Many of us can end up feeling overwhelmed by the stress of daily life at one point or another. While many of us know that therapy can help with mood disorders, intrusive thoughts, or behavioral concerns, therapy can be beneficial for so much more. A therapist can offer support and tools for stress management, improving communication, and even increasing self-awareness.
When it comes to finding a therapist, Fort Myers, FL may offer more variety than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than scheduling a free consultation with the nearest clinic. One reason for this is that within the field of psychotherapy, there are a number of evidence-based specialized techniques and approaches, and the one that will be most effective can depend on the challenges being addressed as well as personal preference. Working with a CBT practitioner on self-care may promote a peaceful mind. Counseling for a family member in crisis may be more effectively addressed by a family systems expert. Solution focused therapy can be just what a local restaurant owner needs to take their business to the next level. What you want or need may not necessarily be accessible or available where you live. This is where online therapy can help.
BetterHelp is an online platform that offers access to a wide variety of Fort Myers and Cape Coral-based professionals with expertise in many types of therapy, and experience working with diverse populations. Fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your needs. And because a strong therapeutic alliance can be essential to success, if you need to switch therapists you can do so at no additional cost.
Therapy can also be a convenient solution for many busy individuals. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home.
If you’ve been thinking about therapy for any reason, from challenging negative thoughts to focusing on self-awareness, contact BetterHelp or check out the list of Fort Myers online professionals below to get started.
Nancy Wess
ABOUT ME Hello my name is Nancy Wess and I have enjoyed being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida for the past 14 years. I have counselled individuals struggling with issues relating to self-esteem, relationships, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I have dealt with a diverse population and I believe that the client- therapist relationship is most important, and it is based on trust, honesty and respect. In my practice I have used CBT, Cognitive Trauma Therapy, Solution Based Therapy and Mindfulness; I believe that each individual seeking therapy can benefit from an eclectic mix of therapy styles. Also, I have a Fine Arts degree and believe that drawing and painting are an excellent means of therapy, as well as a useful communication tool. SPECIALTIES • Stress and anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Addiction • Coping with change • Shame and Guilt Also experienced in: Relationship issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Depression, Codependency, LGBT, Attachment Issues, Assertiveness Training, Psychoeducation Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Trauma Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Client Focused, Cognitive Processing Therapy Years of experience: 14 Licensing: MH 12584 (Expires 03/31/2023)
Joseph Setchel
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I began my journey into the helping professions in 1995 at Stetson University. In 1999 I graduated from that institution with a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a minor in Music. After a brief hiatus to "catch my breath", I returned to school at the University of Central Florida. I completed my studies at UCF in 2002, graduating with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology. Following a 2 year post-Masters internship and a wealth of real world experience I was awarded my license in Mental Health Counseling in 2007. My approach to therapy varies from person to person. Some may benefit from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective to tackle negative thoughts and emotions while others may benefit from a more Existential approach. My focus is always on the needs and wants of the individual seeking help. Regardless of the method we employ, I also view therapy as a process that should be productive. A person receiving counseling should be able to see increased insight, more effective coping strategies, clarity, better decision-making skills or a combination of these. The counseling I provide is typically a combination of multiple modalities, including Solution Focused Therapy. The core values that drive my philosophy with regard to therapy are choice, authenticity, honesty, cultural awareness and positive regard. You are a unique individual. There has never been and will never be another you. Who you are is determined by a host of factors including genetics, upbringing , your heritage and the culture in which you were raised. You've taken an amazing first step by coming to BetterHelp.com. If you like, we can take the next steps on your journey together. I look forward to meeting you!
Dr. Kathleen "Kathy" Meeks
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Board Certified Sex Therapist and a Clinical Sexologist. I take a wholistic approach to healing, mind body and spirit. I incorporate Spirituality in healing because this permeates different areas in a person's life. There will be times when I will refer to a Psychiatrist or a Urologist when the issues are beyond my scope of practice. I use different interventions in the healing processes. Some interventions I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectal Therapy, EFT and the Gottman Method. There are times when the trauma is complex or beyond the person's awareness and I will use Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy or Somatic Experiencing. However, the intervention (s) are tailored specifically to the clients needs. The goal for each client is to help them to function at an optimum level. I am committed to changing lives, one person and one family at a time. It will be an honor and a privilege to work with you to achieve your goals.
