Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Bradenton, FL

Hello there!

My name is Marisa and I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 6 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals from widely diverse backgrounds, with varying symptoms and diagnoses. Throughout the past couple of years, I have been predominately working with women (adults and teens) who experience anxiety, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. While many of the clients I support have experienced trauma, particularly in some form of abuse, I am equipped to work with clients with a wide range of additional concerns, as well.

A Florida and Polk County native, Mirtha is a graduate of Frostproof High School. She is board certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Autonomous Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She earned a Bachelor's of Nursing from Polk State and a Master's of Nursing from USF. In 2023 Mirtha earned a Post Master's Certification in Psychiatry from Florida Atlantic University. However, her journey as a mental health provider began in 2020 when she became certified through the Academy of Christian Counseling, as a mental health coach. Then in January of 2025 she became an active member of the Order of Saint Luke (OSL) a healing ministry.

Mirtha has nearly 20 years of experience in healthcare. Her passion is caring for individuals struggling with mental health issues. She has been volunteering with the youth in her community for over 7 years and also has experience working in a domestic violence shelter with victims of trauma.

I have a heart for walking with people who are looking for someone to listen and care about their unique circumstances. I work with both couples and individuals; some specializations include marital counseling, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, spiritual/existential discernment, trauma, suicidal ideation, family dysfunction, and career counseling.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to making high-quality mental health care accessible to everyone, especially individuals in underserved and rural communities. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of caring for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in homes, assisted living facilities, group homes, and through telehealth.

I believe mental health care should be compassionate, collaborative, and free of judgment. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable being yourself. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, or another mental health concern, we’ll work together to build a treatment plan that fits your life, not someone else’s.

I combine evidence-based medicine with a whole-person approach, recognizing that sleep, stress, relationships, physical health, and daily habits all play an important role in emotional well-being. My priority is helping you feel better while empowering you with the tools to thrive long after our appointments.

I believe that effective mental health care starts with trust, respect, and open communication. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and experiences. I work with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, and other psychiatric conditions. Together, we'll focus on understanding your unique experiences and developing a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and values.

Reaching out for therapy can be a significant step, and I strive to make the process feel comfortable, supportive, and free from judgment. With over 10 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and stress.

I believe that every person has strengths that can be built upon, even during difficult times. My role is to provide a safe space where you can explore your experiences, gain insight, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. I tailor treatment to your individual needs and goals, recognizing that no two people have the same story.

I value authenticity, compassion, and collaboration in therapy, and I work to ensure that clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the counseling process. Whether you're facing a current challenge or seeking personal growth, I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

My journey began as a deeply personal quest for healing, shaped by significant challenges such as abandonment, neglect, and trauma. Overcoming hardships like poverty, familial substance abuse, and toxic relationships led me to a lifelong struggle with anxiety and feelings of isolation. In my search for relief, I explored countless self-help resources, pursued degrees in psychology, and experimented with therapeutic techniques, yet nothing seemed to offer lasting change.

Everything shifted for me about three years ago when I experienced a transformative moment that inspired the creation of the Blue Lotus Approach. This method has not only helped me heal but has also profoundly impacted my clients, guiding them toward self-awareness and resilience.

With over 22 years of experience in the field of mental health, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome life's challenges and build a path toward healing and growth.

I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, from young children to older adults, and have extensive experience supporting clients through depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, personality disorders, and more. My background spans a variety of settings, including outpatient and inpatient care, schools, homes, skilled nursing facilities, and the criminal justice system, allowing me to bring a comprehensive understanding of diverse life experiences and challenges.

Whether you're navigating a difficult moment or looking to address long-term struggles, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.