Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer , LCSW

Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, who brings a holistic and creative approach to counseling. She aims to help people uncover their own answers, reconnect with their authentic selves, and move toward greater ease and joy in daily life. With 21 years of clinical experience, Serena has worked with children as young as three, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and she previously served for a decade in county and state mental health and substance use services.

Her practice integrates mind, body, and spirit, blending evidence-based methods with expressive arts and movement. Serena incorporates play and art for young people, and she developed an Expressive Arts Clinical Program at a residential behavioral health center for youth. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree, earned summa cum laude from Capital University, and a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker she provides therapeutic care informed by many trainings and certifications, including Rational Hypnotherapy, Gottman Couples Counseling, and Spiritual Life Coaching.

In addition to clinical work, Serena is an ordained metaphysical New Thought minister and has certifications as a Reiki Master Teacher, Advanced Theta Healing practitioner, and Access Bars practitioner. Her background in dance, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, drama, visual arts, and pottery informs a versatile practice that has served diverse populations across treatment centers and private practice settings. She has presented workshops on topics ranging from maternal depression to expressive arts in youth counseling, and she is the author of I Am Me, I Am, A Pearl's Wisdom Book and other published pieces on personal growth and counseling.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer draws from attachment-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method to tailor support to each person's needs. Attachment-based therapy focuses on relationships and emotional bonds - it helps clients understand how early connections influence current patterns and supports rebuilding secure ways of relating. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) identifies unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and teaches practical strategies to reduce anxiety, manage depression, and improve coping skills. The Gottman Method offers structured tools for couples to improve communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen emotional connection.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Serena works collaboratively with each client to determine which methods best match their goals, preferences, and life circumstances. Together the therapist and client review what is working and adjust techniques over time to fit the client’s changing needs.

Online therapy with Serena is available by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for scheduling and for different communication styles. These remote options make it easier to maintain continuity of care during life transitions, balance busy schedules, and access licensed professionals from home or another convenient location.