Amy Matthews
I have been doing counseling for over 35 years. When I lived in Pennsylvania, I worked as a school counselor in a high school for 28 years and also maintained a private practice. Since moving to Florida, I worked in a private practice in which I specialized in both adolescents and adults. I also work with families and couples. I worked at Better Help before and formed many successful relationships with clients. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor who is genuine, supportive, and empathetic. I have been in therapy many times and definitely understand how helpful it can be to have someone who is in your corner, advocating and believing solely in you. I consider myself liberal and non-judgmental and I would be surprised if there was something you could tell me that I have not heard before, I also have a strong sense of humor and know that humor has saved me many times from my own issues. I received my Master's degree in 1980 in Marriage, family, and Child Counseling, but I consider that my life experience just as important in having added to my counseling skills. Many counselors can learn from books, but I incorporate all I have learned in my own life experience into the work I do with clients. Let's talk.
Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Renée Thompson
Hello and welcome. I know it's frightening to start therapy and share your private thoughts and emotions with a stranger, but this is the first step to change and healing, so congratulations on this brave move! My name is Renée and I am here to help you be your best self. I believe strongly in the power to change. This means practicing being the person you WANT to be, every day. We are all struggling with the rise of inflation and making ends meet, but I pride myself in getting to the root of your issues, and helping you get back to living a better life, quickly! Whatever your struggles or concerns are, I feel confident that we can identify and overcome them together. My therapy approach focuses on your strengths and resiliency. It recognizes YOU as the expert of your own life. I will support you while we explore and practice making positive changes in your life. With my education, clinical training and experience, I can help you increase self-awareness, tap into your internal strengths and resiliency, learn how to let go of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, consider new perspectives, and find new ways to cope. I am open-minded, empathetic and non-judgmental. I provide a safe and accepting environment for honest exploration of your areas of personal difficulty. I've provided therapy to end-of-life patients, college students, children, couples and families for a long time, so don't worry, there isn't anything that shocks me. I will give you my professional perspective, encouragement and offer potential solutions to help you navigate through this difficult time. My goal is to help you live your life to its fullest potential! I aim to help you find meaning, purpose, love and peace in your life and to do this within a short period of time. I am ready to do the work for you, are you ready to do the work and make positive changes? About me: I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida since 2009. I graduated magna cum laude in graduate school. I have over 20 years of counseling experience with various populations. I have been working for BetterHelp since May 2020 and find this platform user-friendly and extremely successful in helping clients reach their highest potential. I am an expert in grief counseling, and loss to suicide. I am the co-founder of the Tampa Bay Chapter for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This non-profit organization is very close to my heart due to my own loss of a loved one to suicide. I have 10 years of experience counseling hospice and palliative care patients and their families and have been working with children since 2002. It would be a privilege to walk with you through your journey. You are not alone. I look forward to meeting you.
Christine Baker
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida with over 19 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and substance abuse counselor. As a Professional Counselor and a Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager, I am able and capable of providing my clients with a wide range of needed services that involve mental health issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, addictions, PTSD and ADHD. As a Certified Case Manager, I can assess for additional needs required by the family. I also provide special groups for those who prefer a setting filled with other like-minded individuals. My counseling style is warm, relaxing and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My slogan is : "To inspire and motivate people to rise above impossibilities in order to create possibilities" I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Michaela Hammer
My specialty & love are helping individuals at transition points of their lives, with a focus from Adolescence to Mid-life and beyond. These are times of dealing with many changes in one's life. These changes may include family, friends, and your role in community. This is also a time when we are surrounded with "Transition Myths" i.e.; How we SHOULD be feeling, acting and thinking. Some of these are Memory Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Physical Fitness, Sexuality, and being Neurodivergent! My goals are to educate and separate myth from fact while helping YOU ease life's transitions so YOU can continue YOUR life with new hopes and dreams, respect and dignity. Each person is UNIQUE! Issues are NOT AGE SPECIFIC and can impact ANYONE at ANY age! With advanced education & experience, I offer Memory Loss & Cognitive functioning assessments. Not all memory loss is permanent. Let me help you down this journey. And I promise, while some professionals may hand you a diagnosis and walk away, I will provide you with all the research and resources I have to offer and will help you look for more answers. People should never have to go through life and hardships alone. One of my newer areas of focus, which was a great unmet need, has been providing counseling for those who have lost a "4-legged" family member. This is an area that I receive referrals not only from veterinarians but also family doctors and OB/GYNs, "I am referring Mrs. Smith as she recently lost her only child...her child was her 20 year old cat, Roxie..." I offer counseling for Pet Grief & Loss. Some individuals have family members with 4 legs vs 2. Those losses are devastating as well and rarely understood by the general public. I have been providing counseling to individuals, couples and families from many races, religions, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds for over 30 years. I work with preteens to those over 100 years young. I have provided therapy in my office, in individual homes, in schools and in retirement communities, nursing homes and hospitals. I have provided instructional in-services on cultural awareness and aging issues. I have set up memory clinics and performed routine depression and anxiety assessments. For me, helping people live better lives has always been what I am about. It is a gift I share every moment of every day. As an older, more "SEASONED" therapist, I have been where many of you are and survived. It has not been easy. I can tell you that with each action comes not one but many reactions and in many areas. My father