Client Portal

Our Mission

Guiding individuals through the experience of grief, loss, and trauma.

Our History

The LIFE Center of the Suncoast, Inc. is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization.
  • 1981
    Marty Cohen, Ph.D., Founder Marty has helped people transform their perceptions and feelings into new forms of understanding and growth.He has also directed award-winning mental health programs and provided extensive training to thousands of health and mental health professionals
  • 1981
    Marilyn Gatlin, Co-Founder Marilyn was inspired to start The Life Center through her spiritual work with Dr. Jerry Jampolsky, originator of the Centers for Attitudinal Healing in California. Though Marilyn went on to found The Pilgrimage, and train hundreds of healing touch practitioner in St. Petersburg, her first love remains as spiritual mother of The Life Center.
  • 1983 - 2016
    Sheryle Baker, LMHC Sheryle served as the Executive Director for 33 years! Through her own grief and trauma experience, she has supported individuals through theirs. She is currently a Senior Therapist at The Life Center.
  • 2016 - 2022
    Thomas D. Brown M.Div., LMHC, LMFT, NCC For 7 years, Tom served as the Executive Director and Therapist at The Life Center.
  • 2022 - Current
    Deborah Brooks, LMHC, CT-R Visit "Our Staff" for more information.

At The Life Center , we are committed to fostering an environment of respect, dignity, and inclusion. We do not discriminate in the delivery of our services or benefits on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We believe that every individual has the right to receive compassionate, high-quality care and support, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our services are accessible and equitable for all members of our community. If you have questions about our policy, please contact us at 813-237-3114.