Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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John Watts
Looking for an experienced addictions counselor, &/or a Christian counselor, with 25 years experience, serving all of Florida. Please reach out and we’ll set up a session to help you on your journey of healing.
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
For those hesitant to try therapy, I wish I could tell them that therapy is a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It's a collaborative process tailored to your unique needs, helping you gain insights, develop healthier coping skills, and find practical solutions to your challenges. Therapy can lead to profound personal growth and a more balanced, fulfilling life. Taking the first step might feel daunting, but it's a courageous move towards healing and self-improvement. You don’t have to face your struggles alone—support is available, and it can make a significant positive difference.
Welcome to my virtual office. I am a LCSW, licensed counselor servicing all of Florida, with 25 years of counseling experience, with addictions (substances, porn, eating disorders, gambling, and gaming) providing individual and family therapy by utilizing CBT, a strengths-based, collaborative, holistic approach, allowing me to gain a clearer sense of my clients' needs. If desired, I offer a faith-based, psychological/Biblical integrated approach, addressing every aspect of life, enhancing spirituality, and strengthening faith, to live a more victorious, happier, healthier, & more wholesome lifestyle. Additionally, I offer Premarital counseling to establish a firm foundation for marriage; because "after every wedding comes a marriage." My therapeutic style, which is rooted in evidence-based, effective and practical Cognitive Behavioral, and Motivational Therapy, is coaching, holistic, strengths-based (utilizing clients’ own strengths and resources), learning and applying healthier coping skills, and finding viable solutions to address underlying reasons for debilitating substance abuse, eating disorders, porn/sex addiction, and other addictive behaviors, while assisting in finding a more balanced, happier, healthier and wholesome lifestyle. If desired, I offer a faith-based and psychological integrated approach. I endeavor to apply the Golden Rule in work and personal life. *Specialties •Addictions •Mental Health •Spirituality *Conditions treated •Addiction •Depression •Anxiety •Bipolar disorders •PTSD •ADHD •Eating disorders •Relationship issues •Family counseling *Treatment philosophy My therapeutic style, which is rooted in evidence-based, effective and practical Cognitive Behavioral, and Motivational Therapy, is coaching, holistic, strengths-based (utilizing clients’ own strengths and resources), learning and applying healthier coping skills, and finding viable solutions to address underlying reasons for debilitating substance abuse, eating disorders, porn/sex addiction, and other addictive behaviors, while assisting in finding a more balanced, happier, healthier and wholesome lifestyle. If desired, I offer a faith-based and psychological integrated approach. I endeavor to apply the Golden Rule in work and personal life. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Coaching •Trauma-Focused •Person-Focused •Biblical/Christian counseling, integrated with Psychology
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Sara Sanford
Psychotherapist
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy doesn't mean that you are broken, and you don't need to be at your worst to seek support. The clients that see the most change in their lives are the clients that often feel that they are not "ready" or "deserving" of support. Therapy is a space for healing, of course, but you don't have to be broken to have the emotional space to process your daily challenges. As a therapist myself, I go to therapy every single week. This is MY space to talk about the darkest moments of my life, and so often to talk about my successes. I don't feel broken after therapy, but instead I feel rejuvenated. Therapy is no different than going to the gym, taking a walk, or going on a date night. We all need to process our emotions in a sacred space to live to our fullest potential. I work with clients who are in the worst moments of their lives, but I truly stay in this field because of the moments I share with my clients that are the best in their lives. I am the therapist that WANTS to see the texts you had with your boyfriend. I want to see the newborn photos when you have a child or when your child graduates from college. Going to therapy is adding a person to your support system, it is not about being broken and needing to be "cured" or "fixed." If you are uncertain about starting therapy know this: Therapy is for you. If you hate it, then stop. You are in control of your life, your choices, and your emotions. I respect you. If you would like to give therapy a try, I am open to seeing you for a two or three sessions and see if it helps. If not, that's OK! You are the expert in your own life. You can connect with me at www.SaraSanfordTherapy.com anytime.
