Amy Matthews
I have been doing counseling for over 35 years. When I lived in Pennsylvania, I worked as a school counselor in a high school for 28 years and also maintained a private practice. Since moving to Florida, I worked in a private practice in which I specialized in both adolescents and adults. I also work with families and couples. I worked at Better Help before and formed many successful relationships with clients. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor who is genuine, supportive, and empathetic. I have been in therapy many times and definitely understand how helpful it can be to have someone who is in your corner, advocating and believing solely in you. I consider myself liberal and non-judgmental and I would be surprised if there was something you could tell me that I have not heard before, I also have a strong sense of humor and know that humor has saved me many times from my own issues. I received my Master's degree in 1980 in Marriage, family, and Child Counseling, but I consider that my life experience just as important in having added to my counseling skills. Many counselors can learn from books, but I incorporate all I have learned in my own life experience into the work I do with clients. Let's talk.
David Shirly
I am a licensed therapist in Florida dedicated to supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, and interpersonal communication. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique experiences. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal transformation, I provide a supportive environment for meaningful healing and growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and creating positive life changes. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and move towards a more fulfilling life.
April Lewis
I am a licensed Clinician and Certified Tele-mental therapist with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients various issues including stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship and family issues, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Lisa Westcoat
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) working in Florida with 14 years of experience working full-time in the mental health field and in addiction treatment. I strive to create a counseling relationship that is safe and accepting. I have been told I am genuine, encouraging, and direct at times. I have a passion for helping others with a wide range of concerns, including low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, communication problems, relationship issues, depression, trauma, and abuse, as well as coping with life changes. With vast knowledge and experience in working with drug, alcohol, and process/cross addictions, family conflicts, guilt and shame, as well as co-dependency and the integration of the twelve-step approach, I hope to assist you in overcoming your struggles. In addition, I also assisted others who have barriers with anger management, control issues, domestic violence, commitment struggles, and aim to help reverse a cycle of thoughts and behaviors that are destructive to self and within relationships through challenging irrational beliefs. My therapy style is warm and empathic, combining experience and a sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to the therapeutic process. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I utilize different therapeutic techniques, and I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It takes strength and courage to seek assistance and ask for help. I am here to support and empower you on your journey of making positive changes to achieve a more fulfilling and happier life! How can I help you? **Please note: I provide individual therapy only and do not offer couples, marriage, or family therapy through BetterHelp. Also, I do not provide therapy for porn addiction**
Dr. Shannon Holliker
Hello and Welcome! It is great to see that you have decided to take this step into further self-discovery, self-growth, and reflection. Therapy is a process, but doesn't necessarily require you to know exactly what type of support you might need. Actually, many people enter therapy to discover they have other things they also want to address. Sometimes, it's about the rewarding process to self-discovery that can be the motivation. Regardless of how you got here, my goal is to provide you with unconditional support. My approach is about honest dialogue. Too often there is a belief that saying 'certain things' in therapy is not acceptable. The reality is that it is the best place to have such discussions about feelings, thoughts, and approaches to challenges. It is also equally important to celebrate what may even feel like small victories. As we reach adulthood, we can tend to think that celebration is less important when it is super important. I hold a PhD in Public Affairs (Social Work Focus). This credential has provided me the opportunity to continue teaching college and doing research in critical areas of mental health. I have two Masters' degrees, in Social Work and Child Development and Education. I went back to pursue my second Master's in Early Childhood because one of my specialties is parenting and providing counseling support to very young children, supporting families affected by trauma or stress due to issues with their young child, and trauma response. I am passionate about helping parents with their own anxiety and depression (or other challenges), providing support to families affected by medical stress (a child with a chronic illness or in the NICU or a parent with medical concerns), assisting with support for intervention of developmental or behavioral concerns, fertility, and/or any concerns related to your family dynamics. My experience has also been in providing different therapy interventions to young children (0-5 years) with their family. I have assisted many families in identifying and addressing family challenges that could contribute to their young child's emotional or behavioral concern. Through this platform, our focus would be on your concerns or challenges in parenting and/or mental health or other areas, and we would work together for an end goal. I am also passionate about providing individual therapy to support anxiety, problem-focused depression, burnout, and effects of trauma. These challenges can present differently for different people and no feelings are 'wrong.' Our world is filled with a variety of unique cumulative stressors and this can make it sometimes difficult to identify the cause. Things such as, burnout, from the daily challenges can create more complex feelings of loss, confusion, and depression because they are often minimized by our own beliefs. I want to conclude by sharing that not everyone requires walking through their past to understand their current circumstances. There are lots of approaches to therapy as it is just a form of support. The duration of therapy also depends on many factors, but I believe that you and I should always form goals we can track progress. I'm happy you decided to stop by and that you are considering the process of therapy. I look forward to working with you!
