Blue Cross Blue Shield Therapists in Florida

Anxiety, depression, and relationship issues are experiences that many of us encounter at various times in our lives. If you are feeling overwhelmed by negative emotions or believe you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any combination of stressors affecting your peace of mind and relationships, "you don't have to keep feeling this way." You are not alone in your struggles, and you deserve to regain the peace of mind and joy that seem to elude you right now. "Let's find a way forward together - with compassion, clarity, and lasting change." My primary goal is to help you transition from merely feeling good to truly living well. Whether you are facing a specific crisis or a slow accumulation of challenges that has left you feeling unlike yourself, my clinical work offers a safe, judgment-free space to begin moving toward greater clarity and well-being. I draw on a carefully integrated blend of evidence-based frameworks, selecting and tailoring techniques based on each client's unique needs, history, and goals. My therapeutic approach combines Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Process-Based Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mind-body techniques. This approach is grounded in the belief that lasting change requires attending to the whole person — mind, body, and the relational world we inhabit. Through ACT, you will learn to be more psychologically present, connect with your values, and make space for life’s inevitable pain. You will also discover how to take actionable steps despite emotional discomfort and cultivate an appreciation for each moment in your life. While my specialty is brief therapy, some situations may require an extended therapeutic relationship, which can be beneficial for adults and parents dealing with complex mental health challenges and navigating difficult child-rearing adjustments at home.

Hi all! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in the state of Florida. I earned my Masters Degree from the University of Central Florida, and I've been practicing mental health therapy for 6 years. I truly enjoy helping adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, social issues, life transition, and racial and/ or gendered oppression.

Melissa McVan a Licensed Mental Health Counselor provides therapy in South Florida to children, families, and adults. Utilizing multiple interventions she specializes in individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. Melissa focuses on self-worth with her clients promoting their overall well-being. More recently Melissa has been able to provide virtual therapy sessions for her clients with this preference.

Hey! I'm Brandee - I'm a licensed mental health counselor in Florida and I'm currently offering telehealth services throughout the state. I graduated from Nova Southeastern University in 2014 with a masters degree in Mental Health Counseling, and received my bachelor's degree in psychology in 2011 from the University of South Florida. Since then, I have worked in various in person and telehealth settings.

"Start a new narrative" has always been my motto. I am licensed in Florida and have eight years of professional work experience. I have experience specializing in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and couples therapy. I have guided and walked with numerous individuals, couples, families, and groups on their journeys toward healing in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started! You possess the ability to reach your full potential in this lifetime. However, in today's world, coping with depression and anxiety has become more challenging. The daily responsibilities have increased, leading to social isolation, sadness, and hopelessness. Additionally, symptoms such as muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and irritability can make it difficult for individuals to perform at their best. Therefore, I am here to assist you in navigating your daily tasks and help you function at your best during this season of your life. I am motivated by the successful interventions and therapeutic sessions for all my clients. I want to be your "GPS" with the destination of "Peace and Healing."

In peace and love I welcome you. My name is Bria Young and I am an LMHC based in the state of Florida. I have years of experience with assisting individuals in finding the balance that they desire to have for their life. I am a nontraditional therapist that is intentional about giving quality care without judgment. My job is not to tell you what to do. I am here to assist you in recognizing what is best for you in your life. I provide encouragement, understanding, empathy, authenticity, and insightfully inspiring realism.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Illinois and have been practicing for 23 years. Within my holistic practice, I incorporate mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, positive affirmations as well as utilize creative arts and movement during sessions. I work with clients who are feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated or anxious. I provide support as well as pride myself in a person centered approach, meeting my client where they are, and helping them to meet goals that they wish to achieve. I am compassionate about working with individuals facing infertility or health challanges.

Hello, I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Alaska and have been providing therapy for over seven years. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and relational challenges. My approach is compassionate, practical, and grounded in helping you better understand your emotions while building healthy coping skills that support lasting change. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and safe space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for growth, I look forward to walking alongside you as you develop tools that bring greater balance and resilience into your everyday life.

Hello, everyone! My name is Lyanna Alvarez, and I am thrilled to share this moment with you all. Currently residing in Orlando, Florida, I take pride in being a trans woman dedicated to fostering a supportive community where I can serve as a positive role model for fellow trans individuals. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, I am fluent in both Spanish and English, allowing me to connect with a diverse range of people. I am eager to engage with all of you, share our stories, and build meaningful connections together!

