Michael Shaughnessy
My name is Michael. I love tennis, running, college football, my work, and my wife (not necessarily in that order). I have over 3 decades of experience in providing a safe enough space for people to examine/explore and hopefully resolve whatever issues precipitated their reaching out for assistance. I have found, over the years, that entering therapy is, for most, somewhat of a last resort; if it really was an easy fix, they would have resolved the issue on their own with a friend, mentor, or previous therapist. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and have worked in numerous settings over the years, including inpatient treatment for substance abuse, co-dependency, and eating disorders. Have been in private practice for several decades, in both a group practice and as a solo practitioner. Have encountered and assisted folks suffering from depression, anxiety, and various trauma’s due to distressing life experiences, as well as folks becoming a little lost along the way. Have assisted numerous couples trying to save or make their marriages better. As a private practice therapist, I have been privileged to work with people from many cultures and from various walks of life. I can best be described as eclectic in approach, with a strong tendency towards experiential therapy, and have found that acceptance of myself and others is one of the keys to harmony in this world and in my life. My clients and I laugh often in therapy, as I tend to utilize humor wherever I can. I possess what I call a tenacious spirit, as I never give up on anyone. I am competent and compassionate when assisting others who are experiencing periods of pain and loss, and the complicated feelings experienced as we go through life. I am insightful and energetic, drawing upon decades of personal as well as professional experience, sharing easily and often the life experiences I have lived (my mistakes as well as successes). I believe we are shaped by the experiences we have lived and that various aspects of our personality have evolved over time and will continue to evolve as we live our lives. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little nudge to address what we would rather not whereas others dive into the issues they know they need to. I work, at times, to assist in helping develop a balance between our internal parent/adult and child selves, as an imbalance in these aspects of the personality can create the distress that precipitates an entry into therapy.
Jasmyn Graham
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Florida and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have been clinically practicing therapy for over 5 years. I have experience in a range of clinical settings of residential programs, outpatient facilities, school based setting and private practice. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for individual, couples and family therapy. As we all know we face many troubles within ourselves and without. Whether that be self-esteem, self-doubt, family, relationships, work, financial situations, co-parenting, etc. I believe that we all go through things in life that impacts us more than we know– some good, some bad and some indifferent. We experience some things that we can control and others we cannot. With that, I have found that it has become essential to focus on being INTENTIONAL in the way that you live, interact with others and go forth on your journey through life. I think that if we strive to take action in our life and not settle for the hand that we have been dealt, we can process, heal and grow to great depths. I utilize primarily Narrative and Solution-Focused based Therapy approach as it relates to my systemic background training, which allows for a non-judgmental, open space that allows a collaborative effort to assist you in making the needed changes in your life, because you are the expert! Working with me, collaboratively we will work towards unpacking, becoming more intentional (in the way you live, interact with self and others) and creating the life you deserve. I look forward to working with you!
Andromada Brooks
Hello, Thank you for taking the time out to get to know me a little. My name is Andromada Brooks. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional in the state of Florida with over 7 years of experience . I love what I do for a living, it's my passion. I have had the pleasure of working in a variety of settings and with a culturally diverse clientele. My experience has given me the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families dealing with a broad range of concerns such as life changes, self esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, domestic violence, depression, relationship issues and grief/loss. Just to name a few. My therapy style is compassionate, empathetic, non judgmental and a safe place for you to provide yourself permission to be vulnerable. I believe that setting the foundation for healing and empowerment begins with building the therapeutic relationship where we will establish trust and healing. When working with clients, I see myself as a guide on their journey. I am here to assist them in addressing , exploring and making changes to whatever is causing the problems or hurt in their lives. I will challenge their thinking and other patterns that are not currently serving them in their time of healing and growth. As a guide on their journey, I will empower and encourage them to break the chain of fear, cope with their truth and brighten their light on the pathway to healing. I utilize evidence based therapy approaches and various techniques. However, this will be chosen based on the client's needs. It will my pleasure to assist on your journey , let me know if I can be of service to you.
Deidre McLeod
I am a mental health therapist licensed in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia with 20 years of experience. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, and ADHD. I specialize in trauma informed therapy and have helped many people who have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual assault. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and trauma informed therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that as individuals we are holistic beings with physical, mental and spiritual needs. We will encompass all of these dynamics in our sessions together to ensure your holistic healing and wellbeing. 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!
Crystal Talamantes
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of clinical experience, 10 of those years doing therapy in various settings with various populations. I have extensive experience working with individuals from those experiencing minor life adjustments to those experiencing severe and persistent mental illness. I look forward to helping you tap into your problem-solving skills so that you can achieve your particular goals. I tailor my approach to your needs but generally use Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Psychoeducational modalities. I look forward to working with you!
Marc Lavett
Through partnership with individuals, I am able to serve as a change agent to assist in overcoming personal challenges to improve the quality of their life. Using a cognitive based approach (REBT), as a therapist I work collaboratively with clients to identify, restructure, and redirect their negative thoughts. The guiding tenet under which I offer therapeutic services is that our thoughts influence our behaviors and feelings. I have worked in a variety of environments since 1998, blending senior corporate leadership responsibilities into educational and therapeutic programming. By integrating clinically tested evidenced-based interventions, I have led programmatic development through positive, measurable outcomes. By providing group, family and individual counseling, my goal is to effectively bridge any potential gaps between home, work and or school
Paul Sohr
I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Julienne Louis
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues & coping with life changes. 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.
Chaconna Downs
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients relieve stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. Processing and overcoming trauma and abuse, and improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence are other areas where I excel. 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. It takes courage to seek help and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Vanessa Villafane Gregory
I am licensed in Florida with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, and family conflicts. Also, I help clients with low self-esteem and lack of motivation. 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 congratulate you for getting started! I accept clients who reside in Florida, where I am licensed.
How to find counseling in Fort White
Finding the best therapist close by in Fort White 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 White. 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 White, 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 White 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 White 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 White, elsewhere in Columbia, 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 White area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fort White 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 White 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 White 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 White, 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 White 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 White 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 White 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 White 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 White 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 32038 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 White 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 White 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 White, 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 White 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Fort White:
32038