A therapist in Clearwater, FL, can help you work through a number of life’s challenges. Pinellas County residents have options when looking for mental health services. You can work with a local provider for in-person treatment or use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp.
With BetterHelp, you can attend therapy from the comfort of your home at a time that fits your schedule. This flexibility can make therapy more accessible, whether you’re a busy working parent, a family therapy intern completing your bachelor's degree, or a graduate-level student intern at Florida State University. More than 30,000 therapists are on the platform; each has a minimum of a master’s degree and meets all qualifications for state licensure.
Therapists can support you through a variety of mental health challenges, from overcoming past trauma to coping with the psychological effects of family conflict. Throughout the healing process, you can experience the personal growth that will lead to a more fulfilled life.
Work with a therapist who firmly believes people possess the capacity to grow by connecting with one of the Clearwater-based providers below and take the first steps toward a more fulfilling life.
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!
Judith (Judy) Durdan
Hi! My name is Judy Durdan and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Florida and Connecticut. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University in 2001. I have extensive experience working with a variety of people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I've worked with people who are diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, forensics, homelessness, and veterans, as well as people who just want an ear to hear them and help guide them through the steps to feeling whole. My goal is to help adults in difficult times figure out how to address those issue through thoughtfulness and mindfulness, utilizing their own strengths and experiences, as well as, a few skills I have to offer. The treatment is an agreed upon approach created through support and understanding, and my approach being adjusted to your needs. Please contact me so that, together, we can find the most convenient and beneficial time that we can meet to tackle those issues. Enjoy your day!
Nancy Vaughn
I am licensed in Florida with over 15 years of professional experience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings helping clients with varied issues such as stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapeutic approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness informed practices and person in environment perspectives. I believe we all have inner strengths, but sometimes the stresses of our day-to-day lives have gotten in the way of accessing those strengths and remembering the things that are important- like connection, meaning, purpose and contentment. Often the impediment is our fear of change- holding on to our preconceived ideas or habits can get in the way of our growth and our freedom. Our work together will help us develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first steps to seek a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.
Lynda Wright
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida with 17 years of experience. I have worked with people who have been challenged by trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety and life changing situations. I have additionally worked with people struggling with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My approach is solution focused, client centered, client strength based with a focus of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. When working with clients I strive to make their experience positive, genuine, respectful and safe. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strengths needed to make positive changes in your life. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage and I am glad you have decided to begin your journey. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to assist you in identifying your goals and achieving them.
Nicole Bakewell
My name is Nicole Bakewell, and I was born in New York City but grew up most of my life in the Pocono’s. Growing up, I always had a desire to help people. I have worked with children, couples, and families for over a decade. I have been fortunate to provide clinical services to clients in a variety of settings including community mental health as well as telehealth services. I am trained and use a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet client needs. I see myself as a mechanism that can provide necessary support to help you reach life goals and overcome challenges you may face in your life. My philosophy is centered around Behavioral and Trauma Centered and Focused. By providing a warm, caring, non-judgmental approach you will be on the path to living a more balanced life. My primary availability for sessions is Monday through Friday 5 AM to 10 PM EDT and occasional weekend, however I am available to discuss additional options if that time does not work well for you., I look forward to learning more about you and helping you identify any improvement opportunities that you may be facing in.
John Jamieson
As a licensed therapist in Florida with four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and those navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, relationship dynamics, and trauma with a compassionate, affirming approach. I have deep expertise in working with diverse populations, including military veterans, individuals exploring gender identity, and those experiencing discrimination or relationship complexities. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on communication, life purpose, healing from shame, and personal growth. My commitment is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and move towards meaningful personal transformation. I approach therapy with genuine empathy, respect, and a dedication to understanding each individual's distinct path and potential.
LaKesha Thomas
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
George Deegan
I have worked with many types of people in my career, but a favorite is helping those struggling with grief. People have come to me after losing a child, a friend, or a parent and even a close long-term romantic partner. Being overwhelmed with conflicting and confusing emotions is common and often they just need to be heard. Your process is unique to you and the last thing you need to hear is, "It's time to move on, stop crying." The goal is to take ownership of your grief, and all that comes with it. Sometimes permission is all that you need to allow whatever happens to happen. You are the director of how you choose to grieve. I specialize in addiction, intersex birth differences, grief, anxiety and trauma. Initially, my style is to work towards building a therapeutic relationship with you, always developing trust in its own time until you are comfortable revealing deeper vulnerability. I believe together, with minds combined, we find better solutions to what seems insurmountable. Since high school many have shared private information with me. I suspect they know just how much I can relate to their experiences. As a flawed human, with much life experience, my strength lies in compassionate understanding. I continue to receive letters of gratitude from decades old clients. I humbly respond, "I lit the candle you did all the work!"
Jaclyn Booth
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Sharonda Fleming
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
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.
Joan Williams
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Samuel Moses
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience (LCSW, MCAP, NBCCH, CEAP), soon to be S.A.P./EAP Certified, also working towards Certification in NBHWC/IFC Health & Wellness Coaching specialties, CISM specialty certifications, Certified Mediator Certifications, Parenting Coordinator Specialty Certification and RRT Specialist Certification Designations. I have experience in helping clients with persons experiencing stress, anxiety, panic, trauma, abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder, ADHD and neurodivergent thoughts/feelings, issues & behaviors. I also have experience working with persons experiencing depression, heartbreak, heartache, grief, sadness. I work with individual's (adults, parents/co-parents, young adults, teens) & couple's clients to create an environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Take the first step and sign up for therapy!
Dannyelle Driver
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation and shame. With experience in trauma recovery, and life transitions, I offer compassionate guidance for those managing grief, ADHD, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in empowering individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and build resilience through collaborative, personalized care. Every journey is different, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care as you move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.
Find a Therapist Near You in Clearwater , 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 Clearwater.
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.