Mark Sandvoss
I am a Clinical social worker licensed in Florida with over 20 years of experience working in the behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, co-dependency, anger management, co-occurring disorders, self-esteem issues.. I also helped people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic/ existential, strengths based, reality therapy/ choice theory, and a solution focused orientation. I will generate goals you have in order to arrive at a treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first step 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!
James Saganowich
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 21 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Heidi Strater
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. Throughout my career I have worked with adults and geriatric clients living with depression , anxiety and bipolar disorders. In addition I have provided therapy and support for caregivers. I consider myself an advocate for people who are struggling with chronic mental illness as well as those who may have episodic bouts of depression and/or anxiety.
Alexander McAllister
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer
Change your Life! Your life can evolve and change so that you may find freedom and peace! My mission is to assist you to explore and discover your own answers from within, and to remember, recover and honor your true, authentic self so you can live life with greater ease and abundant joy. Let me guide you to transform your-Self and your life. Hello, I am Peggy Ann Serena Hemmer. I prefer to go by Serena. I have been providing clinically sound, creative, holistic counseling for children ages 3 and up, adults, couples and families since 2004. Prior to my clinical work, I spent 10 years at the county and state departments of mental health and substance abuse. Having studied and practiced many holistic approaches to health and well-being, as well as a variety of life philosophies, my approach to therapy is from a holistic perspective, taking into consideration the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. ​Knowing youth express themselves through art, and play, I weave Expressive Arts modalities into sessions with youth and their families. I was provided an opportunity to establish an Expressive Arts Clinical Program at a behavioral health residential center for youth. Certified in Rational Hypnotherapy, I am able to guide clients to relief from anxiety, phobias, and addictions. I graduated Summa cum Laude from Capital University with a Bachelor of Social Work degree and received a Master of Social Work degree, from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. In Florida, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Certifications in Rational Hypnotherapy, Gottman Couple's Counseling, and Spiritual Life Coaching. As an ordained metaphysical, New Thought minister and certified Spiritual Life Coach I assist clients, who are seeking, to explore and expand their values, spirituality, and faith. I bring my education, experience, and intuition to my practice and particularly my creativity in my work with adolescents and adults. Having provided counseling for people of all ages, from all backgrounds and socio-economic levels in residential treatment centers and private practice, I have acquired a broad awareness of the variety of challenges many people face and have witnessed the intrinsic ability we each have to overcome those challenges and to thrive. ​​ Originally, I founded my private practice in 2006 in Worthington, Ohio, and later moved it to Westerville, Ohio. Because I incorporate my background and experience in dance, Tai Chi and Qi Gong, drama, visual arts, and pottery, I was sought after to provide therapy for children as well as adults and couples. Along with my formal education and experience, I am certified in many holistic approaches. I am a Reiki Master Teacher, an Advanced Theta Healing practitioner, an Access Bars Practitioner and taught Qi Gong and Tai Chi for the State of Ohio Employees. Currently, my practice is located in sunny Saint Petersburg, Florida. During my career, I have developed and presented a variety of workshops for families and providers. Including: Ohio Department of Health - Birth to Three Conference -“Maternal Depression and Effects on Infants”- Co-Presenter Ohio Department of Aging Governor’s Conference on Aging - “Advantages of Tai Chi”, Presenter Ohio Department of Mental Health Millennium Conference - “Moving through Recovery”- Presenter “Use of Expressive Arts and Play in Counseling Adolescent Youth in a Children’s Residential Center”- Presenter “Bullies, Bullied, Bully Victims”- Presenter “Separation, Attachment, and Placement”- Foster and Adopted Children Presenter Cancer Support Community Leadership Conference, Washington, D.C-Co-Presenter -“Distress Screening” My publications include: I Am Me, I Am, A Pearl's Wisdom Book. Hemmer, P. A. Serena(2020). https://www.amazon.com/Am-Me-Pearls-Wisdom-Books/dp/B08JJLMSB7. I Don't Need Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/i-don-t-need-counseling. Is My Child Too Young for Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/is-my-child-too-young-for-counseling. The Empowerment of Homeless Women: Implications for Future Advocacy Issues Seventh Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) and Scherocman, J. (2002) Depression: Developmental Considerations from Birth to Eighteen Sixth Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) Stattmiller, L., and Wernicke, C., (2001)
Sophia Mas
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of work experience. I have worked with individuals with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, and the full range of psychotic symptoms and mood disorders. I also have experience and am comfortable working with couples and families, addressing issues such as communication problems, conflict resolution, and relationship enhancement. I am a practical, interactive solution-focused therapist who incorporates a blend of conventional and alternative approaches - drawing upon various styles and techniques in the process. I have worked with a diverse population of clients and in many different settings-from acute emergency-based care to community mental health setting to private practice. I take special pride in cultivating a spirit of caring and respect for everyone I see regardless of the problems or issues they might bring to counseling. It takes courage to embark on the healing journey that is counseling. My focus is to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. I achieve this by actively listening, providing empathy, and maintaining confidentiality. As they commence the process, that will lead to a sense of wellbeing and vitality. Working at a thought and feelings level can be the catalyst for unraveling the puzzle that is our lives and can lead as well to the resolution of problems and issues that limit our capacity to lead productive and happy lives as we develop the skills needed to navigate the difficulties encountered in daily lives. My passion is to support each individual’s journey with hope as they travel the road to wholeness, wellness, freedom and empowerment. It takes courage to undertake this venture and I am grateful and honored to be able to encourage and validate the personal strength and willingness needed to take this big step forward.
