Longboat Key, Florida in the county of Manatee is along the central west coast between the Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It is a relatively new city, incorporated in 1855 and has a population of just 7320. The town made it through the 1921 hurricane outbreak and then built up the roads and bridges in the years soon afterward.
There are a plethora of mental health care professionals in and around Longboat Key who are available to help anyone who needs it. If you are struggling with a mental illness or just have some mental or emotional concerns, contact one of the many counselors or therapists in the Longboat Key area.
Linda Oberle
I have a Master's in Social Work, which I achieved in 2011. I have worked most of my career in child welfare, since 2000. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Michigan. I am well versed in substance abuse, parenting problems, and crisis intervention. Within that realm I have worked with people who have physical trauma and emotional abuse. These are concerns that are most often involved in child welfare cases. I am very attentive and interactive with clients. I am non-judgmental and respectful of all different cultures. I have worked mostly with solution-focused counseling. I will ensure that your treatment plan is driven by your needs. You are in the driver's seat to achieve a successful and happier life. I will advocate, support and empower you to meet your needs. I am looking forward to meeting you!
Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer
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)
Dr. Virginia Clark
FEEL YOUR INNER PEACE AND START SMILING AGAIN Are you depressed and down most of the day? Do you feel victimized at work or at home? Do you feel that no one cares? Do you say YES when you really mean NO? When you say NO do you feel guilty? Will you do anything for love and attention? If you answered yes to any of these questions I can help. Depression, stress, anxiety, substance-abuse, PTSD, anger, and other emotional issues take years off of your life. Emotional issues are responsible for many diseases including but not limited to Crohn’s, IBS, gastritis, heart conditions, etc. I am a licensed clinical social worker, registered nurse, certified Substance Abuse professional with a 30 year clinical background. I work with patients to help them overcome their various emotional challenges and regain control of their lives. I utilize many various therapy approaches to fit each patient including Solution focused, mindfulness, rational emotive therapy, reality therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, critical incident, Addiction counseling, medical counseling and more. My specialties include: * Addiction/drug abuse/alcohol abuse * Mood disorders (depression, anxiety, anger) * Codependency *. Domestic violence/abuse * stress management There is a light at the end of the tunnel. I look forward to meeting you
Danielle Carrasquillo
Experience: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping adults navigate life's challenges with curiosity, compassion, and practical support. I am a native New Yorker who lived in Florida for 17 years before returning home to New York. I served in the US Army and was also a military spouse, which provided me with the opportunity to travel and live in different parts of the US. In addition, to being a veteran and working/supporting military families, I have had the honor to serve as a Hospice Social Worker. Providing End of Life care to individuals, caregivers, and families. That experience prepared me for my role as an Oncology Social Worker. I was afforded the opportunity to administer emotional spiritual support to people diagnosed with various cancers. That was a transformative experience which I will always be grateful for. Currently I am in Private Practice and enjoying the opportunities that remote mental health services grant. Education: I completed my under graduate degree, Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education, with Wayland Baptist University in 2009. I received my Master of Social Work with the University of Central Florida in 2013. With that said, I have continued to develop professionally by attending conferences, workshops, reading journals, consulting with colleagues, reviewing empirical data that supports evidenced based practice, reading books and watching educational videos. Treatment Approach: I create a warm and inviting atmosphere for engaging in the therapeutic process. My style is relaxed, compassionate yet direct. While education and experience are important, there is a creative element to this craft which is where I really shine. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities which include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness. I collaborate with clients to assist them with obtaining their treatment goals via active listening, giving feedback and providing concrete tools that people can exercise in the moment. How I can help: I believe everyone could benefit from some guidance, information, education and additional support. Beginning this process can be a difficult step but an important one. However, once the journey has begun, therapy can have a positive impact on the quality of your life. Whether you are suffering from anxiety/depression, managing relationships, parenting, work related issues, sex/intimacy, gender identity, grief/loss, divorce, trauma, survivorship (Oncology) or just wanting to gain insight into your own behaviors. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!
Susan Josephson
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Michael Schwing
I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Mia Hall
I am licensed in Florida with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.
Vivian Pazos
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients facing crisis situations, I can help clients with stress and anxiety to learn grounded and breathing techniques and also identify the triggers for their anxiety, developing with then correspondent cope mechanism. If you or a loved one is dealing with relationship issues, family conflicts I can helped then to reach their goals and learn peaceful resolution of conflicts and basic techniques for assertive communication. Are you dealing with lack of motivation, poor self esteem, and confidence. ? I 'm here to serve you to reach your potentials. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared meeting the standards of privacy and confidentiality ,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!
Michelle Edmond
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience & 5 years primarily focusing therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. 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!
Eustacia Joseph
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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.
Alicia Bellman
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. As a retired nurse and military spouse, I hold a special place in my heart for first responders, active and retired military and their families. I have been paraplegic for 25 years and understand the process of learning and accepting your "new normal". I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 through the holistic and integrative use of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, psychoeducation, mindfulness and talk therapy. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. As we journey together i will strive to foster a supportive, nonjudgmental environment that encourages personal growth and emotional wellbeing.
Julian Laverde
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with 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. 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.
Leigh Jacob
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, personalized care. My therapeutic practice is rooted in understanding the unique experiences of each individual, with a particular focus on supporting older adults through transformative life transitions. I believe in creating a collaborative, supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I work alongside my clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, improving interpersonal relationships, and building emotional strength. My goal is to empower individuals to discover their inner resources and create positive, sustainable changes in their lives. I am committed to providing a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can feel heard, validated, and supported as they work toward their personal wellness goals.
Sharon Wright
I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to guide and partner with the individual to achieve their desired outcome. It is my belief that the answers lie within each of us, but it sometimes takes support and learning the necessary tools to manage and create the necessary change.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Longboat Key, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Longboat Key, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Longboat Key.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Longboat Key, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Longboat Key and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.