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.

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Psychologist Betty Lustig providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Betty Lustig

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH606
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
18 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and hold an MEd in Community Counseling from the University of Miami, Florida. I have had many years of experience counseling people who are suffering from anxiety and depression, PTSD, loss and grief, relationship issues and other problems in the field of mental health. I am confident that together we can identify the issues that are troubling you and work together to help you feel better and stronger. While a Client-Centered approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are my main treatment modalities, I use others as dictated by my client's needs. The relationship between client and therapist, between you and me, is foremost and will be one of acceptance and trust. Being able to speak freely gives us the opportunity to work through your issues, thus realizing positive mental health. I look forward to sharing this journey with you!

Psychologist James Saganowich providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

James Saganowich

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH10388
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 21 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Marie Pierre-Canel providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Marie Pierre-Canel

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH17481
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My professional background centers on addressing stress, anxiety, family conflicts, and interpersonal challenges with a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. I bring a deep understanding of communication barriers, attachment dynamics, and emotional wellness. My practice focuses on helping clients work through isolation, body image concerns, caregiver stress, and relationship patterns. Drawing from evidence-based techniques, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. My multilingual background allows me to connect with diverse communities, offering therapy in English, French, and Haitian Creole. I am committed to honoring each client's unique journey and providing personalized support that respects individual experiences and cultural contexts.

Psychologist Nancy Wess providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Nancy Wess

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH12584
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
14 years offering treatment

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)

Psychologist Patsy Johnson providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Patsy Johnson

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 2266 , FL LMHC MH19767
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 25+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive, marriage counseling and 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Clark providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Dr. Virginia Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW4146
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years offering treatment

FEEL YOUR INNER PEACE AND START SMILING AGAIN Are you depressed and down most of the day? Do you feel victimized at work or at home? Do you feel that no one cares? Do you say YES when you really mean NO? When you say NO do you feel guilty? Will you do anything for love and attention? If you answered yes to any of these questions I can help. Depression, stress, anxiety, substance-abuse, PTSD, anger, and other emotional issues take years off of your life. Emotional issues are responsible for many diseases including but not limited to Crohn’s, IBS, gastritis, heart conditions, etc. I am a licensed clinical social worker, registered nurse, certified Substance Abuse professional with a 30 year clinical background. I work with patients to help them overcome their various emotional challenges and regain control of their lives. I utilize many various therapy approaches to fit each patient including Solution focused, mindfulness, rational emotive therapy, reality therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, critical incident, Addiction counseling, medical counseling and more. My specialties include: * Addiction/drug abuse/alcohol abuse * Mood disorders (depression, anxiety, anger) * Codependency *. Domestic violence/abuse * stress management There is a light at the end of the tunnel. I look forward to meeting you

Psychologist Amy Meek providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Amy Meek

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW7139
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience to include working with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family of origin issues, grief, life changes, trauma and abuse and 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.

Psychologist Dr. Dr.Claribel Perez providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Dr. Dr.Claribel Perez

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH21629
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
21 years offering treatment

Hello and Welcome!

 You are here for a reason and your intuition may be pressing upon you to reach out for help, guidance, insights, and healing. I understand how life circumstances, traumas, hurt, and emotional instability can make you feel. If you are experiencing a situation that is challenging your wellness and stability, possibly disrupting optimal living, I am here to help! I commend you for taking the first step to reach out.

 My name is Dr. Claribel Perez; and many address me as Dr. Claire. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 2005 and a Certified Clinical Sex Therapist in Florida, since 2015. Also, I am a retired English Teacher since 1989, with over 30 years of experience and a retired UCF Adjunct Professor.

 My counseling tone envelops a communication style characterized by a warmth, caring, resourceful, supportive, and an empathic genuine demeanor, fostering a safe, non-judgmental space. Accordingly, my clinical approach unfolds from getting to know you first followed by building trust; focusing on your presenting concerns, your presenting problem and your overall goals. Afterwards, contingent on your needs, I interweave clinical approaches encouraging a mutual collaborative effort to work on treatment interventions, implementing and adapting therapeutic strategies and tools towards the accomplishment of your goals. In your best interest, I provide you treatment intervention options to "adapt and adopt", a healthy sense of “self”, empowering you towards a positive self-actualization and self-fulfillment (based on The Self Theory by one of my favorite classical Philosophers: Carl Rogers and Albert Bandura). I implement collaborative, evidence-based treatment interventions to address each person’s unique objectives and needs via Teletherapy. Clinical counseling approaches that I implement include: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT) combined with a Psycho-educational Approach, Sex Therapy (specifically the Psychological Barriers Type for women undergoing biological or traumatic issues), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Reality Therapy, and Psycho-dynamic Therapy, tailored to help each individual address their unique wellness goals.