Richard Whitton
I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Janine Gonzalez
Thank you for taking a moment in considering your next steps in healing. The courage it takes to think I need help is a powerful step toward the reality of being healed, restored, or just gaining your footing again. My name is Janine Gonzalez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida and New Jersey: with over 25 years' of experience working with a diverse population. This includes working with individuals experiencing complex issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and within you are the answers. It takes courage to seek out assistance and determination to see it through. Taking the first steps toward change, may not be easy, however as we work together you will discover you are worth it. I am here to support and empower you in your journey.
Jarmela Carter
I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Fany Curzon
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with over three years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and stress. I also enjoy supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community with compassionate, affirming care. As a Christian counselor, I welcome clients who wish to integrate their faith into the counseling process. When requested, I incorporate biblical principles alongside evidence-based therapeutic approaches in a way that honors each client's personal beliefs and values. I also work with clients from all faith backgrounds—or no faith at all—and tailor therapy to what is most meaningful and helpful for you. My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, EMDR-informed techniques, and Gottman Method principles for relationship concerns. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, develop practical coping skills, heal from past experiences, and build healthier relationships. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and accepted. Together, we'll create a safe, supportive environment where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Seeking support is a courageous first step. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, healing from painful experiences, strengthening your relationships, or seeking to grow personally or spiritually, I am here to walk alongside you and help you create a more fulfilling, meaningful life.
Michelle Edmond
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience & 5 years primarily focusing therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Sabrina Brown
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem issues. I specialize in addressing nuanced experiences such as isolation, social anxiety, workplace dynamics, and women's mental health. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive, creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, heal from past experiences, and rediscover their sense of purpose. I understand the profound impact of life transitions, attachment dynamics, and personal growth journeys. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking to understand yourself more deeply, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.
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!
Madison Bessette
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. I have been working with children, adolescents, young adults, mid age adults and families over the last 4 years who have come to me with a variety of concerns. I offer a compassionate, affirming and warmly direct approach to therapy, particularly for LGBTQ+ clients. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel seen, heard and valued. I work with a wide range of concerns and symptoms, including anxiety (including panic disorder), depression, grief, self-esteem and confidence issues, and life transitions. I also specialize in supporting clients navigating attachment issues, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and the complexity and inner-workings of family dynamics—this includes dynamics related to adoption, foster care, and family-of-origin work as well. I have extensive experience in addressing communication difficulties, addressing guilt and shame, working through codependency, caregiver stress, chronic pain, gender dysphoria, and multicultural concerns including experiences of prejudice and discrimination. My approach is grounded in connection and authenticity, with cultural responsiveness. I believe in honoring your unique identity and values, and I will work collaboratively to help you build resilience, clarity, and meaningful change at your own pace. Whether you're exploring purpose, meaning, identity, healing from past wounds, or navigating present challenges that impact your mental health, I'm here to support your journey with care and deep acknowledgment. Taking the first step towards therapy can be the hardest, I am honored to walk alongside you on the rest of your journey!
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in El Portal, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in El Portal, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in El Portal.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in El Portal, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving El Portal and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.