Renée Thompson
Hello and welcome. I know it's frightening to start therapy and share your private thoughts and emotions with a stranger, but this is the first step to change and healing, so congratulations on this brave move! My name is Renée and I am here to help you be your best self. I believe strongly in the power to change. This means practicing being the person you WANT to be, every day. We are all struggling with the rise of inflation and making ends meet, but I pride myself in getting to the root of your issues, and helping you get back to living a better life, quickly! Whatever your struggles or concerns are, I feel confident that we can identify and overcome them together. My therapy approach focuses on your strengths and resiliency. It recognizes YOU as the expert of your own life. I will support you while we explore and practice making positive changes in your life. With my education, clinical training and experience, I can help you increase self-awareness, tap into your internal strengths and resiliency, learn how to let go of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, consider new perspectives, and find new ways to cope. I am open-minded, empathetic and non-judgmental. I provide a safe and accepting environment for honest exploration of your areas of personal difficulty. I've provided therapy to end-of-life patients, college students, children, couples and families for a long time, so don't worry, there isn't anything that shocks me. I will give you my professional perspective, encouragement and offer potential solutions to help you navigate through this difficult time. My goal is to help you live your life to its fullest potential! I aim to help you find meaning, purpose, love and peace in your life and to do this within a short period of time. I am ready to do the work for you, are you ready to do the work and make positive changes? About me: I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida since 2009. I graduated magna cum laude in graduate school. I have over 20 years of counseling experience with various populations. I have been working for BetterHelp since May 2020 and find this platform user-friendly and extremely successful in helping clients reach their highest potential. I am an expert in grief counseling, and loss to suicide. I am the co-founder of the Tampa Bay Chapter for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This non-profit organization is very close to my heart due to my own loss of a loved one to suicide. I have 10 years of experience counseling hospice and palliative care patients and their families and have been working with children since 2002. It would be a privilege to walk with you through your journey. You are not alone. I look forward to meeting you.
Dr. Kathleen "Kathy" Meeks
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Board Certified Sex Therapist and a Clinical Sexologist. I take a wholistic approach to healing, mind body and spirit. I incorporate Spirituality in healing because this permeates different areas in a person's life. There will be times when I will refer to a Psychiatrist or a Urologist when the issues are beyond my scope of practice. I use different interventions in the healing processes. Some interventions I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectal Therapy, EFT and the Gottman Method. There are times when the trauma is complex or beyond the person's awareness and I will use Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy or Somatic Experiencing. However, the intervention (s) are tailored specifically to the clients needs. The goal for each client is to help them to function at an optimum level. I am committed to changing lives, one person and one family at a time. It will be an honor and a privilege to work with you to achieve your goals.
Dr. Oren Hernández
As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and interpersonal dynamics with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring a depth of understanding to diverse experiences, including issues related to aging, workplace challenges, relationship transitions, and multicultural concerns. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers to personal growth. With expertise in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique journeys. Whether you're dealing with life transitions, healing from past experiences, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Pattra Dodd
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, with a particular emphasis on supporting older adults, veterans, and young professionals. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to therapy, drawing from extensive clinical expertise in addressing communication difficulties, social anxiety, isolation, and self-esteem concerns. My work is deeply rooted in understanding each individual's unique journey and helping them develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and person-centered, designed to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strengths. I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they work towards healing, self-understanding, and positive life changes.
Dr. Leslie Cary
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.
Page Harper
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, sexual identity, trauma and abuse, spiritual issues & coping with grief and loss. I work with individuals and couples, children and adults. 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.
Cassandra Waudby
I am a licensed therapist in Florida, working primarily with adolescent and young adult women to increase confidence, improve communication, develop healthier relationships, and feel empowered to take control and create the life they want. I look forward to working with you to support you on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself!
Melissa Painter
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am located in Mississippi and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, self-esteem, aging, and other life issues. 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. 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, allowing you to take the lead while I help you navigate how to best cope with your issues.
Isabella Gonzalez
As a licensed therapist in Arizona and Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I draw from evidence-based approaches to help individuals navigate life transitions, build self-esteem, and cultivate resilience. I am committed to working with diverse populations and understanding the nuanced intersections of identity, culture, and personal experience. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, relationship issues, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise. My goal is to empower you to discover your inner strengths, challenge limiting beliefs, and create positive, sustainable change in your life. Together, we can develop practical tools that support your emotional well-being and personal growth.
Dr. Melissa Miller-Munoz
I am licensed in Florida with 10+ years of professional work experience in conflict resolution and mental health counseling. I believe that empowerment is an essential and powerful tool in the healing process. I approach the therapist-client relationship with an open heart and mind, building upon trust, collaboration, and empathy to produce positive, transformative outcomes. I seek to facilitate change by entering the client’s psychological world, utilizing a phenomenological lens; this allows me to focus on the lived experiences of each individual and the personal meaning behind their circumstances past, present, and future to determine the most effective therapeutic interventions. My holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the overall relationship between mind, body & spirit. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, life transitions, family conflicts, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, and self esteem. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I aim to work collaboratively to address your counseling needs. Therapy can be healing and transforming given the right circumstances and connection. I hope to be part of your healing journey!
Novlett Mckenzie
I am a Florida-licensed clinician with over 45 years of clinical social work practice and three years of recent professional experience providing direct client care. I support individuals facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, low motivation, and concerns related to self-esteem and confidence. In addition to my clinical work, my most recent professional role was with Elsevier, where I wrote and lectured on evidence-based content to support and educate clinicians. This experience allows me to integrate research-informed approaches with compassionate, client-centered care. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you possess many strengths that can help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I am here to support you throughout that process.
Teshane Wilson
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, family dynamics, and personal growth. With a compassionate, culturally responsive approach, I work closely with individuals seeking to heal from past traumas, improve self-esteem, and develop stronger communication skills. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through challenges related to isolation, life transitions, and personal empowerment. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate self-love. I bring a warm, affirming perspective to our work together, honoring each individual's lived experience and personal strengths. Whether you're working through family conflicts, seeking deeper self-understanding, or navigating life's complex emotional terrain, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Shanterica Swan
’Hi, I'm Shanterica Swan, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with experience providing therapy in outpatient, residential, correctional, and virtual settings. I work with adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds who may appear high-functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained internally. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, mood concerns, and difficulties with overthinking or emotional regulation. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including CBT, mindfulness, and skills-based interventions, with an emphasis on practical tools for everyday life. I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free space where clients feel heard, empowered, and supported in building emotional balance, clarity, and confidence.
Steven Clarke
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and personal challenges. My approach centers on helping clients, particularly men and older adults, work through depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and workplace stress. I bring a compassionate and direct therapeutic style that addresses communication barriers, life purpose exploration, and family system challenges. My expertise includes supporting individuals through significant life changes such as divorce, midlife transitions, and fatherhood adjustments. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful coping strategies and gain deeper self-understanding. I'm committed to helping individuals build resilience, improve interpersonal relationships, and move toward more fulfilling personal and professional lives. My clinical focus emphasizes practical, solution-oriented strategies tailored to each client's unique experiences and goals. Whether you're struggling with personal identity, relationship conflicts, or seeking greater emotional balance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you in your journey of growth and self-discovery.
Find a Therapist Near You in Alford , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- 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 Alford.
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.