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!
Lori Miller
I’ve spent my life confined to a wheelchair, so I believe I have a unique understanding of just how challenging life can be and the strength it takes to ask for help. Whatever your struggles, I believe the first step to helping you overcome them is to build a connection with you based on commonly shared thoughts, feelings, and actions impacting how we feel, how we relate to others, and how we achieve our goals. Once you and I have identified any unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and actions standing in your way, we will work together on a plan to help you succeed by giving you the skills, confidence, and belief that your emotional well-being doesn’t depend on others or events you can’t control. While pursuing my Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of West Florida and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I have gained 12 + years of clinical experience helping adults, teens, children, and families heal from a variety of emotional wounds to include: PTSD, grief and loss, intimate partner violence, physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect. I have worked with veterans, people dealing with substance dependence, homelessness, and chronic health problems. In sum, my approach is not to make you relive the past, but to help you recognize--and ultimately, change--the core hurtful beliefs and actions fueling your current anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem and relationship conflicts. I am ready to listen when you share, sit in silence when you need it, and best of all, cheer on your successes!
Elaine Morris
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate addiction recovery, relationship dynamics, and family conflicts with compassion and cultural sensitivity. My approach is rooted in understanding the unique experiences of women, particularly those seeking faith-based guidance and healing. I specialize in addressing substance use challenges, interpersonal struggles, and emotional wellness through a holistic, empathetic lens. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, develop healthy coping strategies, and work towards meaningful transformation. My commitment is to honor each individual's journey with respect, understanding, and genuine care. I believe in the power of forgiveness, resilience, and personal empowerment. Together, we can collaboratively develop strategies that support your emotional well-being and help you move towards a more fulfilling life.
Dr. Michaela Hammer
My specialty & love are helping individuals at transition points of their lives, with a focus from Adolescence to Mid-life and beyond. These are times of dealing with many changes in one's life. These changes may include family, friends, and your role in community. This is also a time when we are surrounded with "Transition Myths" i.e.; How we SHOULD be feeling, acting and thinking. Some of these are Memory Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Physical Fitness, Sexuality, and being Neurodivergent! My goals are to educate and separate myth from fact while helping YOU ease life's transitions so YOU can continue YOUR life with new hopes and dreams, respect and dignity. Each person is UNIQUE! Issues are NOT AGE SPECIFIC and can impact ANYONE at ANY age! With advanced education & experience, I offer Memory Loss & Cognitive functioning assessments. Not all memory loss is permanent. Let me help you down this journey. And I promise, while some professionals may hand you a diagnosis and walk away, I will provide you with all the research and resources I have to offer and will help you look for more answers. People should never have to go through life and hardships alone. One of my newer areas of focus, which was a great unmet need, has been providing counseling for those who have lost a "4-legged" family member. This is an area that I receive referrals not only from veterinarians but also family doctors and OB/GYNs, "I am referring Mrs. Smith as she recently lost her only child...her child was her 20 year old cat, Roxie..." I offer counseling for Pet Grief & Loss. Some individuals have family members with 4 legs vs 2. Those losses are devastating as well and rarely understood by the general public. I have been providing counseling to individuals, couples and families from many races, religions, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds for over 30 years. I work with preteens to those over 100 years young. I have provided therapy in my office, in individual homes, in schools and in retirement communities, nursing homes and hospitals. I have provided instructional in-services on cultural awareness and aging issues. I have set up memory clinics and performed routine depression and anxiety assessments. For me, helping people live better lives has always been what I am about. It is a gift I share every moment of every day. As an older, more "SEASONED" therapist, I have been where many of you are and survived. It has not been easy. I can tell you that with each action comes not one but many reactions and in many areas. My father was the highlight of not only my life but all the lives he interacted with. He was a teacher and elementary school principal. He saw everyone with the same lens and stuck up for the kids picked on. After school, he would give no charge swim lessons to neighborhood kids who were in need. He had cancer in his 30's and only had a 5% chance of beating it, back then, but he did. He lived till age 45 and died suddenly during a vacation with my mother and my little 7 year old brother. I was 25. Even though it was summer break and most teachers and principals were on vacation, the mortuary was standing room only, inside and out. I have a little brother born when I was a senior in High School. Another highlight of my life. He was always athletic, going to the Hood River in Oregon, when he was a young teen, to compete in the Junior Windsurfing Olympics. He is now a full professor at a state college. He does research in cardiac and ultramarathons. My sister, 18 months younger than I was born blue and had seizures all her life. She died suddenly of seizure and heart attack before the age of 50. My mother was a highly educated strong woman who would never give up the fight. However after watching 2 husbands die, one suddenly in front of her, her youngest daughter die suddenly