As a close suburb of Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach relies heavily on its larger city connections. Just as the town relies on others through independence, so do the people of the city have to rely on others from time to time. There is no shame in seeking help if you are struggling mentally or emotionally.
If you are facing hardship in your life, you can turn to confidential Atlantic Beach-area counselors. These therapists are trained and licensed to help you with all areas of your personal life. Contact a therapist to get started.
Dr. Irina Fredericks
Are you looking for professional guidance and support to build knowledge and confidence necessary for facing and conquering a difficult situation? If so, you’ve come to the right place! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida with a PhD in Developmental Psychology. I provide science-based individual, family, and couples therapy in both English and Russian languages in my Florida based private practice. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, and social relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is eclectic in that I select several evidence-based techniques from various psychological perspectives – insight-oriented, humanistic-based, solution-focused – and tailor them to specific treatment goals that you, as my client, will set forth, based on your individual needs and current issues. Once we begin our sessions, we will be working together, as a team, guiding you towards improved emotional and physical health, better performance at school/work, more positive daily life experiences, and increased self-respect and self-trust. With my over 15 years of academic, research, and clinical experience, along with your active engagement in weekly LIVE sessions, I believe I can provide you with valuable tools to cope with your challenging circumstances. Contact me today and let me help you uncover your true potential and subsequently lead a productive, fulfilling life!
Amy MacHarg
I am a clinical social worker licensed in the state of Florida. I have counseling experience in a wide range of areas including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, domestic violence, relationship issues and severe/persistent mental illness. I have worked with many populations but in my earlier years as an intern, I embraced the schizophrenic community and learned everything I could about psychotic related disorders. I studied psychology and studio art at UNC- Wilmington. I loved it so much there that I took summer classes to avoid returning home at the end of spring semesters. I earned a masters at NC State University where I studied social work with a concentration in mental health. Like a seagull during winter, I migrated south to Florida looking for sunshine and success. It was here that I fullfilled my clinical licensure requirements. I love online therapy because it allows me to reach a wider range of clientele than I could before. I want everyone who needs it to get the support they deserve. My counseling style is mostly cognitive behavioral with emphasis on visual thought mapping. I have found that when people see their actual thought process displayed in front of them, it allows for greater objectivity and perspective since it is no longer running on repeat inside the mind. Instead it lands somewhere safe which frees the mind up for other things, giving it more capacity to reason. This can be done online in various ways depending on what works for the client. I am very person-centered in my approach, so to me there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to counseling. However, I have pulled together my favorite techniques from evidence based practices which include mindfulness, trauma-based grounding exercises, the solution-focused approach, rational emotive therapy as well as many other tools I will utilize in a custom treatment plan specific to your goals and personality. I empower my clients by revealing "tools of the trade" for distress tolerance and emotion regulation. Clients of mine are able to practice these techniques beyond the confines of my therapeutic care. This creates opportunity to become one's own therapist. I believe personal growth is something that can always be further developed. I am simply a facilitator in this process whereby I see you as an expert on yourself. I understand that no one actually embraces change until they are ready to do so. I think of myself as a guide nudging you gently in the direction of health, happiness and self-confidence.
Maryssa St Fort
Welcome to Better Help! My name is Maryssa St. Fort and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I obtained both my undergraduate and graduate degree from Nova Southeastern University. Throughout my years of working in the mental health field, I gained experience in individual, family and couples counseling. I specialize in working with individuals and couples who have difficulty coping with everyday life situations. I have helped these individuals improve their everyday functioning and have helped couples work through some difficult times in their relationship. I have been a therapist in the for over 6 years and have taken an active role in my community, as she has worked with nonprofit organizations to assist families in Broward County obtain counseling services. In addition to my counseling skills I has held a leadership role with a nonprofit organization for the past several years, overseeing the daily functions of a grant funded program. It's not always easy to ask for help but it takes a string and courageous person to do so and you have taken the first step! I look forward to working with you!
