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.
SHARON ZIGMAN
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Master's level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) in the State of Florida. I have been working in the field for 25 years, and have experience with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, change of life challenges, family and relationship issues. I offer a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental environment to help you explore the issues that brought you to counseling at this time. By creating an open, trusting and collaborative partnership, and utilizing evidence-based practices, I can help you to make conscious choices and practical behavioral changes. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities while emphasizing self-care and mindfulness practices.
Reneisha Drayton
Hey you! Welcome! I am so incredibly proud of you for taking the first step in regaining control over your life! Life can be a very tricky journey; sometimes you just feel stuck! Please know this; know that you are not alone! We are all still learning, are all still growing, and are all constantly trying to figure it all out! Sometimes, someone who is not in our immediate circle can offer a perspective or additional support that provides just the right amount of push, motivation, and direction to give us movement on a difficult situation. Pick me! I’m that person! Lol! Since you’ve made it this far, I’m sure you’re wondering how this all works and whether this is even the right fit for you so I’ll do my best to try to explain it all! My name is Neisha and my parents did not follow the I before E except after C rule! Haha! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Autism Specialist. I have 10 years of experience in this field, but I won’t bore you with all of my accolades because the focus is you. I’m here for YOU! To me, the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. The comfort and connection that one feels with the person they choose to share their personal struggles with is super important! Being vulnerable is tough and I place tremendous value on the fact that people trust me in their most vulnerable state. My approach to therapy is quite simple- WE ARE A TEAM! I am not a dictator and will not pretend to know what’s best for your life. YOU are the expert on your life so YOU will be the leader of this journey! I will simply help and guide you in the right direction and offer a different perspective as well as extra support when you feel stuck. I am extremely open-minded and will provide you with a judgment free zone and safe space to share your feelings. And although I won’t judge, I will be completely honest, direct, and call you out on your crap if I need too! I mean, what’s the point of therapy if I’m not honest with you?! If you are ready to take your life back, I’m ready to help you do so! Please know that you can message me at any time as it would be an honor and pleasure to work with you! Stop wasting time! Let’s get started on your journey towards a happier, healthier, and balanced YOU! Chat soon!
Stephen Herz
My name is Stephen Herz. I have a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in Miami, Fl. With over 10 years of helping people overcome or better understand life’s challenges. Using a variety of counseling styles to fit the individual needs of my clients, we together, work to alleviate and better understand the issues affecting their lives. Specializing in working with people suffering from addictions, anxiety and stress, low self-esteem, irrational beliefs, and a history of trauma.
Robin Lavine
My clients have taught me that everyone, (even though you think you're different) wants the same thing: to be heard, understood, and validated, so it's safe to love and be loved. With the use of psychodynamic, Jungian, and humanistic style, I listen to your stories from childhood or yesterday as we identify, explore, and process your feelings. You may find that it's okay to be angry at your mother. I'm only a phone call away and would like to assist you realize your best self. Men, that means you, too. I have 17 years of clinical experience working one-on-one, with couples, or in groups while practicing in mental health agencies, hospitals, residential facilities, and prisons. When will we start?
Ian Rivera
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in providing therapeutic services to clients for over 6 years. I have worked addressing a wide range of clients issues; addiction, anxiety, depression, and life changes just to name a few. I meet each of my clients where they are at in their walk of life. I work to individualize a plan of action to help you make changes to live a fulfilling life. My approach’s include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, and client centered. Change is difficult, but very important in order to progress and overcome various life challenges. I am here to guide you through the difficult times in order to be the best you.
Nancy Burden
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience. I graduated from Florida State University in 1994 with my BSW. I graduated from East Carolina University in 2003 with my MSW. I went back to school and received an additional masters degree from Purdue Global University in 2020 in Psychology with a concentration on Behavioral Analysis. I have experience working with individuals, children and families. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I am TF-CBT Certified, (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, typically used for children, adolescents and their caregivers). I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative in nature. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and DBT.
Stasia Manak
I am licensed in Florida with 8+ years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, building self-esteem, coping with grief and loss, & 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 takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Katina Hill-Thompson
I am licensed in Florida with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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!
Sharnece Thomas
I am licensed in Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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! Due to current maternity leave, I am only available for live chat (messaging) sessions and messaging.
Mary Jenssen
I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Gainesville
Finding the best therapist close by in Gainesville 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 in Gainesville that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Gainesville. 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 Gainesville, 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 in the Gainesville region and in the state of Florida. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Gainesville or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Gainesville area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Gainesville 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 Gainesville, elsewhere in Alachua, or in the greater state of Florida.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Gainesville area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Gainesville online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Gainesville, 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 Gainesville psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Gainesville 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 Gainesville helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Gainesville 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 - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- 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 Gainesville 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 in Gainesville?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Gainesville 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.
Gainesville therapists 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in FL, therapists 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 32611 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Gainesville counselor?
Before seeing your Gainesville 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Gainesville.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Gainesville 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 with a Gainesville counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Gainesville, 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.
Gainesville 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Gainesville, Florida
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 to customer service 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 Gainesville:
32601, 32602, 32603, 32604, 32605, 32607, 32608, 32609, 32610, 32611, 32612, 32614, 32627, 32635, 32653