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.

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Psychologist Jean-Michael Bouciquot providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Jean-Michael Bouciquot

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LMFT 7015, NC LMFT 10607
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

Welcome! Are you experiencing a major life transition? Are you feeling stressed hopeless, or overwhelmed? If so, I'm here to help. At some point in our lives we all go through some challenges and need support. Therapy can be that support. I am committed to providing a safe nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and learn about the issues they are dealing with in order to grow and transition into who they would like to be. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida International University. I graduated in 2013 with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University. I am also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we can set attainable goals and achieve success through different therapeutic techniques such as solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapy. I have experience in individual, couples, and family therapy. Along with depression, anxiety, anger management, goal setting, and life transitions. Helping my clients to develop communication skills is one of my specialties.

Psychologist Lori Miller providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Lori Miller

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 102211, FL LMHC MH16225
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years offering treatment

I’ve spent my life confined to a wheelchair, so I believe I have a unique understanding of just how challenging life can be and the strength it takes to ask for help. Whatever your struggles, I believe the first step to helping you overcome them is to build a connection with you based on commonly shared thoughts, feelings, and actions impacting how we feel, how we relate to others, and how we achieve our goals. Once you and I have identified any unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and actions standing in your way, we will work together on a plan to help you succeed by giving you the skills, confidence, and belief that your emotional well-being doesn’t depend on others or events you can’t control. While pursuing my Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of West Florida and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I have gained 12 + years of clinical experience helping adults, teens, children, and families heal from a variety of emotional wounds to include: PTSD, grief and loss, intimate partner violence, physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect. I have worked with veterans, people dealing with substance dependence, homelessness, and chronic health problems. In sum, my approach is not to make you relive the past, but to help you recognize--and ultimately, change--the core hurtful beliefs and actions fueling your current anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem and relationship conflicts. I am ready to listen when you share, sit in silence when you need it, and best of all, cheer on your successes!

Psychologist Althea Sawyers providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Althea Sawyers

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT2682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

As a Florida Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I work online using evidence-based models of therapy that get results. I help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma-related issues, goal-setting and performance hurdles, and other areas of self-empowerment. My mission is to empower you to manage and become an overcomer of the obstacles and "stuckness" caused by these issues, so that you can start accomplishing your goals, begin feeling fulfilled, to confidently step out of the shadows and fears caused by past traumatic events by taking back the reins of control into your life, and to start living a life of fulfillment, peace, balance, and strength! Let me accompany you on your journey of rediscovering and re-establishing your strengths, and help you become equipped with the tools you need to become better problem solvers. It’s not easy to decide on which therapist may be best for you, but I’m hoping you will take a leap of faith and allow you and I the chance to work together. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon and to helping you accomplish your goals!

Psychologist Dr. Amary Alcide providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Dr. Amary Alcide

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW11225
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

Office Hours (please measage before scheduling to ensure availability) * Messaging sessions: Sunday-Thursday 5am-7pm * Video/Phone Conferencing: Sunday-Thursday 7am-2pm * Closed: Friday-Saturday Dr. Amary Alcide provides integrative emotional wellness support as well as mental health therapy to women and couples. She specializes in: * Relationships (Dating, Marriage, & Divorce) * Women's health (pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause/menopause, & aging) * Role stress * Home & time management * Character refinement * Career & life skill development * Family dynamics Her therapeutic model focuses on enhancing quality of life based on the unique strengths of each individual as well as their family, social, and environmental systems to be able to thrive in their daily lives. As a published academic scholar, she maintains a keen sense of how to translate research into practice. She is a highly skilled licensed clinical social worker with expertise in various interdisciplinary settings who utilizes her knowledge in research to provide services that are scientifically sound and that yield measurable outcomes. And with research interests in the fields such as health and wellness, human behavior and development, as well as program evaluation, she can assist clients in turning abstract goals into practical, tailored action plans for success. Dr. Alcide's approach is practical, engaging, and most importantly empowering to help women actively lead a meaningful and purpose driven life. Now is the time to take action. Don't just be alive, THRIVE!

