If you’re looking for a therapist in Gainesville, FL, you can find many independent practices that offer in-person treatment or use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Although BetterHelp does not offer play therapy or other services for children, the providers on the platform provide exceptional counseling for adults of all ages.
A professional in the mental health field can guide you through the therapeutic process to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. You can get support for the symptoms of a mental health condition like depression or anxiety or to work through challenging life experiences like domestic violence, low self-esteem, sexual assault, or sexuality issues.
Work with a counselor who cares deeply and can offer new perspectives for self-discovery. Get started with a Gainesville-based therapist below.
Dr. Kimberly Kowalik
It takes tremendous courage and strength to ask for help and allow another person into your life when you feel vulnerable and alone. It has been my honor to work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families for the past several years to promote healing and growth. I strongly believe in utilizing a strength-based approach that promotes a partnership between my clients and I so that we may achieve their personal goals together! I specialize in diverse mental health concerns including, but not limited to trauma, behavioral issues, substance abuse/dependency disorders, bereavement, anxiety, depression, anger management, and interpersonal relationship issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a PhD, I have additional masters degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling, Applied Criminology and psychology. I am also currently training for Professional Certification in Lifestyle Medicine from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and additional training in neurofeedback.
Joy Adle
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, grieving a loss, out of balance and alone, it’s time to get support to find a path to regain your peace of mind. You don't need to be alone with sadness, pain or anxiety, I am here to encourage you to develop the skills to find your inner strength and change thoughts and emotional patterns that are keeping you feeling hopeless, stuck or unworthy. I work primarily with individuals in transition who are dealing with change or loss and are seeking support to grow spiritually and emotionally in order to move forward with realizing their dreams. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, with a Master of Science in Counseling and a Master of Arts in Spiritual Psychology. I have 7 years of experience in addiction counseling, family grief counseling and I support my clients to gain insight, strength and a greater sense of self-compassion and well-being. I use a holistic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and communication skills to heal relationships and change addictive behavior. My techniques include physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practices to assist you in regaining your clarity and enthusiasm for your life.
Alecia Rager
Hi, my name is Alecia, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 6 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I currently have a private practice and my past experience has included working with adults and children in crisis unit, rehab and detox facility, caregivers of individuals with Neurocognitive disorders, hospital trauma units and emergency departments. I use Evidence Based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Solution Focused therapies with Motivational Interviewing. My goal is to collaborate with members to embrace change through their strengths. Life can be a lonely place when you no longer feel yourself or are feeling overwhelmed. Anxiety, depression and traumas can feel like a cinder block on our shoulders. You may wonder how things will change? Change begins with vulnerability. To be vulnerable is to let go of the notion you have to struggle alone. It is time to write another chapter of your story with the strength that has gotten you this far. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for you to release the burden that is holding you back from living your best life. Be you, Your Way.
Tomeccia Maxwell
I am a Individual and family Therapist licensed in the state of Florida with over 10 years experience working as a mental health Case Manger and Therapist. I have served client that struggled with past trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, withdrawn behaviors, failed relationship of all types, parenting issues, suicidal thoughts and a range of mood disorders. My therapist style is helping others find themselves and grow mentally. Its my goal to grow individuals from the inside out, by allowing them learn and build the proper skills to understand their mental health while growing through healthy parts of themselves. My approach is motivated by the solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral, and rational- emotive therapy. My ability to transform the minds of others while helping them understand their mental health has been my biggest success as a therapist. My career as licensed Mental Health Therapist has been extremely fulfilling, as I have learned how to ensure the mental health of others are maintain and controlled by to growth within themselves. Its my pleasure continue my practice by working side by side with community providers to help the on going needs of mental health services.
Robert Shackelford
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy takes courage and I will do my best to build upon that effort.
Katie Drobney
I am licensed in Colorado with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. 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. To do this, I often like to utilize creative interventions (art, music, journaling) in our therapy together, however it is always up to you whether or not you would like to work this way. I am also trained in transpersonal counseling, which calls upon your own personal spiritual beliefs to aid in the therapeutic process.
