While people hope counseling services will help them work through their challenges and achieve emotional wellness, they may find it challenging to find a counseling center or independent practice that provides the supportive environment they need. You have a few options when looking for mental health counseling in Lakeland. There are independent practices and community resources to consider, or you can work with a mental health professional online through a platform like BetterHelp. 

Online therapy can be a flexible, accessible option that can help you overcome some of the barriers to mental health treatment. With a platform like BetterHelp, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. Plus, with more than 30,000 providers on the platform, it can be easier to find someone who is the right fit.

While BetterHelp does not offer psychological testing or family counseling, providers on the platform can provide individual psychotherapy services and solution-focused therapy that can help you with a range of life stressors and mental health concerns. You can work with a certified marriage and family therapist, psychologist, or other mental health professional who can help you identify your unique challenges and the approach to treatment that may work best for you. 

If you’re looking for a therapist in Lakeland, FL, connect with one of the providers below to learn more.

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Psychologist Maria Concepcion providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Maria Concepcion

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH13138
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

Hi, I like clients to feel as if they are chatting with a friend when in session and feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Be assured that I will provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve your desired mental health goals. I have been a therapist for 13 years and do so with compassion, dedication and directness with clients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues at home, socially or at work. I also help those wishing to increase coping mechanisms when dealing with family/friends who abuse substances (co-dependency). By offering insightful, practical tools and informative interaction, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I will work with you every step of the way to bring about the changes you need to improve your thought processes and emotions. As I have stated, our work together will be direct and I will collaborate with you to facilitate a program personalized to your needs, helping you to make the necessary advancement you desire in your life. This will not only be talk- therapy sessions on a weekly basis, I will need your active participation through messaging and completing "assignments" to help us recognize your patterns of thoughts and feelings which then drive your behaviors, so that you can adjust and restructure them accordingly. I also have enjoyed professional experience providing spiritual guidance and reflection to foster personal growth and intimacy with the God of your understanding. Please, feel free to read the comments my past clients have voluntarily sent in about the results they have had working with me. I look forward to working together!

Psychologist Clara Angulo providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Clara Angulo

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW14221
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

Hello/Hola, I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker from the state of Florida. I have over 5 years of clinical experience in the South Florida area. I am lucky enough that I live in a state that is diverse in population and cultures. I have worked with different age groups and I sincerely believe that we all want to live a happy life, yet there are times during our lifetime that we encounter personal issues due to our upbringing or our relationship with other individuals that impede our happiness. In difficulties, we find who are as individuals, and in confronting adversities we have the potential for growth and healing. I want to help you discover who you are and the incredible potential that you possess to overcome obstacles in your life and truly live the life that you deserve to live. I offer a nonjudgmental environment that can support your journey of self-fulfillment and happiness. I am well versed in different evidenced-based therapeutic techniques with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in your journey.

Psychologist Kathleen Carpentier providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Kathleen Carpentier

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW8280
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed therapist with over 20 years of professional work experience. I want to congratulate on your bravery and willingness to seek out clarity on your issues. I believe you are the expert in you. I am here to support you in that process and to provide tools to get that clarity. Your progress is yours. I am like a dentist in poking around and finding sensitive issues. Understand we all move forward at our own personal pace; concentrate on the forward motion not the speed! I will help you understand life changes and develop skills you need to adapt. Take my hand. Thank you Kathy

Psychologist Sara Zenlea providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Sara Zenlea

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW9743
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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!

Psychologist Margaret Thomas- Lapsley providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Margaret Thomas- Lapsley

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH11733
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

I work with adult individuals who are struggling with anxiety/depression, experiencing relationship challenges, and navigating major life transitions. I also specialize in the fields of trauma (childhood, military, sexual). I work collaboratively with clients to learn emotional regulation and boundary setting as well as how to heal from trauma. I believe healing happens in a place where you feel seen, understood, and supported without judgement. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and skills based. I believe in helping clients rebuild self-trust, gain clarity, and develop healthier ways of coping and relating. A client can expect a present, warm, caring, and educated therapist in our sessions. By coming to the table with your unique life experiences and struggles and with my professional experience and training, we can create a life that you envision.

Psychologist Doreen Sanabria providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Doreen Sanabria

Clinician
License Type(s): DC LICSW LC200002821, TX LCSW 104168
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in multiple states. I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex transitions and challenges. My practice centers on empowering women, couples, and families navigating significant personal and relational shifts. With extensive experience addressing mood disorders, communication challenges, and multicultural concerns, I offer compassionate, culturally responsive care. My approach integrates deep understanding of family dynamics, workplace stress, and personal growth. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women through critical life stages—including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, midlife transitions, and relationship transformations. Drawing from bilingual expertise, I create inclusive, affirming therapeutic spaces that honor each person's unique journey. I believe in collaborative healing, helping clients develop resilience, rediscover purpose, and build meaningful connections. Whether you're facing relationship challenges, seeking personal growth, or navigating complex family dynamics, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Melissa Benson providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Melissa Benson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH11037, UT LCMHC 13189238-6004
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
24 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Shannon  Holliker providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Dr. Shannon Holliker

