Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in St Petersburg, FL

Denise Ludwig-Coe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Denise is also a Clinical Nurse Specialist for 40+ years and is highly motivated to play a part in helping others to decrease the pain that often accompanies many life challenges. Denise works well with all people because of her deep respect for the diversity, yet sameness, among all people; especially when at times there may be overwhelming feelings in trying to adapt to illness, loss/grief, transitioning to older age, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, alcoholism/addiction, pain, and a sense of helplessness, and not knowing where to turn. Her passion is to offer a sense of comfort and hope to those who reach out for help. Because of Denise’s dual career choice, she has also been active in helping those in the medical field, including nurses with mental health and substance use issues and who may be involved in an alternative to discipline program in Florida. Her approach is person-centered and eclectic. She draws from the field of positive psychology and coaching, and uses mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, as well as 12-Step Facilitation therapy, and stress management practices.

Denise completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a clinical specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing at Syracuse University. She worked many years in direct clinical work with mental health clients in hospitals as well as in the community. Denise also worked in Public Health dealing with mental health and family issues among Spanish-speaking families living in Syracuse. She wasprivileged to teach and clinically supervise nursing students at the associate and bachelor's degree levels. Recognizing many of the stressors inherent in the health professions and wanting to play a part in strengthening caregiver resiliency and decreasing compassion fatigue, Denise returned to school and completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling at Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Later, becoming more aware of how trauma and adverse childhood experiences impact the extended physical and mental health of people, she returned to school at Capella University to seek a PhD with a focus on the impact of trauma and later addictions in women. Due to her needing to become the primary caregiver to her dying parents, Denise did not complete the dissertation and instead received a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services. She has been a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) in Florida. She also served as a nurse in the US Army reserves and worked in a combat support field hospital. Because of her diverse experiences in mental health, Denise has a broad base of knowledge and expertise. She is currently a Clinical Supervisor for Mental Health Counselor interns.

Part of being human means we all go through difficult times, when we don't know what to do and we feel unable to think straight. We may make decisions that make our situations even more complicated. We may feel shame or fear of loss (job, relationship, esteem of others) if we were to say out loud our thoughts and feelings. Maybe we are grieving and feel our pain will never end, BUT talking to a mental health professional can help. Talking to someone who listens with compassion, never judging or telling you what to do, but listens, and by being fully present, helps you to feel less alone, and more able to regain the direction for your life. If you are ready to reach out, Denise is ready to join you in your journey. Schedule an appointment with her today.

Margaret Keig is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 17years of experience collaborating with adults, teens, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, relationship issues, sexuality, and spirituality. Additionally, she is a premarital course provider in Orange County, FL and is pursuing a sex therapy certification at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. Margaret has many years of experience with LGBTQ+ communities, including work in HIV/AIDS and gender identity. 

Margaret received her Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University. She primarily utilizes solution-focused, motivational interviewing, EMDR, and Gottman Method approaches to therapy. 

Margaret tailors treatment to meet the needs of the individual, couple, or family. She strives to develop a nonjudgmental relationship with all clients and collaborate to build on your strengths, reach your goals, and live the life you imagine.

I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern with 5 years of experience supporting individuals of all ages through emotional and behavioral challenges. In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, men and women experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, autism, behavioral concerns, or grief. My goal is to help clients heal from past pain, develop healthier coping tools, and rediscover their resilience in a compassionate and supportive environment.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Florida. I’ve served as a crisis counselor and grief counselor, helping children and adults process trauma and navigate life’s challenges. I often use cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to guide clients toward meaningful growth and lasting change.

Healing isn’t always a straight path, but you don’t have to walk it alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way with empathy and understanding. When you’re ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment with me so we can begin your journey toward emotional wellness together.

I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern with experience supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. With specialized training in evidence-based and client-centered approaches, I draw on diverse therapeutic methods to meet clients where they are and support them in creating sustainable change and personal empowerment. I am committed to fostering resilience and growth by helping clients address challenges, strengthen coping skills, and build meaningful connections.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Florida. I take a holistic approach to therapy, integrating mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral theory, relational theory, motivational interviewing, and emotion-focused theory.

My goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges while embracing their identities with confidence and resilience. By fostering a compassionate and inclusive therapeutic relationship, I empower individuals to cultivate balance, deepen self-awareness, and achieve personal goals. I look forward to meeting you!

Korrie Watson is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern who has 4 years of experience providing counseling to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management, behavioral issues, women's issues, substance use, grief, life transitions, divorce, sexual orientation, family conflict, and problematic sexual behavior. Korrie works with all ages and has spent time in various clinical settings including correctional facilities and geriatric care.

Korrie received her Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama. She is practiced in crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and educational and medical social work. Korrie often utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing in therapeutic sessions.

Korrie supports her clients in identifying their strengths, recognizing their weaknesses, and discovering their true potential. She is passionate about helping others increase their confidence with the end goal of overcoming life’s obstacles. Reach out to her today!