Categories: Business NewsHealthcareNewsWellness

Just Be Rooted: A New Therapy Practice in St. Petersburg

The sensory-friendly office of Just Be Rooted, equipped to enhance client comfort.

News Summary

Just Be Rooted, founded by pre-licensed therapist Sage Marcelin, opens in St. Petersburg to provide inclusive therapy services for all ages. The practice emphasizes equity, offering sliding scale fees and accepts Cigna and Aetna insurance. With a focus on community connection and accessibility, Just Be Rooted aims to normalize mental health support throughout the community.

St. Petersburg is now home to an innovative therapy practice, Just Be Rooted, founded by pre-licensed therapist Sage Marcelin. This new establishment aims to provide inclusive mental health support across diverse communities by normalizing therapy as an essential resource for overall well-being. The practice caters to children, teens, and adults and offers both virtual and in-person therapy sessions.

Sage Marcelin holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in social work, which forms the foundation of their holistic, trauma-informed therapeutic approach. Their unique methodology integrates contemplative practices, cultural awareness, and community care, ensuring that clients achieve a deeper understanding of their experiences. Alongside traditional therapy, Sage organizes community events and group sessions to foster a sense of connection among individuals.

Accessibility and Equity in Therapy

One of the notable features of Just Be Rooted is its commitment to equity. The practice accepts Cigna and Aetna insurance, and offers therapy sessions on a sliding scale ranging from $0 to $150. This structure is intended to remove financial barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking mental health support. Flexible appointment availability includes mornings, afternoons, and evenings, making it easier for clients to find sessions that fit their busy schedules.

The sensory-friendly office is designed to enhance client comfort and engagement. It is equipped with fidget tools, puzzles, coloring books, and soft lighting to create a welcoming environment. Therapy sessions may incorporate activities such as walking in nature, mindful breathing exercises, and the use of expressive tools like art or movement.

Community and Collective Healing

Marcelin’s experiences as a first-generation Caribbean American and the oldest daughter in their family deeply influence their dedication to mental health advocacy. Their approach recognizes the systemic nature of mental health issues, acknowledging how factors like capitalism, racism, and queerphobia can affect individuals’ mental health. Sage believes that healing occurs in community settings rather than isolation, thus emphasizing the importance of support systems and collective care.

To combat the stigma surrounding therapy, Sage promotes a clear understanding that therapy is not merely “paying someone to be your friend.” The role of a therapist is that of a trained professional who facilitates self-discovery and personal growth. By providing accessible and inclusive therapeutic services, Sage aims to destigmatize mental health support, encouraging individuals from all walks of life to seek help regardless of their circumstances.

Engagement with Local Communities

Having lived in St. Petersburg for five years, Sage is actively involved in local queer spaces, including Queer Expressions. They express a desire to continue expanding community-based offerings and envision creating more drop-in and pay-what-you-can therapy spaces in the future. This initiative aligns with their belief that therapy should be available to everyone, not just those who are experiencing crises or belong to certain demographic groups.

Looking Ahead

Sage Marcelin’s Just Be Rooted therapy practice is a significant addition to St. Petersburg’s mental health landscape, offering inclusive, accessible, and community-oriented support. By integrating values of equity and collective healing, Sage is committed to creating a safe and empowering environment where individuals can explore their mental health journeys.

In conclusion, Just Be Rooted aims not only to provide therapy services but also to foster a culture where mental health support is normalized, accessible, and celebrated within the community.