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Affordable ADHD Testing Near You: Just $150 at Prestige Health & Wellness

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ADHD affects millions of children and adults across the U.S., making focus, behavior regulation, and daily functioning difficult. Yet, getting a proper diagnosis can feel impossible—especially with many clinics charging $1,500+ for comprehensive ADHD evaluations.

At Prestige Health & Wellness, we believe mental health care should be both affordable and accessible. That’s why we offer QbCheck ADHD testing for just $150—available at our Tampa, and Lakeland locations. 

🧪 What Is QbCheck?

QbCheck is an FDA-cleared, Quantified Behavioral Test that evaluates the three core symptoms of ADHD:

  • Inattention
  • Impulsivity
  • Hyperactivity

Unlike traditional ADHD testing, which relies on subjective questionnaires, QbCheck uses real-time performance tracking and data analytics to provide objective insights. It gives you and your provider a visual and quantitative report that helps guide diagnosis and treatment.

✅ Benefits of QbCheck at Prestige Health & Wellness

  • Fast Results – Takes less than 30 minutes
  • Affordable – Only $150 (vs. $1,500+ at other clinics)
  • Objective – Real, measurable data—not just surveys
  • Treatment Support – Compare results before and after ADHD medication
  • Kid & Adult Friendly – Great for all ages

📍 Where Can I Get ADHD Testing?

No referral needed. Just book your intake appointment online or by phone.

🩺 Why Choose Prestige?

We are a board-certified psychiatric practice dedicated to making mental health services compassionate, clear, and cost-effective. Whether you’re an adult seeking clarity or a parent concerned about your child, we’re here to help you take the first step—with no judgment and no financial burden.

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🚀 Book Your ADHD Test Today

Don’t let cost or confusion hold you back from answers. Get started with just $150 for your Quantified Behavioral Test.

👉 Step 1: Text or call one of our offices to Book an intake appointment with one of our providers (may be billable to insurance).
👉 Step 2: Complete your QbCheck ADHD test at our clinic or online.
👉 Step 3: Get results and a treatment plan tailored to you.

📌 Important Note:

The $150 testing fee is not covered by insurance. The required intake appointment can be billed to your insurance if we are in-network with your plan.

Book Your ADHD Test Today

Don’t let the high cost of traditional ADHD testing hold you back from getting the help you need. With our Quantified Behavioral Test, you can take the first step toward clarity and treatment for only $150.

Schedule your intake appointment and testing with one of our board-certified providers at Prestige Health & Wellness today! 

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*Disclaimer: The cost of testing is not covered by insurance. There is a visit fee in addition to the testing, which can be billed to insurance if our practice is in network with your plan.*

Affordable ADHD Testing Near You: Just $150 at Prestige Health & Wellness


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The Faces of PTSD Are Not What We Have Been Taught

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By Dr. Louisana Louis, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
CEO, Prestige Health & Wellness

Understanding PTSD Beyond the Stereotypes

When many people hear Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), they often picture combat veterans or extreme trauma survivors. While PTSD does affect these groups, its faces are far more diverse—and far more common—than we’re usually taught.

The National Center for PTSD estimates that about 6.8% of U.S. adults experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with women being more likely than men to develop the condition (8.7% vs. 3.6%) (1). PTSD can arise from various traumatic events, including:

  • Childhood abuse or neglect
  • Sexual assault or harassment
  • Serious accidents or natural disasters
  • Witnessing violence or sudden loss
  • Medical trauma, including severe illness or invasive procedures

The Hidden and Complex Faces of PTSD

PTSD doesn’t always manifest as vivid flashbacks or nightmares. Many individuals live with less obvious symptoms such as:

  • Emotional numbness or detachment
  • Difficulty trusting others or forming relationships
  • Irritability, anger, or sudden outbursts
  • Hypervigilance and being easily startled
  • Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
  • Avoidance of people, places, or activities linked to the trauma

These symptoms can quietly disrupt daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Our Holistic, Trauma-Centered Approach to Healing

At Prestige Health & Wellness, we recognize that PTSD affects mind, body, and spirit. That’s why our approach is holistic and trauma-centered, combining compassionate therapy with expert medication management and wellness strategies tailored to each individual.

