Life can sometimes feel like a palm tree. It can be beautiful and a nice place to lie down. However, when there is a storm coming, the palm tree may not be able to stand. Anxiety, depression, and many other ailments can affect your mental health and make your tree fall down. Luckily, a counselor based in Fort Myers can help you. 

Fort Myers is known as the City of Palms. When you’re having trouble, you can rely on the palm trees for protection. A counselor based in Fort Myers can guide you to be the best person possible.

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Lacy Allen Watkins

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC, CAP, DCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hi and welcome! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Addiction Professional, and a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor with over 14 years of experience. I specialize in Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Depression, Addictions, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders. I'm a passionate clinician using a combination of treatment modalities that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, looking for ways to face and overcome fears, or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I'm honored to be your guide. I look forward to working with you and being apart of your success as you navigate this crazy-wonderful life.

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Priscilla McAllister

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

**Weekend & Evening Availability Upon Request** Hello, my name is Priscilla McAllister, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Chances are that you are here because something is not working in your life. Perhaps a toxic relationship, harmful behavior, or unhelpful thinking pattern. Maybe it is low self-esteem or general uncertainty. Are the kids driving you crazy during COVID? Whatever the case, I recognize the courage it takes to ask for help. I hope to meet your courage with relentless support. With over a decade of experience working with parents, adolescents and young adults, I am uniquely aware of cultural intersections that might be part of your struggle, and can help you reframe them as strengths. I have a deep respect for anyone who is seeking to grow, heal, or adapt. In working collaboratively with you I intend to strengthen your resilience and deepen your self-awareness in a way that can empower you to live the life you want. I aim not only to help you gain clarity about problematic areas of your life, but to help you work through them and thrive thereafter. I have extensive experience working in grades K-12 as well as college mental health, so I may be an especially good match for students and emerging adults. I appreciate your interest in working with me and welcome any questions you may have.

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Dabney Hayes

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

Dabney has a passion for working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including dysfunctional behavior rooted in shame, addiction, self-loathing, low self-esteem, perfectionism, trauma and abuse and grief/loss. I am driven to help individuals heal their wounds, develop a new relationship with their thoughts and transform their lives. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential by living their lives more confidently and authentically. I have over twelve years of experience as a therapist and have provided therapy in individual and group settings. I also have experience helping clients navigate everyday sources of stress such as relationship problems, family conflicts, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, and school/work issues. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults and families, and provide compassionate, non-judgmental care. I use an integrative, client-centered orientation that draws from multiple theories and techniques which includes: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I am a welcoming and caring therapist who respects and empathizes with my clients' experiences without any judgement. You don't have to carry your pain and burdens alone. I look forward to working with you! Years of Experience: 12 years

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Dr. Juanita Bruno

Offering therapy in FL
License: MT3880
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
17 years of experience

Welcome! You’ve tackled the hardest point in the seeking-help behavior. It is very difficult and takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and I am pleased to know you’ve given yourself the best gift one can give to themselves (taking care of you). CONGRATULATIONS on this accomplishment. My belief is that each of us possess the inner strength and persistence in finding what works best in our world. It would give me the biggest satisfaction to work collaboratively with you in finding a better way to approach whatever difficulty you face in this ever evolving world. You don’t have to do this alone. Here is a little information about me and how I can support you: I have worked for over 15 years with individuals, couples, and family who are experiencing difficulties in their life related to phase of life change, transitional phases, trauma, anxiety, relational issues, women issues, and a host of different issues. I have worked with family members and their support system who are struggling with substance abuse /recovery processes. For the most part, I have personally and professionally been affected by addiction and hope I can meet your needs. In my life before I became a licensed marriage and family professional, I worked as a professional in the armed forces and civilian sector. I believe that my own personal challenges have led me to a journey that embraces both a spiritual balance and an emotionally intelligent professional. I earned my doctorate degree in Psychology with an emphasis in couple’s and family therapy. My belief is that to understand a person, I must also know where person comes from. This allow me to see the entire person instead of looking at a singular part of you. Therefore, I look forward to working together with you. My approach to therapy is to work collaboratively with you to give a difference of opinion to things that are causing you pain, and to then work together to find ways that will help you feel better. In my practice I use different interventions depending on what works best including emotionally focused therapy- informed, dialectical behavioral therapy - informed, solution focused, narrative, attachment based, and existential therapy. I believe the most important factor in making change is the ability for you to trust and build closer bonds. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Trauma and abuse Self esteem Depression Compassion fatigue Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Coping with life changes , Attachment Issues , Blended Family Issues , Family of Origin Issues. Thanks for reading through my profile.

