Work With Me
Welcome
Considering therapy? You’re not alone in wondering if it’s necessary. The decision depends on various factors. If you’re grappling with heightened emotions, unhealthy coping mechanisms, or have exhausted support from those around you, therapy can provide relief. Even if you simply desire therapy, it doesn’t imply there’s something “wrong” with you—often, it’s about seeking help for life challenges, such as relationships, career uncertainty, grief, or personal growth.
Contrary to misconceptions, therapy isn’t solely for those facing crises. Just as we invest in physical well-being, attending to our emotional and mental health is equally important. If you’re still unsure, here’s what to expect: therapy involves building a trusting relationship through conversation. Feel free to ask questions about the process, expectations, or boundaries. Therapists don’t prescribe medication, and they respect your autonomy. Understand that therapists won’t provide all the answers or wield a magic wand; their role is to encourage, support, guide, educate, and sometimes challenge. It’s really not scary, I promise.
About Me
Marissa Geraci, MA, LMHC
Marissa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor committed to working with individuals and couples seeking growth and self-improvement. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Tampa. She later received her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Sarasota. She is trained in EMDR and has also completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
“Nothing changes if nothing changes.” My purpose is to provide a relaxed, empathetic, trusting environment for you to feel at ease in asking for things to change. I guide clients to gain insight, clarity and practical solutions to better navigate life. Together, we will explore finding a balance between feeling peaceful, living passionately, and having a sense of purpose. My approach is based on the belief that the quality of your life can be improved by focusing not only on your mind, but your body and soul as well. Struggling with uncomfortable feelings that seem unmanageable is common when dealing with stress. Self-esteem, self-worth, and well-being are often compromised by everyday experiences and relationships. Sometimes asking for help is the most difficult step to take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Existing clients can make an appointment online from the client portal. For new clients, please complete the contact form below.
In your first session we will address what led you to seek counseling at this time. Each person’s situation is unique, but often times topics covered include personal history, family history, prior mental health treatment, current stressors, goals, and expectations for therapy. You are encouraged to ask any questions you might have about therapy and to share your objectives, concerns, hopes, fears, etc. Typically any information that you provided on the intake forms will be discussed in further detail.
For counseling to be successful, you and your therapist must establish trust. It may take a few sessions for your therapist to get to know you, or for you to feel comfortable discussing personal information. Because counseling is dynamic and interactive, you should feel free to ask questions to help you connect with your therapist as you progress through the counseling experience together.
The rate is $140 per 50 minute session. If you would like to use your insurance, please view the payment section below for more information.
EAP stands for Employee Assistance Program. These are employee sponsored benefits that will allow an individual to attend therapy at no cost whatsoever. Please inquire with your employer or health insurance company to determine if these benefits are available for you.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used in psychotherapy, or “talk therapy” as a means to address and change negative cognitions (thoughts) that a person has which are creating negative feelings and behaviors. The therapist will work with the client to identify these negative cognitions and challenge them to help the client understand if they are irrational in nature and how they are contributing to low self-esteem, fears, feelings of depression and anxiety, etc. Ultimately the goal is to replace faulty cognitions with positive ones, which improves the overall quality of mental health and can be a very freeing and empowering experience for the individual.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy for the treatment of trauma. The premise is that when we experience trauma, even on a smaller scale, our brain inappropriately stores negative emotions and beliefs. When triggered, we can continue to experience these negative feelings and beliefs, and they may be accompanied by unwanted behaviors or body sensations. The goal of EMDR therapy is to resolve these negative symptoms and leave you with new meaning, understanding, and perspective that will lead to healthier overall well-being. For more information please visit the National Center for PTSD.
Therapy is a process. It can take time, and finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is one of the most important components. You can refer to these resources 4 Ways Bravery Leads to Better Therapy and 7 Ways to Get More Out of Your Therapy Sessions for a few other pointers on how you can improve your client experience.
Absolutely. We use HIPAA Compliant client software that allows you to schedule appointments, send messages, and hold confidential telehealth sessions. If you are local to the Tampa Bay area, you also have the option to come in to the office.
Quite simply, a Psychiatrist is an actual MD who can prescribe medication. A Psychologist typically has a doctoral degree, but does not prescribe medication. Mental Health Counselors typically have a Master’s degree and do not prescribe medication. Each uses a form of Psychotherapy, or “talk therapy.” Patients receiving medication from a Psychiatrist are encouraged to see a Psychologist or Counselor as well to have the ability to discuss in more detail how they are feeling and work on strategies beyond medication to improve their quality of life. Psychologists tend to focus more on psychological testing and diagnosis. Mental Health Counselors tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and focus more on day-to-day life management, general stresses, relationship counseling, etc. If you have a more specific question regarding which of these options might be best for you, just ask!
Yes. Confidentiality is one of the most important components in the therapist-client relationship. State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality, with the exception of the situations listed below. In these situations, a therapist is legally required to contact the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
- Suspected abuse (both past and present) or neglect of children, adults, and elders.
- If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.
In certain circumstances, you may want your therapist to share information with another party (physician, attorney, other health care provider, family member). By law, your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
Intake paperwork is available to view, complete, and sign using an electronic client portal, so all you need to do is show up. Please bring your own water bottle, we do not provide plastic bottles. Some people choose to bring a notebook. The office can be cold, so you may want to bring a sweater.
Life can be busy, and therefore we allow a 10 minute grace period. If you are late beyond the allotted grace period, you may not be able to be seen, and you will be charged a missed appointment fee.
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Please note that you will be automatically charged the missed appointment fee for late notice or a no-show.
If you need to cancel or reschedule within 24 hours of your scheduled time, you can modify the appointment in the client portal. Otherwise, please contact me directly.
If therapist and client agree that medication might be helpful to the client, the counselor will provide referrals to several local psychiatrists so the client may choose whom they feel will be the best fit.
Common Topics Addressed
Adjustments and Transitions
Behavioral Changes
Coping Strategies
EAP Services
Fertility Issues
Life Coaching
Motivational Challenges
Problem Solving Skills
Anxiety Disorders
Personal Growth
Body Image
Communication
EMDR
LGBTQ+
Marital/Couples
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
PTSD
Relationship Issues
Career/Job Changes
Depression
Family Dynamics
Grief/Loss
Medical Issues / Illness
Premarital Counseling
Caregiver Burnout
Self Esteem
Adventure Therapy
Payment Options
The cost per session is $140.
Card: All major credit cards are accepted. We can also accept most Flexible Spending cards.
Cash/Check: Payment is due at time of service. You will be required to keep a card on file due to the office cancellation policy. Please address any questions or concerns with your provider.
Insurance: We are currently in-network with Aetna, United, Cigna, Oxford, and Oscar.
In most cases we are able to accept other major insurances as an out-of-network provider. It is customary you will have an out-of-network deductible that has to be met before the insurance provider will reimburse. As a courtesy we will submit bills to your insurance company on your behalf. You will be responsible for payments until the deductible is met.
EAP: Select EAP programs are accepted.
I'm Ready, Let's Talk
I am currently licensed in FL, AZ, CT, and WA
*Telehealth appointments are available*
Contact Info
marissa@empoweringtampa.com
Phone/Text
(813) 675-7749
Address
730 S. Sterling Ave. Suite 204 Tampa, FL 33609