People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) do not get to enjoy life as much as the rest of us because they are constantly on edge, worrying about the next panic attack or flashback. They cannot sleep well, hold a steady job, and relationships are tough. It’s essential that you get help if you have PTSD, and there are plenty of licensed professionals in Avon Park who can help.
Whether you are a veteran or someone who has been in a traumatic situation, PTSD can make everything you want to do hard. Living in Avon Park, you probably know that there are a lot of parks and other attractions such as the SFSC Museum of Florida Art and Culture, Peter Powell Roberts Museum of Art HCA Cultural Center, and over 15 great lakes to enjoy. Reach out to one of the Avon Park professionals to get treatment right away.
Melissa Nadler
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor who uses several therapeutic styles including cognitive/behavioral and reality therapies. My strengths include empathy, compassion, humor, and sensitivity to any issue that is brought to the "couch." My job is to help you help you and in doing so I am along for the ride and journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. I work with a varied clientele covering many different issues and feel that my approach is both inviting and invigorating in terms of allowing clients the opportunity to find a healthy path that was designed especially by them for them. I have experience with many different clientele and therapeutic settings including private practice, community agency, legal system, and college counseling center. I have worked in the prison/court systems, private practice, and college counseling center, and feel that I have the perspective that is necessary and desired for a successful therapeutic relationship. I am involved in the Veterinary Community of Central Florida as a consultant, therapist, and wife of a local veterinarian. I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in psychology. I also have both a Masters and Specialist Degree in Education with a focus in Mental Health Counseling. All three of these degrees are from the University of Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and New Jersey.
Jessica Conti
Jessica Joan Conti, is a licensed mental health counselor with the state of Florida, a 200 hr trained/certified yoga instructor, and a level II Reiki Practitioner; working to change the world, one individual at a time. I have approx 2 decades of experience working in the field of mental health and have been described as "fiercely passionate". I consider myself to be a healer of the mind, body, and spirit, tapping in to my own personal experiences and training to be of service to others, to invoke positive change. I have experienced tragedy and trauma in my own life, which has brought me to my own personal peace and happiness.
Melvin Barnes
Melvin Barnes, LCSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, BCD, has more than 37 years of clinical and administrative experience in the fields of geriatrics, psychiatry, health and physical rehabilitation, and clinical social work and supervision. A board-certified diplomate in clinical social work, he is licensed to practice clinical social work and psychotherapy in the state of Florida, Kentucky, and New Mexico. He is also certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers and holds advanced certification in hospice and palliative social work and is a Board-Certified Telehealth Professional. Mr. Barnes has held several positions throughout his decades-long career. He is a former adjunct University of Southern California, Susan Dworak-Peck, School of Social Work, teaching online courses in integrative seminar and field practicum. He is also a former adjunct instructor at the University of Central Florida's School of Social Work, where he taught courses in social work research, clinical practice, and program development. As a psychotherapist with former private practices in New York and Florida, Mr. Barnes has been as an Eclectic practitioner, applying evidenced-based psychotherapy techniques and interventions to the individualized treatment plan of his clients, helping to reach their goals. SPECIALTIES • Death, Dying and Bereavement • Grief • Compassion Fatigue • Issues of Aging • Stress, Anxiety • Depression • Addictions Clinical approaches: Strength-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution- Focused Therapy SERVICES OFFERED Messaging, Live chat, phone, and video First Name Melvin Last Name Barnes Therapist ID Bio Life’s ebbs and flows may at times challenge us both physically and mentally. What may have helped or hindered us to feel safe and whole in childhood, may or may not have supported us during our teens, young adult lives or in our sunshine years as an elderly person. Hence along this continuum of life from birth to death, we naturally attempt to maintain coping with life’s stressors. Perhaps you have experienced a recent event or feeling in your life continuum, and you are not sure how to deal with it. I look forward to working with you.
Nancy Wess
ABOUT ME Hello my name is Nancy Wess and I have enjoyed being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida for the past 14 years. I have counselled individuals struggling with issues relating to self-esteem, relationships, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I have dealt with a diverse population and I believe that the client- therapist relationship is most important, and it is based on trust, honesty and respect. In my practice I have used CBT, Cognitive Trauma Therapy, Solution Based Therapy and Mindfulness; I believe that each individual seeking therapy can benefit from an eclectic mix of therapy styles. Also, I have a Fine Arts degree and believe that drawing and painting are an excellent means of therapy, as well as a useful communication tool. SPECIALTIES • Stress and anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Addiction • Coping with change • Shame and Guilt Also experienced in: Relationship issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Depression, Codependency, LGBT, Attachment Issues, Assertiveness Training, Psychoeducation Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Trauma Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Client Focused, Cognitive Processing Therapy Years of experience: 14 Licensing: MH 12584 (Expires 03/31/2023)
Darsell Harris
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping multicultural clients and military youth with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma & problematic behaviors of adolescents. 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!
