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Free Consult Call
A brief, no-pressure phone call to explore whether Gulf Grove Therapy feels like a good fit for you. We’ll discuss what’s bringing you in, answer any questions you may have, and review next steps. This call is informational and not a therapy session.
Individual Therapy
We help individuals find practical solutions and navigate challenges.
Couples Therapy
We help couples resolve conflicts and strengthen communication.
Mercedes Clarke-Wright
(She/Her/Hers)
MA, LMFT
MA, LMFT
Licensed Therapist: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
What problem do you strive to overcome? Starting therapy can feel intimidating and overwhelming. Many people come in feeling unsure of where to begin, worried they should already have answers, or wondering if therapy will even help. When life feels heavy, taking that first step can feel like too much.
I take a collaborative, holistic, and client-centered approach to therapy. I meet you exactly where you are—without pressure, judgment, or expectations to have it all figured out. My work is grounded in empathy, flexibility, and an understanding that everyone’s journey looks different.
My goal is to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, we focus on building insight, resilience, and meaningful change that feels sustainable and aligned with your life.
Experience: I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the Tampa area since 2020. I earned my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from National Louis University and my Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida. My professional experience includes outpatient therapy, school-based services, community and homeless outreach, inpatient psychiatric care, and work with abused and neglected children. These diverse settings have shaped my trauma-informed, relational, and culturally responsive approach.
Client Focus: Individual and group therapy including teens (13+), Couples, and Families
Types of Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care
Issues: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Trauma
Specialities: Family dynamics, Identity exploration, Relationship stress, Adjustment challenges
More than just my work: My favorite color is turquoise blue, which fits my love for water (even though I can’t swim).
Traveling is my favorite way to reset and gain new perspective.
And in my next life, I’ll be a youth basketball coach—cheering people on, teaching confidence, and reminding them of their potential 🏀
MA, LMFT Licensed Therapist: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist What problem do you strive... Read More
Maura Johnson
(She/Her/Hers)
MSW, LCSW
MSW, LCSW
Licensed Therapist: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
What problem do you strive to overcome? Are you feeling overwhelmed navigating your relationships, school, or work? Do you feel a pressure to be “okay” or “fine”? Are you searching for tools to help yourself? Now more than ever, individuals are feeling isolated, anxious, and exhausted due to the overall stress of life. Not addressing your needs and feelings can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe there is hope to feel a sense of stability in your life. Congratulations on taking the first step in your therapy journey.
You can expect to set therapeutic goals specific to where you are at in your journey. I promise to work in these sessions just as much as you do. I hope to provide a judgement free space where you can feel free to communicate. I will bring empathy, respect, and kindness into every session.
Experience: Maura is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Tampa, FL. She a graduate of Tulane University with my Master’s degree in Social Work. She has 7 years of experience in this rewarding field of mental health. Maura has had the privilege of working with veterans, oncology patients, and those with severe mental health disorders.
Client Focus: Individual and group therapy including teens (13+), college students, and adults
Types of Therapy: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing
Issues: Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Major life changes, Stress management, Trauma
Specialities: Anxiety, Burnout, Stress Management, Trauma
More than just my work: I enjoy going to the beach, trying all the new restaurants in Tampa (especially Seminole Heights), traveling, and spending time with my cat, Dorota.
MSW, LCSW Licensed Therapist: Licensed Clinical Social Worker What problem do you strive to over... Read More
Melanie Ryerson
(She/Her/Hers)
MA, LMHC
MA, LMHC
Senior Licensed Therapist: Licensed Mental Health Counselor
What problem do you strive to overcome? Many people feel anxious and overwhelmed. They try hard and follow society’s rules, but it doesn’t always help. Maybe you have grief, perfectionism, or trauma that is ready to be healed. I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (eye movements) and talk therapy to help teens and adults. Together, we process your life story and discover new ways to live fully. I aim to build a relaxed, nonjudgmental, and warm relationship. This way, you can move forward with confidence and peace.
Experience: Melanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She brings to therapy her past experience as a teacher and her own story, which includes the loss of a brother to addiction and her father to cancer. She also teaches at her alma mater, University of South Florida, go Bulls!
Client Focus: Individual and group therapy including teens (13+), college students, and adults
Types of Therapy: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (eye movements), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Walk & Talk Therapy
Issues: Anxiety, Grief, Trauma
Specialities: Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, Perfectionism, Family Members Impacted by Addictions, Religious Harm
More than just my work: I feel most at home on the water with live music and my pup, Elsa.
MA, LMHC Senior Licensed Therapist: Licensed Mental Health Counselor What problem do you strive ... Read More
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Need Help? 727-644-9414 admin@gulfgrovetherapy.com