This is John Stawarz's avatar and link to their profile

John Stawarz

Offering therapy in FL
License: Ed.D.,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a doctoral level licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction issues and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have felt lost and wanted to better understand themselves. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines a sense of humor with cognitive-behavioral, client centered, motivational interviewing, solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Debra Wright

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker In Florida with 23+ years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, issues relating to being incarcerated and re-integrating back into society, parenting skills, some addiction services and helping those with physical disabilities find new and creative ways to feel fulfilled and capable. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I treat all people with respect, sensitivity and encourage empathy toward all. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, education, psychoanalytic and solution focused therapy’s. As we get to know each other I will help you using an individualized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Thank you for reaching out. This is the bravest first step you will make and I will be right here with you on this journey as we explore ways to empower you for change. I look forward to working with you!

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Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Change your Life! Your life can evolve and change so that you may find freedom and peace! My mission is to assist you to explore and discover your own answers from within, and to remember, recover and honor your true, authentic self so you can live life with greater ease and abundant joy. Let me guide you to transform your-Self and your life. Hello, I am Peggy Ann Serena Hemmer. I prefer to go by Serena. I have been providing clinically sound, creative, holistic counseling for children ages 3 and up, adults, couples and families since 2004. Prior to my clinical work, I spent 10 years at the county and state departments of mental health and substance abuse. Having studied and practiced many holistic approaches to health and well-being, as well as a variety of life philosophies, my approach to therapy is from a holistic perspective, taking into consideration the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. ​Knowing youth express themselves through art, and play, I weave Expressive Arts modalities into sessions with youth and their families. I was provided an opportunity to establish an Expressive Arts Clinical Program at a behavioral health residential center for youth. Certified in Rational Hypnotherapy, I am able to guide clients to relief from anxiety, phobias, and addictions. I graduated Summa cum Laude from Capital University with a Bachelor of Social Work degree and received a Master of Social Work degree, from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. In Florida, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Certifications in Rational Hypnotherapy, Gottman Couple's Counseling, and Spiritual Life Coaching. As an ordained metaphysical, New Thought minister and certified Spiritual Life Coach I assist clients, who are seeking, to explore and expand their values, spirituality, and faith. I bring my education, experience, and intuition to my practice and particularly my creativity in my work with adolescents and adults. Having provided counseling for people of all ages, from all backgrounds and socio-economic levels in residential treatment centers and private practice, I have acquired a broad awareness of the variety of challenges many people face and have witnessed the intrinsic ability we each have to overcome those challenges and to thrive. ​​ Originally, I founded my private practice in 2006 in Worthington, Ohio, and later moved it to Westerville, Ohio. Because I incorporate my background and experience in dance, Tai Chi and Qi Gong, drama, visual arts, and pottery, I was sought after to provide therapy for children as well as adults and couples. Along with my formal education and experience, I am certified in many holistic approaches. I am a Reiki Master Teacher, an Advanced Theta Healing practitioner, an Access Bars Practitioner and taught Qi Gong and Tai Chi for the State of Ohio Employees. Currently, my practice is located in sunny Saint Petersburg, Florida. During my career, I have developed and presented a variety of workshops for families and providers. Including: Ohio Department of Health - Birth to Three Conference -“Maternal Depression and Effects on Infants”- Co-Presenter Ohio Department of Aging Governor’s Conference on Aging - “Advantages of Tai Chi”, Presenter Ohio Department of Mental Health Millennium Conference - “Moving through Recovery”- Presenter “Use of Expressive Arts and Play in Counseling Adolescent Youth in a Children’s Residential Center”- Presenter “Bullies, Bullied, Bully Victims”- Presenter “Separation, Attachment, and Placement”- Foster and Adopted Children Presenter Cancer Support Community Leadership Conference, Washington, D.C-Co-Presenter -“Distress Screening” My publications include: I Am Me, I Am, A Pearl's Wisdom Book. Hemmer, P. A. Serena(2020). https://www.amazon.com/Am-Me-Pearls-Wisdom-Books/dp/B08JJLMSB7. I Don't Need Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/i-don-t-need-counseling. Is My Child Too Young for Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/is-my-child-too-young-for-counseling. The Empowerment of Homeless Women: Implications for Future Advocacy Issues Seventh Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) and Scherocman, J. (2002) Depression: Developmental Considerations from Birth to Eighteen Sixth Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) Stattmiller, L., and Wernicke, C., (2001)

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Chelsie Harris

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, Anxiety
3 years of experience

My name is Chelsie Harris. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. I gain fulfillment as a professional by helping others obtain a sense of hope for the future. I am patient, honest, understanding, and believe that a successful therapeutic relationship stems from rapport that the client and therapist are able to develop with one another. I will treat my clients with the respect and dignity that every person deserves. That means I will work with you to create a treatment plan that will meet your needs, and work with you to create goals that you, the client, want to achieve. My intentions as a therapist are that my clients feel supported in reaching their goals and gain the skills necessary to address life's challenges with strength and positive coping skills. I can understand that it can be very difficult to decide to seek professional counseling and take the steps needed towards changing one's life, but I am here every step of the way to assist you in creating the life you would like to have for yourself. I look forward to working with you. Thank you!

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Tonya Jones

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersAnger managementSelf esteem
5 years of experience

My name is Tonya and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Central Florida. During my 10 years of experience in the social work field, I have worked extensively with individuals of all ages. I specialize in working with those struggling with addiction, eating disorders, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief/loss. I have worked in several settings, including both inpatient and outpatient. My approach is direct, person-centered, and strengths-based. I am knowledgeable, trained, and skilled in multiple interventions including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and post traumatic growth approach. My hope is to help you discover a healthier and happier path along your journey in life.

This is Valeria Londono's avatar and link to their profile

Valeria Londono

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Oscar DeBardeleben's avatar and link to their profile

Oscar DeBardeleben

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and developing coping skills for substance-use issues & depression. I also have experience assisting clients to develop coping skills for life changes. I believe that you are the expert on your life story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seek therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Joy Toscani's avatar and link to their profile

Joy Toscani

Offering therapy in FL
AddictionsParenting issues
26 years of experience

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.

This is Daniel Button's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Button

Offering therapy in FL
Relationship issuesSleeping disordersParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Ohio with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & parenting issues. I also help people coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy takes courage and you can be proud of yourself for getting started!

This is Kirby Kelleher's avatar and link to their profile

Kirby Kelleher

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficulties
8 years of experience

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!

How to find counseling in Fort White

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort White 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

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

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Fort White or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Fort White area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Fort White, elsewhere in Columbia, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

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

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Fort White due to a higher cost of living. 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 Fort White 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in Fort White, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

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

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Fort White 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 lead by a therapist in Fort White helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Fort White 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Fort White therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

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

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

A psychologist 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 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 Fort White 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 lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 32038 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Fort White counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Fort White 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Fort White, 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.

Fort White has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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 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 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 Fort White.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Fort White:

32038

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