Talking to a therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL, can help you navigate life's challenges.
If you’re looking for individual counseling, Pinellas County has plenty of options. But finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially if you don’t feel like commuting to the Tampa Bay area or have time for an in-person appointment. Working with an online platform like BetterHelp can make finding a therapist more convenient and make it easier to find something that fits into your schedule.
With online therapy, you still get the same person-centered approach and a personalized plan for the treatment of mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Starting therapy can also help if you are feeling stuck or are trying to overcome low self-esteem or challenges in your past. If you’re ready to see what therapy can do for you, connect with a Saint Petersburg-based therapist below.
Jamie Matthews
My name is Jamie Matthews and I have been working as a counselor since 2007, and really enjoy helping people reach their treatment goals. I believe that counseling is about change, and believe people can change any behavior not working in their life. I started my career working in community mental health where I worked with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, and gained a great deal of experience helping individuals manage symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, severe depression symptoms, and severe anxiety symptoms. From 2007-2015 I did mainly group counseling sessions, and some individual counseling sessions using evidence based practices. From 2015-2021, I have worked as an Outpatient Therapist where I have worked with children, adults, and families in a community mental health setting. Currently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist people in staying present focused and learning the role thoughts, feelings, and behaviors play in the development and maintenance of family health, relationships and mental health problems. I do believe that it is important to learn to live your day-to-day life before discussing past experiences that may be holding people back. I am a strong believer in being solution focused, and learning ways to focus on current issues. When working with me I will not try to push you to share past experiences, but only work on current behaviors that are not working for you in your life. I also will not try to stop you from sharing things from your past that have been bothering you because I understand the value of having someone to hear and really listen to your needs. I look forward to working with you.
Lynne Healey
I believe that as long as we are breathing there is hope. It isn't how many times you've fallen or been kicked down it's whether you'll get up that final time. I believe miracles occur every day. I've been a licensed therapist and had an opportunity to work with trauma survivors since 2000. I have extensive training in the area of trauma to include EMDR and RTM protocols and will help match every client to the best type of treatment plan for their individual healing I have strong experience with anxiety and depressive disorders and most recently have had the honor of supporting school shooting survivors in their recovery. I'm a parent and I understand life can be painful but I do believe with guidance and support all things are possible. I will work and support anyone with a true desire to improve their life circumstances. I love working with folks from all different cultures and backgrounds and walks of life. I am blessed to have experienced being part of many clients going on to overcome hardships through counseling. I would love to become part of your support team.
Maurice Flournoy
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I graduated with my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2010. Since that time, I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, individuals and families involved within an outpatient setting. I have worked with trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, parent-child relationships, communication problems, grief and loss, , etc. I am also a qualified licensure supervisor since 2018, working with unlicensed therapists to provide guidance & supervision before they can become eligible to be a licensed therapist. I use an eclectic, strengths based, trauma informed approach to therapy. I have experience using Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy, Group Therapy & Play Therapy.