Psychologist Dr. Mary Torok providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Dr. Mary Torok

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH19217
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years offering treatment

Hi! My name is Mary Torok. I am an accomplished and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have over fifteen years of experience supporting adults, children, adolescents, and families through counseling, psychoeducation, directive, and non-directive instruction. I have provided support and direction for clients remotely and in the clinical, classroom, residential, outpatient, and in-home settings. Overall, I am passionate about motivating, empowering, and helping people manage situations and overcome obstacles. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Client and Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Relaxation, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based Therapy, and other modalities. I have had success working with various populations, including clients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive, and other personality disorders. I have assisted clients by providing critical resources to help with employment, education, and community referrals. Furthermore, I have helped clients improve self-esteem and overcome situations related to bullying, discrimination, and abuse. I also specialize in improving communication and applying conflict resolution skills to manage family and relationship issues. Overall, I believe that education is the key to change. Therefore, my priority is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship for teaching client’s the skills they need to improve any situation and ultimately transform!

Psychologist Dr. Oren Hernández providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Dr. Oren Hernández

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH1567, FL LMFT MT1385
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
30 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and interpersonal dynamics with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring a depth of understanding to diverse experiences, including issues related to aging, workplace challenges, relationship transitions, and multicultural concerns. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers to personal growth. With expertise in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique journeys. Whether you're dealing with life transitions, healing from past experiences, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Richard Whitton providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Richard Whitton

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH10658
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with 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.

Psychologist Johnnie Terrell providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Johnnie Terrell

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW19794, SC LISW-CP 15637
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Jonnet Cruz providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Jonnet Cruz

Clinician
License Type(s): HI LMFT MFT-343, FL LMFT MT4888
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
20 years offering treatment

Aloha, I'm Jonnet pronounced Jonay, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawai'i and Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping children/teens, families, couples, adults, active duty service members, and veterans with a variety of issues that include stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. My therapeutic approach consist of EMDR, Internal Family systems (IFS), attachment based therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.

Psychologist Gary Jacobs providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Gary Jacobs

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH11116
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience primarily with crisis management. I have been employed in emergency rooms, jail-prison, substance abuse-rehab, nursing homes and have facilitated care to every age group including couples and family issues. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I have encountered every aspect of mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, ptsd. bipolar, schizoaffective, relationship discord, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, anger, motivation, & self-esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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. I am simply a tool helping you transition or seek a more fulfilling and happier lifestyle. With your courage, I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Michelle Cohen Negri providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Michelle Cohen Negri

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW24222
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
3 years offering treatment

As a former professional athlete and licensed clinical social worker, I bring a unique and empowering perspective to therapy. My background in competitive sports shaped my belief in the power of discipline, inner strength, and resilience, values I now integrate into my clinical work with clients facing life’s most difficult challenges. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating grief and bereavement, trauma, and chronic or terminal illness. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to carry emotional pain, loss, or fear of the unknown, and I’m here to provide a compassionate and grounded space for healing and self-discovery. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and practical. I incorporate a combination of Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practices to help clients better manage distress, build emotional regulation skills, and move toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll identify what’s working, what’s getting in the way, and how to create realistic, values-driven steps forward. I believe deeply in every person’s capacity for resilience and growth—even in the face of adversity. If you’re ready to begin (or continue) your journey toward healing and personal clarity, I’d be honored to support you. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I strive to create a safe space where we can explore your story together and develop meaningful, sustainable strategies for healing and growth. I truly believe in the capacity for resilience within every person, and I’m passionate about helping you uncover yours. If you’re ready to begin or continue your healing journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you.

Psychologist Kimberly Plummer providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Kimberly Plummer

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT5344
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Melvyn Heyes providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Melvyn Heyes

Clinician
License Type(s): MD LCSW-C 16373, FL LCSW SW18190
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
16 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Amneris Godoy providing different types of therapy in Lake Alfred

Amneris Godoy

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW11691
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over 25 years of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating complex relationship dynamics. My clinical expertise centers on addressing family conflicts, relationship challenges, and parenting issues. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to helping clients understand and transform interpersonal patterns, offering supportive guidance that honors each person's unique experiences and emotional landscape. My goal is to create a collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication skills, and build healthier relationship strategies.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lake Alfred , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
  3. 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 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 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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Lake Alfred can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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