Is your child having trouble in school or maybe the teacher is complaining that he is not paying attention, acts out in class, and does not sit still. Your child may have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is a mental condition that needs treatment. There are quite a few great counselors in Punta Gorda who can help.
Punta Gorda is proud of their history and has 10 places that are on the National Register of Historic Places such as Villa Blanca, Old First National Bank of Punta Gorda, and the A. C. Freeman House. These are excellent places to teach your child about history. However, if they have untreated ADHD, they cannot fully enjoy the concept. Get treatment for your child today.
Dr. Douglass Lobo
Dr. Lobo is an educated, experienced, and licensed mental health professional. He has extensive experience working with children, teenagers, and their families. He has successfully worked with some of the most challenging youth in various settings, including the foster care, academic, and juvenile justice sectors in both the public and private sector. He currently consults with Miami-County Public Schools, New York Public Schools, and several Charter School Systems and operates a thriving private practice. Dr. Lobo specializes in working with the most challenging children and teenagers around behavioral and academic issues and is proficient in assisting families in getting back on track. Counseling is not a miracle cure or a magic wand; however, sometimes talking to an objective individual and sharing your thoughts and feelings can be highly therapeutic and liberating, and getting non-judgemental feedback and guidance can be extremely helpful in navigating life’s issues. Many times things can begin to be sorted out in a couple of sessions.
Janice Nass
For those of us experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness/disability, grief and loss, relationship issues, and work/life balance difficulties, trying to adapt to the changes these issues inevitably bring is a common thread that binds us all together. Change is a natural part of life, but it has ways of bringing up feelings of fear, uncertainty, doubt, and sometimes even apathy and pessimism. Since we cannot control change – we can only control how we respond to it – we often feel “stuck”. Together, we can work to address these feelings and adjust our mindsets so we can become stronger from the inside out. Realizing that we have the power to “course correct” our circumstances can be empowering. Our aim in the therapeutic process is to address change by: *learning to “reframe” the situation and see it differently. We can become more aware of what our minds are saying to us and change the narrative to something that is more aligned with our needs. Sometimes we don’t see the possibilities that change can bring because we are locked in a mindset that this is how things are supposed to be. *re-examining our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. When we know ourselves, our truths, our current beliefs, we can weather change more effectively. Sometimes difficulty comes when we are living out of alignment to our core values. *acknowledging that it can be uncomfortable but that difficult moments to not define us. Although social media may have us believe otherwise, life is not meant to be lived perfectly. We can learn from our mistakes, alter our actions, and see where we can do better. Avoiding discomfort can lead us to miss out on amazing experiences. Together, through the therapeutic process, we can discover what might be on the other side. *identify supports and health self-care practices. We can explore those relationships and practices that are reflections of our worth and learn to let go of those that don’t. The therapeutic process can also address how our communication styles can either enhance or diminish our support systems. These are my beliefs. I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person centered therapy (PCT) and solution focused therapy tailored to each person’s needs. In the past 4 decades as a social worker (yes, it has been that long!), I have worked with individuals in long term care and hospice, both as a social worker and as an administrator, and as a mental health practitioner in group practice settings. If I have learned anything over those years it is this: It is never too late to try something new, to start again, and to create a life we truly desire. We are all connected. Our journeys may look different and feel different, but we are all here on this earth for a reason and for a purpose. Let us discover yours – together.
Dr. Robert Cipriano Jr
Dr. Robert J. Cipriano Jr. has been working with the South Florida community as a licensed psychologist for 20 years. Dr. Cipriano is currently a Florida , California, & North Carolina Licensed Psychologist. He is board certified in Police and Public Safety Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) and for the majority of his experience practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and more recently within the past two years has acquiesced to providing EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy to clientele experiencing trauma based symptoms. Dr. Cipriano has provided therapeutic and an array of clinical services to both the Trauma-Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and inpatient behavioral health units at one of the largest Trauma hospitals in northern Miami-Dade County and has provided a number of critical incident stress debriefings (CISD) for a variety of staff. Dr. Cipriano has handled well over a 200 CISDs in his professional career. He assisted one of the largest metropolitan police departments in the southeast part of the United States in gaining insight and managing individuals who suffered from severe mental illness and who were in crisis as a "in- house" staff psychologist assigned to a Crisis Negotiation Team. He provided critical support to the crisis negotiation team when they were faced with crisis situations, hostages, career criminals, and barricaded subjects who posed a threat for police and the community at large. Dr. Cipriano has also assisted in providing crucial therapeutic support to the victims and victim's families of the school shooting in Parkland, FL along with the first responders affected by & connected to the critical incident. Dr. Cipriano is also the psychological supervisor for a major metropolitan police department, developing the program from infancy, and expanding the wellness concept for public safety sworn and civilian professionals. Dr. Cipriano is highly engaged in wellness and has written several articles on wellness and the importance of the continuity of wellness to other facets of one's life. Dr. Cipriano also offers expert training in understanding the psychological dynamics and warning signs of active shooters, school shooters, school place violence, and bully behavior. Dr. Cipriano has a strong interest in this area and has developed a clinical curriculum to target, intervene, and potentially prevent such acts along this specific spectrum of aggression. His knowledge, experience, and expertise will benefit clinicians, educational institutions, administrators, public safety professionals, and the private sector on a local, state, and national level.
Judith Geneus
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.
Angela Pyles
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. I am here to support you in that process.
Kalisha Matterson
I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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. I am here to support you in that process.
Joy Toscani
I am licensed in Florida with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, anxiety, depression, life adjustments and parenting issues. 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.
Patricia "Trisha" O'Bryant
I am licensed in Florida, Minnesota, Texas and Wisconsin with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Marie Judith Charpentier-Thorpe
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 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.
Krista Marquick
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience providing treatment to clients seeking help with mental health and addiction issues. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Counseling and Psychology in 2013 from Troy University and obtained my license in 2015. I have successfully treated clients with depression, anxiety, and those struggling to cope with life changes. I have helped clients who are experiencing difficulty with addictions and those who may be experiencing difficulties managing emotions in daily life. I have also helped clients with issues surrounding motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Whether this type of difficulty is new and is a result of something that has recently happened, or whether it has been this way for some time, I can help. I incorporate solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and more to assist my clients in transforming their current perception and in working on their general outlook on life. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Punta Gorda
Finding the best therapist close by in Punta Gorda can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda. 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 Punta Gorda, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, elsewhere in Charlotte, 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With 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 Punta Gorda online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Punta Gorda, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Punta Gorda therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a 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 33951 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 Punta Gorda counselor?
Before seeing your Punta Gorda 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. Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Punta Gorda has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online 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 Punta Gorda, Florida
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Punta Gorda 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Punta Gorda:
33927, 33950, 33951