Talking to a therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL, can help you navigate life's challenges.

If you’re looking for individual counseling, Pinellas County has plenty of options. But finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially if you don’t feel like commuting to the Tampa Bay area or have time for an in-person appointment. Working with an online platform like BetterHelp can make finding a therapist more convenient and make it easier to find something that fits into your schedule.

With online therapy, you still get the same person-centered approach and a personalized plan for the treatment of mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Starting therapy can also help if you are feeling stuck or are trying to overcome low self-esteem or challenges in your past. If you’re ready to see what therapy can do for you, connect with a Saint Petersburg-based therapist below.

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Veronica Montoya

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,QS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and received a Bachelor’s degree from Florida Gulf Coast University in Psychology. I have over 5 years of experience working with adults, young adults, adolescents/teens and children with varying backgrounds. The majority of my experience is working with teens and young adults, along with their parents dealing with varying issues such as substance use, depression, anxiety, parent-child relationships, self-esteem, decision making issues, and body image issues. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches that incorporate cognitive-behavioral and solution focused techniques. The most important aspect of my work with you will be to build a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship in which we can together work through whatever difficulties you may be facing. I believe in collaboratively setting goals with my clients to help them with their areas of need, while empowering them to use their strengths to overcome difficulties. Whether you feel completely overwhelmed by life or are just looking for some supports things can get better for you as lonjg as you are willing to take the first step towards getting help. There is always hope. I look forward to working with you!

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Rehana Saleem

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,MCAP,Qualified Supervisor
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

​Hello my name is Rehana Saleem. I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist. My belief is that we all need someone to talk to, someone who can really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I also believe that good treatment consists of establishing excellent communication and trust in a secure environment. I approach counseling and psychotherapy from a nonjudgmental, empathetic, logical, warmth, person-centered perspective. I have extensive experience working with youth and adults from various cultural backgrounds. I offer services to English, Hindi, Urdu, and Gujrati speaking clients. In addition to helping my clients find stability and fulfillment in their lives, I also spend time volunteering to help women and families. My cultural background has helped me understand issues in immigrant families with second generation children. I also have experience and interest in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, domestic violence, and substance abuse issues. Therapeutic Approach Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Motivational Interviewing Relaxation techniques Meditation Psychoeducation

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Job Brunat

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Know that you are working with a professional that has your best interest at heart, providing realistic, non-judgement care. My practice offers you that safe place to begin that transformation and journey to a better you. No two clients are ever treated the same in my practice. I take the time to understand each client and their perspectives on life. There is no cookie cutter formula for each human beings. I will get to know you and your personal experiences and work with you to formulate what best works for you.

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Joanne Mainberger

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hi! I’m Joanne, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida. The fastest way to help yourself with life's challenges is thru counseling. You are in the right place! Thank you for your interest, and let's begin the journey. I have 15 years of experience working with clients (ages 5- 85) that want to make improvements to their life. I can help you explore your feelings, behaviors, and help you better understand your wants and needs. Many people are feeling different and alone, others are not coping with life changes, still others are struggling with addicitions, and some are trying to avoid problems all together. Maybe you can identify with one or more of these issues, or maybe you have other problems to talk about. You are not alone. My approach to counseling focuses on your strengths, promotes wellness, and helps you make changes that will guide you to a happier life. You will find me to be an intuitive and active listener. I have a diverse range of therapy approaches and utilize various techniques, but I will always keep your needs and your progress in mind. We will have continual collaborative evaluation to make sure your life is moving in the right direction, and I have the tools to help you exceed your expectations of counseling. Let's work together to achieve your goals! SPECIALTIES Coping with life changes Parenting issues Addiction Also experienced in: Family relationship issues, Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Phobias, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder, Self-esteem, Abuse, Application of 12 step Programs. Clinical approaches: Solution-focused Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Wellness Counseling, Mindfulness Techniques

