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!
Michelle Lesesne-De Santis
I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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.
Joel Brooks
As a licensed therapist with over four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse personal experiences—from relationship dynamics and identity exploration to managing stress, anxiety, and emotional transitions. I bring a depth of understanding to working with individuals across various life stages, with particular expertise in addressing communication challenges, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My approach is deeply respectful, client-centered, and designed to honor each person's unique journey. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-understanding, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections. Whether you're experiencing workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or seeking deeper personal insights, I'm committed to supporting your path toward healing and self-discovery. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities, offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and develop powerful strategies for personal transformation.
Grace Davis
I am a clinical therapist who is licensed in the state of Florida and North Carolina. I have over 9 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients who have a range of concerns such as feelings of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, low self-esteem and bullying. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as abuse or neglect. I also have worked with individuals who have special needs. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I use modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and trust-based relational therapy. Together, we will form a treatment plan and goals to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! If you need a different time or day than what is available for live sessions let me know and we can schedule a session that works.
Erik Libby
I am licensed in Florida with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jerrold Jacobson
My ideal client might be any individual in need of assistance to help themselves feel better, more capable-confident and able to resolve whatever 'problems in living' have interrupted their lives. There are times we may need the support of another caring person, perhaps not directly involved with our lives, to listen, reflect, help us consider alternative approaches. This perspective remains central to my intervention techniques, delivered with sensitivity to individual needs. My specialty is born of the blending of two bodies of knowledge, one focused on interpreting everything as behavior through the lens of learning theory and the other chemical dependency/abuse of substances (CAP). The intersection of these areas can be fruitful, giving rise to creative counseling applications & excellent outcomes. In addition, my practice evolved to include knowledge gained from groups, Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, and Substance Abuse. As a seasoned professional counselor I've had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, typically full-time employment supplemented by a private practice. Having been employed by an Area Agency on Aging in PA, since relocating to the State of Florida my most recent experience was with the Department of Juvenile Justice. Private practice has ranged from court-ordered (Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, Substance Abuse) to EAP to self-referrals. It would be my distinct pleasure to assist you in addressing & resolving any identified issues contrributing to disturbance of your emotional balance. Please contact me at your earliest convenience; I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Valerie Yost
Valerie Yost, MSW, LCSW I'm so glad that you are looking at therapist profiles to find someone that is right for you. That first step of establishing relationship is very important. I am a seasoned therapist with more than 15 years in private practice and a reputation for establishing good rapport with a wide variety of clients. It is a privilege to share your story and join you in your journey to greater health and peace. My training and experience have prepared me to work with those who are depressed, anxious, in troublesome relationships, experiencing medical illnesses, or wanting to understand themselves better. My approach is cognitive-behavioral with influence and interventions from problem-solving approaches, insight oriented therapy, emotional regulation strategies, and Christian therapy. I look forward to working with you as you invest your time and energy in bettering yourself.
Svetlana Sokol
My name is Svetlana Sokol, LCSW. I have been licensed since 2007. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused and Client Centered approaches with my clients. I have been working in medical field since 2005. This experience has connected with clients dealing with chronic illness, family issues, grief and loss, end of life, and post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. I am passionate about helping my clients find support, and personal happiness. I appreciate your courage to trust me to walk 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
Maria Clara Salazar-Pretto
Hello, in this post pandemic time, we want nothing more but to get back to normal. But in reality, everyone's life has been disrupted. Now there are good news! We have learned to trust this method of communication (virtual) and mostly we have opened up about ourselves and our relationships. We now know that physical health and mental health go together. Let me invite you in. First I want to tell you about myself, I've worked for more than 20 years with clients, ranging from young adults to senior citizens in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, health centers and private agencies. I received my masters degree from California State University, Fresno in 1993 and have an undergraduate major in Clinical psychology. I was educated since a very early age in both the Colombian culture in Spanish and the USA culture in English. This has been an advantage as I'm able to relate to people of various cultures openly. My final Master's degree as a Clinical Social Worker is the best way of using all my training, schooling and life experiences to assist you... in being the best version of yourself. I describe my therapy framework as client centered and goal oriented. I mainly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Systems Theory, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and an overall Humanistic theoretical model. These modalities are hands-on and offer practical approaches to finding solutions focused on building a grounded well- being for you. They're tools that provide ways of regulating yourself and show you how to open new pathways toward a more fulfilling experience. CBT goals identify faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking/acting and offer effective ways of coping with life's stressors. I treat every client as a special individual, using validation, empathy, active listening and reflection, all in a non judge-mental setting. I encourage you to take a first step as it soon becomes a supportive and trustworthy path. Remember that I'm honored to work with you. Maria Clara Pretto, LCSW
Kristen Smith
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues, depression, anxiety, work life balance, self-esteem, guilt and shame as well as ongoing life purpose needs. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
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.
Dr. Theodosia Paclawskyj
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 19 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My clinical background centers on anxiety, trauma, and working with neurodivergent populations, with specialized expertise in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and those navigating intellectual disabilities. I look forward to working with you to find a path in which you can achieve your personal goals for peace and well-being. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique needs. I have extensive training in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and trauma recovery. I'm particularly committed to creating affirming therapeutic spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and older adults seeking understanding and meaningful support. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I strive to help clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies. My multicultural background and fluency in Ukrainian allow me to connect with diverse populations and provide nuanced, culturally sensitive care. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inherent strengths and navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope. Every individual's journey is unique, and I'm honored to walk alongside you as you pursue personal growth and healing.
Althea Fraser
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. 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. I use an Integrative Counseling approach, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Find a Therapist Near You in Chaires , 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 Chaires.
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.