Sabrina da Silva
I am a professional counselor licensed in Virginia and Florida, as well as being a National Certified Counselor. I have been working in the field for over 11 years, treating clients with a wide range of concerns. My experience has mainly consisted of treating clients presenting with issues associated with trauma and abuse, as well as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also specialize in perinatal mood disorders. I do not see clients as being "sick" or having something wrong with them, but as having experienced difficult things that need to be navigated in healthier ways. I adopt a collaborative customized approach to treatment, as I feel like "cookie cutter" methods do not work for everyone. I tend to use a combination of person-centered therapy, existential, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I believe that by being genuine and free of judgment, I have been able to develop warm and trusting relationships with my clients. I look forward to working with you!
Waynetta Kirtsey-Johnson
Hello and Welcome!! My name is Waynetta and I am very excited that you have decided to take the time to invest in becoming an even better you. Congratulations, this is the first step! I believe that creating a safe therapeutic environment for my clients and developing a caring relationship is critical to the success of Therapy. I am here to both support and guide you on your journey. My goal is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is judgement free and focused completely on your needs and your growth. I have a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and hold credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am experienced with having over 23 years of providing Therapy. I am dedicated to the mental health field. I have been both a Therapist and a supervisor to other Mental Health Therapist. My areas of knowledge include trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance abuse, ADHD, adult ADHD, self-esteem issues, life phase and life transition difficulties and more. I work together with individuals, adolescents, couples, families and parents. I use various techniques with the purpose of providing you with quality care and attention. I practice client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, brief and solution-focused therapy. I want to walk alongside my clients and help to empower you. Together, we can find hope.
Ben Galloso
I am a licensed clinical social worker, certified addictions professional and an advanced heart-centered hypnotherapist in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist- counselor and hypnotherapist. I work with many different types of clients with a wide range of concerns: depression, anxiety, codependency, coping with process addictions to people / behaviors and substances, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, spirituality, career challenges, trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is a mix between warm, interactive, thoughtful, and client centered. I go where you feel you want and need to go. My orientation is that I believe you have the power to heal yourself. I believe in being fully present to my clients so that I can truly hear what is in their heart. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines helping you sort through how you think, what you are saying to yourself; how you feel – as a way of watching what flags your body is sending up that you need to be aware of, and what patterns you use to cope (past and present) to see how they work, and do not work, for you now. I use regular talking therapy and if we both agree it will be helpful, I also some occasional light hypnotherapy as well to supplement / support the regular talking therapy. I am also a SMART Recovery facilitator and conversant with 12-Step Programs. My interventions with addictions and compulsions (with behaviors, people, substances) combines SMART Recovery work (known as Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy) as well as looking at underlying causes of hurt and avoidance to help my clients be more present to themselves so that they can move through the avoidance of addiction and forward to recovery. I have formal theological training in Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Pagan and other religions and spiritualties. I have worked with clients from many different mainstream, alternative and minority religions, non-religions, philosophies and spiritualities. I celebrate and fully support how each individual client chooses to connect to what is meaningful for them. I believe that how we connect with ourselves, others, and the universe as we personally understand it can be a potentially important personal resource. I tailor dialog and treatment planning to you as an individual with your unique and specific needs. Therapy is about personal transformation, moving into an expression of your highest and best self. I love to watch and support people consciously working to move themselves forward on their Life Path. When you are ready to change and move forward, I am here to hold space for you in your work. PAPERWORK BEFORE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT: New Florida laws require that I get all of my Clients, including my Clients here in BetterHelp, to sign legally required paperwork before I can see / work with them. When you initially reach out to me here in BetterHelp I will ask you for your first and last name, email address and phone number and then email you a link so you can sign the legally required paperwork. Its easy, its free and allows me to work with you here in BetterHelp. SCHEDULING INFORMATION: How I use BetterHelp's Scheduling System: BH allows Therapists to schedule in 30 or 45 minute blocks; however, I choose to only schedule 45-minute blocks. If you choose to work with me and you only want a shorter 30-minute session, no problem...just let me know when we start the session and/or schedule for only a 30 minute increment. If you want to go the full 60 minutes....no problem....just let me know that too. I'll work with you. NOTICE FOR COURT CASES / FMLA / SERVICE ANIMALS / OTHER: If your primary focus in seeking therapy is only related to obtaining or submitting documentation (FMLA, letters for emotional support animals, etc.) and/or related to intensive court involvement where therapy has been court ordered and where a therapist will be required to appear in court or submit reports to a court of law, please select another therapist / provider. I look forward to working with you!
Lisa Meotti
I am a licensed clinical therapist in Florida, Texas, and Utah with over 15+ years of professional work experience. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with experience in helping clients with PTSD, coping with addictions, LGBTQ+-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Katherine (Katie) Bortniak
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida. I have been licensed since 2016. I graduated with my master's from Florida Atlantic University in 2012. I have worked with a wide range of clients from a variety of backgrounds. Some of the main concerns that my clients have had include depression, past trauma including physical and emotional abuse, relationship dynamics, anxiety, care giver challenges, and help with managing life stressors. I use an eclectic approach of blending different therapeutic approaches with mainly a client-centered approach to work with you with where you are at and what you want to work on. I feel that this is your journey, and you know best about what you need and how to get there. I believe that my role is to help support you though the process and provide guidance along the way. I use a collaborate approach and open dialogue to create treatment goals you want to work on. I know it can be hard to take that first step to reach out for help. I would be honored to be the one to help your start the process. I look forward to being a part of your process!
Bertha Legra
I am licensed in the states of Florida and Utah with 20 years of professional work experience and am a Master Certified Addictions specialist. I have experience in helping clients with coping with depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Amanda Vargas
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Krishna Bailey
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the states of Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. I am also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor in the state of Louisiana. I have over 16 years of experience as a social worker and counselor. My education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work with an integrated concentration in Health and Mental Health, as well Child and Family Services. I have worked with a variety of clients throughout my career, including school-aged children, adolescents, adjudicated youth, adults, veterans, and the geriatric population. I have worked with clients with a wide-range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Career Challenges, Grief and Loss, Aging, Adjustment Issues, and more. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Center Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My approach will be tailored to each clients unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you towards becoming your best self!
Hyacinth Thompson
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am passionate about what I do and I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I generally check messages here a few times per day Mon-Sat and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. Welcome again to BetterhHelp.
Polly Vaughn
I am someone who takes pride in helping my clients. I use a variety of techniques to help with the change process. I have been a therapist in my own practice for 4 year. I work with any population that I can assist. I have treated mood disorders as well as relationship concerns. I am a very caring person and I believe that change is possible as long as someone has a dream.
How to find counseling in Virginia Gardens
Finding the best therapist close by in Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens. 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 Virginia Gardens, 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens, elsewhere in Miami-Dade, 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 Virginia Gardens area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens, 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 33166 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens 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 Virginia Gardens, 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.
Virginia Gardens 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Virginia Gardens:
33166