The atmosphere is typically warm and sunny in Lakeland, and this isn't simply due to the weather. The people themselves always strive to provide a certain warmth and you enjoy living in such a friendly community. The depression that you face on a daily basis makes it much more difficult than it used to, though. When you feel symptoms of anxiety and depressive thoughts are creeping up on you, it becomes tough to appreciate the friendly atmosphere.
You need a Lake City counselor that can act as your ally in this fight. They will be able to stand by your side and listen to your problems. It is possible to turn your situation around when you have the right help. Contact a Lake City counselor today to get the help that you need.
Amy Schneider
I am a licensed therapist with fifteen years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, from those going through significant life changes to those healing from traumatic experiences. I graduated from UW-Milwaukee in 2009 with Bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Psychology and an honors in Liberal Arts. I continued there and graduated in 2011 with a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, with a specialty in Community Counseling. In 2018, I graduated from UW-Madison with an additional capstone degree in Infant, Early Childhood, and Family Mental Health. For the first ten years of my career I worked primarily with families through in-home therapy in Milwaukee, the City of Neighborhoods! I then joined the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin as a Child and Family Therapist and Agent for the Bureau of Child Welfare as an advocate and therapist for families in the Healthy Infant Court program at the Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center. I have worked as an independently contracted therapist through the Betterhelp site since 2020 and enjoy navigating the very new field of telehealth and online therapy. I obtained licenses from Texas and Florida in 2024. The first few times we meet, the focus will be on your life and how you have been impacted by what has happened to you. We will work together to figure out how you can get to where you’d like to be. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about my approach, or the counseling process in general! Send me a message :) Harassment has no place in the workplace - know your rights :) I have additional education and experience in the following: Identity and Parts Work Personality and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Nutrition for Mental Health and Disordered Eating Attachment Theory and Assessment/ Developmental Psychology Cognitive Behavioral Therapy And Short-Term Behavioral Health Jungian Therapy Career Development, Work Environments, and Group Dynamics Intimacy, Sensate-Focus, and Couples Counseling Polyamorous, Open, and Alternative Relationship Structures & Dynamics Psychodynamic Therapy Healing from Break-ups and Relationship Grief Imago Relationship Therapy Dream Analysis Child Development and Child-Parent Psychotherapy Adoption Competency Foster-Care/Adoption, Separation/Divorce, and Family Legal Processes Perinatal Mental Health and Post-Partum Depression Intergenerational Mental Health Impact and Collective Consciousness Multicultural Counseling, Role of Culture in Health Practices LGBTQA+ Affirmative Practices Spirituality & Faith Experiences of Death, Dying, Grief, and the After-life Reflective Practices and Supervision Creative Therapies: Art, Writing, and Music Applied Behavior Analysis Meditation and Mindfulness Yoga (Registered Teacher at 200-Hour Level from 2023-2026) and Somatic Experiencing Due to HIPAA law and ethics within the therapy field, all information shared during therapy is kept on the site. I do not save, print, or store any information shared in sessions off of the site in a physical location. I am unable to respond to emails from clients because of the inability to identify the sender of the email. In order to ensure information is kept secure, all requests for information or documentation of therapy must come through the secured portal of your client account. Sessions may not be recorded, although live chat (synchronous messaging) sessions may be saved in the client's online journal for continued reference. Psychology Today profile: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/amy-schneider-milwaukee-wi/808808
David Potts
Hi! my name is David Potts and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working as a licensed mental health therapist on the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida for 14 years. I have been with Better Help now for almost 5 years. I love what the online platform of Better Help offers to the clients with many options that are offered. I have been working as a psychotherapist/clinical social worker with individuals, teens, young adults and adults of all ages. I have also worked with the family dynamic for most of my career. Since working with Better Help, I have found that working outside my community and on this platform has extended my practice to many parts of the world! My area of expertise has been working with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting dilemmas, stress in school or work, grief-loss, motivation, other life stressors. Other areas include working with Bi-Polar Disorders and ADHD/ADD. I have also worked with adults who experienced severe and persistent mental health issues that included schizophrenia, personality disorders, and alcohol/substance addiction and abuse. I have worked in many clinical settings including working in outpatient and residential settings. I have specialized working with teens who have experienced abandonment, loss of family, parents and/or home. Some of these teens also had a history of physical trauma, sexual or emotional abuse, and alcohol/substance addiction. My counseling style is open and engaging, and I approach all my clients with commitment and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, existential, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapies. I will adjust my approaches and treatment plan to follow your individual needs and to meet your goals. I like to seek root causes of the issues that may be interfering with life that can sometimes become very overwhelming and frustrating that can interrupt with striving to have a better quality of life. I like to look at the cause and affect approach with the hope is that you can make the small changes necessary to find happiness. Progress not perfection is what I like to say. I am glad that you are taking this first step in seeking positive change. I am here to encourage and support you in your therapeutic journey! If is a new therapy experience, then I hope to be able to take you to your next step in finding what you are looking for. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!