Rosemary Holderman
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida with additional past practice in Ohio. I have over 40 years’ experience, providing mental health therapy in a variety of settings with various populations. My experience with adolescents and their families, and adults. I have provided treatment in a variety of settings, juvenile corrections in a group home setting, including individual counseling, group counseling and family counseling, public mental health involving individual female and male clients and group work, in home counseling for families and children, individual and group work, and with the Department of Children and Families in the State of Florida I have extensive experience with mental health issues, anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, victims of violence, adolescent and teen issues, family group work life coaching, and transitional lifestyles. I believe each individual has the desire to reach their highest potential and the capacity to achieve their goals. The journey to find the potential can be a challenge. It is important for the client to have an open honest relationship with the therapist as concerns, life experiences and/or relationships are explored. I will be a guide through challenges and successes as the goals are achieved. My approach is client centered; the client is the leader; I am a guide. As your therapist, my role is to guide you through your journey with caring, empathy and understanding. I will listen.
Sarah Cooper
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over a decade of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues like social anxiety, workplace stress, trauma recovery, and interpersonal communication. My approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women, young adults, and those experiencing significant life transitions. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of personal healing. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise.
Marianne Penichet
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Donna Williams Welch
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, depression, trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Jacqueline Dougherty
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!
Jennifer Cruz
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience in inpatient and outpatient settings- helping clients with needs that range from help dealing with day to day stressors to help with symptom management for acute and/or chronic mental health needs. 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.
Tracy Mark
Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. I strive to create a warm, supportive space where children, teens, adults, and families can feel safe exploring challenges, gaining insight, and moving toward meaningful change. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who works with individuals and families navigating concerns such as anxiety, trauma, parenting challenges, behavioral difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and life transitions. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy, and solution-focused strategies while also honoring the powerful connection between the mind and body. I believe healing happens when we consider the whole person- thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical well-being. My style is warm, nurturing, and collaborative. I aim to meet each client where they are and tailor therapy to their unique needs and goals. Whether helping a child build emotional regulation skills, supporting teens through life’s pressures, or helping adults better understand patterns in their relationships and emotional responses, our work together focuses on developing insight, resilience, and practical tools for lasting change. I also bring extensive experience working with foster and adoptive families. This background has given me a deep appreciation for how our earliest relationships and childhood experiences shape our sense of safety, connection, and well-being throughout life. In therapy, we often explore how these early foundations influence present challenges while building healthier patterns moving forward. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you, it's about helping you better understand yourself, strengthen your inner resources, and move toward the life you want. If you’re ready to take that step, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
Rhonda McEntire
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 25 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and addiction. I offer a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique journey. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly committed to working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ communities, individuals experiencing workplace challenges, and those navigating significant life transitions. My therapeutic work encompasses a wide range of sensitive areas, including trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, chronic health challenges, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilient coping strategies, and move toward healing and self-understanding.
James Hoy
I am licensed in Florida, Oklahoma and Oregon with 10 years of professional work experience. My certifications include Master Certified Addiction Counselor, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, executive coaching, spiritual issues, aging, bereavement/hospice/death, anxiety, depression, loneliness, socialization, holistic mental health solutions and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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, and will share my mental and spiritual health knowledge and tools to help remind you of the truths you have within yourself.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Laguna Beach, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Laguna Beach, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Laguna Beach.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Laguna Beach, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Laguna Beach and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.