Tanya is a dedicated and compassionate counselor who provides a warm, non-judgmental space where individuals and families can find support, healing, and empowerment. She works with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families, helping them navigate a wide range of mental health concerns and life stressors with care, empathy, and professionalism. Drawing from a variety of evidence-based practices, Tanya tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each person she works with. She incorporates methods such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral strategies, trauma-informed care, ABA, solution-focused techniques, and strengths-based perspectives to create individualized plans that honor each client’s goals, background, and experiences. Tanya has extensive experience supporting clients through challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Austim, Divorce, Family Transitions, Addiction and Recovery, ADHD (in both children and adults), and relational conflict. She also brings valuable insight into systems advocacy, connecting individuals to vital resources and community supports. LGBTQ+ Friendly

Life can be challenging! Whether you are struggling with stress and worry, trying to break free from toxic relationships or habits, or just looking to nurture and care for yourself, let’s take on this journey together! I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field working in various settings with various populations, including those struggling with severe and persistent mental health issues. My vast experience has created a solid foundation in helping individuals with the unique struggles they may face. I utilize a strength based approach while integrating various modalities to individualize care as not one story is the same. My extensive experience working with interdisciplinary teams has also expanded my knowledge and familiarity with various resources and interventions that can also support the therapeutic process. By utilizing a warm and compassionate yet direct approach, my hope is to empower and guide you in finding the key to unlock the passage to freedom within your own mind. I am confident that with the power of our therapeutic relationship, trust, and vulnerability, we can get there together.

I have dedicated my studies and practice to learning about behaviors and mental health in order to provide support to those in need. As a dedicated social worker providing therapy, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional and psychological challenges they may face. With a compassionate approach and expertise in evidence-based methods, I empower clients to develop resilience and achieve personal growth. My goal is to create a supportive environment where healing and positive change can flourish.

Anxious? Down? Traumatized? Having problems in your relationships? Let's talk about it. I can offer perspective in areas such as parenting, career, and goal planning. We can discuss the habits to help get you there; to where you are aiming to go. If you don't know where that is, we can explore. The point is, we'll be working on the most important thing in your life, you! Let's identify your cycles and explore some possible variations!

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I use a systemic approach. Meaning that I will make connections and evaluate all areas of your life. As your therapist, I am committing to being open and allowing you a safe space to express yourself. I will be empathetic and provide support if you need it. Therapy is an interactive process, where I use therapeutic strategies to guide you through obstacles. I am dedicated to being non-biased or judgmental. I am committed to being patient and flexible to change when an approach is not effective. I will gently challenge you to bring about the change you seek and ultimately become the best version of you!

I am a licensed mental health counselor who seeks to help clients gain insight into their mental health and/or substance abuse issues. Part of my focus is on empowering clients through self-awareness and self-compassion. I understand the power of dynamics and also work with couples and families to find cohesion. Faith-based counseling is available as well. Read

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes therapy should be a space where you can be honest, understood, and supported without judgment. I work with adults who may look like they have everything together on the outside but are struggling with anxiety, burnout, overthinking, career stress, or feeling stuck on the inside. My approach is warm, practical, and goal-oriented. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and coaching-informed strategies to help you understand your patterns, identify what you want to change, and take meaningful steps forward

I am so happy you are here! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in FL. I specialize working with teens and adults navigating trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, and/or relationship/friendship/family challenges. I also have specialized experience working with individuals who have lost loved ones to suicide. My approach focuses on creating a safe, supportive space where clients can build trust, explore their experiences, and develop coping strategies to foster healing and resilience. I will help guide and support you through healing from the past, finding the balance you deserve, and becoming the best version of yourself.