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW12708
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years offering treatment

Hello and Welcome! It is great to see that you have decided to take this step into further self-discovery, self-growth, and reflection. Therapy is a process, but doesn't necessarily require you to know exactly what type of support you might need. Actually, many people enter therapy to discover they have other things they also want to address. Sometimes, it's about the rewarding process to self-discovery that can be the motivation. Regardless of how you got here, my goal is to provide you with unconditional support. My approach is about honest dialogue. Too often there is a belief that saying 'certain things' in therapy is not acceptable. The reality is that it is the best place to have such discussions about feelings, thoughts, and approaches to challenges. It is also equally important to celebrate what may even feel like small victories. As we reach adulthood, we can tend to think that celebration is less important when it is super important. I hold a PhD in Public Affairs (Social Work Focus). This credential has provided me the opportunity to continue teaching college and doing research in critical areas of mental health. I have two Masters' degrees, in Social Work and Child Development and Education. I went back to pursue my second Master's in Early Childhood because one of my specialties is parenting and providing counseling support to very young children, supporting families affected by trauma or stress due to issues with their young child, and trauma response. I am passionate about helping parents with their own anxiety and depression (or other challenges), providing support to families affected by medical stress (a child with a chronic illness or in the NICU or a parent with medical concerns), assisting with support for intervention of developmental or behavioral concerns, fertility, and/or any concerns related to your family dynamics. My experience has also been in providing different therapy interventions to young children (0-5 years) with their family. I have assisted many families in identifying and addressing family challenges that could contribute to their young child's emotional or behavioral concern. Through this platform, our focus would be on your concerns or challenges in parenting and/or mental health or other areas, and we would work together for an end goal. I am also passionate about providing individual therapy to support anxiety, problem-focused depression, burnout, and effects of trauma. These challenges can present differently for different people and no feelings are 'wrong.' Our world is filled with a variety of unique cumulative stressors and this can make it sometimes difficult to identify the cause. Things such as, burnout, from the daily challenges can create more complex feelings of loss, confusion, and depression because they are often minimized by our own beliefs. I want to conclude by sharing that not everyone requires walking through their past to understand their current circumstances. There are lots of approaches to therapy as it is just a form of support. The duration of therapy also depends on many factors, but I believe that you and I should always form goals we can track progress. I'm happy you decided to stop by and that you are considering the process of therapy. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Robert Barrett providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Robert Barrett

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW sw4321
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

Hi, my name is Robert Barrett and I have been licensed in Florida as a clinical social worker (LCSW) since 1996. For more than 30 years I have provided counseling and psychotherapy for clients for a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depressed mood, relationship concerns, personal stress, job stress and other difficulties. As a state of Florida certified sex therapist, I am qualified to provide counseling for problems related to sexual function and sexual behavior issues. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Florida International University in Miami, FL, and post-graduate training as a clinical sexologist. I am the past clinical director of Southwest Florida Employee Assistance Program and the past Program Director for Human Services Foundation of Lee County. For ten years I was the student behavioral health counselor at Florida Southwestern State College, Punta Gorda campus. I have been a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy since 2001. In counseling I utilize a “strength-based” approach known as solution-focused brief therapy. SFBT is based on helping you build solutions by focusing on your current circumstances and your hopes for the future. I also integrate concepts of cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) for identifying the underlying thought patterns that may be contributing to psychological distress. My focus is to help individuals and families navigate life’s sometimes arduous transitions, and my style is to offer a sincere interest in assisting clients get through difficult challenges.

Psychologist Amy White providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Amy White

Clinician
License Type(s): MS LCSW C9901, FL LCSW SW16243
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hi there! My name is Amy White and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. I have over 4 years of private clinical work experience and over 10 years of field experience. I aim to help clients reduce experiences related to stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and a variety of other mental health concerns. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. In our sessions we'll work towards meeting goals by utilizing specific strategies that work best for you. My approach is very individualistic and client-centered. We’ll work to "reshape" thoughts in a way that promotes your mental health and happiness. I’ll help you develop specific skills to be able to overcome the challenges that you are currently facing. I would love to be on the journey with you to find the happiest and healthiest you! I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Elaine Wells providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Elaine Wells

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW13513
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Psychologist Jazmine Hunt providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Jazmine Hunt

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH21596, TX LPC 97311
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Tracy Foster providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Tracy Foster

Clinician
License Type(s): ME LCPC CC8237, FL LMHC MH21845
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
8 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida and Maine with 8+ years of direct experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on compassionate, evidence-based care for adults experiencing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients develop self-compassion, improve communication skills, and heal from past experiences. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner world, address underlying emotional patterns, and develop healthier coping strategies. I work collaboratively with clients across diverse backgrounds, offering specialized support for issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction recovery, and personal growth. Drawing from trauma-informed and person-centered methodologies, I aim to empower clients to reconnect with their inherent strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and professional guidance as you navigate your unique healing journey.

Psychologist Tyeshaa Hudson providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Tyeshaa Hudson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH26588
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lakeland , Florida

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida

When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Florida

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Lakeland.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Lakeland can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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