Bonnie Christensen
Have you been the one everyone relies on for so long that you barely remember what it feels like to have someone there for you? Many people spend years taking care of responsibilities, supporting others, and pushing through challenges without stopping to notice how much they’re carrying. From the outside, they appear capable and strong. Inside, though, they may feel worn down, overwhelmed, or unsure how things became so heavy. If this resonates with you, please know you’re not the only one who feels this way—and you don’t have to keep handling it all on your own. My name is Bonnie Christensen, and I’m a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience helping people through difficult and uncertain times in their lives. My path into this work was shaped not only by professional training, but also by personal experiences that taught me how easy it is to take on too much for too long. I understand how stress, responsibility, and life changes can slowly build until you begin to feel emotionally drained or disconnected from yourself. Many of the individuals I meet with in therapy are intelligent, thoughtful people who have spent much of their lives being the dependable one. They’re the person others count on, the one who keeps things running smoothly, the one who tries to hold everything together. But after years of putting others first, it’s common to reach a point where you feel exhausted, discouraged, or uncertain about who you are anymore. In my practice, I support adults who are navigating challenges such as: • Persistent worry or anxiety • Feeling emotionally depleted or burned out • Depression or loss of motivation • Grief and major life changes • Difficult relationship patterns • Struggles with confidence or self-worth • The strain of caring for others while neglecting your own needs People often begin therapy feeling stuck or unsure how to move forward. Together, we work on creating a clearer understanding of what you’re experiencing and finding practical ways to help you feel steadier, stronger, and more connected to your life again. My approach combines well-established therapeutic methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices. Just as importantly, I believe therapy should feel supportive, respectful, and tailored to who you are as a person. This is your time and your space. You don’t have to hide your feelings, explain them perfectly, or pretend everything is fine. Therapy offers an opportunity to slow down, talk openly, and begin untangling the things that have been weighing on you. Some people seek therapy because they’ve lost someone important. Others feel like they’ve lost the version of life they once imagined. And many simply feel tired of facing everything alone. No matter where you are right now, your experiences matter, and you deserve support. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel uncertain, but it’s also a powerful act of caring for yourself. If we work together, we’ll move forward at a pace that feels comfortable, focusing on what helps you regain a sense of stability, clarity, and hope. I’m glad you found your way here, and it would be a privilege to support you as you begin reconnecting with yourself and the life you want to build.
Thomas Dukes
Having experienced the benefit of being born and raised in Brooklyn, NY I was gifted with exposure to a varied cultural base. My first work engagement in the mental health field occurred in 1996. The facility was a medicaid based dual diagnosis treatment center with the primary diagnoses psychiatric with a secondary substance use disorder. My interactions with the patients flowed naturally and, in my discussions with staff, the owner of the facility suggested that I should get my license in mental health counseling. I began graduate study in 1998 while working full time in varied facilities in order to gain maximum exposure to diverse mental health/substance abuse modalities. My work experience included the Palm Beach County psychiatric crisis stabilization unit, The Drug Abuse Foundation in Delray Beach and the Juvenile Intervention Facility in Broward County. Upon graduation in 2000 and license activation I spent time as a therapist at the Renaissance Institute in Boca Raton. Shortly after the events of 9/11/2001 I began the process of creating a private practice in psychotherapy. During the growth of my practice beyond seeing patients for individual therapy, I provided services for EAP programs, sober house residences and treatment facilities. In December 2010 I closed my practice and relocated with my dogs to western North Carolina. I spent ten years at Pavillon in Mill Spring, NC as a clinical supervisor until November 2020. I continue to reside in North Carolina and hold active licenses in Florida (LMHC) and North Carolina (LCAS). I am experienced with a varied patient demographic and am easy to connect with. While currently semi-retired I continue seeking to help provide guidance and direction for others.
Yuridia (Valerie) Polonsky
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 20 years of compassionate experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of each person, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I am dedicated to creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger self-understanding. My practice focuses on a wide range of concerns, including couple's therapy, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, depression, trauma recovery, anxiety, and stress. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients navigate challenging emotions, improve communication, and build resilience. I am committed to honoring each individual's journey, offering culturally responsive and empathetic support that respects diverse experiences and identities. Whether you're struggling with life changes, relationship challenges, or personal growth, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance. Together, we can work towards healing, empowerment, and meaningful transformation.