Jannet Harper
Hello my name is Jannet and I enjoy helping couples and individuals get back to their natural innate selves. I provide a safe space for you to discuss daily life stressors, couples issues, politics, spirituality and business hurdles. I'm a licensed therapist (FL) with over 18 years of experience assisting individuals and couples in overcoming life's intrusive challenges. Some current challenges I can help you with: Couples: Communication struggles (learning how to decrease conflict and limit escalation responses). Trust Issues, Complicated Grief, Goal Clarification and Acquisition assistance. Individuals: Inner Conflict Clarification, Anxiety Responses, Trauma Responses, Financial Stress Responses, Goal Clarification and Acquisition assistance. If you are ready to discuss change and explore a new perspective on the problem then an appointment with me will be productive towards your end goal. I look forward to helping you address what’s troubling you.🙂 New Clients: Remember if you do not see an open slot you can request a time. I have numerous slots open for people who need last minute appointments. Send two times and a day. I will do my best to accommodate you.
Linda Kartell
I am licensed in Florida with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I believe that you are your own expert and that you have many strengths and resources that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Our partnership will focus on identifying your strengths and resources and using them to reduce your difficulties and address your issues. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Penelope Surber
I have been licensed in Florida for less than one year but have 6 years of experience working as an adult trauma therapist at a recovery center. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, mid-life crises, stress, low self-esteem, abandonment issues, empty nesters, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, grief, good girl trauma, self-esteem, codependence, and confidence. I have also helped many women who have struggled with childhood trauma to include all forms of abuse. My therapy style is warm, person-centered, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, empathy, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, psychodynamic, gestalt, solution-focused, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to be willing to ask for help and take the first steps towards change. To seek a more fulfilling and happier life through transformation and growth. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Candice Mitchell
I’m a trauma-informed therapist who supports adults navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. My work integrates Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems (IFS), with a focus on helping your nervous system settle so real change can happen. I offer sessions by phone, which many people find allows them to feel safer in their bodies, less self-conscious, and more able to focus on what they’re experiencing internally. I was drawn to this work after seeing how quietly anxiety, trauma, and depression can take over daily life—disrupting sleep, relationships, confidence, and a sense of safety. I repeatedly met people who were doing everything they could and still felt overwhelmed or stuck. I wanted to help people experience real relief, not just manage symptoms. That path led me into trauma-informed private practice, where I help clients feel calmer, steadier, and more like themselves again. When we begin working together, we move at a thoughtful, supportive pace. Intake isn’t about rushing through your story; it’s about understanding what you’re carrying, how stress shows up in your body and mind, and what feels most important right now. We focus on building safety and trust first. Progress often looks like anxiety becoming less consuming, emotional reactions softening, and a greater sense of grounding in everyday life. I work best with adults who are seeking meaningful relief and are open to deeper healing at a pace that feels respectful and manageable. I’m committed to ongoing learning because effective therapy should continue to evolve. I regularly pursue advanced training in trauma-informed care, nervous system regulation, and body-based approaches, including Polyvagal Theory and IFS. I’m especially interested in how stress and trauma live in the body—and how therapy can help you feel safer, more regulated, and less overwhelmed in daily life.
Sarah Davis
I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I specialize in providing comprehensive support to individuals, couples, and families. I treat a wide range of conditions, including social and coping skills development, anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. my approach is personalized, utilizing diverse treatment modalities to meet the unique needs of each client. I have experience in residential care for at-risk youth, community clinics, and working within the military community. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can work through life’s challenges, heal, and achieve their treatment goals. I integrates several therapeutic approaches in her practice, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Techniques, and Mindfulness, to ensure the most effective and personalized care for clients.
Torie Amza
I am licensed in Florida and Louisiana with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Carline Bressler
I hold a master's degree and licensure in Social Work in Florida, bringing over a decade of experience in mental health services. I have experience in providing both individual and group counseling. I am passionate about helping clients create lasting change—one session at a time. I believe that effective therapy is never one-size-fits-all; instead, I take a personalized, client-centered approach to support each individual’s unique journey. My mission is simple: “Let’s get you where you aspire to be.”
Deliciah Smith-Blanks
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. I have extensive experience addressing challenges such as anxiety, family dynamics, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice honors diverse experiences and identities, creating a compassionate space where clients can explore their unique journeys. I draw from evidence-based approaches to help individuals develop stronger communication skills, process challenging emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through significant life changes, workplace challenges, social anxiety, and personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with stress, seeking deeper self-understanding, or working through complex emotional experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
Find a Therapist Near You in Gainesville , 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.
With a population of Florida_POPULATION, 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_COUNTIES, 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 Florida_COUNTIES.
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.