Dr. Janie Lacy
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring nearly two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on empowering clients, particularly women, as they navigate relationship dynamics, personal growth, and healing from past traumas. I specialize in addressing intimacy challenges, relationship issues, and the impacts of difficult life experiences. My approach is compassionate and culturally responsive, with a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique journey. I offer supportive guidance for individuals working through divorce, separation, abandonment, and personal transformation. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help clients develop healthier relationship patterns, process complex emotions, and rebuild self-worth. My therapeutic style creates a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, confront challenging patterns, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I am particularly passionate about supporting women as they rediscover their strength, rebuild after difficult relationships, and develop profound self-love and resilience.
Ashley Ferguson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida with over 5 years of clinical skills with a wide range of concerns including grief/loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, sexuality, women issues and men issues. I also helped many people learn the benefit of discovering meditation and relaxation techniques. My therapy style is engaging and safe. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines EMDR therapy, solution-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing and trauma-informed therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Pamela Johnson
As a licensed therapist in Florida with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and life transitions with compassion and expertise. I have deep experience supporting older adults, women, veterans, and caregivers through challenging personal journeys. My approach centers on addressing guilt, shame, and healing from past experiences, with a particular emphasis on fostering self-esteem and personal growth. My therapeutic style is rooted in understanding each person's unique story. I work collaboratively to help clients develop resilient coping strategies, process difficult emotions, and move toward meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with addiction, managing life changes, or healing from past trauma, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Eric Troy
Hello everyone! Thank you for your interest in therapy and for taking the time to read my profile. Helping others, psychology and counseling has been my passion since the first time I was exposed to this field. As a result, I completed a dual bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. My enthusiasm for this field and helping others led me to continue my education at the graduate level and I obtained a Master’s degree in Psychology with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. Also, I have completed a doctoral degree in the field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology. After completing my internship and working as a therapist, I obtained my license. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for mental health and marriage and family therapists in the State of Florida. I have over 14 years of professional work experience. In life you might find yourself facing a variety of challenges or issues. My role as an experienced mental health professional is to assist you in successfully overcoming these challenges. I offer you a judgement-free and confidential environment that will allow you to express any thoughts and anything that would benefit your therapeutic process. Receiving my mental health training and practicing in South Florida, place with a large cultural diversity, it helped me developed the skills needed to work successfully with clients from other cultures as well. Some of my therapeutic approaches are Cognitive, Cognitive-Behavioral, EMDR, Holistic, Narrative, Supportive, Family Systems, DBT, and others. My techniques are specifically tailored to each individuals’ needs and implemented based on the presenting problems. Throughout the years, I have been helping clients with a variety of issues including stress management, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and self-confidence, grief/loss, caregivers' related issues, men's issues, divorce related issues, adjustment disorders, aging related issues, trauma/PTSD, LGBTQ related issues, gender identity, employment related issues, work-life balance, increase in motivation, & others. 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, “hold your hand” and guide you until you reach the desired goals in life.
Sunshine Wilder
Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and Bipolar Disorder. I consider my treatment approach to be one of an eclectic nature with modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Modification, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Coping Skills Development. 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.
Jack Borenstein
I am licensed in Florida, I am bi-lingual and conduct therapy in both Spanish and English. I have experience throughout the lifespan. I have worked in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Adrienn Nagy
I am licensed in Florida with 15 + years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
James Price-Chandler
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Isaac Stavola
As a passionate therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My approach centers on helping young adults and professionals address stress, anxiety, social challenges, and personal growth. I offer unbiased guidance for those experiencing isolation, workplace difficulties, life transitions, relational issues and trauma-related concerns. My therapeutic work focuses on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. I'm committed to understanding each individual's unique journey and providing tailored support that honors their specific needs and strengths. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop effective coping strategies, improve interpersonal relationships, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and self-understanding. For those looking for a faith based approach, I have experience and expertise in Christianity as well.
Find a Therapist Near You in Avon Park , 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 Avon Park.
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.