In life, we all know that we don't have that much time to make our life happen. We need to get out and enjoy everything life has to offer. However, when one is dealing with depression, anxiety, or various other health problems, it can be a challenge to enjoy life. A counselor based in Estero can help. 

Estero has an interesting history. It was founded by the followers of a man named Cyrus Teed, who said he was immortal. Of course, the following he had dwindled after he passed away. No one is immortal, and that’s why we need to enjoy life as we know it. A counselor can help you do that. 

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Mary Bulla

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Mary. Are there changes you would like to make or difficulties and challenges you want to overcome? Have you lost a loved one, a spouse/partner due to divorce or a break up, a job, or a pet and are finding it hard to move forward? Do you have a chronic or terminal illness and are finding it overwhelming to navigate on your own? Do you suffer from depression, anxiety or a mood disorder? If any of these apply to you, I would consider it a privilege to assist you on your journey to wellness. Working together, my approach is fluid and open to change based on what works best for you. That said, this is a safe, judgment-free space and I value your feedback. Wherever you are on your journey, I'm willing to meet you there and support you in reaching your desired destination. I have a master's degree from Nova Southeastern University and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. My experience over the last four years includes working as a grief and bereavement specialist at a hospice care facility, working with children ages 3-18 at a community health organization, working with teens and adults in private practice, and facilitating various support groups. Prior to my work as a therapist, I held various part time jobs while being a mom to my four children. After a diagnosis of breast cancer two years ago, I developed a particular passion for working with clients with chronic and terminal illness. I utilize a variety of techniques and partner with my clients to assist them with achieving their goals. I have had varied experience in the helping field and I am passionate about working with individuals throughout the therapeutic process. I use an eclectic approach to therapy, using various techniques including person-centered therapy, solution focused therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), psycho-education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and art and play therapy. Please feel free to reach out if you have questions or would like to talk more. I definitely understand that finding the right therapist can take time, and I take absolutely no offense if we try this out and you feel like it isn't the right fit. Overall, I value honesty and want you to feel empowered to do what's best for you.

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Elizabeth Rodriguez

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS, LMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over six years of experience helping people with mental health and substance use disorders. I am a Marine Corps veteran and First responder I am passionate about serving those that have served others. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including PTSD, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship challenges and unresolved grief. My counseling style is direct and interactive. I believe that everyone deserves unconditional regard and respect. I enjoy helping people identify the areas in their life that they would like to improve and help them set clear and achievable goals. Some of the theoretical approaches that I employ to help are: Cognitive Behavior therapy, narrative therapy, solution focused therapy. I commit to counsel you with Honor, Courage and Commitment to the best possible you.

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Catherine Barbour

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Catherine Barbour, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I received by BA from Emory University in 1999 and my Masters in Social Work degree from the University of Central Florida in 2008. I have worked across various settings, including an outdoor therapeutic program counseling teens, in home counseling with children and families, and as a medical social worker in a hospital system. I have worked with adolescents, parents, older adults, and families. I have worked across a wide range of issues, from anxiety, depression, and Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse issues, ADHD, anger management, issues of abuse and neglect (child and adult victims), family dynamics/communication issues, grief/loss, and most recently mental and physical health issues related to the pandemic. I utilize an eclectic approach, always from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing solution focused and Cognitive Behavioral models, as well as trauma informed brief therapy. I approach every client as an individual. I believe counseling is a place not only to address the challenges of today, but to work on creating the life that you dream of! I would love the privilege of supporting you on your path, whether you're addressing anxiety, coping with grief, improving communication with a loved one, or making goals for your next adventure in life, I would be honored to begin this BetterHelp journey with you!

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Orlando Garcia

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am a seasoned psychotherapist/family therapist with over 26 years of experience in alleviating and/or resolving a broad spectrum of psychological, behavioral, and emotional issues. Using scientifically proven treatment methods, I can help you to start improving your life today. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups and I work with people of all ages. I use a hybrid of cognitive-behavioral therapy/Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy combined with family systems therapy. I also incorporate Gestalt/experiential approaches, psychodrama approaches, client centered/Rogerian approaches and psychodynamic approaches into my therapeutic work. I can help you to effectively address your issues and concerns. I also can help you to become more aware of your strengths and potentials and to even identify and develop new strengths and potentials and to make significant changes in your self and in your life. Knowing yourself and being at peace with yourself will help you to have a more satisfying life and more satisfying relationships. Please do not judge your future by your present. Don't give the power to your negative thoughts to convince you that they have the final and unalterable say about you, about life and about reality in general. The future is full of beautiful possibilities and by choosing to work on addressing your problems you begin to make those possibilities come true. I can help you to do that. May you find peace and joy in your journey. Orlando

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Rebecca Dykes

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with over 20 years working in the field of mental health in Florida. I am also a college professor and doctoral candidate studying Ministry with a focus in Christian Leadership and Strategic Growth. I enjoy researching the field of neurotheology and neuroscience. I am Certified in Biblical Counseling and enjoy utilizing faith-based modalities as a counselor. I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and I am Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have a special place in my heart for those who have some form of neurodivergence and are attempting to navigate a neurotypical world. My desire is to help others in times of hardship, meet people where they are and walk alongside them during difficult times. I do believe that faith and having a sense of purpose greater than yourself are key components to life-long healing. I have worked with many populations to include children struggling with attachment, and sensory dysregulation; adolescents struggling with emotional regulation, executive functioning, and peer relationships; adults experiencing domestic violence, anxiety, or addictions; and active duty military struggling with the realities of deployment and reintegration. I have worked in inpatient settings, outpatient settings, forensic/court systems, and in community development settings. Lastly, I consider it a blessing and privilege to have the opportunity to come alongside pastors and ministry leaders struggling through the complexity of ministry life or in overcoming spiritual burnout. My therapy style is direct but warm. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in utilizing stigmatizing labels. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Galatians 6:2

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This is Brittany Castellanos's avatar and link to their profile

Brittany Castellanos

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over seven years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem and confidence, Veteran's issues, & depression. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My sessions at this time are mainly through messaging and live chat sessions only, so please keep that in mind when you are booking. Video and phone calls are on a case by case basis, but I am happy to discuss this with you.

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Shanton Roberson

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Florida & Alabama. I have 15 years of professional work experience in mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Apollonia Tucker-Lewis

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without the fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek help and work towards a more fulfilled and purposeful life. This is the first step and I am proud of you! The style and approach that I take is different for every person. If you need to be pushed, I will push you. If you need someone to listen, I will do that too. There is no one size fit all thinking here. Each person is different and your needs are different. I will take as much or as little time as you need. You will leave feeling encouraged, pushed or perplexed in your thinking (in a good way)! :-)

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This is Patricia Stalnaker's avatar and link to their profile

Patricia Stalnaker

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Lauren Meek

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. My therapeutic approach first and foremost is meeting you, the client, where you are at. I aim to empower you and provide resources and engage meaningful discussion. I have focuses in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, Relapse Prevention and more. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Estero

Finding the best therapist close by in Estero can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Estero. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Estero, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Estero or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Estero area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Estero, elsewhere in Lee, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Estero area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Estero therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Estero due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Estero may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Estero, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Estero above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Estero helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Estero therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Estero therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Estero therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 33967 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Estero counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Estero licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Estero, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Estero has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Estero.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Estero:

33928, 33929, 33967, 34135

Popular cities near Estero, FL

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