Research shows that integrating therapy with comprehensive care improves recovery rates and long-term wellness (2). Our trauma-informed services include:

  • Evidence-based therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-focused counseling
  • Medication management: When clinically appropriate, medications support symptom relief and improve quality of life
  • Mind-body wellness: We incorporate mindfulness, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle guidance to enhance resilience
  • Patient-centered care: Every treatment plan is personalized to honor your unique experience and goals

By addressing the whole person, not just symptoms, we empower our patients to reclaim their lives fully.

Why Early Treatment Matters

PTSD, when untreated, can lead to increased risk of depression, substance use disorders, and chronic health problems (3). Studies indicate that early intervention improves outcomes dramatically and can prevent symptoms from becoming chronic (4).

You Are Not Alone — We Are Here to Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma-related symptoms, reaching out for help is the strongest step toward healing. At Prestige Health & Wellness, you’ll find a compassionate, expert team ready to walk alongside you.

Take the First Step Toward Healing Today

Begin your journey with a confidential PTSD evaluation and personalized treatment plan by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Louisana Louis and our dedicated team.

Book Your PTSD Evaluation Today

Contact Us


Office Contact Information


Office Contact Information

Valrico Office
1418 Bloomingdale Ave
813-252-0171

Lakeland Office
1661 Williamsburg Square Suite 101
863-250-0240

Connect and Share Awareness

#PTSDawareness #TraumaRecovery #HolisticHealing #MentalHealthMatters #TraumaInformedCare #PrestigeHealthWellness #YouAreNotAlone

References

  1. National Center for PTSD. (2023). PTSD Statistics. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_adults.asp
  2. Cusack, K., et al. (2016). Psychological treatments for adults with PTSD: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 47, 41-57.
  3. Kessler, R. C., et al. (2017). The epidemiology of PTSD: Prevalence, risk factors, and consequences. World Psychiatry, 16(3), 259-269.
  4. Forbes, D., et al. (2018). Early interventions for PTSD: What works and why. Current Psychiatry Reports, 20(7), 52.

Men’s Mental Health Matters: Breaking the Silence and Seeking Strength

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By Dr. Louisana Louis, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
CEO, Prestige Health & Wellness

The Silent Crisis in Men’s Mental Health

Mental health struggles affect men in profound ways—yet many suffer in silence. According to the CDC, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and only one in three men seek professional help when experiencing mental health challenges. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD often go undiagnosed and untreated due to stigma and cultural expectations around masculinity.

Recognizing Mental Health Symptoms in Men

Men may express mental health symptoms differently than women. Common signs include:

  • Increased irritability or anger
  • Social withdrawal or isolation
  • Risk-taking or reckless behavior
  • Fatigue or changes in sleep patterns
  • Substance use
  • Emotional numbness or disconnection

Understanding these signs is the first step toward healing.

Why Men Should Prioritize Mental Health Care

Therapy and psychiatric support are not signs of weakness—they are powerful tools for resilience and wellbeing. At Prestige Health & Wellness, we provide:

  • Individualized therapy tailored for men’s unique experiences
  • Medication management when appropriate
  • ADHD evaluations for adults with attention or focus difficulties
  • Support for issues including stress, trauma, relationships, and fatherhood
  • Confidential, welcoming environments across Tampa, Lakeland, and Bloomingdale

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or just “not yourself,” reaching out is a courageous and necessary step. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Click below to schedule a confidential appointment with Dr. Louisana Louis and her team. We’re here to support your journey toward strength and healing.

Book Your Appointment Today

Contact Us

Call us

813-252-0171 – Valrico Office
863-250-0240 – Lakeland Office

Our locations

Valrico Office Address
1418 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico, FL 33596

Lakeland Office Address
1661 Williamsburg Square Suite 101 Lakeland FL 33803


Hashtags to Connect and Support

#MensMentalHealth #BreakTheStigma #TherapyForMen #MentalHealthForMen #PrestigeHealthWellness #MensWellnessFL #YouAreNotAlone

The Human Side of Mental Health: Seeing the Person, Not Just the Diagnosis

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time when we pause to shed light on the silent battles many face, to advocate for change, and to remind the world that mental health is human health.

