supporting her clients on their journeys. Through her expertise, genuine empathy, and non-judgmental approach, she helps individuals explore their inner selves, identify strengths, overcome obstacles, and develop healthier mindsets and behaviors. With her extensive knowledge and experience as a mental health counselor and lifestyle and wellness practitioner, Dr. Karla is well-equipped to guide clients on their path to becoming their best selves.

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Charlene Mahan

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Are you having a difficult time and need someone to talk to who will provide positive constructive feedback? Regardless of your feelings or concerns, I am here to help you achieve the clarity you need to continue moving forward to achieve your goals. Your therapeutic journey is yours to define. Let me help you by providing an objective and nonjudgmental environment where you will feel encouraged and free to share your burdens. I am a licensed mental health counselor with twelve years of experience assisting others in realizing their potential and implementing effective changes to improve their lives. I believe we all have the power to achieve our goals to elevate our lives to the next level. A little effort daily will help to produce great achievements in your life. I became a counselor because I love and enjoy empowering and supporting others on their journey to achieve success. I am a firm believer that repeating the same behavior will bring about the same results. Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Solution Focus therapy are the two prominent approaches that I utilize to promote healing and change. Ask yourself if you are ready to implement effective changes? You have already taken the first step towards being whole again. Let’s work on the next step together.

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BALYNDA BAUGHMAN

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with a master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University. I have many years of experience in counseling working with individuals and groups. Often I found that people want to be heard, understood, validated, and supported. In addition, they want to be inspired and motivated to live the life they deserve. Often perceived as the "strong one" by family, friends, and society, they may have become emotionally fatigued. Together we can discover what mental and emotional roadblocks prevent you from finding your "happy space" and learn how best to navigate those challenges. This process should include a safe/comfortable place, open communication, and honesty. We can work together to change your current narrative. I take a holistic approach to assist you with issues such as anxiety, hopelessness, depression, anger management, and suicidal idealization. Assisting you in learning how to be intentional and work to develop healthier coping skills. By using CBT, ACT, MI models and Mindfulness, we will work toward you accepting your feelings and thoughts, discovering your strengths and creating goals to increase your awareness of your ability to be "happy". I look forward to working with you!

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"Cyndi" Cynthia Oberdan

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Family conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

Hi, I’m Cyndi Oberdan, and if you’re reading my page, I can tell that no matter what you are going through right now, you have COURAGE. Maybe you don’t feel brave, but it takes COURAGE to ask for help, and Courage to venture “into the unknown.” I would be honored to journey with you on this new adventure of yours. I have been serving people for over 15 years. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in 2006 from the University of Florida in Recreational Therapy. Later, in 2013, I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. Over the last 15 years, I have had the privilege to work in a variety of settings. I started off working with individuals diagnosed with a developmental or intellectual disability and their families. I had the privilege of running a family respite program, and later the honor to manage a Community Habilitation program where I assisted individuals ages 13 to 60+ with achieving their goals. These goals varied from basic life skills, to enhancing academic skills, to developing coping skills, all while increasing socialization and connection. Later I worked in Child Welfare, as a Child Protective Investigator; investigating allegations of abuse/neglect and ensuring child safety. I have also worked with families, assisting them with getting to the root of their issues while strengthening the family unit. Lastly, I have worked as a medical social worker, both in the hospital and in the outpatient Clinics, as well as in the Emergency Department. I provide crisis intervention, case management, and counseling; assisting patients with trauma, adjustment disorder, and grief. I use an eclectic approach to meet the needs of each individual client. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.

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Janell Stallworth

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Greetings!! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and communication issues. I also helped many people who have experienced emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative, solution-focused, psychodynamic, and emotionally-focused therapy . I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Janell Stallworth, LMHC

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Matthew Pearce

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 5 years of therapy experience and 10 more years of social work experience. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked with young adults on helping to come up with plans for their futures and to be able to make life maps. I have worked with parents and am trained in Conscious Discipline, an evidenced-based parenting system. 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!

This is Monique Darnell's avatar and link to their profile

Monique Darnell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, depression, & coping with life changes. 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! Check out my website https://www.mrdcasolutions.com/

This is Kayla Goldsby's avatar and link to their profile

Kayla Goldsby

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
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, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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 be overwhelming and take courage. I am excited to begin this therapy journey with you and want you to feel as comfortable as possible.

This is Megan Duncan's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Duncan

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed professional who is passionate about helping others. Looking for a therapist can be a daunting task! I strive to work with my clients as a team by providing both empathy and action steps forward. Some common concerns I treat within therapy include depression, anxiety, coping with life stressors/transitions, and relationship concerns. I am also a LGBTQ+ advocate and work with clients from all walks of life. My therapy approach is based in evidence-based practice, as it is my priority that you receive the highest quality of care possible. I look forward to working with you to help you in achieving your goals!

How to find counseling in Punta Gorda

Finding the best therapist close by in Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda. 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 Punta Gorda, 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, elsewhere in Charlotte, 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 Punta Gorda area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 33927 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, 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.

Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda.

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

33927, 33950, 33951

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