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Sherri Kincade

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Welcome. I am a licensed mental health counselor who has over 20 years of experience working as a therapist and clinical supervisor. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life, from healthcare professionals to parents to business professionals to homeless who all share a goal of feeling happy. I have training and many years of experience working with clients who have a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use and recovery, trauma recovery, career challenges and general life satisfaction. My style is supportive and motivating. I view therapy as an active process where we work together to not only reduce your discomfort but to spend more time feeling happy and content. My approach leans heavily on cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) interventions but I also recognize that sometimes you just need someone to listen and help you sort through thoughts and feelings to develop a clear picture of where you're headed. I admire your courage to seek change and am honored to be part of your journey. I look forward to working with you! Sherri

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Sara Alvarez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management. 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.

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Iris Tanton

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience in a variety of settings. I have a multicultural background, raised in the US as a first generation latin woman and also lived abroad as an expat for many years in Spain. While in Europe, I studied Culinary Arts and became a chef specialized in healthy cooking and developed an Integrative approach to Wellness and Holistic healing. My scope encompasses the mind, body, and spirit connection. I am also certified in Biofeedback, Culinary Health Coaching and I have recently completed specialization in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy for both preparation and integration work. I am a mom of three incredible young adults and have been married for over 25 years. My education and unique life experience provides an integrative perspective in the therapeutic space that allows for an increased awareness and compassionate stance for all my clients. I help individuals who are looking for insight into their struggles with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, & trauma. I also have experience working with life transitions and have specialized training in psychedelic psychotherapy integration work. My approach is driven by Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Trauma Informed interventions such as Compassionate Inquiry and Parts Work. I look to provide a safe space for openness and curiosity where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. We will work together to discover patterns of behavior that are no longer useful to you and uncover insights into how to move forward in your life and write the story that gives you the most meaning. I am so grateful you have taken this initial step toward a healing journey, let's get started!

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This is Keith Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Keith Jones

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, South Carolina and Alabama with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

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Waitus Carter

Offering therapy in FL
GriefSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss & 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. 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.

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This is Sloan Lorenzini's avatar and link to their profile

Sloan Lorenzini

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sloan and I can help you become your best self. We can collaborate to reduce your stress, anxiety, depression, and resolve trauma. We can work as a team to strengthen your relationships and parenting skills. With over 9 years of professional work experience as a clinical social worker and 20 years as a life coach, I deeply value the opportunity to support you. I will provide you with simple and easy to use tools for immediate use to begin the strenthening process NOW. After I listen to you about your experiences and goals, we will discuss specific simple actions to support your empowerment. Together, we can find the answers and the strength. Therapy is an investment in your well-being and YOU are worth it! :)

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How to find counseling in Fort Myers

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Myers can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Fort Myers. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Fort Myers, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Fort Myers or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Fort Myers area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Fort Myers, elsewhere in Lee, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Fort Myers area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fort Myers therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Fort Myers due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Fort Myers may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Myers, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Fort Myers above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Fort Myers helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Fort Myers therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Fort Myers therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Fort Myers therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 33907 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Fort Myers counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Fort Myers licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Fort Myers, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Fort Myers has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Fort Myers.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Fort Myers:

33901, 33902, 33905, 33906, 33907, 33911, 33913, 33916, 33918, 33966, 33994

Popular cities near Fort Myers, FL

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