ADHD therapists and psychiatrists in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Psychiatry was not a specialty I happened to find along the way. From the time I entered college, I knew that mental health and substance use treatment were where I wanted my career to lead. I bring a decade of nursing experience to my practice, including critical care and extensive experience in psychiatric emergency and substance use settings. Much of my career has been spent working with people at some of the most difficult, vulnerable, and complicated points in their lives.

That experience has taught me that there is usually much more to a person’s story than what appears in a medical chart. Trauma, relationships, environment, setbacks, resilience, and the paths we take through life all matter. I believe good psychiatric care starts with understanding that story, and not judging it.

I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma-related concerns, and other mental health challenges. You can expect me to be straightforward, open-minded, and willing to listen. My goal is for you to feel comfortable being honest about where you are and what you’ve been through, without worrying that your past will define how you are treated.

Making the decision to seek mental health or substance use treatment can be one of the most difficult steps a person takes. I understand the courage it can require to ask for help, trust someone with your story, and begin making changes when you may not know exactly what comes next. I view your decision to sit across from me as a patient as a meaningful leap of faith, and I do not take that trust lightly.

Treatment is collaborative. We’ll look at where you are now, where you want to go, From there, we’ll develop a practical, evidence-based treatment plan that respects your preferences, circumstances, and life goals.

Hi, I’m Monica Wacks, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MS, LMHC) and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200). I am deeply passionate about personal growth and development, and I built my practice to facilitate real, grounded transformation.

I work with teens (13+), adults, and couples who are ready to step off autopilot, break old patterns, simplify their daily lives, and engage in meaningful personal exploration. My background combines rigorous clinical training with integrative mind-body practices, allowing me to view mental health through a holistic lens. Whether you are navigating life transitions, seeking stronger relationship dynamics, or working through stress and emotional hurdles, my goal is to help you build internal resilience that lasts well beyond our sessions.

For the past 3.5 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading a multi-site inpatient unit, supporting individuals with persistent mental illness and substance use as they work toward stability and recovery. Now, I’m stepping into private practice and writing my next chapter. I’m licensed in Florida and passionate about making care accessible and meaningful. I’d love to connect—does this sound like a fit for you?

I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, and I strive to create a space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at their own pace.

I understand that reaching out for help can feel vulnerable, and I value the trust my clients place in me. I work to meet each person where they are while helping them build insight, coping skills, resilience, and confidence. I believe in balancing empathy and validation with practical tools and strategies that support meaningful and lasting change.

Clients often describe me as compassionate, approachable, calming, and easy to talk to. I utilize evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, while tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs and goals.

Hi, I’m Jheanelle Bailey, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 17 years caring for people affected by cancer. My background spans pediatric and adult oncology, chemotherapy infusion, and inpatient and outpatient cancer care — so I understand the emotional weight a diagnosis can carry, for patients, survivors, caregivers, and families alike.

Supporting people through cancer is my passion, and I also care for adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate and evidence-based — including medication management and brief therapy — in a judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported.