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.
Virginia Hagen
I am licensed in Florida with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with Depression Stress and Anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. Also, I am a Registered Nurse for 50 years, now retired, and worked in a wide range of Mental Health Facilities, including In-Patient, Out Patient, had a private practice in Crystal River, Florida for 10 years, and worked extensively with families and children with Special Needs and ADHD and also worked extensively with custody issues, often testifying in court on behalf of children. In addition, I also provide Christian Counseling. At age 60, I returned to school to attend Asbury Theological Seminary, and graduated in 2019 with a Certificate in Christian Studies, 30 Credits. I was ordained by the Federation of Christian Ministers in 2019 and also served as a Hospital Chaplain Intern for one Semester of CPE Clinical Pastoral Education, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I incorporate many resources to empower you to be able to use the skills for the rest of your life. In October of 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a retreat in Asissi, Italy, to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Asissi, the Patron Saint of Animals and also known for his ministries to the poor and underserved. Being there, where he lived and died, was so inspirational. In 2026, it will be 800 years since his death.Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Ladonna Williams
I have 20 years experience as a licensed mental health counselor in the state of FL. I received my degree at Rollins College. It's counseling program was ranked #1 in the Southeast when I was enrolled. I have provided therapy to adults from all walks of life, i.e. first responders, law enforcement officers, veterans, college students, parents, teachers, and retired. My counseling approach is cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and humanistic. My counseling style is warm, interactive, respectful and compassionate . I commend and praise you for seeking to learn healthy strategies so you can thrive.
Caitlin Riggins
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, self harm and suicidality, and trauma processing. I use a collaborative approach in therapy sessions with the overall belief that you are the greatest expert on you! I utilize cognitive behavioral approaches with a solution focused lens. Ultimately, I will be there to support you in achieving whatever you identify as your goal. It takes courage and insight to take the first step in reaching out for more support, and I’m grateful to be able to be a part of your journey toward the you that you envision for yourself!
Lindsey Thorp
I am licensed in Florida as a Registered Clinical Social Worker with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Kimberly Smiley
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Melissa Painter
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am located in Mississippi and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, self-esteem, aging, and other life issues. 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, allowing you to take the lead while I help you navigate how to best cope with your issues.
james henderson
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies. I have extensive experience addressing challenges such as stress, anxiety, communication difficulties, and workplace dynamics. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering adolescents and adults through transformative life stages. I'm particularly passionate about supporting men's mental health, exploring themes of self-esteem, purpose, and personal development. Whether you're experiencing relationship struggles, workplace stress, or seeking deeper self-awareness, I offer a compassionate and collaborative approach. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and build meaningful strategies for personal growth. My goal is to help you develop stronger communication skills, process complex emotions, and cultivate a more authentic, confident sense of self.
Wendy Dunn
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, empathetic therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique story, strengths, and potential for healing. My clinical work focuses on supporting teens and adults through various emotional and psychological challenges. I draw from evidence-based practices to provide thoughtful, personalized care that honors each individual's journey toward emotional resilience and well-being. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to help clients build self-understanding, develop effective coping skills, and create positive pathways toward emotional health and personal transformation.
Sean Craythorne
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, compassionate spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing life transitions. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients explore self-love, communication dynamics, social connections, and personal purpose. Whether you're struggling with isolation, workplace stress, or identity-related challenges, I offer a supportive, non-judgmental environment for growth and healing. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively to help you develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. My commitment is to honor your individual experience and support you in creating the life you envision.
James Price-Chandler
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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.
Julian Echeverry
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma with compassionate, personalized care. I bring deep expertise in supporting individuals struggling with self-esteem, social anxiety, and life transitions. My bilingual background in English and Spanish allows me to connect with diverse communities, creating inclusive and understanding therapeutic spaces. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're dealing with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or working through past experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic journey that honors your unique experiences and strengths. Together, we can explore healing strategies that help you build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.
Nicole Paolillo
Hi, I’m Nicole! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I specialize in couples therapy, anxiety, stress, life transitions, adolescents, young adults, and perinatal and postpartum mental health. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strength-based, creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll work on coping skills, emotional regulation, communication, and confidence so you can feel more grounded and connected. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating change, therapy will help! Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of their next step. I help you slow things down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and develop insight around patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Sessions are thoughtful, supportive, and tailored to your goals so therapy feels useful, not intimidating! Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. Reaching out is a meaningful first step, and you don’t need to have everything figured out to get started.
Find a Therapist Near You in Brownsdale , 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 Brownsdale.
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.