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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Lauren Kurstin

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Are you dealing with relationship issues? Life transitions? Coping/stress management difficulties? Marital conflict? Generally overwhelmed? You've come to the right place! My name is Lauren Kurstin and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I obtained my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Miami in 2012 and have been seeing clients ever since! I always aim to provide a warm, confidential, and inviting atmosphere where you can express yourself freely while working towards your goals. I believe you already have the resources you need to be your greatest self, individually as well as relationally. I want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills, and find effective ways to respond to life’s challenging situations. Change is possible! My expertise and true passion surround working with individuals struggling with relationship/marital conflict and/or those going through difficult life transitions. I implement mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral tools, and solution-focused methods within my practice. I know that opening your soul to a stranger requires a great leap of faith. My number one priority is to make you feel safe and heard throughout the process. It is essential to me that we build a genuine connection based on absolute comfort, partnership, and trust! Sometimes it's necessary to laugh :) There is no judgment or bias coming from my end... just pure empathy, warmth, and a calming voice to help you uncover your strengths, and guide you to reach each one of your goals. I know it takes great courage to reach out for that extra support...way to go! I am here for you! :)

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Ashley Knoll

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." - Shannon Adler. As a mental health therapist I believe that all individuals strive for success, connection, feelings of acceptance, significance, and respect. However, negative life experiences influence what we do and how we feel in the present moment resulting in feelings of inferiority and inadequacy. My role as your therapist is to assist in the exploration of your personal story and help uncover sources of distress while helping you develop tools necessary to create a sense of self-worth, confidence, empowerment, and healing. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in various capacities working extensively with adults. My areas of expertise include depression, adjustment issues, adult children of dysfunctional families, anxiety, family of origin issues, military, substance use, trauma, and first responders and their families.

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Joan Jordan

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

Hello. My name is Joan Jordan. I am a Mental Health Counselor licensed in the state of Florida. I am also a licensure supervision for Marriage and Family and Mental Health interns. I have a Master’s degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Counseling Psychology. I am liberal minded by nature and have a strong Catholic faith. I believe in the sanctity of all life and a deep respect for all life styles. I also have considerable education and business experience. I am passionate about helping others. I believe that people are experts of their own life experiences, but that external situations are causing us to reshape our world views. I believe that a successful therapist must include respect and empathy to build trusting relationships. I also believe that empowerment and positive coping skills are the keys to building healthier and happier lives.

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Kelsey Hackler

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

Since earning my master’s degree in social work from the University of South Florida in 2012, my career path has led me to gain experience working with individuals faced with a multitude of mental health diagnoses. For nearly a decade I have been working with people suffering from depression, anxiety schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anger management, low self-esteem, and trauma related issues. My goal is to ensure that after every session you feel heard, understood, and validated. I aim to help you gain confidence navigating life's challenges and for you to feel you are not alone, someone does care, and that your problems are not insurmountable. My extensive experience working in the mental health field allows me to pull from an eclectic assortment of theoretical backgrounds, methodologies, and therapeutic approaches and techniques. This further allows me to customize a therapeutic experience that is unique, realistic, and tailored fit to address your specific needs in ways that are in alignment with your level of comfortability, personality, spirituality, and personal lifestyle preferences

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Stephanie Fuentes

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an extensive amount of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families for over 10 years. I specialize in working with those suffering from depression, anxiety, and daily life issues. In addition, I provide support for those in the LGBTQ community. Whatever it is that you are struggling with, "Caring Fuentes" is here to help! My goal is to build a respectful and comfortable relationship in getting you to where you want to be. I know that admitting the possibility that you may need help is hard enough therefore, I applaud you for being here at this very moment. I like to look at counseling as the stepping stones to a healthier, fulfilling, happier life hence, if you are in search for that, you have come to the right place!

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Jordan Camba

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

My pronouns are she/her. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with over 10 years of experience. My experience ranges from all ages of the lifespan, and I have worked in several settings including community-based therapy, in school therapy, private practice, court assistance, and juvenile detention, to name a few. I have knowledge of working with a multitude of disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationships issues, life changes, trauma, and self-harming. My theoretical approach is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Feminist/Social Impact Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. My approach allows for a rounded insight into one's past and present experiences and promotes an overall wellness model. Each session provides a specialized approach to meet the individual needs of each client. It can be difficult to maneuver through life, but you do not have to do it alone. If you have come this far, I would love to continue assisting you through the therapeutic process.

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Christine D'Avico

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional psychotherapy experience. I have helped clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. As a therapist, my role is to be a focused and deep listener, as well as a fellow traveler in life. Often, we just need someone to listen deeply and attentively so that we see ourselves from a new perspective. This is part of the process of growth and change. I believe that you can learn to have healthy self-compassion and believe in your strengths. Subsequently, this will impact your mental health and relational health. I am trained in EMDR, a method that has been successfully applied to panic attacks, anxiety issues and traumas. I look forward to meeting you.

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This is Diana Schaffer's avatar and link to their profile

Diana Schaffer

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years of experience

I’m so glad that you are reaching out to find help in this chaotic world we are living in! So many people choose to live in “anxious mode”, but by taking this first step, we can work toward changing your life to “happy and stress-free mode”. I started my journey as a behavior disorders teacher turned elementary school counselor. After retirement, I continued my career and followed my dream of earning my license and opening my own counseling practice. In my practice I have worked with all ages dealing with various issues such as post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, grief, depression, family relationships, abuse, divorce, and couples therapy. I also worked with many clients referred from the Division of Family Services relating to parenting skills and child abuse/neglect. I love helping people change their mindset from “I can’t take this anymore!” to “Oh, life is good after all!” Sometimes another person’s perspective on situations helps volumes, and that is what I do. I help offer solutions using a variety of techniques in a non-judgmental and compassionate way. My style includes Behavior-focused therapy, Person-centered therapy, and Reality therapy, with some Mindfulness all rolled in together to fit your personal needs and unique personality. I love life, and each day is an adventure-I hope that I can help you on your journey to find this same love of life!

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May Reinert

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, New York and Ohio with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties; among other areas. 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.

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Leah Goodman

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

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How to find counseling in Lake Alfred

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake Alfred can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Lake Alfred. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Lake Alfred, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Lake Alfred or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lake Alfred area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Lake Alfred, elsewhere in Polk, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lake Alfred area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Alfred therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Lake Alfred due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Lake Alfred may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lake Alfred, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Lake Alfred above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Lake Alfred helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Lake Alfred therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Lake Alfred therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Lake Alfred therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 33850 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lake Alfred counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Lake Alfred licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Lake Alfred, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Lake Alfred has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Lake Alfred.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lake Alfred:

33850

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