A therapist can help you work through a variety of challenges, from difficult life transitions to changing sexual orientations to behavioral issues to parenting problems. Finding the right therapist in Jacksonville, FL can be challenging; BetterHelp can make the process more streamlined and convenient. This online therapy platform matches you with a therapist who uses evidence based practices and therapeutic techniques to help you learn healthy coping skills using a collaborative approach to treatment. Your therapist or counselor LMHC will be an excellent listener, helping you work toward personal growth.
Every BetterHelp therapist must have completed at least 2,000 hours of clinical supervision with a qualified supervisor and be fully licensed by the state board. If you’re looking for a qualified therapist based in the Jacksonville-Orange Park area, get started with one of the following therapists.
Martha "Grace" Marquez
I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 18 years of experience and have worked in a variety of settings and management capacities. I earned a bachelors degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University and a masters degree from Nova Southeastern University. I hold the following credentials LMHC, MCAP, ACS, CGAC and I am a clinical member of the American Counseling Association, the Dialectical Behavior Therapy National Certification and Accreditation Association and EMDRIA as an approved provider respectively. The primary focus of my practice has been in addictions and co-occurring conditions working both with adolescents and adults; helping to manage all that accompanies a substance-related or addictive disorder. However I have worked with diverse populations and issues and am accustomed to working with clients in individual, family and group settings. I have helped clients successfully address a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, career challenges, gender identity and LGBTQI+ to name a few. 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. I practice a blended, technically eclectic model of evidence-based therapies with strengths-based philosophies. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, humanistic, solution focused counseling. 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 a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Kimberly Smith
As a licensed therapist in Florida and Michigan, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ experiences, and addiction challenges. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their most profound personal struggles. My therapeutic work focuses on helping individuals develop self-love, improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and heal from past experiences of discrimination, violence, and systemic challenges. My practice embraces a holistic perspective that honors diverse identities and experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for healing, growth, and empowerment. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to supporting your path toward emotional wellness and authentic living.
Teresa Horldt
Hello! My name is Teresa Horldt and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 17 years of experience. I began my career working with victims of domestic violence and then progressed to working with crisis intervention issues in a very busy ER setting and then to inpatient and outpatient treatment centers for substance use and mental health issues. The past 15 years I have worked with those struggling with substance use and addiction, depression, anxiety and bipolar mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma and grief and loss. I currently work as a Program Manager with a community based mental health program that reach out to people with schizophrenia, schizoaffective and bipolar disorders along with dual diagnosed. I use an eclectic approach in counseling, to meet the diverse needs of each person. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help with personality disorders and people that want to address interpersonal effectiveness, crisis management, emotional regulation and coremindfulness. I utilize Motivational Interviewing and various recovery approaches (12 step; Refuge Recovery and Celebrate Recovery) to help those with addictions . I find that CBT is very effective with mood disorders, along with Solution Focused strategies. Mindfulness is my favorite approach to help with stress reduction and trauma. I don't believe one size fits all ! I treat all my clients with unconditional regard, respect, dignity and empathy. I feel that the judgmental world has done a lot of damage to our feelings of self worth and overall happiness, so my world view is one of absolute acceptance. I hope that you are able to find my therapy styles and experience something of interest to you. I believe that as a true partnership, I can help you achieve your goals and attain fulfillment and serenity in your life. I
Sara Dabney
A little about my educational background and experience: I began as a Yoga Teacher while I obtained my License in Massage Therapy in 2014. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from The University of South Florida, where I also received Title IV funding for an emphasis in Child Maltreatment as well as participated in graduate research no HIV & PTSD Symptomatology. A little about my practice- I utilize CBT- Mindfulness Techniques, Motivational Interviewing and client centered care. I welcome all faiths, genders/nonconforming, sexual orientations and walks of life. Remember, changing the things you think about might just change the way you think about things.
Valerie Johnson-Cardoso
I have worked as a mental health counselor for over 30 years. My locations of employment are Florida and Pennsylvania. I have worked in Residential Mental Health and Residential Substance Abuse. I was a school teacher for 16 years teaching students with learning differences, emotional issues, autism and developmentally delayed (adults, teens and children). While working as a a teacher I had a private practice in the evenings and weekends. I have knowledge in the area of Religious trauma syndrome and faith transitioning. In Pennsylvania. I worked in homes and day treatment facilities with children and adults. There were people of all ages during my private practice and working for agencies. There are different ways to address issues for each of us. What works for one may not work for another. Working as a team helps us all to deal with our issues to make our lives more peaceful and calm. There are many times we can make a few changes in our life to acquire these. Life is a journey. We have the opportunity to learn ways to cope with our lives. Change is a process on our journey. Many times we have control only of our actions and our response to these changes. Our critic can be our worst enemy and can be relentless in beating us up. Our critic was educated from childhood. My goal for my life for quite some time has been to disarm my critic and love myself. I am looking forward to working to build trust and make it safe environment for you to express your feelings without feeling judged.