The most important person you need to take care of is YOU!

At Prestige Health & Wellness, we’ve spent this month spotlighting the human side of mental health. Each voice, each perspective, reminds us of one essential truth: behind every label—anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder—there’s a person longing to be seen, heard, and understood.

Beyond the Symptoms

Too often, mental illness is reduced to a set of symptoms, medications, or clinical terms. But behind each chart is a human being—navigating daily life, relationships, work, and purpose. Whether it’s a mother silently coping with postpartum depression, a teen masking anxiety at school, or an elder facing grief in isolation—mental health touches every age, race, and background.

These are not statistics. These are our neighbors, our friends, our children, and ourselves.

The Power of Connection

The videos we’ve shared are not just stories—they are bridges. They are invitations to look deeper and to connect more compassionately. One of the most powerful things we can do in mental health care is to create space: space for honest conversations, space for safe expression, and space to say, “You’re not alone.”

Healing doesn’t begin with a prescription—it begins with presence.

Seeing with New Eyes

Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that mental health care is not just about treatment plans—it’s about dignity, humanity, and hope. At Prestige Health & Wellness, our mission is “Bringing Humanity Back to Mental Health.” That means we strive every day to meet our clients not just as patients, but as whole people with stories, strengths, and sacred worth.

We believe in holistic, individualized care. We believe in integrating evidence-based medicine with heart-centered healing. And above all, we believe that recovery is possible when we walk the journey together.

What You Can Do

Here’s how you can carry the message forward:

  • Listen without judgment.
  • Speak up when someone is struggling.
  • Educate yourself on conditions like depression, ADHD, or PTSD (we’ve linked resources on our site for easy access).
  • Take care of your own mental health—you can’t pour from an empty cup.
  • Remember: It’s okay to ask for help. Strength begins in vulnerability.

You Are Not Alone

  • Whether you’re someone battling quietly or someone supporting a loved one, know this: you are not alone. At Prestige Health & Wellness, we are here to walk with you, listen to you, and support your healing—because your story matters.

Let’s keep breaking the silence. Let’s keep honoring the human side of mental health.

Dr. Louisana Louis, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Is Medically Supervised Weight Loss Right for Me? Factors to Consider

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Medically Supervised Weight Loss

Did you know that more than two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight or obese? Weight loss is a common goal for many individuals, but the journey can be challenging and overwhelming. With so many weight loss methods and programs available, how do you know which one is right for you?

In recent years, medically supervised weight loss has gained significant attention and popularity. This approach combines medical expertise, personalized guidance, and ongoing support to help individuals achieve their weight loss goals safely and effectively.

The purpose of this article is to provide you with the information and insights needed to determine if medically supervised weight loss is the right choice for you. We will explore the benefits, considerations, and factors to evaluate when considering this approach.

In this article, we will discuss medically supervised weight loss, also known as medical weight loss, and its relevance to individuals seeking weight loss solutions. We will also touch upon the availability of Wegovy weight loss, a recently approved medication for weight management.

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Blog Contents

Understanding Medically Supervised Weight Loss

Medically Supervised Weight Loss

Medically supervised weight loss refers to a comprehensive approach to weight management that involves the supervision and guidance of healthcare professionals. The primary goal is to promote safe and effective weight loss while addressing the underlying factors that contribute to weight gain and hinder weight loss success.

This approach is different from other weight loss methods as it takes into account an individual’s unique health profile, medical history, and specific needs. It recognizes that weight loss is not a one-size-fits-all journey and requires a personalized approach.

Difference from Other Weight Loss Methods

Other Weight Loss Methods

While there are various weight loss methods available, medically supervised weight loss stands out due to its comprehensive and evidence-based nature. Unlike fad diets or quick-fix solutions, medically supervised weight loss focuses on long-term sustainable results.

