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!
Kimberly Smith
As a licensed therapist in Florida and Michigan, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ experiences, and addiction challenges. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their most profound personal struggles. My therapeutic work focuses on helping individuals develop self-love, improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and heal from past experiences of discrimination, violence, and systemic challenges. My practice embraces a holistic perspective that honors diverse identities and experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for healing, growth, and empowerment. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to supporting your path toward emotional wellness and authentic living.
Virginia Hagen
I am licensed in Florida with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with Depression Stress and Anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. Also, I am a Registered Nurse for 50 years, now retired, and worked in a wide range of Mental Health Facilities, including In-Patient, Out Patient, had a private practice in Crystal River, Florida for 10 years, and worked extensively with families and children with Special Needs and ADHD and also worked extensively with custody issues, often testifying in court on behalf of children. In addition, I also provide Christian Counseling. At age 60, I returned to school to attend Asbury Theological Seminary, and graduated in 2019 with a Certificate in Christian Studies, 30 Credits. I was ordained by the Federation of Christian Ministers in 2019 and also served as a Hospital Chaplain Intern for one Semester of CPE Clinical Pastoral Education, at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I incorporate many resources to empower you to be able to use the skills for the rest of your life. In October of 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a retreat in Asissi, Italy, to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Asissi, the Patron Saint of Animals and also known for his ministries to the poor and underserved. Being there, where he lived and died, was so inspirational. In 2026, it will be 800 years since his death.Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Margaret Johnston
I am a LMHC therapist, public speaker community organizer, social and environmental activist and have been listening for decades. I received my formal education at University of North Florida as Master of Clinical Psychotherapy, 2013. I also took a 9-month internship under Ed Wilder, in Clinical Pastoral Education, in deep listening. I worked in the Talk program at Wounded Warrior for 8 months- the warriors talked; I listened. Did you go through trauma? Are you, right now, in a high stress situation? Do you keep losing your patience or your professionalism at the wrong moment and you don’t know why? Do you keep getting in your own way? I use Trauma Supportive Therapy to safely address, as slowly as need be, the pain of the past that keeps coming to trip your defenses at all the wrong moments, in your present. I can be that supporting presence who will help sort it out by listening- really hearing you. Reflect your depth of feelings back to you. Validate what are your unmet emotional needs. I practice the therapy of defining personal meaning, so, together we will facilitate your thinking of your options, planning, purpose, and goals for living a meaningful life without being afraid of tripping over your past or yourself. I practice person centered therapy by meeting you where you are. I strive to be culturally sensitive, non-prejudicial and use strength-based therapy as a jump point, truly believing I am the guide for you, but you are the treasure/wisdom keeper. Of all the reasons people come to therapy: anger, guilt, anxiety, changes, transitions, depression, trauma, jealousy, and “it is just not working anymore”, the extra burden of race and racism is more than just a nuance to be nodded at in therapy. I will view race as central to all the other pieces, when it is central to you. I am inclusive, secular, competent, affirming and non-judgmental. I have worked with people in transition, people who are very much defined, “but things got complicated”, people in the communities of LGBTQA, Polyamory, Kink, non-gendered. Each are safe and welcome here.
Dr. Mary Torok
Hi! My name is Mary Torok. I am an accomplished and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have over fifteen years of experience supporting adults, children, adolescents, and families through counseling, psychoeducation, directive, and non-directive instruction. I have provided support and direction for clients remotely and in the clinical, classroom, residential, outpatient, and in-home settings. Overall, I am passionate about motivating, empowering, and helping people manage situations and overcome obstacles. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Client and Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Relaxation, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based Therapy, and other modalities. I have had success working with various populations, including clients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive, and other personality disorders. I have assisted clients by providing critical resources to help with employment, education, and community referrals. Furthermore, I have helped clients improve self-esteem and overcome situations related to bullying, discrimination, and abuse. I also specialize in improving communication and applying conflict resolution skills to manage family and relationship issues. Overall, I believe that education is the key to change. Therefore, my priority is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship for teaching client’s the skills they need to improve any situation and ultimately transform!
Brian Williams
Brian J Williams Clinical Social Work/Therapist, I SPECIALIZE in COUPLES: married, engaged, separated, living together... fighting, not talking, unhappy or hopeless. I use tested methods & A SENSE OF HUMOR. 1/2 of what I know is training. The rest from being married over 30 years & working with couples just like you. I studied with John Gottman you've seen on Oprah. My wife & I have been in counseling, more than once. Calling a couples counselor is hard. "What good is it talking to a stranger?!" You've tried everything maybe even counseling—nothing works.. You're stuck. That's where I can help. Believe it or not there are ways to make it better. Your partner may be afraid or doesn't want to come. I don't criticize. I don't take sides. I don't judge. Don't kid yourself: it can be hard work but it also can be fun. How do you pick a counselor? Someone you both like and trust? First, find someone that specializes in couples. My website BrianWilliamsTherapist.net explains how I work, tips to make things better quickly & some resources if you decide not to do counseling now.
Rhaysa Saint-Hilaire
I completed a Master's Degree in Social Work at New York University. Also, certified and licensed in trauma and crisis interventions. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, emotional disturbance, family conflict, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, adoption, Post-traumatic stress disorder and dual diagnosis. My focus is working with a diverse population of all ages and cultures which includes adults, teens and families. Another area of focus is Maternal Child Health; perinatal, postpartum families dealing with postpartum depression/anxiety/pregnancy losses. I use evidence based practices with the focus on person-centered care. I believe that anyone can change and grow at any time in their lives. I have witnessed powerful healing and growth in my practice over the years. It is truly a gift and I feel privileged to help everyone who is in need. Bilingual (Spanish/English)
Sunshine Wilder
Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and Bipolar Disorder. I consider my treatment approach to be one of an eclectic nature with modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Modification, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Coping Skills Development. 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.
Anthia Casanova
I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, LGBTQ-related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will help with 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 your journey.
Andra Blackheart
My ideal client is either someone that has been having difficulty connecting to themselves with knowing who they are or what they want after a life-transition, a traumatic event, an Autism or CPTSD diagnosis, or maybe for the first time ever. Or someone trying to connect better to the people around them in building their friend group, their sense of community, their bond with their children, or their intimacy with their romantic partner. My specialty is helping neurodivergent adults feel connected to themselves and others and build intimate and sustainable lives. I offer therapy using primarily TF-CBT, Satir growth model, MI, and SFBT to help clients utilize their strengths, accommodations, and social support network well enough to fire me! If you're feeling disconnected from what's most important to you, want to build on the skills you already have, and are ready to move towards your goals, please reach out to me so we can create change together!
Bridget Locke
I am a licensed professional in Florida with 22 years of experience helping clients navigate challenges such as addiction, stress, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and confidence. My approach is centered on fostering an open, supportive, and judgment-free environment where clients feel safe to share their thoughts and emotions. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, and I am dedicated to supporting and empowering you every step of the way on this transformative journey.
Eustacia Joseph
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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.
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.
Rene Garcell
I am licensed in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience in end of life, hospice care, as well as working with teens and young adults at the start of life. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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. I am client centered and that means you decide what we need to talk about in therapy. My goal is to cater this room to your needs and preferences.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale.
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 Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.