The quality of your relationships has left you feeling anxious depressed, frustrated, disconnected, unseen, unheard, guilty, alone… But this isn’t the end of your story. Growth and change are within your capacity. Healing within your power. Hi, I’m Cathe and I believe in our ability to break generational traumas, to heal from wounds inflicted by those who didn’t know how or didn’t have the capacity to show up for us; and to learn how to show up for ourselves. Throughout the years I’ve worked with individual who struggled with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma and provided counseling services to military services member and their families while deployed overseas. I witnessed the significant impact that relationships can have on your overall wellbeing. From my own personal experience; as I worked to unlearn what was no longer serving me and to rediscover my worth, I was presented with how fundamentally transformative this process can be. It’s led me to learn how to live with greater peace, to create and sustain connections and to feel safe and secure in love. It’s not an easy process nor is it a painless journey but it’s worth it. As for my credentials... I earned my Master’s degree at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for the state of Florida and territory of Guam, a board certified Telemental Health Provider and a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional. I am also a Qualified Clinical Supervisor which allows me to provide supervision to registered interns for Mental Health Counseling within the state of Florida. Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me. I look forward to getting the chance to learn about you and hear your story.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Neuropsychotherapist (C-NPT) based in Florida. I earned my master’s degree from Troy University and am a certified trauma professional. I’m passionate about supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and post‑traumatic stress disorder. A core part of my work is helping people understand the neurobiology behind their emotions. When clients learn how their brains function, they often discover they have far more influence over their emotional world than they ever realized. My goal is to empower each person with practical tools that foster confidence, joy, and a renewed sense of peace.

Hi, my name is Maria Brooks and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over six years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults facing a range of life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate day-to-day stressors, life transitions, and emotional struggles that can impact their mental health and overall well-being. With a compassionate approach, I empower my clients by providing tools and strategies to better cope with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other personal obstacles. My therapeutic style emphasizes building trust, fostering self-awareness, and promoting growth through understanding and actionable change. Whether working with teens adjusting to school pressures or adults balancing work and family responsibilities, I tailors my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual I serves.

Life is full of adjustments and transitions. My goal in therapy is to accompany people in their journey towards these changes and to provide a safe space for them to heal, grow and re-discover who they are to thrive in life. I want to help individuals identify and cope with issues affecting their mental health by increasing their self-compassion with the help of mindfulness and other solution-focused interventions.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing therapy to adults and adolescents facing challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. I serve clients who are seeking support in navigating difficult life transitions, processing loss, or managing overwhelming emotions. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, using evidence-based methods like CBT and EMDR to help clients build coping skills, reframe unhelpful thought patterns, and heal from painful experiences. The impact I strive for is to empower clients to feel more resilient, regain a sense of control, and move forward with hope and confidence.

Hello! I’m a licensed clinical social worker with a master’s degree from Fordham University. With over a decade of experience working with families and children in New York City, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My approach is compassionate and nonjudgmental, meeting you where you are to explore how your thoughts influence your experiences. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change, helping you overcome obstacles and build a more fulfilling life.

I believe people do well if they can. Together, we will identify your strengths and build the skills and internal & external resources necessary to help you overcome your struggles and navigate the complexities of life. Through a variety of therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, IFS, ACT, CBT, and DBT, we will tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs & goals.

Hello, my name is Anita Jordan I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am here to help anyone who has felt that they have not been living the best life they could be living. We will be working closely to uncover the blocks caused by trauma and to remind you that you were meant to shine. It would be my honor to work with you and I look forward to meeting you.

Hello and welcome to your journey of healing! My name is Shandria R. Woodall and I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I have over 5 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings and with diverse populations. I have worked with several non-profit organizations, in the school setting as a school-based therapist, in the child-welfare system and in private practice.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor passionate about helping clients move past what's holding them back from being their best selves. I am a proud alumnus of North Carolina Central University (B.A.) and Nova Southeastern University (M.S., Mental Health Counseling). I welcome clients from all walks of life and every stage of the journey, whether you're new to therapy or returning. Together, we identify what isn't working, build on what is, and create a path toward real, lasting change. My goal is that you leave feeling heard, understood, and equipped to move forward. I offer individual and couples therapy via secure telehealth across Florida, Mississippi, and Oklahoma. My approach is collaborative and tailored to you, helping you recognize your strengths and build practical steps forward. My areas of focus include, but are not limited to, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and premarital readiness. Therapy can be intimidating, but I applaud you for taking the first step toward becoming a better you. You do not have to have it all figured out to reach out, you just have to be willing to begin. Let's enjoy the process together as we work to help you achieve your goals. I would be honored to walk alongside you.