One key distinction is the involvement of healthcare professionals such as doctors, registered dietitians, and other specialists. These professionals bring their expertise and knowledge to create tailored weight loss plans that align with an individual’s specific needs, preferences, and health conditions.

Importance of a Comprehensive Approach

Medically supervised weight loss programs prioritize a comprehensive approach to address weight loss. It begins with a thorough medical evaluation, including assessments of overall health, underlying medical conditions, and any potential barriers to weight loss.

Based on the evaluation, healthcare professionals develop personalized weight loss plans that incorporate dietary modifications, physical activity recommendations, behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication interventions like Wegovy, when appropriate. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are integral to track progress, adjust the plan as needed, and provide ongoing support and guidance.

This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals receive holistic care and are supported in adopting sustainable lifestyle changes that contribute to long-term weight management success.

Factors to Consider

Individual Health Conditions and Medical History

When considering medically supervised weight loss, it is crucial to take into account your individual health conditions and medical history. Certain medical conditions or medications may impact your ability to engage in specific weight loss strategies or require additional precautions. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure that any weight loss program is safe and appropriate for your unique health circumstances.

Individual Health Conditions and Medical History

One of the key advantages of medically supervised weight loss is the presence of healthcare professionals who provide guidance and support throughout your weight loss journey. These professionals, including doctors, dietitians, and behavioral therapists, have specialized knowledge in weight management and can tailor a plan that suits your needs. Their expertise helps to ensure that you are following a safe and effective weight loss strategy, addressing any underlying health concerns, and making sustainable lifestyle changes.

Individual Health Conditions and Medical History

It’s important to set realistic expectations when embarking on a weight loss journey. Medically supervised weight loss programs emphasize long-term success rather than quick fixes. Sustainable weight loss takes time and commitment. Understanding the need for patience, consistency, and dedication to the program is vital for achieving and maintaining your weight loss goals.

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions

Many individuals may have concerns or misconceptions about medically supervised weight loss. Common concerns include worries about the cost of the program, the potential side effects of medications, or the sustainability of lifestyle changes. It is essential to address these concerns and provide accurate information to help individuals make informed decisions. Understanding the benefits, risks, and potential outcomes of medically supervised weight loss can help dispel misconceptions and provide clarity.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether medically supervised weight loss is the right choice for you. Remember, every individual’s weight loss journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Consulting with a healthcare professional and discussing your specific needs and goals is essential in determining the most suitable approach to achieve successful and sustainable weight loss.

Evaluating Your Readiness

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions

Before embarking on a medically supervised weight loss program, it is important to evaluate your personal readiness. Consider the following factors:

Assessing Personal Readiness Steps
1. Motivation and Commitment

Are you ready and committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes and following the program consistently?

2. Health Conditions

Assess whether any underlying health conditions or medications may impact your ability to participate in certain weight loss strategies. Discuss these concerns with a healthcare professional.

3. Emotional Well-being

Reflect on your emotional well-being and whether you are prepared to address any emotional challenges that may arise during the weight loss journey. Mental health support can be an integral part of medically supervised weight loss programs.

4. Support System

Consider the support system available to you. Having a network of family, friends, or even joining support groups can provide encouragement and accountability throughout the process.

Consulting with a Healthcare Professional

It is highly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an evaluation and guidance. They can assess your overall health, discuss any potential risks or limitations, and help determine if medically supervised weight loss is appropriate for you.

A healthcare professional can also provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs, preferences, and goals. They will consider factors such as your current weight, medical history, medications, and any pre-existing health conditions.

Potential Benefits of Medical Interventions

In some cases, medical interventions may be recommended as part of a medically supervised weight loss program. One such intervention is Wegovy, a prescription medication approved for chronic weight management. Discuss with your healthcare professional if Wegovy or similar medical interventions are suitable for you and understand the potential benefits and risks associated with these medications.

Additionally, consider the availability of medical interventions in your area. Seek out reputable weight loss clinics or healthcare providers that offer comprehensive and medically supervised weight loss programs, including the option of medical interventions if appropriate.

