This is Michael Shaughnessy's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Shaughnessy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disorders
39 years of experience

My name is Michael. I love tennis, running, college football, my work, and my wife (not necessarily in that order). I have over 3 decades of experience in providing a safe enough space for people to examine/explore and hopefully resolve whatever issues precipitated their reaching out for assistance. I have found, over the years, that entering therapy is, for most, somewhat of a last resort; if it really was an easy fix, they would have resolved the issue on their own with a friend, mentor, or previous therapist. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and have worked in numerous settings over the years, including inpatient treatment for substance abuse, co-dependency, and eating disorders. Have been in private practice for several decades, in both a group practice and as a solo practitioner. Have encountered and assisted folks suffering from depression, anxiety, and various trauma’s due to distressing life experiences, as well as folks becoming a little lost along the way. Have assisted numerous couples trying to save or make their marriages better. As a private practice therapist, I have been privileged to work with people from many cultures and from various walks of life. I can best be described as eclectic in approach, with a strong tendency towards experiential therapy, and have found that acceptance of myself and others is one of the keys to harmony in this world and in my life. My clients and I laugh often in therapy, as I tend to utilize humor wherever I can. I possess what I call a tenacious spirit, as I never give up on anyone. I am competent and compassionate when assisting others who are experiencing periods of pain and loss, and the complicated feelings experienced as we go through life. I am insightful and energetic, drawing upon decades of personal as well as professional experience, sharing easily and often the life experiences I have lived (my mistakes as well as successes). I believe we are shaped by the experiences we have lived and that various aspects of our personality have evolved over time and will continue to evolve as we live our lives. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little nudge to address what we would rather not whereas others dive into the issues they know they need to. I work, at times, to assist in helping develop a balance between our internal parent/adult and child selves, as an imbalance in these aspects of the personality can create the distress that precipitates an entry into therapy.

This is Alexia Pilleris's avatar and link to their profile

Alexia Pilleris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

Maybe you don't want to talk about it but maybe you do and that is why you are here. Hi, my name is Alexia and I am here so we can talk about it together. I am a licensed mental health counselor with 11 years of experience. I have worked with clients struggling with substance use, self esteem, loneliness, depression, anxiety, stress in addition to individuals that have struggled to communicate effectively in their interpersonal relationships. I believe therapy is a journey of self discovery. If the time is now, I am looking forward to being a part of your counseling journey.

This is Ashley Ferguson's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Ferguson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida with over 5 years of clinical skills with a wide range of concerns including grief/loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, sexuality, women issues and men issues. I also helped many people learn the benefit of discovering meditation and relaxation techniques. My therapy style is engaging and safe. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines EMDR therapy, solution-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing and trauma-informed 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!

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Pamela Quiroz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hi, I am Pamela, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with others to overcome any challenges, fears, or difficult times they may be facing. I have been working in the mental health field for five years. I have a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Social Work. I am a licensed clinician in the state of Florida. I practice therapy in both inpatient hospitals and outpatient facilities. I have primarily worked with children, teenagers, and young adults, but also have experience working with older populations. I am here to offer you a supportive, individualized, and judgement-free environment focused on your health and healing within various aspects of your life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I utilize a strengths-based, culturally competent, and solution-focused treatment modality that incorporates a multi-system, trauma informed, and wellness approach towards health and healing. 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 every step of the way. I look forward to working with you!

This is Yovanna Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Yovanna Martinez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with life stressors, anxiety, abuse and addictions, depression, grief and loss & 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, to assist in obtaining your goals of treatment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in your journey and process. I am fully bilingual English/Spanish.

This is Sheneka Robinson's avatar and link to their profile

Sheneka Robinson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with drug and alcohol 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. 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.

This is Jarmela Carter's avatar and link to their profile

Jarmela Carter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Sharon Troupe's avatar and link to their profile

Sharon Troupe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
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, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Lia Bigelow's avatar and link to their profile

Lia Bigelow

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
AddictionsLGBTAnger managementCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, LGBTQ+ related issues, anger management, coping with life changes and executive coaching. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Jacqueline Lizarazo's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Lizarazo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Ocean Ridge
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hi! My name is Jacqueline Lizarazo, and I go by Jackie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I specialize in therapy for individuals, children, and couples, focusing on stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. Why Choose Me: I want you to read the following passages: On Abuse: “I lived in a glass house into which my mother could look at any time. In a glass house, however, you cannot conceal anything without giving yourself away, except by hiding it under the ground. And then you cannot see it yourself, either.” On Depression: “Trees aren’t supposed to display fruit; they’re supposed to produce it. As much as I wanted to see results, I knew that I had to wait. The tree had to become healthy and mature before it could produce the fruit, and that takes time.” If what you read resonates with you, this is the type of therapy I offer. I push, and sometimes might make you cry—not to harm, but for growth. I deeply care about my patients and only want the best for you. I am not judgmental; I am here to listen and provide feedback. I often ask myself the question: if I were sitting where you are, would I come back? And the answer is yes. I give homework, so don’t expect it to be easy unless we need it to be. I am flexible, and my schedule is pretty open to fit your needs. We’re going to have days where we just catch up and talk about what happened that week but be prepared to talk about your past.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ocean Ridge

Finding the best therapist close by in Ocean Ridge 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 with therapists in Ocean Ridge that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Ocean Ridge. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ocean Ridge, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Ocean Ridge region and in the state of Florida. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Ocean Ridge or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Ocean Ridge therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Ocean Ridge area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Ocean Ridge, elsewhere in Palm Beach, or in the greater state of Florida. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ocean Ridge area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ocean Ridge therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ocean Ridge due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Ocean Ridge 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Ocean Ridge online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ocean Ridge, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Ocean Ridge psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ocean Ridge 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Ocean Ridge provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Ocean Ridge?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ocean Ridge 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Ocean Ridge 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 Ocean Ridge 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in FL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 33435 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Ocean Ridge counselor?

Before seeing your Ocean Ridge therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Ocean Ridge therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Ocean Ridge 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 with a Ocean Ridge counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Ocean Ridge, 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.

Ocean Ridge has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Ocean Ridge, Florida

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 Ocean Ridge 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 to customer service 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 Ocean Ridge.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Ocean Ridge:

33435

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