Are you looking for a relatable therapist? Someone who can help you work through life’s struggles with a realistic approach? Maybe experiencing anxiety and depression? Maybe someone who you will laugh with, cry with, and be challenged by? Well, I’m your girl! We all want to be understood and heard. It is a basic human necessity for healing. I do my best to cultivate an environment where you can be open and honest about the struggles you are facing. I will never judge you for anything you are going through because we are all human and dealing with the human experience. Hi there! My name is Alexis Skopos, and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida who specializes in Brainspotting, life transition, first time therapy clients, and Greek American clients. I have been described as having a "full personality". I use humor, compassion, and challenging to get you to your therapy goals! I graduated from Stetson University with a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. I have a certification in multiple Brainspotting practices, trauma informed CBT, trauma informed ACT, Gottman couple's counseling, and Prepare/ Enrich. I also have experience working in residential units, crisis units, high schools, child welfare, and methadone clinics.

Hi, I’m Jennifer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and anxiety focused therapist passionate about helping individuals feel more in control of their lives and emotions. I provide a supportive, structured, and evidence-based approach to therapy, using modalities such as ERP, ACT, DBT and CBT to help clients develop practical tools for lasting change. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered as we work together toward meaningful growth and healing.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting children, teens, and adults. My approach is grounded in empathy, validation, and active listening, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. Together, we’ll work at your pace to understand your story, build resilience, and strengthen emotional regulation skills. I have extensive experience helping individuals and families navigate and heal from traumatic experiences, and I strive to empower each client with tools and insights that foster lasting change

Many people come to therapy wanting not only relief from symptoms, but a deeper understanding of themselves. I specialize in Jungian depth therapy for individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected and want more than symptom management. I prioritize building a deeply attuned and trusting therapeutic relationship where we can explore stressors, uncover unconscious patterns, and work through the inner conflicts that keep you from moving forward. As Carl Jung said, “the privilege of a lifetime is to become who you really are.” I welcome and affirm individuals of all backgrounds, identities, cultures, and lived experiences.

I know the idea of going to therapy can be a bit overwhelming. You may already be dealing with debilitating anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health concerns – so adding therapy to your plate may seem like a lot. But take it from someone who’s been in your shoes: therapy can change your life. It WILL change your life. As a warm, down-to-earth therapist in Florida with over a decade of experience, I’m ready to meet you wherever you are in your mental health journey, always free from judgment, and empower you to learn how to genuinely love who you are, thrive in relationships, and finally enjoy your life!

My name is Dr. Joseph, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. I have been in the field for 21yrs. I love the opportunity to help clients navigate life's challenges. My priority and passion are to do what is best for the client as much as this is possible. My goal is to help clients to live their lives to their full potential. I find this to be very gratifying

Hi, I’m Dvorah, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, stress, self-esteem struggles, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves while also gaining practical tools for growth and healing. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented, blending evidence-based methods such as CBT, attachment-based therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and strengths-based approaches to help clients improve communication, build healthier relationships, increase emotional resilience, and feel more connected to themselves and the people around them.

I am a clinician that listens intently to clients to help them better understand their experiences. Therapy is an exploration of the self, habits, behaviors, thoughts but it can also be an enjoyable experience where you gain more insight and awareness plus validation of how insane life can be. I love to help clients find their way to whatever their version of happy life looks like!

You're not here to be "fixed." You're here to be heard. I’m a therapist who takes an eclectic, client-centered approach, tailoring each session to your unique needs. I integrate evidence-based techniques from CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness to help with challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, self-esteem, trauma and relationship dynamics. I don’t give advice because I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is to listen closely, ask the right questions, and help you uncover the "why", "how", and "what" behind your choices with you. Therapy with me is collaborative, grounded, and focused on helping you find your voice, not mine.

Nǐ hǎo / Hello! I am a licensed mental health therapist in Florida with over 20 years of experience helping individuals work through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, school-related stress, relationship issues, and major life challenges. Many of the people I support come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward. I believe therapy works best when goals are clear, practical, and measurable, so we can track progress in a meaningful way. I also believe humor can be a powerful part of healing, helping create a more relaxed and human space for growth. I believe strong therapy starts with listening, truly understanding who you are, what you have been through, and what matters most to you. I use evidence-based treatment to help clients address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship stress, school concerns, and emotional overwhelm. Together, we set goals that align with your values. In my leisure time I play music instruments, I enjoy cooking, Hotpot is my favorite food. I speak mandarin besides English and I consider myself as a people person. I am open minded willing to learn from others.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 20 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, couples, and older adults facing life challenges. I employ a wide range of therapeutic techniques, that include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral, Client centered and Solution focused therapies. Appreciation of the brain body connection helps to bring about change in a substantive way. To begin this change process, I encourage the use of mindfulness for the purpose of calming brain and body.