Dr. Susan Sult
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist, and I have been working in the field for over 25 years. I can provide individual, family and couple's counseling, and have experience treating a wide range of problems that include: anxiety, addiction, depression, divorce and separation, parenting challenges, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorder, chronic stress, dissociative disorders, attentional problems, grief, and trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder. The primary approaches that I use are cognitive-behavioral, solution focused and gestalt therapies. I understand that counseling can be emotionally painful at times, and I work to provide a safe place to explore memories and discuss problems. I believe therapy is more than just listening and that when it is done well, it is a partnership between the therapist and the client. I will help you identify changes you would like to make and explain what techniques will enable you to make those changes. I consider myself lucky to work in this field, and would enjoy the opportunity to meet you. Outside of work, my interests include horseback riding, quilting, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. Best regards, Dr. Susan
Taneisha Riley
Since childhood and into my professional career, I have always held one thing above all, helping people navigate through difficult circumstances and situations—finding solutions that help the average person live with greater purpose and fulfillment. This quest to change lives is what pushed me into the field of psychology. It is not enough to merely treat the body, if the mind is still off-balance. My treatment regimen is holistic—attending to your spiritual (christian foundation), mental, and emotional well-being. Towards helping achieve your dream of a clear, focused mind, I employ diverse, flexible and proven psychotherapeutic treatments, depending on your peculiar needs. With 12 years of experience helping individuals and families overcome mental and emotional blocks, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Sessions, Psychoanalysis, and Solution Focused Brief , you can count on an experience that enriches you. My approach to treatment is one that combines counseling, psychotherapy, and aspects of spirituality to provide you with a holistic balance to your life. Over my years of practice, this has helped my clients overcome addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, as well as regaining a healthy marriage and family life. NOTICE: I will counsel out-of-state and international clients virtually. You will need to complete the subscriber agreement which states you will agreed not to use the BetterHelp platform for crises. You agree to not hold me liable for any harm you experience. I will not be able to call the police if you were in crisis of any type including if you were suicidal, have a medical emergency, or refer you to your local community resources in your state or country. By continuing with me, you accept these terms and the associated risks.
Skip Dettman
Hello, I am a LCSW currently licensed in Illinois and Florida, I am also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois and am a certified hypnotherapist. Additionally I have a degree in behavioral forensics. I have worked in the field for going on 15 years assisting individuals with many concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, as well as all types of addiction disorders. My therapy style is to meet the client where they are and work alongside them to address their concerns. I am not the expert of any clients, instead focusing on developing a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to begin to address the concerns of the client. My therapy styles range form cognitive behavioral therapy to hypnotherapy, utilizing what works best for the client and what they are most comfortable with. ENtering therapy and asking for help is one of the most courageous things anyone can do, and I am here to assist you.
Melissa Stahl
I am licensed in Florida and Missouri with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Rebecca Ginac
I am licensed in Florida with over 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, 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. I love to utilize person-centered approaches, as I believe individuals are the expert on their own lives. I am also trained in other various approaches to treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. In addition, I have received specific training in providing mental health services to first responders and those who experience repeated or prolonged trauma. I have 2 dogs, love crafting and photography, and think the sunshine is wonderful. Whatever reason you have for seeking out therapy, I am hopeful that we can work together to help you achieve your goals.
Maura Skehan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida dedicated to helping clients navigate difficult and distressing life experiences, such as the grief and loss process, coping with addictions, depression and anxiety, and anger management. I provide support and guidance during transitional times by helping people work through emotional hardships, adjust to a new reality, rebuild their lives, and explore self-identity to improve quality of life. Trained in and able to utilize various therapeutic treatment modalities and works from a holistic, person-centered, and strengths-based perspective to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment; walking through the process of healing and transformation towards the authentic self requires companionship. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Kimberly Kowalik
It takes tremendous courage and strength to ask for help and allow another person into your life when you feel vulnerable and alone. It has been my honor to work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families for the past several years to promote healing and growth. I strongly believe in utilizing a strength-based approach that promotes a partnership between my clients and I so that we may achieve their personal goals together! I specialize in diverse mental health concerns including, but not limited to trauma, behavioral issues, substance abuse/dependency disorders, bereavement, anxiety, depression, anger management, and interpersonal relationship issues. I originally completed my MS in Rehab Counseling in 2013 and my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in December of 2022 so that I may continue to effectively address my client's unique needs.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Saint Petersburg
Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Petersburg can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg, elsewhere in Pinellas, 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With 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 Saint Petersburg online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Saint Petersburg, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Saint Petersburg therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a 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 33701 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 Saint Petersburg counselor?
Before seeing your Saint Petersburg 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. Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Saint Petersburg has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online 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 Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg:
33701, 33702, 33703, 33704, 33705, 33707, 33710, 33711, 33712, 33713, 33714, 33715, 33716, 33729, 33730, 33731, 33732, 33733, 33734, 33736, 33737, 33738, 33740, 33741, 33742, 33743, 33747, 33762, 33784