Mary Kivett
Welcome:) Embarking on the path of being your best YOU requires tremendous courage, and I commend your decision to embrace this significant first step. Thank you for choosing to move forward into growth and change. I look forward to being a supportive presence on your therapeutic journey. As a licensed therapist in Florida and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and an ADHD-Certified Clinical Service Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I have had the privilege of working with adolescents, adults and families in the ever-evolving realm of public education, gaining valuable insight into diverse perceptive and challenges. My expertise encompasses ADHD, compassion fatigue, anxiety, with a focus on nurturing increased self-esteem. I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards recognizing and enhancing their self-worth. My counseling strengths lie in cultivating personal growth and guiding individuals. I am passionate about unveiling the inherent strengths within people, empowering them to thrive on their life journey and navigate through challenges with resilience. My greatest strengths as a therapist lies in empowering clients to become their best selves and to enhance their day-to-day lives. Feedback from my clients highlights my positivity, high energy, and passion in creating a supportive environment for growth. Clients have often expressed that our collaborative relationship helps them navigate through the mental health hurdles, fostering growth and sense of accomplishment. I am committed to offering unwavering support, encouragement, and a collaborative approach throughout your therapeutic journey. My treatment methods are highly personalized. I am dedicated to utilizing modalities that resonate with the client , drawing from such approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution-Focused, Client-Centered, Humanistic and Strength-Based Therapy. I approach each client as an individual, formulating a customized plan to address their specific challenges and foster personal growth. I am dedicated to fostering a judgement-free counseling space where you can comfortably explore experiences and challenges. I understand the courage it takes to seek counseling, and my goal is to create an environment that encourages open discussions and leads you to personal growth.
Michael Gusack
My name is Michael Gusack. I help individuals with Chronic Illness who are tired of being frustrated and disappointed with their limitations. Master the skills needed to live with creative confidence and freedom. I also specialize in helping people with anxiety and those confronting life transitions. Address these challenges with my proven process to create a satisfying and uncompromised life. I am a published author with 30+ years of experience. A relaxed style makes my approach to cognitive behavioral medicine an eye opening and solution oriented experience.
Joel Bergman
I have worked in the field of addiction for the past 20 years. I am a Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in FL as well as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) under the Department of Transportation. I received my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2011 from Springfield College in Tampa and am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Human Services Administration at NOVA Southeastern University. I have worked with adults and adolescents with addiction problems and co-existing disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bi-polar disorder to name a few. I am extremely passionate about helping my clients overcome their mental health and addiction problems as well as their behavioral challenges. My goal as a professional is to bring my clients to a point where they can function as a productive member of society, become the best version of themselves, and improve the quality of their lives. I was the Clinical Manager for Big Bear Behavioral Health in Hillsborough, Sarasota, and Manatee counties, I was also the Clinical Director for two and a half years at at the ACTS Adolescents Residential program, and for the past four years I have been Clinical Director of 7 Summit Pathways Treatment Facility. In addition to working for other established agencies, I have worked with my wife in our own treatment agency for the past eighteen years. Together we run our Transitional Living Program, provide outpatient services for our clients such as individual therapy, and facilitate interventions for families and friends of addicts. We have provided trainings to many professionals in both New York and Florida.
Kelly Bednarz
Hi, I am Kelly Bednarz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have been working with families, adults, and children since 2015 in a community mental health practice. This setting enabled me to work with a diverse population including clients from different socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, and religions. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, family conflict, LGBTQIA-related issues, self-esteem issues, ADHD, domestic violence, as well as many other life issues. Anxiety and depression can disrupt our daily lives and make it difficult to move forward. Sometimes our self-esteem is low, and we need to focus on our strengths. Past trauma and abuse can affect our current relationships and our feelings of self-worth. Life is challenging and relationships are challenging! I work collaboratively with clients to discover patterns of behavior or relationship interactions that are not working and identify resources and tools to establish healthier and happier relationships with others as well as yourself. The therapeutic relationship is vital and meeting the client where they are is the foundation of establishing that trust. Sometimes we need an unbiased person to help us see things through a different lens. I would love to be that person! I look forward to helping you on your journey to your best self!
Samuel Louissaint
I am licensed in Florida with over half a decade of experience in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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!
Dawn Roberts
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Andrew Snow
I am licensed in Florida with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have helped clients cope with addictions, family conflicts, grief and loss, 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 throughout that journey!
How to find counseling in Atlantic Beach
Finding the best therapist close by in Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach. 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 Atlantic Beach, 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, elsewhere in Duval, 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 Atlantic Beach area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 32233 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, 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.
Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach:
32233