I help adults who are struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, burnout, relationship challenges, life transitions, and self-esteem. My approach is structured, practical, and collaborative, combining evidence-based therapies with clear goals to help clients develop effective coping skills, process difficult life experiences, and create meaningful, lasting change. Before becoming a therapist, I spent more than two decades in competitive corporate environments where long hours, high expectations, and constant pressure were the norm. After earning an MBA from George Washington University and postgraduate work at Emory University, I witnessed firsthand how chronic stress, burnout, relationship difficulties, and unresolved trauma can affect every aspect of a person's life. That experience allows me to connect naturally with professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, and others navigating demanding careers while also supporting adults from all walks of life. Over the past seven years, I have provided psychotherapy in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment programs, specialized treatment settings, and private practice. Much of my clinical experience has focused on trauma recovery within a court-supervised treatment program, helping individuals process unresolved trauma, build solid recovery programs, develop healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and design personal development plans that focuses on growth and execution. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, carrying the effects of trauma, navigating a difficult relationship, or searching for a renewed sense of purpose, my goal is to provide a supportive, structured environment where we can identify the patterns keeping you stuck and build practical strategies that move you toward the life you want to create. I work to create an environment where clients feel safe enough to discuss the experiences they've carried for years while also providing a structured, goal-oriented process that translates insight into meaningful change.

I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), based in South Florida. I received my bachelors degree in psychology, and masters degree in social work, both from Florida International University, with over 5 years of experience. As an LCSW, I have dedicated my career to supporting vulnerable populations. My expertise extends to young adults facing daily challenges including relationship issues, peer dynamics, and coping skills. In my practice, I welcome a warm and non-judgmental environment. I emphasize the development of effective communication skills, problem-solving strategies, and helping clients to navigate day to day stressors, their academic and personal lives. My compassionate approach fosters resilience, and empowerment in those I work with, making a meaningful impact on overall well-being. .

Greetings I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Florida board-certified addiction specialist. I use an integrative approach to mental health therapy, couples counseling and group therapy. If you suffer from unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health issues, let me help you thrive. I've spent my career working with couples, groups, families, and individuals. If you are seeking in-person therapy around Ormond Beach or on-line therapy throughout Florida call or text today. I accept most national and Florida insurance plans.

Hello! I believe that mental health is vital to our everyday lives. I am committed to working with clients to reach their goals, experience healing, and overcome life struggles so that they can be the best that they can be. I specialize in working with people who deal with anxiety, depression, anger issues, trauma, child and teen behaviors issues, parenting issues, men's issues and and family issues. My greatest want for every client is to experience freedom, joy and breakthrough. I am motivated to see you become the person you desire to be! I am compassionate, understanding, relatable and ready to help you on this journey!

I am an energetic and creative therapist passionate about meeting with people to bring more clarity, peace, and joy into their life. I am also a Christian, mother, cat-mom, artist, athlete, amateur cook/baker, and reading enthusiast. I utilize a mixture of evidence-based practices and creative exercises to meet people where they are at, develop a deep understanding of their circumstances, as well as how they are thinking about those circumstances. I guide my client to setting specific intentions for our time together that they agree will be worthwhile. I will be warm and understanding, but I am also not afraid to challenge my clients on things they could benefit from changing. I often enjoy using humor and laughter as a force for that change. I have experience serving in a private practice outpatient capacity, intensive outpatient hospital setting, and at the residential level of care. These unique settings have given me a variety of skills and an ability to understand multiple levels of distress and/or what past treatment may have been like for my clients (the good, the bad, and the ugly.)

Hello, I’m Heather Wilkie, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida (MH20343). I bring over 12 years of experience supporting individuals navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. I have extensive experience working within LGBTQ+ communities across all ages, which informs my affirming, inclusive, and culturally responsive approach. While this is a core area of expertise, I welcome and work with individuals from all backgrounds and identities. My style is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in respect. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore what’s bringing you to therapy. Whether you’re navigating relationships, stress, identity, or personal growth, we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. Seeking support takes courage, and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk alongside you as you move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

I have worked in the clinical field for over 30 years and have been licensed as a clinician for over 20 years. I am dual-licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW) and as a marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree from Florida International University in Social Work. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and have had extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I moved into a successful private practice over seven years ago.