Remember, the evaluation process is crucial in determining your readiness for medically supervised weight loss. By working closely with healthcare professionals, you can receive personalized guidance and support to ensure a safe and effective weight loss journey.

Finding a Medically Supervised Weight Loss Program

Tips for Finding Reputable Weight Loss Clinics

When searching for a medically supervised weight loss program in Tampa or nearby areas, consider the following tips:

1. Research Online

Use online platforms and search engines to find weight loss clinics in your area. Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get an idea of their experiences.

2. Seek Recommendations

Ask for recommendations from trusted healthcare professionals, friends, or family members who have undergone medically supervised weight loss programs. They can provide insights and firsthand experiences.

3. Credentials and Expertise

Look for clinics with qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in weight loss management. Check their credentials, certifications, and experience in the field. Board-certified physicians, registered dietitians, and other healthcare professionals should be part of the program.

4. Comprehensive Approach

Choose a program that offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, including medical evaluation, personalized plans, nutrition guidance, physical activity recommendations, and ongoing monitoring.

Alignment with Individual Needs and Goals

Consider your personal needs and goals when selecting a medically supervised weight loss program. Look for programs that offer customized plans tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you have certain dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or lifestyle preferences, the program should be able to accommodate and address them.

Importance of Medical Credentials and Expertise

It is crucial to choose a program that has qualified healthcare professionals overseeing the weight loss process. Ensure that the clinic and its staff have the necessary medical credentials and expertise to provide safe and effective guidance throughout your journey. This includes having physicians or other healthcare professionals who can monitor your progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and address any concerns that may arise.

Supervised weight loss program that suits your needs

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find a reputable medically supervised weight loss program that suits your needs, enhances your chances of success, and prioritizes your overall health and well-being.

Take the first step towards a healthier you with medically supervised weight loss. Consider the benefits, evaluate your readiness, and find a reputable program that suits your needs. Consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and support. Your weight loss journey is unique, and with the right resources, you can achieve lasting results. Don’t wait any longer—invest in your well-being today. Start your medically supervised weight loss program and embrace a healthier, happier future.

Medically Supervised Weight Loss in Tampa

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Top Tampa Bay Psychiatric Services: Finding the Right Mental Health Professional in Florida, June 2023

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Tampa Bay FL

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, encompassing our emotional, psychological, and social welfare. It significantly influences how we think, feel, and behave, impacting our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health has become increasingly prominent, leading to greater awareness and understanding of its importance in maintaining a balanced, fulfilling life.

Tampa Bay and Florida, like the rest of the nation, are witnessing a growing need for mental health professionals. With the population’s rising awareness of mental health issues and the pursuit of professional help, there is an urgent need to provide accessible and high-quality services. This article aims to guide readers in finding top Tampa Bay psychiatric services, ensuring that they receive the care and support they need to address their mental health concerns.

Blog Contents

Top Tampa Bay Psychiatric Services

Understanding Mental Health Issues and Their Impact

Prevalence of mental health issues in Tampa Bay and Florida

Mental health issues are prevalent in Tampa Bay and across Florida, affecting people of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. According to recent reports, approximately one in five adults in Florida experiences mental illness in a given year. The state also faces unique challenges in addressing mental health, such as a large and diverse population and limited resources dedicated to mental health services.

Common mental health disorders

  • Anxiety disorders: These include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Anxiety disorders involve excessive fear, worry, or unease, often interfering with daily functioning.
  • Mood disorders: Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, are characterized by disturbances in mood and emotional state, affecting an individual’s ability to function and maintain relationships.
  • Eating disorders: Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, involve unhealthy patterns of eating and attitudes toward food and body image.
  • Personality disorders: Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder, involve long-standing, inflexible patterns of thought and behavior that significantly impair daily functioning and relationships.
  • Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders: Psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, involve a loss of contact with reality, often manifesting as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.

The impact of mental health issues on individuals, families, and society

mental health issues

Mental health issues can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the individuals experiencing them but also their families and society as a whole. For individuals, mental health disorders can lead to emotional distress, impaired daily functioning, social isolation, and, in severe cases, self-harm or suicide. Families often bear the emotional and financial burden of supporting a loved one with mental health issues, and the challenges can strain relationships and disrupt family dynamics.

