Find a therapist in Panama City, FL — covered by insurance

My own journey into mental health advocacy began when my oldest son was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. As I learned to navigate his diagnosis, I immersed myself in education, support, and advocacy, eventually becoming certified through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to teach all of their signature education programs.

During my seven years with NAMI, I served my community by teaching mental health education classes, leading support groups, collaborating with community organizations, and offering seminars aimed at reducing stigma and increasing understanding.

That work inspired me to return to school and deepen my ability to help others. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University and began clinical practice in crisis intervention and trauma‐informed care at the Children’s Advocacy Center and Emerald Coast Behavioral Hospital. I now have my own private practice providing personalized therapy as well as psychoeducational and therapeutic groups throughout the year. I also continue to educate local businesses and community members through professional seminars focused on compassion, early intervention, and mental health awareness. In addition, I serve as an adjunct professor at Florida State University Panama City.

Beyond my professional life, I’ve been married to my high‐school sweetheart for 37 years, and we have two adult sons. I find joy in spending time with family, reading, studying human behavior, walking on the beach, watching sunrises and sunsets, exploring Pinterest, playing the piano, and creating a warm, welcoming home.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to walk alongside you as you discover new possibilities, reclaim your sense of self, and create a life worth living.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 3 years of clinical mental health experience. I graduated from Troy University with a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and was trained by the University of Central Florida in Trauma Management Therapy.

I have a wide range of experience with adolescents and adults including time spent as an inpatient therapist as well as an outpatient therapist in the community mental health setting and in private practice.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who takes a holistic and compassionate approach to therapy, supporting the mind, body, and spirit throughout the healing process. I believe people open up where they feel safest and most understood, so creating a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment is one of the most important parts of my work.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings. I specialize in supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship challenges, substance use concerns, ADHD, behavioral challenges, family conflict, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and emotional regulation difficulties. I help clients better understand their emotions, patterns, and relationships while building healthier coping skills, stronger self-awareness, and greater confidence in themselves and their lives. I also value incorporating psychoeducation into sessions so clients feel empowered with both insight and practical tools they can apply outside of therapy.

My philosophy is that we are never too old to heal, grow, or rediscover joy. I strive to help clients turn pain into wisdom, reconnect with their strengths, and create meaningful change in their lives.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a background in psychology, nursing, and addiction counseling. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life stressors.

My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and tailored to each individual. I believe mental health care should feel safe, supportive, and empowering—not intimidating. I take the time to truly listen and understand your concerns so we can create a plan that works for you.

As both a clinician and educator, I stay up to date with evidence-based practices to provide high-quality, personalized care. Whether you’re new to mental health treatment or continuing your journey, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Hi! I'm Elijah. I am a LCSW and work with people navigating Addiction, Mental Illness, Trauma, and Stress. I offer a space that feels safe, respectful, and genuinely collaborative.

For the past 3.5 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading a multi-site inpatient unit, supporting individuals with persistent mental illness and substance use as they work toward stability and recovery. Now, I’m stepping into private practice and writing my next chapter. I’m licensed in Florida and passionate about making care accessible and meaningful. I’d love to connect—does this sound like a fit for you?