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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Psychologist Dr. Robert Nolan providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Dr. Robert Nolan

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH3422
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
30 years offering treatment

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, with over 30 years of experience working as a counselor, college professor, and consultant. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, lifestyle changes, personality disorders, Bipolar disorder and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma, as well as substance abuse issues. My counseling style is considerate and personable. I believe in treating all people with compassion, respect, and sensitivity, and I believe that you know yourself best. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our relationship and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Many of us feel a lack of stability emotionally from time to time. To seek a more complete and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change needs to be encouraged and supported . If you are ready to make a change, I am here to support and empower you. I am sure this is something that we can do together and I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Lynda Wright providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Lynda Wright

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW9208
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
19 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida with 17 years of experience. I have worked with people who have been challenged by trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety and life changing situations. I have additionally worked with people struggling with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My approach is solution focused, client centered, client strength based with a focus of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. When working with clients I strive to make their experience positive, genuine, respectful and safe. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strengths needed to make positive changes in your life. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage and I am glad you have decided to begin your journey. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to assist you in identifying your goals and achieving them.

Psychologist David Shirly providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

David Shirly

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 017927, FL LMHC MH18828
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am a licensed therapist in Florida dedicated to supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, and interpersonal communication. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique experiences. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal transformation, I provide a supportive environment for meaningful healing and growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and creating positive life changes. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and move towards a more fulfilling life.

Psychologist Steven Carlson providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Steven Carlson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW18269
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida with over 36 years of experience. I have worked with all age groups and most problem areas in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Oklahoma and now Florida. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD and weather phobias. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My therapeutic approach focuses on encouraging and assisting clients to develop perseverance, become more flexible, and increase their self-worth through evidence based social work modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Supportive Therapies, and Problem Solving Strategies. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Corina Istanich providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Corina Istanich

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH17317
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
10 years offering treatment

Welcome ! My name is Corina and I hold a license in Mental Health Counseling (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I went to school at Palm Beach Atlantic University for both my under grad and masters education. Palm Beach Atlantic University is a Christian University and I feel grateful to have attended this school as it has created the person I am today. I believe that my faith has developed me as the counselor I am today and I function with that mentality in counseling. Jesus is the great counselor and I believe that we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I have been working in the counseling field for 8 years and have been licensed for 4 of those years. I have worked the majority of my career in an in-patient addictions center and have expanded to out-patient and in home therapy with a couple different community agencies. In those agencies I have offered services to children from the ages of 4 to adults in their 60's, as well as family therapy. I have worked with an array of issues not limited to family conflict, relationship issues, communication, drugs and alcohol, anger, stress, coping skills and many other life issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a modality that I primarily work with and at times borrowing from other modalities when it is fit. My goal is to build a real, raw and positive relationship while being compassionate and empathetic. I will be sensitive but also direct in efforts to help you find solutions to your current and/or past issues. I also believe that incorporating the use coping skills, boundaries and communication will increase quality of life as well as the quality of relationships. I believe all interactions are the beginning of potential flourishing relationships. With that said, I think that as we grow in counselor and client relationship , this very relationship will better help you with your relationships with family, friends and co-workers. I am excited to meet you and to work with you as you learn new ways to live your very best life! Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey. Additional info: I prefer to do video sessions as we are able to see each other face to face and I am able to pick up on ques that are important in therapy. I am not opposed to live chat or phone call when video is not available but prefer video. If you the time that you need to meet is not available, please message me so I can accommodate you.

