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Melissa Sonthonax

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

My name is Melissa Sonthonax and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I graduated with a Masters in Psychology in 2014 and began working with clients whom suffer from various mental health issues. I have six years of experience in the mental health field. I also have experience working with individuals who specifically struggle with general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, low self esteem, friendship issues, life transitions and other everyday issues. My approach towards therapy is to work with each individual to develop a sense of strength to work through their individual issues and see that they can develop a sense of happiness. I also work with individuals to create healthy goals in order to best help each person adapt to daily life. My passion is to help clients work on outer behaviors that help build confidence within themselves. I understand that each person has their own unique situations, therefore each person will be provided with individual plans of action to help you get back to the place that you desire to be. Each individual can expect to be provided with a comfortable environment where they can share their thoughts/views about their circumstances and be guided, with the help of myself, to work through their circumstances.

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Mary-Eileen Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
38 years of experience

Hi! My name is Mary Walker. I have been dually licensed as a Mental Health Counselor and a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 30+ years. I am a Board Approved Supervisor for both disciplines. I have worked in many different settings and have maintained a private practice in Wilton Manors, FL, for over 13 years. I have worked with clients of all ages and a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, substance use, couples/intimacy, trauma, and sexuality issues. I am skilled in providing Individual, Group, and Couples/Family therapy. I work from an eclectic approach that combines Client-centered, CBT, Mindfulness, and Systems Therapies. I utilize techniques from these and other schools of therapy to provide a unique experience to meet your needs. I believe the counseling relationship is a collaboration between the therapist and the client(s) based on compassion, genuineness, and respect. You are the expert in your own life. I have experience in helping people with change. Together we will design a plan to help you address your concerns. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Andrea Hamilton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,MBA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Andrea Hamilton possesses a bachelor’s in Psychology, a master’s in Counselor Education, and a MBA that she obtained from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have worked in the Child Welfare system with children and families for most of my career. However, I have also worked with the substance abuse population, sexually assaulted, and in the prison system throughout Dade and Broward Counties. I have assisted in the start-up of a female therapeutic group home in Broward County and a co-ed group home shelter in Dade County.

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Iris Wilsek

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have worked for both inpatient and outpatient organizations and I have over 10 years experience in private practice. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Karen Kirkpatrick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland and Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation loss, lack of self-esteem issues and loss of confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I use a Solution Focused approach mixed with Cognitive Behavior and Family Systems therapy strategies to help my clients move forward and gain awareness and insight to their current situation. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process!

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Dr. Theodosia Paclawskyj

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
17 years of experience

I am a psychologist licensed in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with autism and with intellectual disabilities; I have also work with parents of children with special needs. At present, I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression; in addition, I continue to work with parents of children with special needs. I also speak Ukrainian and am happy to conduct sessions in Ukrainian for those patients who prefer it. Most importantly, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Yvonne Santiago

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida since 2004. My undergraduate and graduate degrees are from University of Florida. During my counseling career, I have enjoyed working with individuals of all ages and walks of life, challenged with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability, relationship issues, physical and emotional trauma and career transitions. I am a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I use a strength based approach and integrative frame of work with my clients, tailoring treatment to your individual needs. Through sensitivity, warmth and compassion, I can help you overcome the barriers that have kept you stuck. It takes courage 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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Jason Versace

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Rose Mary Lagravere's avatar and link to their profile

Rose Mary Lagravere

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with over 30 years of professional work experience. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families, from diverse communities and cultures, on their journey towards improved mental well-being. I have extensive experience in assessing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, stress and anxiety, mood disorders, grief, trauma, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, ADHD, behavioral issues, parenting skills, and neurodevelopmental disorders. My approach to therapy is rooted in a client-centered perspective while utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, among others. By creating a warm and welcoming environment, my aim is to establish a safe space where clients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their concerns at their own pace. "I am passionate about helping individuals and families navigate their mental health challenges and strive to empower my clients to become the best versions of themselves. With empathy and support, I am dedicated to serving the community and providing guidance to those in need of mental health therapy. Together, we can work towards building a brighter and more fulfilling future."

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Ruth Auguste

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Port Saint Joe
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida. She works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Port Saint Joe

Finding the best therapist close by in Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe. 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 Port Saint Joe, 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe, elsewhere in Gulf, 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Port Saint Joe, 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 32456 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 Port Saint Joe counselor?

Before seeing your Port Saint Joe 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. Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe, 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.

Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe, 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 Port Saint Joe 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 Port Saint Joe.

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

32456

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