Licensed Fort Walton Beach therapists can support adults working through anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life challenges. In this part of FL, many people balance work, family life, and the demands of a military-connected community tied to Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. For those looking for counseling in Fort Walton Beach or a therapist serving Fort Walton Beach residents, online therapy can make support easier to fit into daily routines across Florida.

BetterHelp helps people connect with licensed Fort Walton Beach counselors for online therapy across Florida, including nearby communities such as Destin, Niceville, and Mary Esther. Many therapists use approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy, and support concerns such as PTSD, stress, and relationship challenges. BetterHelp accepts insurance through major insurance plans, and the average copay for eligible individuals is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

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Psychologist Melissa Pesce providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Melissa Pesce

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW15618
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years offering treatment

Meaningful change happens when you feel both supported and challenged. My approach is direct, supportive and compassionate. Creating a space where you can feel safe to explore your experiences while being encouraged to move toward your goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their strengths, deepen their self-awareness, and develop the insight needed to create lasting change. Together, we will work to bring greater clarity, direction, and purpose to your life while fostering accountability, growth, and personal evolution. I strive to create an open-minded, nonjudgmental environment that promotes healing, resilience, and transformation. Whether you are navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, or personal growth, I will meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. My integrative therapeutic approach combines trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness-based interventions tailored to your unique needs and goals. I also incorporate evidence-based techniques including strengths-based, solution-focused, family systems, holistic, client-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches. By drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, I am able to provide individualized care that supports healing, fosters self-discovery, and empowers you to create meaningful and sustainable change. Please feel free to reach out about my office hours. I offer 30 minute video or phone sessions. I look forward to helping you grow and move you forward into the next chapter in your life. Let’s get started!

Psychologist Dr. James Welch providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Dr. James Welch

Clinician
License Type(s): AK LPC 197557, FL LMHC MH2484
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
33 years offering treatment

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical consultant and executive coach. I am also a trainer and provide training in an evidenced based model for clinicians across the country. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach utilizes Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused models. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. My intent is to respond within 24 hours of initial contact. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Stalburn VanSluytman providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Stalburn VanSluytman

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW4378
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepression
40 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Corina Istanich providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Corina Istanich

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH17317
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
10 years offering treatment

Welcome ! My name is Corina and I hold a license in Mental Health Counseling (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I went to school at Palm Beach Atlantic University for both my under grad and masters education. Palm Beach Atlantic University is a Christian University and I feel grateful to have attended this school as it has created the person I am today. I believe that my faith has developed me as the counselor I am today and I function with that mentality in counseling. Jesus is the great counselor and I believe that we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I have been working in the counseling field for 8 years and have been licensed for 4 of those years. I have worked the majority of my career in an in-patient addictions center and have expanded to out-patient and in home therapy with a couple different community agencies. In those agencies I have offered services to children from the ages of 4 to adults in their 60's, as well as family therapy. I have worked with an array of issues not limited to family conflict, relationship issues, communication, drugs and alcohol, anger, stress, coping skills and many other life issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a modality that I primarily work with and at times borrowing from other modalities when it is fit. My goal is to build a real, raw and positive relationship while being compassionate and empathetic. I will be sensitive but also direct in efforts to help you find solutions to your current and/or past issues. I also believe that incorporating the use coping skills, boundaries and communication will increase quality of life as well as the quality of relationships. I believe all interactions are the beginning of potential flourishing relationships. With that said, I think that as we grow in counselor and client relationship , this very relationship will better help you with your relationships with family, friends and co-workers. I am excited to meet you and to work with you as you learn new ways to live your very best life! Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey. Additional info: I prefer to do video sessions as we are able to see each other face to face and I am able to pick up on ques that are important in therapy. I am not opposed to live chat or phone call when video is not available but prefer video. If you the time that you need to meet is not available, please message me so I can accommodate you.

