Women's Issues Therapists in Gulfport, FL

Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey that is rooted in a foundation of trust and connection between client and therapist. My practice is grounded in providing a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship with you. Operating from a strength based perspective, I hold the deeply held belief that you have the innate wisdom to heal yourself. We all do. My role is to assist you in identifying your unique strengths and provide support and guidance on your path. In collaboration, we will uncover the unconscious and conscious thoughts and beliefs you hold that may be contributing to dis-ease.

I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.

In my journey as a therapist, I have found that working with individuals, couples, and families who have been impacted by addiction and/or trauma is my true passion. I believe our histories impact our current reality in both positive and negative ways. When we change our perspective of the past to make it less painful and find meaning from the pain, we recreate our narrative and move into a life worth living. I want my clients to believe they too can find that life worth living for themselves as they progress through therapy. Whether addressing trauma, addiction, both, or something more, I seek to help my clients find their purpose.

I understand that calling a therapist can be anxiety provoking. There is something inherently strange and nerve-wracking in talking to a stranger about your deepest fears and challenges. But this uneasiness does not exist in my office. I will not blankly stare at you as you delve into your personal history. You will feel heard and understood. During sessions, I engage and interact on an authentic, human level. I provide a safe place for you to reveal your troubles and will help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are seeking.

I believe that we each have the power within us to heal, change and grow the life we’ve always imagined. But no one does this alone. I value the power of therapeutic relationships to help us overcome fears and obstacles that get in the way; whether from trauma, symptoms of anxiety or depression, or difficult medical, societal or environmental circumstances. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work and completed a Post-Master's Fellowship at the Yale Child Study Center.

Throughout my years counseling others, it has been my intention to utilize multiple modalities to assist clients in achieving their goals with integrity and genuine care. I believe the therapist and client relationship is one of the most important factors for successful change. I am committed and passionate about helping others and feel honored everyday to be able to do this work. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. Please call today for an appointment at your convenience.

My intention in therapy is to provide you a safe space where you may gain insight and face challenges with greater ease and confidence. I help individuals who wish to move through shame, grief/loss, low self-esteem, relational conflict, anxiety, depression, or trauma. I see the therapeutic relationship as an active process where change can occur. Through this process, I have watched others build self support, identify unhelpful patterns, and connect more fully in their relationships. I offer you a chance to practice the change you seek in a safe supported space.

Life can be challenging! I’m an inclusive counselor & have 30 years of experience working with diverse populations, including teen-agers and adults. I have worked with at-risk youth in rural Pennsylvania, juvenile offenders in Pinellas County, Florida and moms & their newborn babies. From day-to-day life struggles to self-harm and depression, I have a wide array of tools to help manage these concerns. I am down to earth and have a laid-back style. I welcome and appreciate a collaborative experience. Together we can improve coping skills and begin to enjoy life again.

Is emotional and mental depletion becoming too much to manage effectively? Navigating stress is a daily necessity of life and if these demands move beyond your ability to successfully function, I invite you to work together to improve emotional well being within an inclusive safe space to meet your needs. In order to more effectively handle issues related to mental health, I combine psycho-education and powerful positive coping techniques. Together, we will work to develop attainable goals for your peak emotional mental health.

Are you in a place in your life where you just feel stuck or stagnant? Are you struggling with keeping up with the demands and stressors of everyday life? Perhaps there are hurts, habits, and hang-ups from your past that are getting in the way of maintaining healthy relationships and boundaries with others. Maybe it's a child struggling, or acting out in ways that you nor they understand. Life, at times, can be a bit much to manage alone. Don't lose hope! It is possible to enjoy the fullness of life and be at a place of peace, clarity, joy, and acceptance. Please allow us to help.

Hi! I'm Melissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in St. Petersburg, Florida. I have been working with people struggling with issues related to trauma, adjustment, difficulty in relationships, substance abuse, neurodivergence, depression, and anxiety since 2011. I am passionate about racial and social justice and experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ people of all ages in navigating the unique experiences of our community.

I have 10 years of experience working with those who have experienced trauma, significant life changes and displacement as well as, marginalized individuals, & LGBTQIA+ population. I am also kink, polyamorous, and sex work affirming! I welcome anyone that thinks I would suit their therapeutic needs.