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. 

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Shana Williams-Leary

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has worked over the course of 19 years in both inpatient Crisis and outpatient counseling settings with individuals, couples and families, ages 4 y.o. to 85 y.o. in Florida, Utah, Maine, Arizona, and several other countries. I am very versatile in my approach, tending to begin where you, the client are first, then tailoring my interventions from that point on. My specialty is in working with PTSD, i.e. abuse , and primary and secondary traumas, and have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, including the Flash Technique. I have also frequently worked with the Chronically Mentally Ill person, including those with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Dissociative issues, and Depression, as well as those in various Life Transitional stages, Ex Pats, HSPs, and Developmental delays. I have also counseled a few individuals with up to middle stage Dementia (since newer Rx leaves them with tremendous adjustment issues) and their caregivers and parents struggling with parenting issues. My highest comfort level is with ages 18 and over in Individual sessions. My counseling style is ecclectic, with a warmth of engagement and focus on acceptance, positive regard, and trust-building, but can be highly solution-focused and brief as needed in the course of your therapy. I use a Motivational Interviewing technique to identify both what it is the client truly desires, as well as what they do not want, or are not motivated to achieve, and why. I then will shift to a more Strengths-based and Skill-building approach and the use of Cognitive-Behavioral and Humanistic interventions with a Family Systems and Developmental perspective on relational issues. I have done my own personal counseling work, and recognize it to be a powerful, yet courageous endeavor in a person's life. Good therapy can transform you and it is a gift to be able to engage in it. Every person is precious, and deserving of respect, kindness, and a place to be fully heard, accepted, and a place to develop their best selves in a healing, compassionate environment. I consider my work as a therapist to be a sacred trust, a privilege, a calling, and part of my own journey as a fellow human being. Working with you will be an honor to help you on your very unique path toward a healthier you, and in the style you determine to be the most helpful and supportive.

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Raquel Lumia

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA,MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorder
9 years of experience

Hello, My name is Raquel Lumia and I have been practicing therapy full time since 2012. Prior to that I worked in the child welfare system for 13 years. I believe that I am best suited to work with clients suffering with psychosis, personality disorders, addiction, and trauma. I believe in having a truly non-judgmental approach in therapy. Everyone deserves a chance to improve their circumstances no matter what they have done in the past. I am very straightforward and believe in honestly addressing my clients needs. I hold certifications in DBT, Trauma Informed CBT, Trauma Certified to deal with Sexual Exploitation and EMDR

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Anderson Frederick

Offering therapy in FL
License: I.1901699-SUPV,SW17799
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 10 years experience that has counseled hundreds of people dealing with everything from anxiety, depression, anger, worry, infidelity, fears, addictions, church hurt, spiritual abuse, grief and loss; and more. I’ve had the pleasure of counseling and improving the quality of life for many. I empower those who are hurting and struggling to find stability to overcome life’s curveballs and hurdles using CBT, DBT, Person-centered evidence-based approaches. Are you ready to move forward in life? Are you ready to heal? Are you ready to be free of those thoughts, worries, fears, and feelings that cause you distress. I offer a judgment-free, safe space, to process your trauma, feelings of being misunderstood, your past, your present in a way that builds you up to rise above your pain. Therapy is not a quick fix nor a magic button that makes all the pain go away overnight. Healing is process that takes time. You can only get out of it what you put in it. I am committed to the following: -Your treatment, well-being, stability and growth; -Being honest with you with gentleness; -Building you up and not tearing you down; -Providing a safe, judgment free, therapeutic environment; -Providing feedback to you and receiving feedback from you; -Having check-ins with you for follow-up on your progress; -Coaching you through life transitions while you develop the skills to do it on your own; and -Establishing healthy therapeutic boundaries as any clinician should. Aren't you ready to start feeling better?....you deserve to feel better and you don't have to be alone. I'd like to help you heal. Let's get started.

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Alicia Gard

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Welcome! I am a mental health counselor, licensed in Florida and have been providing psychotherapy services for 7 years. I have worked with people who are experiencing many different issues, which have all led them to seek assistance with changing their mindset, their responses, and their overall mental health. This includes issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, and impulsivity. Additional issues in which I have specific training and certification are unresolved grief and loss, substance abuse and addiction, and trauma. My therapy approach is based on getting to know each client as an individual; I don't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches to therapy and as we work together, I will build a treatment plan suited to your individual needs. I use a combination of therapy styles including narrative, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), psycho-dynamic, and dialectical-behavioral ( DBT). My therapy style is compassionate and empathetic, and I believe in treating others with respect and understanding. When life gets out of balance, we all respond differently, and often need help. It takes courage to reach out and take the first step to change. That is where the therapeutic relationship starts and I am ready to listen and support you. I look forward to working with you! ​ ​

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Jennifer Reed

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 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, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Cynthia Harris-Maddox

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Michele Bradford

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Emily Kern's avatar and link to their profile

Emily Kern

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Greetings! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. Some of the issues that I primarily work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, grief, interpersonal relationships, and coping with changes. My approach as a therapist is to meet you exactly where you are in your personal journey toward growth, healing, and increased awareness. I do not see therapy as a “one size fits all” formula, so we will work together to ensure that we are doing what is most meaningful and impactful to you. Healing is also often holistic, meaning that you will feel your best when we are addressing your mental, physical, and other aspects of your health and wellness. I aim to build with all of my clients a genuine, caring, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship; and my hope is to create a safe space where you feel empowered to be your authentic self and work through what is necessary for you to continue to grow. I hope to meet you soon!

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This is Yazmin Coleman's avatar and link to their profile

Yazmin Coleman

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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.

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Casey Hendershot

Offering therapy in FL
LGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find 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 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 Punta Gorda. 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 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. 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda, elsewhere in Charlotte, 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 Punta Gorda area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 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 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 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. 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 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 lead by a therapist in Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 Punta Gorda 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 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 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 33950 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 Punta Gorda 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Punta Gorda.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Punta Gorda:

33927, 33950, 33951

Popular cities near Punta Gorda, FL

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