In Sarasota, FL, those seeking assistance with emotional health challenges can access a variety of counseling services designed to foster personal growth and create positive change. Licensed professionals, including licensed psychologists, offer support for issues ranging from panic attacks to family conflict, emphasizing conflict resolution and strategies to enhance overall well-being.

The therapists in Sarasota County utilize a client-centered approach, which aids in developing greater self-awareness and understanding the root cause of emotional and psychological difficulties. This method encourages clients to identify and modify patterns contributing to their distress, such as those leading to low self esteem.

Therapy in Sarasota focuses on building the skills necessary to manage personal challenges effectively, aiming to empower individuals to navigate their circumstances with confidence and insight. This proactive stance helps clients not just cope but thrive, promoting enduring positive change.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

Psychologist AnnMarie Worcester providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

AnnMarie Worcester

Clinician
License Type(s): NCC,LMHC,LCMHC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
29 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is AnnMarie Worcester and I am a licensed counselor in the sunny state of Florida as well as in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. For 27 years I have been fortunate to live my passion of counseling, teaching, mentoring, coaching, consulting, and supervising. I have worked for hospitals, residential facilities, crisis units, juvenile evaluation centers, rape crisis centers, youth shelters, Boys and Girls Clubs, child abuse councils, YMCA, community mental health centers, Social Services, and private counseling agencies. My theoretical orientation is very person centered and relationship based, focusing on providing encouragement and fostering empowerment while teaching mindfulness through reality based and CBT therapy techniques. I offer my services to clients who have the willingness and ability to resolve their own problems with my assistance through the use of practical solutions and tools that can be applied in all aspects of life and any situation that may come up! Counseling involves your active participation both in and out of the counseling sessions, as well as a genuine desire and continual effort to change your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. YOU determine the progress of the counseling process. Change and growth will be at your pace.... sometimes it will be easy and swift, sometimes it will be slow and deliberate, sometimes it will be painful.....its all up to you and the time and effort you put in. Success is being able to face life's challenges in the future without my support or intervention by intentionally and consistently using the solutions and tools we’ve discussed and you've practiced on your own. Are you ready? I am here to help!

Psychologist Jason Smith providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Jason Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

Most of us are doing the best they can with the options and tools they have available at the time. Sometimes we need a helping hand to move forward. In these times of need therapy can offer insight, objective feedback, and guidance. Together we can work towards reaching your goals and personal growth. I have over 15 years’ experience providing mental health services and behavioral counseling. I have worked with adults, couples, families, adolescents and even children. I have helped to treat issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, low self-confidence, school/ career concerns, stress, parenting dynamics, and relationship challenges. My therapeutic style draws elements from cognitive-behavioral model, strength’s-based approach, motivational interviewing, and solution focused to name a few. My approach is friendly, non-judgmental interjecting both constructive criticism and even humor at times. Change is a process that can be undertaken at any stage of your life. Just because today does not align with your goals, does not reflect what you can achieve tomorrow. My hope is that together we can help you identify skills and techniques to get your life back in the direction you want to go.

Psychologist Ruth Jackson providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Ruth Jackson

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Ruth Jackson, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years with a unique background and life experiences that enable me to relate to a large variety of clients. I raised my three multiracial children as a single mother in the Southern part of the USA, which came with multiple opportunities. I progressed as a single mother by working as a Certified Nursing Assistant to where I am today. My life has been ultimately challenging and productive. My focus is client centered therapy using Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Narrative Therapy. I enjoy helping clients formulate an individualized treatment plan that will allow them to reach their ultimate goals. Observing the clients progress, including breakthroughs that happen during the therapeutic process, are exhilarating for me. I have a tremendous zeal to enable individuals to live their best life. I let all of my clients know that not all therapists will be the right fit for their personality. Therefore, I always encourage them to try another therapist to help them achieve their goals, if I am not the right fit. I have had hundreds of clients that have changed their lives, achieved their goals and have become more contend and satisfied with their lives. The clients I have done therapy with are from a wide background from multi-millionaires to homeless people trying to get back on their feet. My clients have been pleased with my compassion, their level of therapy and they have been able to use new ideas to solve their issues. I would appreciate an opportunity to build a therapeutic rapport with you and I would assist you to work diligently on your current issues. I would be available when you need me by you messaging me anytime, I will get back to you within 12 HRS. However, our Face to Face time will have to be scheduled.

Psychologist David Shirly providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

David Shirly

Clinician
License Type(s): LMHC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently working out of Florida and have been doing counseling work for over 7 years. The foundation of my personal orientation is that "the client is the most important person in the therapeutic process." Building on client strengths is something I use in my sessions to really try and understand the client and help facilitate them to make the changes they want to make in their lives. I have 7 years of experience working with clients in the group setting and individual settings. My specialty lies within anger management, depression and anxiety. I love listening to people and helping them find the tools to achieve their goals.

Psychologist Betty Baumstark providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Betty Baumstark

Clinician
License Type(s): LMHC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
14 years offering treatment

Betty is a Licensed Clinical Counselor who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, Betty will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychotherapy. An Integrated approach can be utilized as well. Betty is known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, empathetic, and energetic. Not only does she have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but she also has a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! Betty has wanted to be a therapist for as long as she can remember, and is so happy to have the privilege to do so. Betty is looking forward to meeting you! SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Self esteem Career difficulties Depression Also experienced in: Family conflicts , Coping with life changes , ADHD , Codependency , Divorce and Separation , Midlife Crisis , Women's Issues, Self-esteem issues, and much more Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 7

Psychologist Frankie Ter Keurst  providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Frankie Ter Keurst

Clinician
License Type(s): MA, LMHC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Frankie and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living in the sunshine state of Florida. I completed my graduate school internship as well as post graduate registered intern experience at an inpatient crisis stabilization center. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parent-child relationship problems, self-harm, personality disorders, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse and have worked closely alongside the Department of Children and Families and the Baker Act court system, and numerous IOP programs. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, and I believe my clients should have someone who listens to their concerns wholeheartedly with an open mind. I believe in treating everyone with genuine respect and sensitivity, and I don't believe we should label or stigmatize ourselves based on our struggles. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy. I will tailor our conversations and create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, with your input along the way. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I offer video, phone call, and text message sessions! I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Kelli Stocker providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Kelli Stocker

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida, Arizona, and Washington, with over 15 years of professional work experience with adolescents and individuals. These experiences include helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, trauma and abuse, and coping with life changes. My therapy approach is very warm and client-centered, and frequently includes solution focused techniques. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and 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 and look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Kirby Kelleher providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Kirby Kelleher

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficulties
8 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, adjustment to illness/caregiving for a sick loved one, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My style focuses on finding joy, acceptance, and creating goals together. I am interactive and relaxed. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Brian Bakalar providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Dr. Brian Bakalar

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
12 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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.

Psychologist Kristen Lewis providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Kristen Lewis

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years offering treatment

At present, I am licensed in Florida and Wyoming with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with issues like stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, healthy communication, and depression. I have a strong work history with the military community and adults of all ages. I am a direct and approachable person, and I think that safe relationships help us on our path to discovery and growth. A therapist can help you explore the things that may be preventing you from feeling mentally healthy and satisfied with your daily life. I value meaningful exploration through conversation paired with action on collaborative goals. I am a partner on your path, and I know that the path can feel difficult and lonely at times. Thank you for reaching out.

Find a therapist serving clients in Florida

What types of therapists are available to clients in Sarasota?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Sarasota that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Sarasota available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Sarasota therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Sarasota therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Sarasota region and in the state of Florida.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Sarasota can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Sarasota may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Sarasota offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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