was the highlight of not only my life but all the lives he interacted with. He was a teacher and elementary school principal. He saw everyone with the same lens and stuck up for the kids picked on. After school, he would give no charge swim lessons to neighborhood kids who were in need. He had cancer in his 30's and only had a 5% chance of beating it, back then, but he did. He lived till age 45 and died suddenly during a vacation with my mother and my little 7 year old brother. I was 25. Even though it was summer break and most teachers and principals were on vacation, the mortuary was standing room only, inside and out. I have a little brother born when I was a senior in High School. Another highlight of my life. He was always athletic, going to the Hood River in Oregon, when he was a young teen, to compete in the Junior Windsurfing Olympics. He is now a full professor at a state college. He does research in cardiac and ultramarathons. My sister, 18 months younger than I was born blue and had seizures all her life. She died suddenly of seizure and heart attack before the age of 50. My mother was a highly educated strong woman who would never give up the fight. However after watching 2 husbands die, one suddenly in front of her, her youngest daughter die suddenly before she was 50 and then one by one, all of her other family members at home, Great Pyrenees and New Foundlands, died. After that, mom gave up the will to live and died within a few years of a broken heart (even though she would never admit it). I divorced my husband after 50 years, I experienced many areas of stigma, prejudice, shame, loss of friends and family and many other areas of life we often take for granted. Being married to 1 person for 50 years was not always easy, but we made it, just not to 51, good and not so good. I developed tools along the way to cope for me and us. Tools you may also need to develop for you and yours. It was a journey that has been heart wrenching but I can guarantee you that this event(the divorce) like the other traumatic events in my life and other successes in life, they have been identified, dealt with. The constant, "ON THE JOB TRAINING" allows me to offer a more empathetic and knowledgeable therapist for my clients. Not all relationships can be saved in the way we wish. Some need to be reevaluated and redefined. I am here to assist you in whatever way YOU CHOSE and support YOU IN YOUR DECISION. And yes, I have gone to therapy to have a neutral third party to help me navigate my future courses. True, I have the formal education and life experiences as well as a "Dr's Bag" full of information and skills, but sometimes all of us need someone on the outside to truly listen, validate and help us navigate through the storms. Take care and Keep in touch. Dr Michaela Hammer
Alexia Pilleris
Maybe you don't want to talk about it but maybe you do and that is why you are here. Hi, my name is Alexia and I am here so we can talk about it together. I am a licensed mental health counselor with 13 years of experience. I have worked with clients struggling with substance use, self esteem, loneliness, depression, anxiety, stress in addition to individuals that have struggled to communicate effectively in their interpersonal relationships. I believe therapy is a journey of self discovery. If the time is now, I am looking forward to being a part of your counseling journey.
Dr. Melody Allen
I am licensed in Texas, Nevada, Arizona, Lousiana, and Pennsylvania with 13 years of professional work experience and a doctorate degree in Psychology. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open, warm 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!
Jessica Manley
As a licensed therapist in Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating compassionate, affirming spaces for clients navigating diverse experiences—from relationship dynamics and workplace stress to personal growth and healing. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, addiction, and interpersonal challenges. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on understanding each individual's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting young adults, multicultural communities, and individuals working through attachment issues, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with genuine empathy, helping clients develop meaningful coping strategies and build resilience. Whether you're experiencing social anxiety, processing grief, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect, curiosity, and professional support.
Susan McMillian
With 20 years in law enforcement and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I specialize in helping first responders and military personnel manage trauma, anxiety, and addiction. My approach is compassionate, practical, and built on real-world experience you can trust.
Linette Romero
I am licensed in Florida with 30 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. If you don’t see an available time slot on my schedule, I’m typically pretty flexible and we can likely adjust times to meet your needs!
Cheryl Crusse
As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and mood-related challenges. I have extensive expertise working with diverse populations, including older adults, veterans, and individuals experiencing life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on helping clients improve communication skills, explore life purpose, and heal from past experiences. Whether you're struggling with attachment issues, codependency, or seeking support through significant life changes, I provide a supportive and understanding environment. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering professional guidance rooted in empathy and evidence-based practices. My goal is to empower you to discover your inner strength, build resilience, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.
Christian Heinsler
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Natalie Talpesh
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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. 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.
Dr. Melissa Miller-Munoz
I am licensed in Florida with 10+ years of professional work experience in conflict resolution and mental health counseling. I believe that empowerment is an essential and powerful tool in the healing process. I approach the therapist-client relationship with an open heart and mind, building upon trust, collaboration, and empathy to produce positive, transformative outcomes. I seek to facilitate change by entering the client’s psychological world, utilizing a phenomenological lens; this allows me to focus on the lived experiences of each individual and the personal meaning behind their circumstances past, present, and future to determine the most effective therapeutic interventions. My holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the overall relationship between mind, body & spirit. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, life transitions, family conflicts, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, and self esteem. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I aim to work collaboratively to address your counseling needs. Therapy can be healing and transforming given the right circumstances and connection. I hope to be part of your healing journey!
Find a Therapist Near You in Belleair , 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 Belleair.
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.