Experienced Therapists in St. Petersburg, FL

Personalized counseling services for individuals, couples, teens & families in the heart of Pinellas County

About Our St. Petersburg Practice

Our Mission

At It Begins Within Healing Center, we provide compassionate, trauma-informed therapy in St. Petersburg, FL, serving individuals, couples, teens, and families with the personalized care they deserve.

how we help

If you’re looking for a therapist in St. Petersburg, know that you’re not alone and you’ve come to the right place. At It Begins Within, we offer compassionate mental health care rooted in clinical expertise and a deep respect for your story.

WHO WE SERVE

Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, our team of licensed therapists is here to guide you toward meaningful change. Conveniently located in Pinellas Park (off 275) and easily accessible from Clearwater, Largo, Tarpon Springs, along with Madeira Beach & Treasure Island - our office welcomes clients from all walks of life.

We specialize in

Our Counseling Services in St. Petersburg

Individual Therapy

We offer in person therapy in St. Petersburg provided by licensed mental health counselors who are specialized in anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Couples & Marriage Counseling

Our skilled Gottman and St. Petersburg relationship therapists provide support for common relationship challenges (including improving communication), premarital counseling for those looking to strengthen their bond before marriage, marriage counseling, discernment counseling and divorce counseling.

Family therapy

We provide support for families navigating conflict, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, or transitions such as divorce. Our family therapy in St. Petersburg helps strengthen communication, improve understanding, and restore balance at home.

Child, adolscent & Teen Therapy

From emotional regulation to school stress, social struggles, and identity exploration, our therapists offer developmentally appropriate care for kids and teens. We support families through parenting challenges and help young clients in St. Petersburg build confidence, emotional tools, and healthy relationships.

Trauma & PTSD Therapy

Trauma therapist in St. Petersburg offer specialized care for clients who have experienced acute or complex trauma. We use leading techniques like EMDR therapy in Tampa, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), somatic techniques, and other evidence-based trauma therapies to help you safely process your experiences and reclaim your peace.

Meet Our St. Petersburg Therapists

  • Experienced counselor helping entrepreneurs and executives manage emotional wellness

    Tyler MacDonald, MA, LMHC

    THERAPIST

  • Professional headshot of St. Pete trauma therapist offering EMDR and integrative care

    Amanda Farris, MS, LCSW, QS

    THERAPIST

  • Therapist providing evidence-couples therapy in St. Petersburg, Florida

    Kaitlyn Shelp, MA, LMHC

    CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

  • Headshot of couples and child therapist at It Begins Within, serving the Pinellas County area

    Melissa Zentner, MS, LMHC

    THERAPIST

  • Therapist specializing in stress, perfectionism, and emotional resilience in St. Petersburg

    Mary Perleoni, Ph.D., LMHC

    FOUNDER

  • Licensed therapist offering intensive therapy sessions for professionals in St. Pete

    Nicole Segovia, BS

    THERAPIST

speak with a therapist in st. pete

Our St. Petersburg Therapy Offices

  • Welcoming therapy office in St. Petersburg at It Begins Within
  • Quiet, professional environment for mental health sessions in St. Pete
  • Safe, inviting therapy space for couples and families in Pinellas County
  • Serene outdoor setting at our St. Petersburg counseling center

Why St. Petersburg Chooses It Begins Within

Dr. Mary Perleoni founded It Begins Within with the mission of setting a new standard for quality in mental healthcare. While obtaining her Ph.D. at one of the nations leading counseling research and teaching institutions (University of Central Florida), she grew a deep appreciation for the process of “gatekeeping” (i.e. only highly qualified and skilled students are permitted to continue and graduate from the program).

As a Counselor Educator, Mary has had the unique experience of training, evaluating and mentoring thousands of Counselors - she’s used this expertise to ensure each and every clinician at It Begins Within is truly an expert in their respective focus area.

With a baseline of the most skilled clinicians in the Tampa area, combined with regular ongoing support and education we ensure we are able to provide the highest level of support for our Tampa Bay clients.

Clients tell us they appreciate:

  • Our convenient location

  • Evening & weekend appointment availability

  • Our focus on trauma-informed and responsive care

High-Performance Professionals Deserve High-Impact Support

We specialize in supporting professionals who are constantly "on." Our clients include attorneys, physicians, surgeons, entrepreneurs, and executives who often find themselves carrying the emotional and mental weight of their roles without space to offload or reset. We get it. Your time is limited, your responsibilities are enormous, and discretion is required.

That’s why we offer

  • Flexible Scheduling – Early mornings, evenings, and weekend options that work with your demanding calendar.

  • Innovative, Results-Oriented Therapy – Including intensive therapy sessions designed to accelerate insight, healing, and change without requiring months of weekly sessions.

  • Complete Privacy – Sessions are conducted in a confidential, judgment-free space where your personal and professional identity are respected and protected.

  • Evidence-Based Treatment – Our methods are grounded in research and tailored to meet the specific needs of high-functioning individuals navigating burnout, anxiety, perfectionism, or high-stress leadership roles.

You don’t have to slow down to get support, you just need the right support. At It Begins Within, we meet you where you are and help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

Therapy in St. Petersburg

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of therapy do you offer in St. Petersburg?

We offer individual, couples, family, and trauma-focused therapy, including EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. Sessions are available both in person and via telehealth.

Do you take insurance for counseling in St. Petesrburg?

No, we are what is considered an “out-of-network” provider. We do accept HSA and FSA’s, and also provide a superbill which often allows our clients to be reimbursed up to 70% or more by their insurance provider.

How do I book with a therapist near me?

Schedule a free consultation by clicking the button below or call our St. Petersburg office.

WHERE TO FIND US

 

AREAS WE SUPPORT

  • St. Petersburg

  • Clearwater

  • Largo

  • Pinellas Park

  • Dunedin

  • Tarpon Springs

  • Safety Harbor

  • Belleair & Belleair Bluffs

  • Madeira Beach & Treasure Island

Ready to make a change?

We invite you to schedule a session with us to begin your healing journey.