About Peggy

Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship strain, trauma, and ADHD. She uses practical, down-to-earth conversation to help clients find clearer next steps.

Serena writes and teaches about mental health and brings a calm, creative presence to sessions. She draws on 21 years of clinical experience and an early career in county and state mental health and substance abuse services.

Background and approach

That background gives her familiarity with many different life situations and with people from varied backgrounds. Serena combines talking therapy with expressive arts ideas when helpful, especially with younger clients. Her work blends Attachment-Based ideas with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques.

She also uses aspects of the Gottman Method for relationship work and some hypnotherapy tools when appropriate. These methods are used to address mood, coping skills, impulsivity, and interpersonal patterns. Serena trained at Capital University and earned a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University.

She holds the Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential and has additional certifications such as Gottman Couple's Counseling and Rational Hypnotherapy, plus experience as a Spiritual Life Coach and ordained metaphysical minister. Sessions may include skill practice, guided reflection, and creative exercises like art or movement when that fits the person’s needs.

The overall aim is to help people discover practical ways to manage symptoms, strengthen relationships, and move toward more satisfying daily life.

Approaches that guide online work and care

Serena often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and try small behavioral experiments. CBT is useful for anxiety, depression, sleep trouble, and managing impulsive reactions.

She also brings Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills into sessions to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and clearer communication. These skills can be helpful for strong mood swings, anger, and relationship stress.

Choosing the right method is a team effort. She will talk with each person about goals and try approaches that match their needs and preferences. If something isn’t working she adjusts the plan so sessions stay practical and focused on everyday changes.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to fit busy lives. Video is often used for in-depth work and skill practice, phone can be a lower-bandwidth option, and chat or messaging work well for brief check-ins or homework support. These choices help people keep therapy consistent around family, work, or school schedules.

Questions people ask

What concerns does Serena address in therapy?
She supports people with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, relationship and intimacy issues, parenting and family concerns, and ADHD among other areas.
What is her approach in sessions?
Her style is direct and practical with creative elements. Sessions mix talk therapy, skills practice from CBT and DBT, and expressive activities when useful.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 21 years of experience, including work in county and state mental health and substance abuse services before running independent practice.
What credentials and location are listed for this therapist?
She holds a Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential (LCSW) and practices in Florida.
Which languages are used in sessions and can international clients join?
Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are offered online?
Therapy can be delivered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit different schedules and needs.
How is cost handled for sessions?
Cost varies by location and therapist availability. Sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions according to therapist availability.

What this therapist works with

Most often

Experience
21 years
Licensed
Florida
Languages
English

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