Psychologist Lisa Westcoat providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Lisa Westcoat

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH19506
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) working in Florida with 14 years of experience working full-time in the mental health field and in addiction treatment. I strive to create a counseling relationship that is safe and accepting. I have been told I am genuine, encouraging, and direct at times. I have a passion for helping others with a wide range of concerns, including low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, communication problems, relationship issues, depression, trauma, and abuse, as well as coping with life changes. With vast knowledge and experience in working with drug, alcohol, and process/cross addictions, family conflicts, guilt and shame, as well as co-dependency and the integration of the twelve-step approach, I hope to assist you in overcoming your struggles. In addition, I also assisted others who have barriers with anger management, control issues, domestic violence, commitment struggles, and aim to help reverse a cycle of thoughts and behaviors that are destructive to self and within relationships through challenging irrational beliefs. My therapy style is warm and empathic, combining experience and a sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to the therapeutic process. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I utilize different therapeutic techniques, and I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It takes strength and courage to seek assistance and ask for help. I am here to support and empower you on your journey of making positive changes for achieving a more fulfilling and happier life! How can I help you?

Psychologist Danielle Deramo providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Danielle Deramo

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 011929, FL LMHC MH24431
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disordersDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am a therapist licensed in New York with over 5 years of experience working as an eating disorder therapist. I have worked with and continue to work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and relationship issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is gentle and warm. I treat anyone that I interact with with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines CBT, DBT and ACT however I create treatment plans based on your goals. I will plan your treatment around your unique and specific needs. It's a very brave decision to seek treatment for whatever ails you and my goal is to encourage and empower you on your journey! I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Diane Petersen providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Diane Petersen

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH9521
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have been providing counselling services in an inpatient and outpatient setting for over 20 years. My therapeutic approach is simple. I actively listen without judgment so I can provide the best quality care for all my clients. I have extensive experience helping clients manage stress and anxiety, cope with addictions, and recover from trauma, abuse, grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Michelle Johnson providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Michelle Johnson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW20392
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Cheryl Breining providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Cheryl Breining

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW21533
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Psychologist Laura Watkins providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Laura Watkins

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH23219
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating complex relationship dynamics. My professional approach centers on helping clients improve communication, work through interpersonal challenges, and develop healthier emotional connections. I have experience addressing relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy concerns, and life changes and adjustments. My therapeutic practice focuses on understanding the unique dynamics of each relationship, whether you're dealing with communication breakdowns, separation, attachment challenges, or exploring personal sexuality. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for growth and healing. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to build stronger, more authentic connections—both with themselves and with others. I believe that every individual has the capacity for positive change and meaningful transformation in their relationships.

Psychologist Lorna Black providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Lorna Black

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH6304
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

As a Licensed Therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth challenges. I bring a compassionate, culturally informed approach to therapy, drawing from extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, self-discovery, and building resilient coping strategies. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful personal insights. Through evidence-based practices and a deep understanding of human experience, I help individuals build emotional strength, improve self-esteem, and effectively manage life transitions. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you move toward greater personal understanding and wellbeing.

Psychologist Donald Patton providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Donald Patton

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH24642
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

Psychologist Tomeka Bright providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Tomeka Bright

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 101031, WA LMHC MHC.LH.70074642
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
26 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in Florida, Texas and Washington with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also worked with many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Jennifer King-Fields providing different types of therapy in Fort Walton Beach

Jennifer King-Fields

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW25811
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
5 years offering treatment

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience who specializes in working with adolescents and adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, executive functioning, and relationships. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel understood while building practical skills to manage stress, improve focus and organization, and develop healthier connections with others. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, helping clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and patterns while learning tools they can use in everyday life. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by school or life demands, struggling with motivation or follow-through, or experiencing conflict in friendships, family, or dating relationships, I tailor therapy to meet you where you are. I aim to help clients build confidence, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change so they can feel more in control, connected, and capable in their daily lives.

Find a Therapist Near You in Fort Walton Beach , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
  3. 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 Walton Beach.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Fort Walton Beach can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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