Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Panama City, FL

I am a psychotherapist that has been in the field for over 20 years. I'm specialized and trauma and believe in providing a space that feels safe an is client centered.

Whitney Cherner, LCSW, is a seasoned and compassionate therapist who believes in the transformative power of self-discovery and resilience. With over two decades of experience, Whitney is passionate about empowering her clients to uncover their inner strength and take meaningful steps toward becoming the next best version of themselves. She specializes in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and personal growth.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges with understanding, authenticity, and hope. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and compassionate space where clients feel safe to explore their emotions, strengthen relationships, and move toward meaningful change.

I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Supporting women and families during pregnancy and postpartum is a particular passion of mine. I am dedicated to helping mothers and parents navigate the complex emotional changes that can accompany this season of life, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for healing, adjustment, and connection.

My approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused techniques, and Mindfulness, allowing me to tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and goals.

I provide therapy through a secure telehealth platform, making it easier for clients to access support from the comfort of their own environment. My goal is to help you gain insight, build resilience, and rediscover a sense of balance, confidence, and connection in your life.

I have been a social worker/therapist for 20+ years. I received my Masters degree at the University of Buffalo, in Upstate New York. I work with clients experiencing depression and anxiety. Together, we explore how thoughts influence feelings and how feelings shape behaviors. When patterns become unhelpful, they can interfere with relationships, work, and overall well-being. I help clients build insight and practical tools to create healthier, more empowering ways of responding to life's challenges.

I work with individuals who feel stuck in cycles of overthinking, anxiety, and self-doubt. On the outside, you may appear put together, but internally feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or unsure of yourself. Often, these patterns are connected to earlier experiences that have shaped how you see yourself and relate to others.

I believe meaningful change begins with feeling truly seen and understood. My goal is to create a supportive space where you can pause, reflect, and explore what’s happening in your life without judgment.

My background includes mental health counseling and community-based work, supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds and recognize how personal experiences shape the way we think, feel, and relate to others.

I’m especially passionate about helping you understand the patterns and beliefs that influence your life. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you,it’s about gaining clarity, building insight, and developing tools to help you feel more confident, balanced, and grounded.

Life can often feel like a series of overwhelming transitions, leaving you feeling disconnected or unsure of your next step. I provide a dedicated space for adults (22+) to slow down, reflect, and move forward with renewed clarity.

Whether you are navigating the complexities of trauma, managing a mood disorder, or facing significant life changes, my goal is to help you transform "feeling stuck" into a journey of intentional growth.

How We Will Work Together

My approach is relational, honest, and depth-oriented. Rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms, we will explore the unspoken beliefs and past experiences that quietly shape your daily life. By learning to listen to what your emotions are communicating, you can begin to respond to life’s challenges in ways that promote genuine healing and authentic connection.

Specialized Support for Couples

In addition to individual therapy, I specialize in marriage and pre-marital counseling. I help couples at all stages build resilient foundations, repair emotional disconnections, and foster a deeper sense of intimacy and mutual understanding.

**Please note: While I accept insurance for individual therapy, all couples counseling is private-pay only. Insurance does not cover relationship-focused therapy.

Your Journey Starts Here

You deserve a space where you are fully seen, heard, and empowered. No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you in creating meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s most difficult challenges. As a U.S. Navy veteran, I bring a deep understanding of the unique stressors faced by service members, veterans, and their families. My work is centered on helping clients navigate PTSD, trauma, and the emotional impact of major life events with compassion, skill, and respect.

I specialize in trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, and client-centered therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. My professional background includes extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. As a bilingual clinician, I am committed to providing accessible, culturally responsive care to both English- and Spanish-speaking clients.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, empathetic, and empowering. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Narrative Therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma-focused interventions to help clients build resilience and achieve meaningful, lasting change.

My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, supported, and understood. Whether you are processing trauma, navigating recovery, or seeking greater balance and clarity, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we will work toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life.