At a societal level, mental health issues contribute to increased healthcare costs, decreased productivity, and increased rates of homelessness and incarceration. By addressing mental health concerns and providing appropriate support, we can reduce the impact of these issues on individuals, families, and society, ultimately improving the quality of life for all.

Types of Mental Health Professionals in Tampa Bay

Psychiatrists: Dr. Louisana Louis

Dr Lious - Medical Weight Loss

As a psychiatrist and an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) credentials, Dr. Louis specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions using a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and other therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Louis holds a doctorate in nursing and is an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 20 years of experience in the health industry, she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults across a wide range of mental health needs.

Link to book appointment: www.yourprestigehealth.com

Psychologists: Monique Cuthbertson

Monique Cuthbertson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who specializes in working with adults. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions for a variety of mental health issues, employing evidence-based practices to promote recovery and well-being.

Monique Cuthbertson has completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and is a board-certified APRN, PMHNP-BC, and RN. She has extensive training and experience in working with adult patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Link to book appointment: www.yourprestigehealth.com

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): Julie Dumois

Role and specialization: Julie Dumois is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who offers therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.

Education and training: Julie Dumois holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and is licensed to practice in the state of Florida. She has several years of experience working with diverse populations in various clinical settings.

Book appointment: www.harpertherapy.com

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT): Mallory Deal, LMHC

Mallory Deal is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Senior Counselor who specializes in marriage and family therapy. She works with couples and families to address relationship issues, improve communication, and foster emotional healing.

Mallory Deal earned her Bachelor of Science from Florida State University in 2007. She went on to complete a Master’s degree in Counseling, specializing in marriage and family therapy. As a licensed professional, she has gained extensive experience in providing counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.

When seeking mental health care, it is important to understand the differences between various types of professionals. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy, while psychologists focus on psychotherapy and assessment. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, like Monique Cuthbertson, are trained in both nursing and mental health care, and they can prescribe medication as well as provide therapy. Licensed Clinical Social Workers, such as Julie Dumois, offer therapy and support services, often focusing on the individual’s social environment. Marriage and Family Therapists, like Mallory Deal, specialize in relationship-based therapy for couples and families.

It is essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a mental health professional. Each type of professional brings unique skills and perspectives to the treatment process, and finding the right fit can significantly impact your healing journey.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mental Health Professional

Choosing the Right Mental Health Professional

1. Assessing your needs

Identifying the issue: Before selecting a mental health professional, it’s essential to identify the specific mental health issue you’re experiencing, such as anxiety, depression, or relationship problems.

Considering the severity and duration of the problem: Assess the severity of your symptoms and how long they’ve been present to determine the appropriate level of care.

2. Researching professionals and their specialties

Investigate the backgrounds, specialties, and expertise of mental health professionals in your area. Look for those with experience in treating the specific issue you’re facing.

  • Checking credentials and licenses

Ensure that the mental health professional you choose is licensed to practice in your state and has the appropriate credentials and qualifications for their field.

3. Considering location, availability, and accessibility

Select a professional who is conveniently located, has availability that fits your schedule, and offers accessibility options, such as telehealth, if needed.

4. Understanding the financial aspect: insurance and fees

Inquire about the professional’s fees and whether they accept your insurance. If you don’t have insurance or are underinsured, ask about sliding scale fees or other payment arrangements.

5. Evaluating your comfort level with the professional

It’s crucial to feel comfortable and at ease with the mental health professional you choose. Trust your instincts and ensure you feel heard and understood during your initial consultation.

comfort level with the professional

Finding the right mental health professional is a vital step in addressing mental health issues and improving your overall well-being. By assessing your needs, researching professionals and their specialties, and considering factors such as credentials, location, and finances, you can make an informed decision and select the right provider for you. Remember that mental health is an essential aspect of a healthy, fulfilling life, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. With the variety of resources and mental health professionals available in Tampa Bay, Florida, you are sure to find the support you need on your journey to wellness.