I specialize in trauma, including childhood abuse, complex and traumatic relationships, and the ways our minds and bodies sometimes disconnect to help us survive. If you’ve felt numb, isolated, or like you're just going through the motions, you’re not alone—and I promise there’s nothing wrong with you. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both neuroscience and deep compassion. I offer a space where you don’t have to explain everything in perfect words—where your emotions, your body, and your survival strategies are all welcome. As someone who’s walked this path myself, I know how heavy it can feel to carry pain that was never yours to begin with. Healing is possible, even if it hasn’t worked before. We’ll work gently and intentionally to untangle what’s been holding you back, so you can start to feel safe, connected, and fully yourself. You will never be judged for your choices or your experiences, but rather valued for every aspect of your individual journey. You just need to show up—I’ll meet you there, and we’ll move forward together. You can learn more about me on my website at www.SaraSanfordTherapy.com or call/text 415-870-6494.
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Thrishanna Clark
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of healthcare experience
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
If someone is hesitant to try therapy, I want to reassure them that their feelings are completely normal. Taking the first step towards seeking help can be intimidating, but it is a brave act of self-care. Therapy is a safe place where you can express yourself freely without being judged. It's not about being "broken" or "weak"; it's about developing insight, coping skills, and support to help you navigate life's challenges. Your mental health is important, and seeking therapy is a positive step toward recovery and growth. You deserve to live a happier, more fulfilled, and empowered life. Remember that you are not alone, and there are people who genuinely want to help you succeed.
My goal is to help YOU become the BEST version of yourself that you can be. I prioritize my client's concerns and needs throughout their journey. This is a no judgement, stigma free zone. I aim to provide safe, effective, trustworthy client centered care. Everyone is unique. So, I value providing unique experiences to each individual. I welcome cultural diversity and individuals of different backgrounds. My practice is 100% telehealth where clients have the flexibility to be seen or treated in the comfort of their home, office, etc. I provide medication management services to clients in need of outpatient mental health services. I specialize in adult and adolescence mental health. I treat depression, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and mood disorders. I have personally seen individuals close to me struggle with depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses. I can witness that the appropriate mental health treatment can bring back happiness, stability and hope. You are not alone. I am here to help. Please reach out. Accepting new clients. Insurance or self-pay clients are welcome
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Shala Shardil
Shala Shardil, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a collaborative and empowering process designed to support your well-being. I strive to make therapy approachable and personalized to your comfort level. Healing is a journey, and taking the first step can lead to significant positive changes in your life. I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Hello! I'm Shala Shardil, your dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner. With years of experience in providing mental health care, I am here to support you on your journey to healing and recovery. I specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that consider your unique needs and preferences. Whether you need assistance with medication management, psychotherapy, or crisis intervention, my goal is to offer compassionate and patient-centered care. My background includes working both in-person and through telepsychiatry, allowing me to adapt to your needs, whether you're in the local area, or prefer remote sessions. I'm fluent in Farsi and Pashto, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving the care you deserve. With my credentials and extensive experience, I am committed to making mental health care accessible and understandable. I look forward to working with you to achieve your mental wellness goals. Feel free to reach out to me at Sholly Wellness. Let's start this journey together. Treatment philosophy: At Sholly Wellness, I believe in the power of compassionate care. My approach focuses on you as a whole person, not just your symptoms. I take time to understand your unique situation and work together to create a treatment plan that resonates with your goals. Open communication and informed consent are key; your voice matters in every step of the process. I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy while emphasizing education, so you feel empowered in your journey to recovery. My aim is to create a safe space where healing can flourish, and together, we can strive for a brighter future.
