Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Petrella.
Hi Jenna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi there! I moved to Tampa from Youngstown, Ohio in the early 2000s. After graduating from Gaither High School, I went on to earn my bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Psychology from the University of South Florida. I fell in love with Tampa and everything it has to offer (traffic excluded), and decided to officially make it my home.
Before entering the mental health field, I spent about twelve years working in law enforcement, eventually serving as a detective. Throughout my career, I found myself drawn to the mental health aspects of the job and to supporting others—both civilians and fellow officers. In 2020, I made a deal with myself: if I applied to graduate school and was accepted into a mental health therapy program, I would leave law enforcement and pursue this new path.
The first time I applied, I was denied—and admittedly, discouraged. I wondered whether this dream was truly meant for me. Then, during COVID, another school in a different part of Florida began accepting late applications. I decided to take one more chance—and this time, I was accepted! Due to the pandemic, the program shifted from in-person to fully virtual, which turned out to be a blessing. I was able to stay in Tampa while earning my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and later continuing on to pursue my license in the same field.
After graduating and obtaining my license, I decided to take another leap—leaving my clinic job to focus on my private practice full-time. It was scary stepping out on my own, but also incredibly freeing. Looking back, I’m so glad I did it. I love the work I do, the people I meet, and the flexibility and creativity that come with running my own practice. Every day, I get to learn, change, and connect with others in meaningful ways—and that’s something I’m truly grateful for.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I definitely went through some challenges along the way. I think moving past fear was the biggest struggle I faced whenever I was faced with an obstacle. I learned over time that if I continued to trust myself and know that there are no “right” or “wrong” choices to make, but rather, just making a decision and then figuring out life from there, I will be okay no matter what.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In my practice, I work with adults and couples who are motivated to make meaningful changes in their relationships—with themselves and with others. Drawing on my background in law enforcement, I have extensive experience working with first responders and military personnel, as well as individuals from a wide range of professions and backgrounds. Having been through therapy myself, I understand what it’s like to sit on both sides of the therapeutic relationship. I approach each client or couple’s decision to seek help with deep respect and commitment. As long as my clients are willing to engage in the process, I am fully invested in walking alongside them and doing the work together.
Pricing:
- $140 Individual Session
- $165 Couple’s Session
- Certain insurances accepted
Contact Info:
- Website: https://apathtoresolution.clientsecure.me/
- Instagram: @APathtoResolution
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/a-path-to-resolution-jenna-petrella-tampa-fl/1013557
Image Credits
Instagram: @alexisleephotos (for profile photo only)
