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Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health, yet many people still struggle with the idea of reaching out for support. Stigma, misconceptions, and fear can make therapy feel intimidating, even though it’s one of the best ways to understand your emotions and improve your overall well-being. So what does a therapist do, and how do you know when it might be time to see one?
Mental health care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors all play different roles in a person’s healing journey. Some focus on diagnosing conditions; others focus on talk therapy, and others support medication management or behavior-based treatment.
Continue reading to understand the role of a therapist, what they treat, their training, and when it may be the right time for you to begin therapy. You’ll also learn how to choose a therapist who fits your needs and how WellStead Mental Health can support you.
Therapy is a broad field that includes support for emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and even physical challenges. Across every specialty, the goal is to help people improve their quality of life and navigate difficult experiences in healthy ways.
Here are some of the many types of therapists you may come across:
And many more, depending on needs.
At WellStead, the focus is on mental and emotional health—particularly counseling, evaluations, and psychiatry. Mental health therapists create a safe, confidential environment where you can speak openly, learn coping skills, and understand the patterns that shape your behaviors and emotions. WellStead also collaborates with psychiatrists when you need medication management or deeper diagnostic support.
So, what is a therapist? A therapist’s role typically includes:
Therapists can support a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. While each clinician may specialize in certain areas, most mental health therapists are trained to help people understand their feelings, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate life changes or stressors.
Many therapists also focus on specific therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or trauma-informed therapy. Because mental health conditions can show up differently from one person to the next, therapists tailor treatment to each individual.
A behavioral or mental health therapist may help treat conditions such as:
The training required to become a therapist is both extensive and rigorous. Florida has particularly strict guidelines for mental health clinicians, which means that when you receive support from a provider like WellStead, you can feel confident you’re working with highly qualified professionals.
All mental health therapists begin by earning a bachelor’s degree—often a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, social work, or a related field. From there, they complete a graduate program, such as a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or mental health specialties. These programs include coursework, clinical experience, and supervised training to help future therapists develop strong therapeutic and diagnostic skills.
Professional development doesn’t end once schooling is complete. Therapists typically complete years of supervised clinical work before being fully licensed. They learn how to work with diverse patient needs, handle crisis situations, and apply evidence-based approaches effectively.
Licensing and certification requirements vary by state, but in Florida, therapists must meet the following guidelines:
A therapist cannot prescribe medications. Therapists focus on talk therapy, emotional support, coping strategies, and behavioral interventions—but they are not medical doctors. Their training prepares them to diagnose mental health conditions, guide patients through therapeutic techniques, and help people work through emotional challenges.
If medication is needed, therapists collaborate closely with psychiatrists who can prescribe and monitor mental health medications. Your therapist can refer you to a psychiatrist, explain why medication may help, and ensure your care plan stays coordinated and supportive.
A therapist is a licensed counselor or psychologist who works with patients to treat mental health symptoms and help them manage stress and relationships. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication to treat mental health disorders.
Together, they often work as a team—therapists providing ongoing support and skill-building, while psychiatrists focus on medication and diagnostic oversight when appropriate.
You can’t stabilize your emotions.
Maybe you’ve experienced grief. Maybe you’ve lost interest in things that once excited you. When your emotional world feels flat, heavy, or unpredictable, it’s easy to give up or start to feel hopeless. A therapist can help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that feel buried. You may need to process past hurts, give yourself permission to enjoy life again, or simply talk through what you’ve been carrying alone. Getting things off your chest can help you open your heart again and see how much more is possible when you believe good things can happen to you.
You’re struggling to deal with life.
Burnout, constant stress, or going through too many difficult experiences in a short period of time can leave you drained and overwhelmed. You might be keeping up with the basics but falling behind on important tasks. Your schedule may feel non-stop, or you may feel like you’ve “run out of steam.” Feeling overwhelmed is a sign you need more support—not a personal failure. Therapy can help you regain control, rebuild balance, and develop healthier ways to navigate a demanding season of life.
Someone you trust suggests it.
Sometimes the people closest to us notice our struggles before we recognize them ourselves. If a friend or family member recommends therapy, try to consider their suggestion with an open mind. They may see changes in your behavior, stress levels, or emotional health that you’ve been too overwhelmed to fully notice. Even if their suggestion comes from frustration, it can still be a meaningful sign that outside help may be beneficial to you.
You can’t turn off your brain.
When thoughts loop endlessly, or anxieties build to the point that daily tasks feel overwhelming, therapy can provide powerful relief. Uncontrolled worries can make it hard to sleep, focus, or even leave the house. If your mind feels constantly “on,” a therapist can teach you grounding skills, cognitive reframing techniques, and strategies to break the cycle of anxious thoughts. With the proper support, you can regain a sense of calm and mental clarity.
A strong therapeutic relationship can help you feel supported as you work through challenges. Many people begin their search online, and WellStead offers an easy way to explore provider backgrounds and qualifications.
As you look for a therapist, consider their licensing and specialties. Some therapists focus on trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, or family conflict, while others may emphasize stress management or life transitions. Practical factors also matter, such as cost, insurance coverage, location, availability, and whether you prefer in-person sessions or telehealth. Personal comfort also plays a role; some people feel more at ease with a therapist who shares their age group, gender, cultural perspective, or religious background.
Just as important as credentials is the therapist’s communication style and how you feel when talking with them. Trust builds over time, but the right fit will help you feel understood from the start.
WellStead Mental Health has supported Tallahassee residents since 1982, offering compassionate, evidence-based care that meets you where you are. Our team provides therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment planning.
If you’re thinking about starting therapy or want to explore your mental health options, WellStead Mental Health is here to help. With three convenient locations, experienced clinicians, and a commitment to patient-centered care, you can take the next step with confidence.
Request an appointment today and begin your path toward taking back control of your life.