Sophia Mas
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of work experience. I have worked with individuals with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, and the full range of psychotic symptoms and mood disorders. I also have experience and am comfortable working with couples and families, addressing issues such as communication problems, conflict resolution, and relationship enhancement. I am a practical, interactive solution-focused therapist who incorporates a blend of conventional and alternative approaches - drawing upon various styles and techniques in the process. I have worked with a diverse population of clients and in many different settings-from acute emergency-based care to community mental health setting to private practice. I take special pride in cultivating a spirit of caring and respect for everyone I see regardless of the problems or issues they might bring to counseling. It takes courage to embark on the healing journey that is counseling. My focus is to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. I achieve this by actively listening, providing empathy, and maintaining confidentiality. As they commence the process, that will lead to a sense of wellbeing and vitality. Working at a thought and feelings level can be the catalyst for unraveling the puzzle that is our lives and can lead as well to the resolution of problems and issues that limit our capacity to lead productive and happy lives as we develop the skills needed to navigate the difficulties encountered in daily lives. My passion is to support each individual’s journey with hope as they travel the road to wholeness, wellness, freedom and empowerment. It takes courage to undertake this venture and I am grateful and honored to be able to encourage and validate the personal strength and willingness needed to take this big step forward.
Dr. Jacqueline Jennette
I am licensed in Florida with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, grief, and other psychologically related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared 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!
Kenneth Hoeck
I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, sleeping disorders, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. I have speciaIty training with certifications in EMDR (Level I and II) as well as HeartMath biofeedback (certification in trauma and biofeedback). I have for many years assisted clients and patients develop and implement a treatment plan that is integrative, meaning we address crucial areas of human flourishing and functioning such as sleep, movement, relationship, nature exposure, music/sound etc. and also mindfulness-based cognitive behavior therapy (MBCBT). Having lived and worked four years in South America, as well as following that time worked in federal native language (Spanish) programs, and previous graduate program in Anthropology and cross-cultural cognitive studies, I have a care, knowledge and experience that can be helpful for cultural dimensions that can positively impac our healing work. 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, healthier, and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Gerald Syrkett
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Brandi Horak
I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages, couples, individuals, teens and children, with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety and PTSD. 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.
Candace Tompkins
I am licensed in Florida with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I use a holistic approach to therapy and 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.
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.
Natasha Nalls
I am licensed in Florida with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared 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!
Donna Maso
I am a dedicated and experienced licensed clinical social worker, with over 30 years of professional counseling experience and educational training. I've worked with many different age groups, from young children to the elderly - and assisted clients with a wide range of issues. My experience includes: working in outpatient, transitional, inpatient and crisis services - and with a wide range of populations including the specialization of children diagnosed with AD/HD, abuse & trauma victims of all ages (including shelter, hotline and court services), children's counselor/ child crisis/ protection/ parenting centers, couples, families/ family counselor agencies, military families (family of many veterans), mandatory work referrals, adjudicated adolescents (was executive director of treatment programs), school systems (taught regular and alternative education), offenders (worked in correctional system/ prisons), individuals needing long-term placement, developed programs for the disabled, and those with chronic or terminal conditions (worked as LMSW for hospice - settings included hospitals, nursing homes, ALFs, Memory Care, etc. ) Therapy and counseling can provide relief and personal growth for people seeking positive changes in their lives. It is helpful, especially during difficult times, to have an objective, compassionate professional who will focus on your strengths and abilities, in a confidential and non-judgmental environment. I look forward to meeting with you to begin a journey toward workable solutions and great possibilities on your path in life. Let's begin today. Please note: As a policy, I ask for your agreement to not electronically record telehealth sessions without prior consent. Laws that protect HIPAA confidentiality in the office - also applies to telehealth sessions - including mandatory and permissive exceptions to confidentiality. Thank you.
Novlett Mckenzie
I am a Florida-licensed clinician with over 45 years of clinical social work practice and three years of recent professional experience providing direct client care. I support individuals facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, low motivation, and concerns related to self-esteem and confidence. In addition to my clinical work, my most recent professional role was with Elsevier, where I wrote and lectured on evidence-based content to support and educate clinicians. This experience allows me to integrate research-informed approaches with compassionate, client-centered care. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you possess many strengths that can help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I am here to support you throughout that process.
Ketluimar Vallecillo-Samot
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and discover deeper personal meaning. With expertise in managing stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions, I offer compassionate guidance rooted in understanding and respect. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through challenges related to self-esteem, parenting, and personal growth. My approach is collaborative and affirming, creating a safe space where individuals can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and build resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work alongside clients to develop practical strategies for emotional well-being, helping them move toward more authentic and fulfilling lives. Whether you're struggling with personal transitions, relationship challenges, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking with you on your healing journey.
Ryan Derico
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the states of Indiana and Florida with 6 years of professional counseling experience and over 19 years of human services experience. I have specialized experience in helping clients with stress, difficulties with functioning, anxiety, ADHD mental health symptoms, autism spectrum mental health symptoms, and coping with life changes. 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.
*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 City, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Lake City, 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 City.
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 City, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lake City and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.