Psychologist Kelly Morana-Piazza providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

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 Gerald Syrkett providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Gerald Syrkett

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH10464
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionADHD
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Clarissa Davis providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Clarissa Davis

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 6801, FL LMHC MH18473
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I am dual licensed in both Florida and Tenneessee. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist George Deegan providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

George Deegan

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW11534
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesGrief
40 years offering treatment

I have worked with many types of people in my career, but a favorite is helping those struggling with grief. People have come to me after losing a child, a friend, or a parent and even a close long-term romantic partner. Being overwhelmed with conflicting and confusing emotions is common and often they just need to be heard. Your process is unique to you and the last thing you need to hear is, "It's time to move on, stop crying." The goal is to take ownership of your grief, and all that comes with it. Sometimes permission is all that you need to allow whatever happens to happen. You are the director of how you choose to grieve. I specialize in addiction, intersex birth differences, grief, anxiety and trauma. Initially, my style is to work towards building a therapeutic relationship with you, always developing trust in its own time until you are comfortable revealing deeper vulnerability. I believe together, with minds combined, we find better solutions to what seems insurmountable. Since high school many have shared private information with me. I suspect they know just how much I can relate to their experiences. As a flawed human, with much life experience, my strength lies in compassionate understanding. I continue to receive letters of gratitude from decades old clients. I humbly respond, "I lit the candle you did all the work!"

Psychologist Scott Paul providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Scott Paul

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH22215
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 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, relationship issues, 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 believe is a positive investment in self improvement.

Psychologist James Hoy providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

James Hoy

Clinician
License Type(s): OR LPC C9715, OK LPC 12704
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida, Oklahoma and Oregon with 10 years of professional work experience. My certifications include Master Certified Addiction Counselor, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, executive coaching, spiritual issues, aging, bereavement/hospice/death, anxiety, depression, loneliness, socialization, holistic mental health solutions and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and 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, and will share my mental and spiritual health knowledge and tools to help remind you of the truths you have within yourself.

Psychologist Dara Maddox providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Dara Maddox

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH25948
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience with individuals, couples and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, substance abuse and addictions, LGBTQ related issues, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Alexandria Kugler providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Alexandria Kugler

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW22970
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
5 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping young adults develop deeper self-understanding, resilience, and personal growth. I have extensive experience supporting clients through challenges like anxiety, grief, self-esteem concerns, and significant life transitions. I have a background in working with individuals of all ages, from adults in a clinical setting to children in the school setting. I am certified in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT), and enjoy working with parents and families. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to support you in understanding yourself more deeply and creating positive, sustainable change. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering clients to build stronger communication skills, discover their life purpose, and cultivate self-love. I understand the unique pressures facing young adults and offer targeted support for those experiencing seasonal mood shifts, caregiver stress, and personal development challenges. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner strengths, heal from past experiences, and build meaningful pathways toward personal growth and emotional well-being. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Samuel Heastie providing different types of therapy in Saint Petersburg

Samuel Heastie

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW25731
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

I’m Dr. Sam Heastie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than twenty years of clinical experience helping people move through anxiety and chronic stress, depression and mood-related concerns, relationship and family challenges, and the impacts of trauma, including PTSD. I work with adults and couples, and I’m especially committed to creating a grounded, affirming space for men of color, where you can show up fully, speak honestly, and feel understood without having to trade “being strong.” My approach is client-centered and collaborative. That means we’ll work as partners to clearly identify what’s been getting in your way, what you want to be different, and what progress looks like in real, day-to-day life. Therapy with me is both compassionate and purposeful: we’ll focus on practical tools you can use immediately, while also addressing the deeper patterns that keep you feeling stuck. Whether you’re navigating panic, burnout, grief, relationship conflict, emotional numbness, or the lingering effects of painful experiences, our work will be tailored to your goals, and your values, at your pace. Our work will be intentional and focused but not rushed. I’m also an educational psychologist and a tenured college professor, which informs the way I teach skills, explain concepts, and track progress. Many clients appreciate having a clear plan; one that supports short-term, measurable outcomes (like improved sleep, steadier mood, reduced reactivity, and healthier communication) while building long-term well-being, resilience, and stronger relationships. In addition to my clinical work, I host Building Better Bonds, my relationship-focused podcast streaming on YouTube, where I translate the psychology of connection into practical insight for everyday life. If you’re ready for meaningful change and you want a therapist who will meet you where you are, with warmth, clarity, and direction, I’d be honored to support you.

Find a Therapist Near You in Saint Petersburg , 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 Saint Petersburg.

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 Saint Petersburg 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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