John Jamieson
As a licensed therapist in Florida with four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and those navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, relationship dynamics, and trauma with a compassionate, affirming approach. I have deep expertise in working with diverse populations, including military veterans, individuals exploring gender identity, and those experiencing discrimination or relationship complexities. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on communication, life purpose, healing from shame, and personal growth. My commitment is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and move towards meaningful personal transformation. I approach therapy with genuine empathy, respect, and a dedication to understanding each individual's distinct path and potential.
John Checkett
Prof John Checkett (pronounced as in, Check it Out!) is a highly skilled, highly educated therapist holding degrees in several of the social sciences. He's the first man in history to earn a master's degree in Women's Studies in Florida, an academic discipline which he also taught on a university level. He also holds university degrees in communication arts and social work, as well as being an LCSW. He's worked in emergency screening, providing spot analysis for emergency mental health cases with no advance notice. He also worked for years in the prison system, with inmates experiencing mental health difficulties. John'san excellent listener and communicator, and he specializes in problems related to gender, problems between couples -- which are usually matters of communication -- and social justice. He employs an integrative approach, drawing especially upon cognitive behavioral therapy, Jungian and narrative therapy, addressing such matters as self-care, empowerment, self-image, self-esteem and conflict resolution.
George Deegan
I have worked with many types of people in my career, but a favorite is helping those struggling with grief. People have come to me after losing a child, a friend, or a parent and even a close long-term romantic partner. Being overwhelmed with conflicting and confusing emotions is common and often they just need to be heard. Your process is unique to you and the last thing you need to hear is, "It's time to move on, stop crying." The goal is to take ownership of your grief, and all that comes with it. Sometimes permission is all that you need to allow whatever happens to happen. You are the director of how you choose to grieve. I specialize in addiction, intersex birth differences, grief, anxiety and trauma. Initially, my style is to work towards building a therapeutic relationship with you, always developing trust in its own time until you are comfortable revealing deeper vulnerability. I believe together, with minds combined, we find better solutions to what seems insurmountable. Since high school many have shared private information with me. I suspect they know just how much I can relate to their experiences. As a flawed human, with much life experience, my strength lies in compassionate understanding. I continue to receive letters of gratitude from decades old clients. I humbly respond, "I lit the candle you did all the work!"
Ilysa Strassler
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with those in the Kink community. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Melissa Miller-Munoz
I am licensed in Florida with 10+ years of professional work experience in conflict resolution and mental health counseling. I believe that empowerment is an essential and powerful tool in the healing process. I approach the therapist-client relationship with an open heart and mind, building upon trust, collaboration, and empathy to produce positive, transformative outcomes. I seek to facilitate change by entering the client’s psychological world, utilizing a phenomenological lens; this allows me to focus on the lived experiences of each individual and the personal meaning behind their circumstances past, present, and future to determine the most effective therapeutic interventions. My holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the overall relationship between mind, body & spirit. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, life transitions, family conflicts, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, and self esteem. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I aim to work collaboratively to address your counseling needs. Therapy can be healing and transforming given the right circumstances and connection. I hope to be part of your healing journey!
Brian Mandel
I am licensed in Florida and New York with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, 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. 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.
Kimberly Plummer
I believe healing happens when we feel safe enough to listen to ourselves with curiosity and compassion. My work is grounded, relational, and gently informed by spirituality, meaning-making, and inner wisdom. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), which helps clients understand and care for the different “parts” of themselves — especially the ones shaped by pain, protection, or survival. I’m LGBTQ+ affirming and enjoy working with clients exploring identity, relationships, burnout, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I aim to create a space that feels calm, respectful, and real — where you don’t have to perform or have it all figured out. Therapy with me is collaborative and paced to your needs. Together, we’ll work toward greater self-trust, clarity, and a deeper sense of alignment with who you are and what matters to you.
Dannyelle Driver
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation and shame. With experience in trauma recovery, and life transitions, I offer compassionate guidance for those managing grief, ADHD, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in empowering individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and build resilience through collaborative, personalized care. Every journey is different, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care as you move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.
Lisa Bentivenga
Please call me Lisa. I am a married, cisgender heterosexual woman, and my husband and I have a high school aged son. I have worked as a therapist for 17 years. I've worked in many settings, which means I can help tackle lots of different problems. I treat teens and adults of all ages. I can help you with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, work or school difficulties, relationship difficulties and other interpersonal issues. I have always treated the LGBTQ community. Additionally, I can help with sexual issues, whether it is dysfunction or related to alternative lifestyles. I think of myself as a girl-next-door therapist. New clients often comment that I'm easy to talk to. Your privacy and confidentiality is of my utmost concern. You will not be judged by me because of your diagnosis, personal issues, relationship types, religion, ethnicity, gender or sexuality. I believe everyone is doing the best they can with what they know. I'm here to teach you new skills to improve your life.
Find a Therapist Near You in Jacksonville , Florida
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Jacksonville.
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.