Stalburn VanSluytman
My interest in individual and social psychology developed when I was an undergraduate at Howard University in the latter part of the 1960s. While working my way through school I somehow also found time to provide volunteer services at various non-profit agencies in around the Washington DC area. After graduating with a degree in Sociology I worked at Federal Government clerical jobs crunching numbers but I really wanted to work with "real" people. I soon started working in case management and substance abuse counseling in New York City. I was recommended to enter a special accelerated graduate program in Clinical Social Work at Adelphi University by the director at one of the agencies. The Clinical degree launched my entry into a more research-based and specialized area of the field which had grown with the myriad social changes that were taking place in the country (substance abuse; HIV epidemic; two paycheck households; etc.). I moved to Florida in the 1990s I had to make adjustments to a culture that I was unfamiliar with but quickly assimilated to. I had the good fortune of working for some of the best agencies as well as having a successful run as an independent practitioner. I eventually spent my last ten years of employment as a mental health therapist for the Florida Department of Corrections before retiring in 2014. Over the years I have worked with individuals and groups from all walks of life and with a wide variety of concerns. I have also done presentations at schools and churches on the issue of emotional disorders and ways of identifying some of the symptoms in students. My training in Clinical Social Work would be categorized as a psychodynamic approach however, I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Approach and have been a certified trainer and Supervisor of Masters level therapists in the use of that method. Since retirement I have done some part-time quality-control work for a Community Mental Health Center and have been active in doing volunteer work with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, a local Hospice Center, and the American Cancer Society, however, these have been put on hold since the emergence of the COVID pandemic.
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.
Mary Walburn
I am licensed in Florida and have many years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, adjustment issues, and many more. I have learned a lot and have confidence that I can help. I am here to support & empower you in that journey- not degrade or minimize. I am your personal cheerleader, and I am one hundred percent about “UNCONDITIONAL positive regard.” And unless you just want me to, my promise is that I will not speak scholarly bullsh*t to you. Feedback I consistently get is that I am easy to talk to and authentic.
Dale Eichenberg
Hello I have been a counselor for approximately 12 years. During those 12 years I have dealt with marriage and family issue, have5 plus years in this area alone. I have worked with parents and families involved in the foster care system, as well as Individuals with Major Depression and some alcohol use and abuse, just to name a few. I am a well rounded counselor who is openminded and nonjudgmental. I have a Master's in Arts from Siena Heights University in Community Counseling and attended the DBT Institute in Michigan . My treatment approaches are eclectic and include, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral therapy, and some reality therapy.
Michael Brown
My passion is to help people heal at their deepest core levels. In my clinical practice I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of symptoms using mindfulness based modalities including EMDR and IFS to optimize emotional and psychological functioning. EMDR and IFS are empirically based treatment interventions designed to access and transform prior emotional wounds. These trauma wounds are often at the root of present day suffering. Compassion, empathy, genuineness, unconditional acceptance and love of learning are a few of the personal traits that I bring to therapeutic work. My clients have experienced freedoms from Anxiety, PTSD, Panic, Depression, Self Esteem and Religious and Spiritual issues. I hold two Master’s degrees, with broad vocational and life experience. I offer you hope that with therapy your life can be transformed and you can live from a place of peace and freedom as you deepen your awareness of your authentic self.
Diann Toney
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, veterans, military families, and individuals facing multicultural and interpersonal challenges. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship transitions, caregiver stress, or personal identity concerns, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, process complex feelings like guilt and shame, and develop healthier relationship patterns. My goal is to empower you to reconnect with your inner strength and create meaningful, positive changes in your life.
Susan Josephson
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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!
Dr. Damaris Davila Negron
I am a fully bilingual in English and Spanish licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Stephanie Curtis-Henson
I am licensed in Arkansas and Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, eating disorders, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Alicia Bellman
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. As a retired nurse and military spouse, I hold a special place in my heart for first responders, active and retired military and their families. I have been paraplegic for 25 years and understand the process of learning and accepting your "new normal". I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 through the holistic and integrative use of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, psychoeducation, mindfulness and talk therapy. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. As we journey together i will strive to foster a supportive, nonjudgmental environment that encourages personal growth and emotional wellbeing.
Gabrielle Gough
Hello! I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker, excited to be able to support you on your therapy journey! My name is Gabrielle Gough, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Jacksonville, FL. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's most challenging moments. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Central Connecticut State University and a Master's degree in Social Work from Florida State University. Throughout my career, I've honed my expertise in individual therapy, specializing in areas such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, end-of-life care, palliative and grief support, advance care planning, and case management. My journey into social work was inspired by my own experiences with loss, which fueled my deep commitment to offering compassionate guidance, advocacy, and support to others facing their own difficult times. I believe in the power of empathy and connection and am dedicated to walking alongside clients as they work through their struggles, empowering them to find strength and healing along the way.
Find a Therapist Near You in Fort Myers , Florida
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Fort Myers.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.