In life, the future can seem cloudy and uncertain. We tend to overthink about everything life has to offer us, and as a result, we may feel like the future is doom and gloom. We may feel like our depression may never go away, or we may never stop feeling anxious. A counselor based in Bonita Springs can help you. 

A relatively new town, Bonita Springs has a motto, which is “Small Town Charm, Big Bright Future.” The future can be quite bright, but you must learn how to manage it. A counselor can help you prepare for a brighter future. 

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Valerie Johnson-Cardoso

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,CAP for 20 years
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I have worked as a mental health counselor for over 30 years. My locations of employment are Florida and Pennsylvania. I have worked in Residential Mental Health and Residential Substance Abuse. I was a school teacher for 16 years teaching students with learning differences, emotional issues, autism and developmentally delayed (adults, teens and children). While working as a a teacher I had a private practice in the evenings and weekends. I have knowledge in the area of Religious trauma syndrome and faith transitioning. In Pennsylvania. I worked in homes and day treatment facilities with children and adults. There were people of all ages during my private practice and working for agencies. There are different ways to address issues for each of us. What works for one may not work for another. Working as a team helps us all to deal with our issues to make our lives more peaceful and calm. There are many times we can make a few changes in our life to acquire these. Life is a journey. We have the opportunity to learn ways to cope with our lives. Change is a process on our journey. Many times we have control only of our actions and our response to these changes. Our critic can be our worst enemy and can be relentless in beating us up. Our critic was educated from childhood. My goal for my life for quite some time has been to disarm my critic and love myself. I am looking forward to working to build trust and make it safe environment for you to express your feelings without feeling judged.

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Billie Jo Wagner

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
3 years of experience

Are you looking for a safe place for healing and growth? I am so grateful you are taking this important step toward a healthier life and the best version of you. My name is Billie Jo Wagner, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, and I hold a Level 1 Professional Certification in Trauma and Resilience. For many years I have dedicated my life to helping others, and out of that grew a passion for empowering people to live their best life. What I will bring to our counseling relationship is a strong belief that change can happen once we have a better understanding of ourselves and those around us. I've worked with individuals from all different walks of life with varied strengths and struggles, and it is important to me that you have a safe space to truly open up, without any judgment, and I believe it is in this safe place where healing happens, and the journey toward clarity and peace begins.

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Amy Meek

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Tammy Tracey-Suarez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting 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. 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.

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Andrea Muchmore

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & eating disorders. I believe that you are capable of working through your life stressors by gaining new skills to help you manage your emotions.

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Ebony McCray-Holmes

Offering therapy in FL
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe we are the sum of what we encounter in life and how we react to these encounters. Encounters began during the time where we relied on others to love and protect us. When we didn’t have control over what happened to us. Sometimes leaving us with a uneasy perception of the world. If the perception is bad, the world is bad. If the perception is unsafe, the world is unsafe. If the perception is untrustworthy, the world is untrusting. Now the world in front of us has become full of unsatisfying feelings and a journey trying to escape emotional pain. As a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I combine the world of mental health and family/relational conflicts to help guide clients to a space where healing can began. For over 13 years, my work includes working with children from infancy to teenagers; young adults to geriatric; and with families, from single parents to blended. If you are tired of running from memories; need help with regaining the control you thought you lost or you’re ready to deal with the personality that life experiences have created in you, we can join forces and I can help guide you to a place of healing and understanding. Let’s work on developing a new meaning of your life so you can become a better you.

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Vernise Miguel

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with three years of professional experience. I have experience in assisting client managing their stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, helping them to increase their self-esteem, their confidence and their motivation. In addition, I am well-versed in assisting clients with depression. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and solution-focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that you are the writer of your story which means you have the power to create your desired outcome, and you have what it takes to overcome the challenges and obstacles that can keep you from reaching your goals and dreams. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. You are in the right path. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you in your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Rigaud Desir

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, depression, stress management, disability management, disability adjustment, death and loss, self-advocacy, academic guidance, LGBT+ related issues, and caregiver fatigue. I also specialize in working with individuals facing challenges in their career. My counseling style is sincere and collaborative. I utilize a solution-focused approach within a narrative framework. This means I will work with you to create solutions that work for you. I believe that we have the answers to our problems but from time to time we can become stuck. However, we are the authors of our stories, and we have the power to rewrite them. We can become overwhelmed with the expectations of the world around us and these expectations become the driving force in our personal and professional storylines. It takes strength to take the first step towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Diana Gonzalez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with life changes, & compassion fatigue. 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.

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Dr. Linda Summers

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania with over 30 years of experience working with people of all ages with a myriad of life concerns. These concerns have included depression, anxiety, relationship distress, parenting problems, and life adjustment issues to name a few. I have also treated people of all ages who have experienced childhood and/or adult physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse. Having spent the past 14 years working with veterans and active-duty military members and their dependents, I am an expert in treating military related traumas. My therapy style is warm, friendly, and affirming. Every human being deserves to be treated respectfully and without judgment. My clinical approach is a blend of Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral therapies, but many other strategies and styles are evident in my eclectic approach. From our first meeting I will work to help you to identify the change you are seeking and the approach you will use to accomplish your goals. Change can be hard, but extremely rewarding. I hope you are ready to begin your healing journey. If so, I would be honored to accompany you.

How to find counseling in Bonita Springs

Finding the best therapist close by in Bonita Springs can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Bonita Springs. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Bonita Springs, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Bonita Springs or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Bonita Springs area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Bonita Springs, elsewhere in Lee, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Bonita Springs area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bonita Springs therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Bonita Springs due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Bonita Springs may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bonita Springs, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Bonita Springs above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Bonita Springs helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Bonita Springs therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Bonita Springs therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Bonita Springs therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 34135 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Bonita Springs counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Bonita Springs licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Bonita Springs, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Bonita Springs has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Bonita Springs.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Bonita Springs:

33931, 34133, 34134, 34135, 34136

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