Dr. Billy Palmer, Licensed Psychologist, Ph.D.

Education:

Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, University of Florida, 2020

At a Glance:

I believe everyone deserves compassion and I am a fierce believer in destigmatizing mental health.

Though we all need help sometimes, we do not all have the support we need. I'm here to help. I offer comprehensive, compassionate psychological testing and evaluation for a wide range of concerns and I support clients who seek counseling for substance use, life transition, anxiety, stress, interpersonal relationships, and more. 

Why did you become a therapist? 

When I was younger, I observed the immense power of telling one’s story in a safe, non-judgmental space. On the flip side, I observed the detrimental effects of invalidation. I became a therapist to help others and provide the healing conversations.

What can a client expect to experience in session with you? 

I have a humanistic, narrative approach that is informed by feminist theory and interpersonal neurobiology. I provide evidence-based therapies for specific concerns. Clients can expect a safe, non-judgmental space while in session with me.

If you could be the therapist to one celebrity, who would it be? 

I love reading and writing, so I’ll say Stephen King, but the list is long.

How do you spend your free time? 

I spend my free time with my son and my partner, either outdoors or playing games. I play piano, write creatively, and read copious amounts of fiction. Physical fitness is a large part of my mental health regimen, so when I am not reading, writing, spending time with my family, or working, I’m at the gym.

What's your favorite quirk about yourself? 

I love fiction so much that I frequently draw my life lessons from stories.

What does social justice mean to you? 

Social justice means equity and inclusion. It means making mental healthcare available to all. It means understanding my impact on others and being an advocate where I can.

How do you believe change happens?

I believe change is driven by individuals, and it comes from an innate, human drive to gain mastery and contentment. I believe everyone has the ability to change, to strive for the life one wants, but different habits, coping styles, and social structures can get in the way. Change happens at varying speeds and magnitudes, and change is inevitable. I facilitate change in others by helping to clarify purpose and enhancing client strengths.