Established in 1883, after the South Florida Railroad reached the area, the City of Lake Alfred in Polk County has been known by several other names such as Bartow Junction, Chubb, and Fargo. However, the name Lake Alfred was chosen in 1913 after the largest lake in the area, which was named after Alfred Parslow. He was one of the first to obtain a charter for the railroad.
You can also find some excellent therapists and counselors in the Lake Alfred area. If you or someone you know needs help with a mental health issue or just has questions, contact one of the mental health professionals in the Lake Alfred area today.
Cecile Ollar
It takes courage to admit that your life is not fulfilling and that you are not happy with your life. And even more courage to take the first steps towards making a change. If you are ready to take those steps I am here to support and empower you on your journey. My counseling style is interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in labels. My approach is eclectic in that I combine various techniques to meet the client where they are. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the State of Florida. I have over 10 years of experience working as a therapist in a variety of different environments. I have worked with clients suffering from a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual trauma or emotional abuse. I like to use mindfulness based practices to increase a personal awareness, cultivate compassion, build resiliency and help you to stay grounded in the present moment. I look forward to working with you!
Michael Trainor
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. l utilize Mindfulness/Holistic based approaches as well as cognitive-behavioral therapies to assist clients in achieving personal growth. I believe my years as a student of Tai Chi and the martial arts has enhanced my ability to help others heal. I will offer a calm environment to assist you in exploring new paths to balance in your life. I believe the therapeutic relationship and a focus on the “here and now” are critical to this process. Connect with me by video or phone and tell me your story if you like.
Lucia Stanfield
As a licensed therapist in Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is compassionate and holistic, addressing challenges ranging from depression and relationship dynamics to trauma recovery and personal growth. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their deepest struggles—whether related to anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, or personal identity. My therapeutic work centers on empowering individuals to develop self-understanding, resilience, and meaningful strategies for healing. My expertise spans diverse areas including mood disorders, social challenges, sexuality, workplace stress, and interpersonal relationships. I'm committed to meeting each client exactly where they are, honoring their unique experiences and supporting their journey toward emotional well-being and personal transformation. I draw from evidence-based practices to provide personalized, thoughtful guidance that respects each individual's background, values, and goals. Together, we'll work collaboratively to navigate life's complexities and cultivate sustainable emotional strength.
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.
Cheryl Freimuth
Welcome to a peek into my life. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), in the beautiful sunshine state of Florida. I have been blessed to have many tassels on my hat of life. I began teaching Anatomy/Biology at the high school level over 36 years ago, then became an adjunct professor in the mental health program, where due to my background in Biology I was asked to teach Human Sexuality to the counseling students. I have practiced mental health counseling for 25years, and during that time have had the opportunity to develop a great bag of tools to help with my client's metamorphosis into a confident individual. As a mental health counselor, I mainly work with couples who are dealing with communication issues as well as intimacy issues. I am often called upon to assist people dealing with parenting dilemmas. During my year's teaching and counseling, I have been blessed to develop a common sense and eclectic style of therapy. I always tailor my mode of therapy to the client's best interest. I firmly believe the client must be the focus, therefore Client-Centered Therapy is always the foundation, as I believe respect, trust, and self-awareness is essential to the client-finding their answers to their concerns. I feel each person has all the answers or solutions to their concerns or stressors within, just where God has placed them. I want to assure you that there isn't too much under the sun that I haven't seen, heard, or experienced as a counselor. I also want to assure you that this road that we are about to embark upon is a journey that we will take together; Hand in hand, side by side. I am here to support and help you as you travel this amazing trail to self-awareness I am very aware of the courage and strength that one has in order to ask a stranger for help, in such major life's trials and tribulations. I admire you for taking these first difficult steps and am excited to embark on this healing process. I am excited to get started walking along beside you as we continue to once again find your place of peace.
Dr. Kathleen "Kathy" Meeks
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Board Certified Sex Therapist and a Clinical Sexologist. I take a wholistic approach to healing, mind body and spirit. I incorporate Spirituality in healing because this permeates different areas in a person's life. There will be times when I will refer to a Psychiatrist or a Urologist when the issues are beyond my scope of practice. I use different interventions in the healing processes. Some interventions I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectal Therapy, EFT and the Gottman Method. There are times when the trauma is complex or beyond the person's awareness and I will use Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy or Somatic Experiencing. However, the intervention (s) are tailored specifically to the clients needs. The goal for each client is to help them to function at an optimum level. I am committed to changing lives, one person and one family at a time. It will be an honor and a privilege to work with you to achieve your goals.