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John Portolano

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

In 1998, as retirement drew nearer and my career as a firefighter/paramedic was coming to an end, I had a great awareness that I was too young to spend the next twenty years playing golf or sitting on a beach. So, I decided to go back to school. I knew that I wanted to continue helping others and after months of exploring my options I decided that my next life chapter would be as a clinical therapist. Six years later I graduated from the University of South Florida with a master's degree in clinical social work. Over the course of the next twenty years I had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents and adults in a verity of settings. My education and experience extended well beyond my time in the classroom. I honed my skills while working with patients coping with emotional issues, addiction and the dual diagnosed. At present I know that I have the expertise to work with a vast majority of those that seek out help however, I've also learned my therapeutic limitations. Before entering into a therapeutic relationship I have to be certain that I have the expertise to provide the appropriate help or I would be doing my patient a great disservice. My singular goal is to provide you the help you seek. My therapeutic approach is using Solution Focused Brief Therapy and I've attached some information below to better explain what that is; Unlike Traditional forms of therapy that take time to analyze problems, pathology and past life events, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) concentrates on finding solutions in the present time and exploring one's hope for the future to find a quicker resolution of one's problems. This method takes the approach that you know what you need to improve your life and, with the appropriate coaching and questioning, are capable of finding the best solutions. I should also add that I'm not a shirt and tie or Dockers and Polo shirt therapist, more than not you'll see me in a t-shirt and shorts. Hopefully that does not dissuade you from coming onto my service but I definitely understand if it does.

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Judith Geneus

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Judith Geneus, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University in December of 2018 with my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Professionally, I have provided mental health, academic, and career counseling services to children, teenagers, adults, and couples for about 4 years in various settings. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, intimacy related issues, motivation, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and confidence. My therapeutic style leans towards a person-centered approach where I meet my clients where they are in a empathic and non-judgmental manner. I tend to also use various counseling techniques in order to assist clients with meeting their personal goals. As a Christian who is a counselor, I feel compelled and honored to walk alongside those who are hurting, create a gentle and safe space for them to be vulnerable and honest about where they are, and find healing. I know how it feels to be hurting and needing someone who can help you work through your own struggles, and I look forward to walking with you through this journey of healing. It takes a lot of courage to taking this first step towards mental/emotional wellness and I am proud of you for that.

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Bennett Burbank

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Born in New York and raised in Philadelphia, I have lived in South Florida for the past 25 years, and I've been an LCSW for 20 of them. I am comfortable talking to a wide variety of people and I enjoy discussing the stressors involved in work, in relationships, in parenting. I feel that everyone can benefit from having productive discussions about challenging issues. PLEASE NOTE - I CAN ONLY PROVIDE THERAPY TO RESIDENTS OF FLORIDA. I have been doing teletherapy for the past 3 years, and I do not maintain an office for in-person therapy. I believe the teletherapy has opened to door for so many people who would not otherwise involve themselves in a weekly or bi-weekly trek to an office. I am comfortable with what I am able to offer through teletherapy, and while I understand that there are sometimes limitations, for the most part I find clients feeling rewarded by the experience. It's a brave new world. I am happy to engage with people who are dealing with anger issues, relationship problems, adjustment issues, loss and bereavement, anxiety as well as mood dysregulation. I employ cognitive behavioral interventions when I see the opportunity, and find that these techniques can be particularly helpful with anxiety problems. Please note that I do NOT conduct sessions while clients are driving.

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Lauren Berrones

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Love, health, wellness, balance, rest, relaxation, authenticity, family, security, fulfillment, contentment, abundance, satisfaction, confidence, resilience, nutrition, fitness. These are words that resonate with me and my practice. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Holistic Health Coach and I am dedicated to helping people heal from the inside out so that they can be the unique, powerful, healthy individuals they were designed to be.

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Taya Taube

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,QS,MS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am a licensed Psychotherapist, Qualified Supervisor, Consultant, and Adjunct Psychology Professor with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties & depression. 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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Betsy Rosander

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, self esteem, coping with addictions, grief & loss, and end of life transitioning, and boundary identification and setting. 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 provide a place of safety, positive regard, and to support & empower you in that journey.

How to find counseling in Saint Petersburg

Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg, elsewhere in Pinellas, 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 Saint Petersburg area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 33707 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg, 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.

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.

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

33701, 33702, 33703, 33704, 33705, 33707, 33710, 33711, 33712, 33713, 33714, 33715, 33716, 33729, 33730, 33731, 33732, 33733, 33734, 33736, 33737, 33738, 33740, 33741, 33742, 33743, 33747, 33762, 33784

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