Avia James
Hello, and congratulations on your first step in becoming BetterHelped. With blended experience in different therapeutic settings and modalities, including Inpatient, Outpatient and Corrections, I am confident that I have the tools, experience and knowledge to assist and support you in your endeavor to rise above life challenges. I hold a Master's of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I am certified as a Co-Occurring Counselor by the Pennsylvania Certification Board and specialize in providing counseling to those affected by both mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that having a strong therapeutic alliance is at the core of successful outcomes. I believe that having a good connection with your counselor is key to putting theory into practice. That being said, my main goal, with any therapeutic encounter I have, is to create a working environment that feels safe, positive and non-judgmental. I employ creative methods in my effort to encourage and allow you to be YOU and to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. I strive to empower you as an individual and help you bring all your personal strengths out to the forefront. I aim to assist you to strengthen the connection with the inner voice I am confident you have deep down, as I aspire to get you to see your ability to self-heal. Thank you for considering me as your next counselor and I look forward to being a part in your self-search endeavor.
Marie Pierre-Canel
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.
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.
Nancy Arnovits
I have been a practicing social worker for more than 30 years . Much of this experience has been working in a large public teaching hospital in Miami, Florida. The scope of service that the hospital provides is quite comprehensive which afforded me opportunities to work with a very diverse population . i have counseled patients and their families dealing with a variety of illnesses, both physical and mental health, survivors of sexual assault, and also providing counseling to patients in a correctional setting. I like challenging situations. My style of counseling is very eclectic, depends on the client and their unique set of problems. This can range from client centered, solution oriented or cognitive behavioral as many people are coming to therapy to learn new ways of thinking and alternative coping strategies. given some of the events of the past year, many people are experiencing additional stressors, particularly the LGBTQ community and am very interested in providing services to this population. I am looking forward to learning along with you.
Opree Joyner
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a board range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamic distresses, poor communication styles, and emotional abuse. I am proud of my dedicated career utilizing compassionate skills that achieve meaningful behavioral outcomes assisting individuals, groups, and families specializing on co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. My counseling style is empathetic, client-centered, humanistic, and solution-focused. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, without stigmatizing labels. I’ve work successfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds with a variety of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, addictions, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, co-dependency, major life transitions and attachment disorders. I recognize the courage it takes to seek professional help and the difficulty with making meaningful change. I have dedicated my professional life with helping anyone who may be ready to use counseling for next steps to begin living a more fulfilling and self-empowered life. I appreciate and admire the strength and courage necessary to reach out and seek counseling. It remains my honored to work with individuals negotiating life challenges by providing compassionate and empowering integrative psychotherapeutic interventions for recovering individuals and their families tailored to best fit their needs. My goal is to help you discover or rediscover your untapped potential. I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Virginia Clark
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
Heather Bering
I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience and I treat individuals and couples. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, communication, boundaries, work/career, self-esteem, and self-confidence. I also have subject matter expertise in how nutrition and physical health can affect your mental health and vice versa. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Please note that I do not work with ADHD or ADD clients if that is the main issue as this is not an area of expertise for me. I have daytime availability and weekday evenings as well. Therapy with me is a safe space and there is no judgement!
Fredrick Hodges
I am licensed in Florida with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ebony Benjamin
Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness; nor is it a sign of failure. It is actually a signal of strength...Empowerment! Therapy is a personalized tool tailored to your specific needs with the purpose of helping you navigate through life struggles. Caregiving, struggling relationships, job stress, parenting, chronic physical and mental illness, and societal pressures can impact our lives in ways that overwhelms our ability to function day to day. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 25 years. I have worked primarily with Adults living with mental illness and substance abuse, families and Caregivers, and those seeking support for stressors that have become to difficult to manage independently. My goal as a Therapist is to partner with you and strategize ways to live through personal struggles while protecting your physical and mental health. I believe that Therapy should not be as stressful process, but rather a safe space for you to be your authentic self, free from judgment and reproach. As a single parent of a very active 9 year old daughter and 2 year old Shih Tzu I have learned the importance of SELF care. It took a while for me to learn what self care "looks like" for me. Sometimes it's playing Crossword Master or Playdoku on my phone. Sometimes it's watching True Crime documentaries. Sometimes it's taking a solo drive and listening to my favorite tunes. And at times, it has been Therapy. I look forward to the opportunity to partner with you on your journey to wholeness/wellness, and relief from whatever life circumstance has you stuck.
Dr. Natalia Kuzmina
My name is Dr. Natalia Kuzmina. I hold a Ph.D in Couple and Family Therapy. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified EMDR therapist. My work centers on people who feel stuck in painful relationship patterns—survivors of narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma, experiencing trauma bonding, or relationships where they’ve been used, manipulated, or made to feel small. Many of my clients come to me exhausted from always being the “strong one,” the peacekeeper, the fixer. They say yes when they want to say no. They feel guilty for setting boundaries, or they’ve never had the chance to build them in the first place. They’re people-pleasers, and chronic caregivers who keep ending up with partners or family members who take far more than they give. I help you break that cycle. With EMDR and other science-based approaches, we work at the root—not just on the symptoms. We target the wounds and experiences that trained your nervous system to accept too little, tolerate too much, and abandon yourself to stay safe. My style is direct, grounded, and compassionate. I will challenge you when it helps you grow, and I’ll support you without judgment. My goal is for you to build a solid sense of self—one that doesn’t collapse around other people’s needs. One that knows how to say no without guilt, how to choose partners who respect you, and how to walk away from relationships that damage you. If you’re ready to stop repeating old patterns and start building a life where you feel safe, valued, and in control, I’m here to walk that path with you.
Leah Syberg
Your Journey Toward Healing and Purpose Starts Here Finding a therapist who truly understands the intricate layers of your life—from the weight of trauma and anxiety to the nuances of family dynamics and faith—is the first step toward lasting change. I am here to ensure that your search ends with a partnership built on trust, expertise, and results. With extensive experience as a Lead Therapist and Clinical Supervisor, I bring a high level of clinical confidence to our work. Whether you are navigating the complexities of eating disorders, overcoming addiction, or seeking to restore harmony through marriage and family counseling, my approach is both sophisticated and deeply personal. I specialize in helping teens and adults master tools for mood dysregulation, personality disorders, behavior modification, and social anxiety. As an author and speaker on the intersection of mental health and faith, I offer a unique perspective for those seeking faith-based therapy. I am deeply committed to honoring your personal beliefs; my practice is an inclusive space where secular and spiritual journeys are equally respected and supported. What to Expect in Our Sessions: I don’t believe in "treading water." My goal is for you to walk away from every session with valuable insights and practical tools. By blending evidence-based techniques like CBT and Psychoanalysis with trauma-focused and person-centered care, we will move beyond just "talking" and into active transformation. You have the inherent power to create the life you deserve. Together, we will navigate the obstacles in your path, empowering you to move forward with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of hope.
Steven Brashear
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.
Ann Morris
I am licensed in Florida with 31 years of professional work experience. I am Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, coping with addictions, and LGBTQ2+ related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will work to understand you, what you need, and will develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek help and to want to make changes in your life. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
LaDerida Stokes-Roberts
I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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!
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Belleair Beach, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Belleair Beach, 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 Belleair Beach.
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 Belleair Beach, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Belleair Beach and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.