This is Dr. Amanda Veldorale-Griffin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Amanda Veldorale-Griffin

Offering therapy in FL
License: PhD, LMFT
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida with a PhD in Family Relations from The Florida State University as well as an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Kentucky and a BA in Psychology from The University of South Florida. I understand that starting therapy can be scary and I strive to make your experience I positive one. I believe therapy should be a collaboration between therapist and client. You know your situation better than I do. I will combine my therapeutic expertise with your expertise about you, your family, and your situation to create workable solutions for you. I operate from an approach that draws on your strengths to help you and your family function the best it can! I am an LGBT affirmative therapist with a passion for helping families. I specialize in working with parents, children, adolescents, survivors of trauma, and LGBT clients. I am also a certified Relationship Enhancement instructor.

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Tania Fernandez

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

Hello, and Welcome to BetterHelp. My name is Tania Fernandez I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over 18yrs of experience. I have worked with people from a board range of backgrounds and concerns including , depression, anxiety, chronic illness, stress management, coping with life changes, and grief. I also have extensive experience working in the hospital and outpatient clinic setting in the are of chronic kidney disease. My counseling style is empathetic and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect but most importantly I pride myself on demonstrating compassion and sensitivity to the needs of others. Congratulations intaking the first step in your journey to healing and change. It takes courage to seek help and support. I look forward to working with you on your journey to healing.

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Brigitte Kay

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! Hello, I'm Brigitte Kay and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Florida with 20+ years’ experience providing counseling and support to adults, youth and children in military, Hospice, non-profit, community-based, and academic settings, both internationally and domestically. As a social worker, helping individuals, children and families manage stressors and be successful is a priority. My experience includes, but not is not limited to, deployment and reintegration support, relationships issues, crisis interventions, stress management, grief, child behavioral concerns, academic support, occupational and other individual and family issues. My job as a counselor is to provide a safe and secure setting that allows a person to feel comfortable being their truest self as we work together as a team to sort out concerns, issues and goals. I provide client-centered short-term, solution-focused counseling. I focus on a person's strengths and goals to determine and prioritize steps to achieve their goals. I believe my role is to support a person in their journey to maintain or improve their daily living, to help a person realize and maintain what's functioning well in their life, as well as, help them realize areas that may need adjustments and repairs to live the best life possible as they define the idea of "best life" to be. It takes courage to ask for support. If you believe my approach will help you achieve your goals - I look forward to working with you.

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Viergelie Liberal

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,LICSW
Parenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello, I am a clinical social worker licensed in Florida. I enjoy working with people and I am dedicated to providing therapy and support that empowers my clients to see challenges as opportunities. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. It takes courage to seek counseling and to take the first steps towards change. If you're ready to take that step I'm here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Melissa Whitlow

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LMHC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas with 16 years of counseling experience. I work with individuals and couples facing issues with depression, anxiety, communication, infidelity, parenting issues, addictions and OCD. My approach to counseling is from a cognitive-behavioral framework to help empower the client towards change. The loss and hardships that I have faced in my own life have helped me to be empathic with my clients. If you are ready to make changes in your life and relationships I am here to help you take that step.

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Marcia LeBeau

Offering therapy in FL
License: LPC-MHSP,CIMHP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hi, I'm Marcia! I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Services Provider in the state of Tennessee and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I really have a passion for helping others through counseling, and am committed to continuous learning through research and training so that I can bring my clients the most informed and comprehensive care possible. I have had the privilege of helping clients with a variety of areas including anxiety, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem, and career goals. My approach is eclectic and person-centered, and I like to meet my clients where they are. My sessions and approach tend to be non-structured. I typically don't take a directive or teaching approach, I like to let you drive the session and act as a guide to help you find solutions and strategies. We'll explore together what you need to achieve the positive change you are looking for. I have knowledge in various techniques for talk therapy including CBT, DBT, REBT, and mindfulness-based approaches like meditation, breathing, and developing a self care plan. I can share resources in between sessions with you based on these things to help you find positive change. I want to offer you a safe space to achieve the positive change you want in your life. Together we can explore and challenge as you take steps toward healing and growth. I am empathetic, compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental. I want to help you discover the skills and insight you need to embrace life fully. I know it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change, so if you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you along the way!

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Dr. Michele Meyer

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with a total of 30 years of professional counseling work experience. Twenty three of those years I worked in education, as a math teacher, school counselor and school administrator so I make great connections with both educators and parents. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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 or making transitions in life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Meriem Oukacha's avatar and link to their profile

Meriem Oukacha

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

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

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Jennifer Coulson

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

This is Angela Turner's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Turner

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, 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. 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.

How to find counseling in Astatula

Finding the best therapist close by in Astatula 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 Astatula. 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 Astatula, 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula, elsewhere in Lake, 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 Astatula area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula, 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 34705 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula, 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.

Astatula 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Astatula.

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

34705

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