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Sydney Rosen
PMHNP-BC, APRN, MSN
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Taking the first step toward mental health care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Seeking help isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about finding the right support to help you feel like your best self. Whether it’s medication, therapy, or a combination of both, we’ll work together at your pace to create a plan that works for you.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to work with you to create a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are— through medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful progress in your mental health journey—whether it’s ensuring your medications are effective, managing side effects, or simply helping you feel better overall. In addition to treating anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, I also work with a broad range of mental health concerns, including OCD, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s health, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. While medication often plays a significant role in treatment, I embrace a holistic approach when appropriate, incorporating natural methods, vitamin supplementation, and genetic testing to personalize your care and find the best solutions for you. From adjusting medications to providing a space where you feel heard and supported, my ultimate goal is to help you thrive in a way that feels authentic and true to you. Treatment philosophy: I take a personalized approach to medication management, combining evidence-based practices with what matters most to you. I believe in truly understanding you—your concerns, values, and goals—and using that insight as the foundation for your treatment. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach; together, we’ll design a plan that aligns with your lifestyle, whether that’s adjusting medications, managing side effects, or integrating therapy to support your growth. I recognize that mental health can be complex, which is why your voice will always be at the center of our work. We’ll check in regularly, adjust your plan as life evolves, and ensure that your treatment continues to meet your needs.
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Veronica Cerda
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
If you’re hesitant to try therapy, I want you to know that seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of strength. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone, and therapy isn’t about fixing you because you are not broken. It’s a space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Healing takes time, but every step you take toward understanding yourself is a step toward growth and empowerment. You deserve support, and therapy can be the beginning of a journey toward a happier, healthier you.
I grew up in Dallas and always dreamed of becoming a counselor and creating a practice that helps individuals and couples with concerns and issues that have taken over their happiness. I grew up in a Mexican household where mental health was not believed to be something you sought help for. “You just have to get over it” was what I was told. When I went away to college, my outlook was expanded, and I sought counseling for myself. At that point, I realized the benefits and ultimately, the results of being in therapy. Now as a counselor, I see my clients growing, healing, and overcoming obstacles they feared they would never overcome. It is the most rewarding feeling in the world and now my purpose is to continue this journey to help others. *Treatment philosophy I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment for my clients. My goal is to provide a healing space where trust and vulnerability can flourish. During the first session, I focus on understanding my clients by exploring their concerns, past traumas, recent life changes, and current coping strategies. Subsequent sessions are more flexible, centering on present challenges. Over time, I identify behavioral patterns that may contribute to anxiety and depression. With compassion, empathy, and a strengths-based approach, I aim to offer a safe and inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds can heal, grow, and reach their full potential. *Practice description Love Roots Therapy focuses on the mental health needs of adults, adolescents, and couples. Our practice provides virtual and in person counseling sessions depending on the preference of our clients. Our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve and enhance their psychological and spiritual well-being by using a variety of psychological modalities. Our counselors strive to meet our clients “where they are”. We provide an accepting environment using tools to help reframe and understand unconscious beliefs that keep us from moving forward. Our counselors work collaboratively with individuals to identify their goals, aspirations, and desired outcomes. We support individuals in developing strategies, action plans, and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The counseling process aims to empower individuals, fostering a sense of agency and control over their lives.
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Gregory (Tommy) Lofgren
MA, LMHC, NCC
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
It makes perfect sense to experience hesitance, reluctance, or resistance about attending therapy. I would tell any client who experiences this in their journey that their emotions matter. I want to make space for initial reactions to therapy as well. My job is to create safety and trust, and I know that being able to connect to your therapist is a motivating factor for change.
***ACCEPTING CLIENTS*** In my practice, I have cultivated a passion for clients who are dealing with issues like emotional neglect, abuse, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I create a safe space for clients who have struggled getting “caught in the same cycle over and over again.” You might be someone who has found yourself in a relationship that questions your safety and security. When we grow accustomed to repeating patterns of neglectful or traumatic relationships, it changes the way we view ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. I value the research behind the most successful model of couple therapy – Emotionally Focused Therapy. By creating a safe space to process difficult emotions, I work with individuals or couples who are looking to navigate emotional struggles that create further disconnect and isolation in their lives. “We can remain a mere speck of dust, resting on the edge of a windowsill, left untouched.” I learned a great deal from stepping outside of the patterns that left me dealing with emotions on my own. Taking that step to pursue counseling can be met with resistance from fear or worry. I assure you, my goal is to walk the journey with you.
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