A Collaborative Approach entails mutual, interactive, communicative and intentional working together through a formative process, which is essential to your progress. Whether you intend your sessions to strictly involve my listening skills and reflective insights, or whether you wish to establish detailed-specific goals to address specific issues, I will provide a structured framework tailored to provide you the therapeutic strategies, tools, and techniques.

 Embarking on the first steps towards your therapy journey requires courage and you already deserve a pat on your back for getting started! You are not alone on your journey towards empowerment, healing, and learning. At best, I am committed to provide insights and instrumental tools that will support your needs and goals.

Overall, my utmost approach is to provide you a safe therapeutic experience embracing emotional support, reflective insights, well-being, healing, and empowerment. I look forward to working with you.

 Stay well!
 ~ Dr. Claire

Psychologist Vivian Pazos providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Vivian Pazos

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT5011
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients facing crisis situations, I can help clients with stress and anxiety to learn grounded and breathing techniques and also identify the triggers for their anxiety, developing with then correspondent cope mechanism. If you or a loved one is dealing with relationship issues, family conflicts I can helped then to reach their goals and learn peaceful resolution of conflicts and basic techniques for assertive communication. Are you dealing with lack of motivation, poor self esteem, and confidence. ? I 'm here to serve you to reach your potentials. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared meeting the standards of privacy and confidentiality ,without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Shellene Hattersley providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Shellene Hattersley

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW20659
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirteen years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adults create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida in 2020 and became licensed in Florida in 2022. My journey in the social services field began in 2012, where I discovered my passion for supporting individuals and families through challenging times. Over the years, I have had the privilege of providing individual, group, and family therapy in community mental health settings before opening my own private practice. In my work, I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, and personal growth. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or seeking greater clarity and fulfillment in your life, I am here to offer a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together to build resilience and move toward the life you envision. My approach is strengths-based and trauma-informed, meaning I see each person as more than their struggles. I focus on your resilience, self-determination, and holistic well-being while tailoring therapy to meet your unique needs. I use evidence-based strategies and techniques, but I also honor your personal story and the strengths you already bring to the process. I understand that beginning therapy can be intimidating, and I want you to know that we will work at a pace that feels comfortable and right for you. It is truly an honor to walk alongside you on your healing journey and to support you in creating positive, lasting changes in your life.

Psychologist Austine Nwaobi providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Austine Nwaobi

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH26416
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

Psychologist Julian Laverde providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Julian Laverde

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH23819
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Christy Evans providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Christy Evans

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW8726
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenging experiences, including depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, from children to young adults to older individuals facing midlife challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on addressing communication difficulties, feelings of isolation, and struggles with purpose and identity. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through various life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and workplace dynamics. My work also encompasses helping individuals heal from trauma, manage relationship challenges, and develop healthy coping strategies. I believe in creating a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My goal is to empower individuals to understand themselves more deeply and build stronger, more fulfilling connections in their personal and professional lives.

Psychologist Natasha Smith providing different types of therapy in Avon Park

Natasha Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT5420
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
8 years offering treatment

Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. With a strong foundation in family systems theory, I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and patterns rooted in early family experiences. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals who desire to live free from fear, shame, and emotional overwhelm. I earned my Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University, a COAMFTE-accredited program, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative, and integrative, recognizing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. I create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore the patterns that shape their lives. Through increased self-awareness and the development of practical coping tools, I help clients achieve meaningful and lasting change. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and families cultivate healthier relationships, develop resilience, and move toward lives marked by greater peace, balance, and purpose. 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 walk alongside you. I look forward to working with you!

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Avon Park, Florida

Finding a therapist near you in Avon Park, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Avon Park, Florida

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Avon Park and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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