before she was 50 and then one by one, all of her other family members at home, Great Pyrenees and New Foundlands, died. After that, mom gave up the will to live and died within a few years of a broken heart (even though she would never admit it). I divorced my husband after 50 years, I experienced many areas of stigma, prejudice, shame, loss of friends and family and many other areas of life we often take for granted. Being married to 1 person for 50 years was not always easy, but we made it, just not to 51, good and not so good. I developed tools along the way to cope for me and us. Tools you may also need to develop for you and yours. It was a journey that has been heart wrenching but I can guarantee you that this event(the divorce) like the other traumatic events in my life and other successes in life, they have been identified, dealt with. The constant, "ON THE JOB TRAINING" allows me to offer a more empathetic and knowledgeable therapist for my clients. Not all relationships can be saved in the way we wish. Some need to be reevaluated and redefined. I am here to assist you in whatever way YOU CHOSE and support YOU IN YOUR DECISION. And yes, I have gone to therapy to have a neutral third party to help me navigate my future courses. True, I have the formal education and life experiences as well as a "Dr's Bag" full of information and skills, but sometimes all of us need someone on the outside to truly listen, validate and help us navigate through the storms. Take care and Keep in touch. Dr Michaela Hammer
Winnifred Pierre
Hello!! Welcome to the BetterHelp Community. My name is Winnifred Pierre and I am the Licensed Clinical Social Work practicing in West Palm Beach, Florida. I graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S in Communication Sciences and Disorders. I graduated from Barry University with M.S.W in Social Work. I have experience working in various treatments with settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient, residential (mental health and substance use), and foster care. As a South Florida native and daughter of Haitian immigrants, I am passionate about providing accessible mental health services to meet the needs of individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds. I would describe my therapeutic approach as goal oriented and client centered. I believe that everyone is on different paths in the journey of life. I meet each client where they are at in their journey and work collaboratively to determine goals for treatment. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. One of my favorite quotes is "Be the change you wish to see in this world." I look forward to working with you to accomplish the changes you wish to see.
Patsy Johnson
I am licensed in South Carolina with 25+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive, marriage counseling and professional coaching. 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!
Aimee Gandy
Welcome! Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm glad you're here. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, processing trauma or grief, or navigating difficult family or relationship dynamics, therapy can provide a space to better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change. I work with adults and seniors facing a wide range of concerns, including stress management, anger, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, identity concerns, women's issues, chronic health conditions, and major life transitions. With more than 16 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through some of life's most challenging seasons. My goal is to provide a compassionate, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to build healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, and create lasting positive change at a pace that feels right for you.
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.
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.
Gerald Syrkett
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & 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!
Syrenthia Parker
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 4 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Bridgit DeLisle-Daley
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's most challenging transitions. My professional background centers on helping clients manage stress, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem challenges with compassionate, culturally responsive care. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of each person. I have extensive experience working with older adults and providing faith-informed counseling for those seeking spiritual guidance alongside therapeutic support. My clinical focus includes hospice and end-of-life counseling, where I offer gentle, supportive guidance during profound emotional journeys. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgemental, affirming space where clients can explore their emotions, build resilience, and discover inner strength through life's most difficult moments. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care, honoring their individual paths of healing and growth.
Jonnet Cruz
Aloha, I'm Jonnet pronounced Jonay, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawai'i and Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping children/teens, families, couples, adults, active duty service members, and veterans with a variety of issues that include stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. My therapeutic approach consist of EMDR, Internal Family systems (IFS), attachment based therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.
Scott Paul
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 believe is a positive investment in self improvement.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Estero, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Estero, 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' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
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 Estero.
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' copay is as low as $15 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' copay is as low as $15 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 Estero, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Estero and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.