

Finding the right mental health provider in Panama City doesn't have to be complicated. Headway's network of 9,062 providers serves the Callaway, Southtown, and Downtown areas with flexible scheduling and virtual or in-person sessions covered by insurance, with copays typically ranging from minimal to moderate amounts.
If you're an adolescent or adult carrying anxiety, depression, trauma, or the kind of exhaustion that comes from navigating life on your own for too long, therapy with me is meant to feel calm, unhurried, and genuinely supportive. I work with teens and adults facing relationship struggles, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, and stress that's hard to shake. I also support parents of children and young adults with ADHD or autism-related needs, and I have experience working with individuals and families facing complex mental health and substance use challenges. My background spans community mental health, crisis stabilization, outpatient care, and hospital settings, so I've sat with a wide range of what people go through.
For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of sitting with people through some of life's hardest moments: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and the pain of racism and loss. My goal is to build a real connection with you, so you never feel alone in figuring this out. I'm here to support you on your journey of self-exploration and personal growth.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted, stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, or struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance use concerns, or difficult life transitions. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, you're not alone.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide a compassionate, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Clients often describe me as genuine, easy to talk to, and deeply supportive. Together, we'll identify your strengths, build practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your values and goals.
I am David Shoots, an LCSW, DDiv and a Qualified Supervisor for MHC and CSW. I have spent the past 27 years working with Trauma, anxiety, self esteem, Couples and Veterans. I have a deep commitment in working with all of my clients with fidelity and compassion. I love what I do and am very committed to providing the best and most ethical services available. You don't have to stay where you are. There has to be a different way to handle what is presently going on in your life.
I’m a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and former Navy Corpsman with over 20 years of medical experience. My background spans oncology, ICU, and community mental health, which allows me to care for clients across the lifespan—from children to older adults—with a well-rounded, compassionate perspective.
I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, focusing on truly understanding your unique needs and goals. In addition to treating conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders, I offer advanced treatment options such as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), hormone therapy, and ketamine infusion therapy for those who haven’t found relief with traditional approaches.











Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Searching for therapists in Panama City starts with finding someone whose training matches what you want help with. You may be looking for support with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, stress, or a life transition. As you compare therapists, look at the specialties listed in their profiles and how they describe their approach. Some therapists focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, family therapy, or other methods that may fit your goals.
In a smaller market like Panama City, local appointment options may be more limited than in larger Florida cities. Virtual sessions can expand your choices while still connecting you with a therapist licensed in Florida. As you narrow your search, consider appointment times, whether the therapist is accepting new patients, and whether they offer a free phone consultation. Reading bios before you book can help you understand a therapist’s communication style, session structure, and experience with concerns like yours.
Therapy in Panama City can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you search for therapists who accept a wide range of insurance plans, see estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and choose between virtual and in-person care when available. You can review profiles, compare fit, and book directly when you’re ready.
If anyone in your family is experiencing or worried about abuse, threats, or coercion, joint family or couples therapy usually isn't the right starting point — individual support is safer. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-422-4453) and National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788\) can help you think through next steps.
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