Barbara Southard
BOUT ME I have been providing therapy for 5 years. I've worked with the general population from 10 years old to older adults. The treatment modality depends on the issues at hand and I'm flexible based on the situation accordingly. SPECIALTIES I am experienced in: Stress, Anxiety , Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Parenting issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Career difficulties , ADHD, Antisocial Personality , Avoidant Personality , Blended Family Issues , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Commitment Issues , Control Issues , Domestic Violence , Family of Origin Issues , Family Problems ,First Responder Issues , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame , Impulsivity , Infidelity, Midlife Crisis , Mood Disorders , Multicultural Concerns , Narcissism , Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD , Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks , Personality Disorders , Post-traumatic Stress , Self-Harm , Sexuality , Women's Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 4 SERVICES OFFERED * * MESSAGING * LIVE CHAT * PHONE * VIDEO
Johnnie Terrell
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.
Daniele DeOliveira
I am licensed in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Diane Haskill
I enjoy my 25-year career in social work. I often meet a person at their low point, help identify problems, and help create a plan for change. My specialties are cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapy. I am licensed in Florida and have experience with relationship, communication, self-esteem, and boundary issues, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, and more. I offer an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgment. Life can be overwhelming at times and it takes courage to ask for help. I am available to listen, support, discuss, problem-solve, and share strategies to help create a path forward.
Vivian Pazos
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients facing crisis situations, I can help clients with stress and anxiety to learn grounded and breathing techniques and also identify the triggers for their anxiety, developing with then correspondent cope mechanism. If you or a loved one is dealing with relationship issues, family conflicts I can helped then to reach their goals and learn peaceful resolution of conflicts and basic techniques for assertive communication. Are you dealing with lack of motivation, poor self esteem, and confidence. ? I 'm here to serve you to reach your potentials. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared meeting the standards of privacy and confidentiality ,without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Carolee Binette
Welcome. I’m a straightforward, down-to-earth therapist with more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including trauma, crisis, ADHD, behavioral concerns, anxiety, depression, anger, family conflict, and major life transitions. I have worked with first responders and to assist law enforcement to offer a mental health presence during active calls. My goal is to partner with you as you uncover, understand, and honor your authentic self. Human beings spend an astonishing amount of energy trying to become someone else, so we might as well put some of that effort toward figuring out who you already are. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with extensive experience providing both direct clinical services and leadership within children’s and family mental health programs. I have worked with clients experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties, relationship struggles, and the lasting effects of trauma and emotional abuse. My approach to therapy is warm, interactive, and grounded in real conversation. I believe in keeping things honest, practical, and approachable while meeting clients where they are. Therapy should feel like a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can share your thoughts and feelings openly, explore new perspectives, and work toward meaningful goals. Drawing from cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and other evidence-based approaches, I tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and experiences. No two people arrive with the same story, and no one benefits from feeling like they’ve been handed the same worksheet as everyone else. Humans are wonderfully complicated that way. Reaching out for help is not always easy, and taking that first step requires courage. Congratulations on beginning that journey. I look forward to working with you.
Christy Evans
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenging experiences, including depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, from children to young adults to older individuals facing midlife challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on addressing communication difficulties, feelings of isolation, and struggles with purpose and identity. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through various life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and workplace dynamics. My work also encompasses helping individuals heal from trauma, manage relationship challenges, and develop healthy coping strategies. I believe in creating a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My goal is to empower individuals to understand themselves more deeply and build stronger, more fulfilling connections in their personal and professional lives.
Melvyn Heyes
I specialize in treating anxiety and stress in ‘normal’ people like yourself. My clients appear stable and successful, but quickly express they’re struggling - overwhelmed with frustration - even sadness. They tell me life seems persistently harder than a while ago, stuck in seemingly inescapable patterns with difficult problems. Then, more issues: job dissatisfaction, marital communication (even divorce) or parental challenges – a ‘Polycrisis’. Clients want to be heard and validated; I’ll listen. We’ll work together in a positive direction to restore order, enjoyment in life and self-confidence with a strong sense of satisfaction. My practical approaches focus on designing and implementing paths forward for specific definable problems, as well as your generalized angst. We’ll not just manage symptoms – we’ll also break old patterns you've operated on (perhaps for years) because of past trauma or other experiences; we'll build new ways of thinking, behaving and responding. I engage carefully to what is happening and we will cooperate on a response. My non-judgmental approach balances the need to validate your experiences with the urgency to address and resolve your challenges. I will help you create the fulfilment you envision.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Lake Alfred, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Lake Alfred, 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 Lake Alfred.
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 Lake Alfred, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lake Alfred and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.