Skip Dettman
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients work through challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I bring a compassionate, inclusive approach that honors each person's unique journey and lived experience. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including social anxiety, self-esteem, mood disorders, and personal growth. I'm particularly committed to supporting individuals through life transitions, relationship challenges, and healing from past experiences. My approach is collaborative, empowering clients to develop stronger self-understanding and resilience. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and move toward meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're dealing with stress, processing trauma, or seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional support.
Dr. Oren Hernández
As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and interpersonal dynamics with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring a depth of understanding to diverse experiences, including issues related to aging, workplace challenges, relationship transitions, and multicultural concerns. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers to personal growth. With expertise in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique journeys. Whether you're dealing with life transitions, healing from past experiences, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Pamela Barrigar
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with individuals of all ages. I am licensed in Illinois, Missouri, Florida, Georgia and Arizona with over fourteen years of experience in helping individuals of all ages with depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I use a variety of modalities, for example, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I practice as a Christian Counselor, however, I work with individuals from all faith backgrounds with a non-judgmental approach. I know that taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I am proud of you for taking this step and look forward to walking along side of you on your journey.
Kristen Smith
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues, depression, anxiety, work life balance, self-esteem, guilt and shame as well as ongoing life purpose needs. 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.
Andra Blackheart
My ideal client is either someone that has been having difficulty connecting to themselves with knowing who they are or what they want after a life-transition, a traumatic event, an Autism or CPTSD diagnosis, or maybe for the first time ever. Or someone trying to connect better to the people around them in building their friend group, their sense of community, their bond with their children, or their intimacy with their romantic partner. My specialty is helping neurodivergent adults feel connected to themselves and others and build intimate and sustainable lives. I offer therapy using primarily TF-CBT, Satir growth model, MI, and SFBT to help clients utilize their strengths, accommodations, and social support network well enough to fire me! If you're feeling disconnected from what's most important to you, want to build on the skills you already have, and are ready to move towards your goals, please reach out to me so we can create change together!
Dr. Anthony Kelley
I'm a licensed therapist serving clients across Florida, South Carolina, and Texas. With extensive clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals and families through some of life's most challenging moments—including relationship conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, and self-esteem concerns. My work focuses on helping clients navigate communication difficulties, life purpose, guilt and shame, forgiveness, and control issues. I have particular expertise supporting those healing from trauma, posttraumatic stress, and attachment challenges. I also work with individuals facing divorce, abandonment, mood disorders, and the unique stressors of caregiving. I bring specialized knowledge to support military veterans, first responders, and those managing traumatic brain injury. I'm experienced in addressing men's issues, midlife transitions, workplace challenges, chronic pain, and personality-related concerns, including dissociation. My approach is grounded in compassion and respect for your values and beliefs. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore difficult emotions and experiences at your own pace. Whether you're working through relational patterns, processing loss, or finding your way forward after trauma, I'm here to support your healing and growth with genuine care and clinical skill.
LaDreamer Harrison
I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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.
Patricia Dye
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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.
Austine Nwaobi
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.
Teshane Wilson
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, family dynamics, and personal growth. With a compassionate, culturally responsive approach, I work closely with individuals seeking to heal from past traumas, improve self-esteem, and develop stronger communication skills. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through challenges related to isolation, life transitions, and personal empowerment. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate self-love. I bring a warm, affirming perspective to our work together, honoring each individual's lived experience and personal strengths. Whether you're working through family conflicts, seeking deeper self-understanding, or navigating life's complex emotional terrain, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Gaileanne 'Alianna' Timmins
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I support individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional approach centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, and career transitions with compassionate, personalized care. I offer a supportive therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in women's issues, exploring life purpose, and managing significant life changes. My practice welcomes diverse clients, including those seeking faith-informed perspectives or secular support. My clinical focus spans a wide range of concerns, from workplace stress and family dynamics to chronic health challenges and personal growth. I'm committed to helping individuals develop resilient coping strategies, process difficult emotions, and create meaningful paths forward. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I provide a warm, collaborative approach that empowers clients to discover their inner strengths and navigate life's complexities with greater confidence and clarity.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Belle Isle, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Belle Isle, 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' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
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 Belle Isle.
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' copay is as low as $15 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' copay is as low as $15 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 Belle Isle, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Belle Isle and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.