You do not have to stay stuck in the thoughts, emotions, or patterns that are holding you back. My goal is to provide a supportive, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood as you work toward meaningful change. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, practical, and tailored to your unique needs. I practice Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, a strengths-based approach that emphasizes what is already working and helps identify the resources and abilities you may not yet recognize in yourself. I also incorporate evidence-based strategies such as acceptance, mindfulness, and behavioral activation to support growth and help clients develop effective tools for lasting change. I have experience working with individuals experiencing OCD, anxiety, depression, and substance use concerns. I understand how challenging it can be to reach out for support, particularly when you have been managing difficult thoughts, emotions, or behaviors on your own. My aim is to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and a practical plan for change.

As a dedicated therapist, I am passionate about working with both couples and individuals who are navigating life's challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. I integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and stress management tools, to tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. Through our work together, I aim to empower individuals and couples to build resilience, enhance their well-being, and foster stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Thank you for considering me as your personal mental health therapist and emotions coach. Over the last few years, we have collectively endured traumatic, distressing, and challenging times that have reshaped how we view the world and how we choose to move forward within it. For many, this has meant clinging to familiar beliefs for comfort. For others, the weight of trauma, hopelessness, and fatigue has left them feeling stuck, unable to access their inner strengths or resilience. I believe that in those moments, we all need someone to help guide us back from the darkness into the light. I want to be that beacon of light for you. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with more than 15 years of counseling experience and over 20 years of serving families. My treatment philosophy is rooted in the belief that every individual has strengths that can be nurtured to foster healing and growth. By combining psychotherapy and clinical social work theories within a strength-based model, I help clients build coping strategies, discover new tools, and reclaim their sense of well-being. Our work together will focus on developing a trusting, supportive, and confidential therapeutic relationship—one that is grounded in empathy, respect, and validation, without pity or blame. My practice integrates Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, all within a behavioral change framework. These approaches allow me to tailor therapy to your unique needs, helping you move forward with resilience, clarity, and hope. Healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. My role is to walk beside you, providing guidance, insight, and encouragement as you rediscover your strength and reclaim your light.

THERAPY FOR WOMEN IN MIDLIFE — INCLUDING THERAPISTS You're the one others rely on — at work and at home. You show up for everyone. You keep everything running — managing your career and your household, and often growing kids and aging parents at the same time. Somewhere along the way, you stopped making it onto your own list. It's all becoming too heavy — now you're starting to feel it, emotionally and physically. Therapy at Seaside is a space to pause, reflect, and start to feel like yourself again. HI, I'M GAIL — THERAPIST & OWNER OF SEASIDE MENTAL WELLNESS. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with nearly 30 years in the field, much of it spent inside the healthcare system, supporting women through some of the most significant moments of their lives. IN MIDLIFE, IT'S RARELY JUST ONE THING. The anxiety that increases in your late 30s. The moment in your 40s when you catch yourself thinking, "I don't feel like myself anymore". A marriage, a career, even your body — things that stop fitting in your 50s. These chapters are part of the same story. The anxiety, the burnout, the transitions, the emotional side of perimenopause tend to arrive at once, overlapping one another. We can untangle this together. SEASIDE IS RECOGNIZED LOCALLY AND TRUSTED STATEWIDE: SRQ Magazine's 2026 Platinum Winner (Best Local Mental Health Service) and 2025 Silver Winner (Best Local Therapist) , plus Guide to Florida's 2026 (Best Individual Therapist) and 2025 Regional Winner (Best Therapy Practice). SEASIDE IS BASED IN LAKEWOOD RANCH, serving women in Bradenton and Sarasota — and across the Gulf Coast, from Tampa to Naples. All sessions are online, so support fits your life, without the traffic, the waiting room, or the time off work.

Hello, I’m Chevalene Barnes—a woman of faith and a dedicated mental health professional. For over 26 years, I have been privileged to guide individuals toward freedom from limiting beliefs, empowering them to live confidently, boldly, and free from fear, anxiety, and self-doubt through the transformative power of God's Word. My Personal Journey Having faced my own share of personal traumas—experiencing insecurity, anger, depression, and feelings of inadequacy I understand what it’s like to feel trapped by doubts that challenge your sense of identity and purpose. At one point, I was held captive by these barriers, but through faith, perseverance, and God's Word, I was able to transform my life. My journey of overcoming personal challenges fuels my passion to help others do the same. My success story and healing process inspire my work—reaffirming that hope and restoration are always within reach.