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.

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Joseph Miller

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York , Wisconsin and Florida and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I worked over twenty years as a Department of Veterans Affairs Readjustment and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and as a United States Air Force Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. I served in the United States Army for twenty three years primarily as a Medical Evacuation Pilot. My overseas assignments include Afghanistan, Korea, Okinawa and Turkey. My counseling approach is to establish a therapeutic alliance with my clients and assist them with moving in directions of more satisfying life experiences and relationships. I would like the opportunity to assist you with developing a plan to enhance your life experience.

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Karja Cope

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Florida with over 15 years of professional experience. My primary area of specialty include individual therapy ( young to mature adults), relationship/couples therapy, parenting and career issues, adjustment and coping skills, and ADHD and executive functioning concerns. YOU are the expert of your story and I am happy to help facilitate your process of growth, self-discovery and self-determination. You will find that my therapeutic approach varies based on what is needed during our sessions, however, I am consistently client centered, direct and supportive. I do not have your answer, ...you do, and I would love to walk with you as you discover and apply them to your life. Taking the first step to seek therapy takes courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Theresa Mago

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, with 10 years of experience and almost 6 decades of life lessons, I have worked closely with all populations, including as a military counselor. Prior to being in mental healthcare, I was in education and have worked with children, ages 3-18, with all exceptionalities. Prior to completing my bachelor's degree in college, I was in the entertainment industry and worked as an entrepreneur for over 3 decades. I work well with children and teenagers, men and women, individuals, couples and families. I have worked with many types of issues including but not limited to; Setting Boundaries and Communication Skills, anger, depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, psychosis, anxiety, addictions, grief, shame and forgiveness, rejection and abandonment, Safety and Attachment, complex/ C-PTSD, LGBTQIA, assertiveness training/boundaries, relationships and sex, ADHD/ ADD and Spectrum disorders, parenting support and family enrichment, replacing irrational beliefs, fears / phobias, increasing Spiritual understanding and other faith-based struggles, unconditional self-love and radical acceptance, mindfulness, motivation, goal setting, increase self-trust, learn better coping skills and other Skills to manage life better and be free in the now here. I want what you want, and my purpose is to give you the results you seek and facilitate the changes you desire. My approach is warm, inviting, accepting, extremely open, interactive and direct. I practice a style that is Solution-Focused and Action oriented, or Psychodynamic and Gestalt, depending on your needs and wishes. I often use Rational and Emotive Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral and Acceptance Commitment based therapies, Art, Play, Drama and strength-based Narrative therapies are also available, upon request. Faith Based Spiritual/Prayer Counseling is also available upon request. My approach is wholistic. Let me work with you and yours in taking that next step in your life journey... Sincerely, Theresza

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Melissa Whitlow

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LMHC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas with 16 years of counseling experience. I work with individuals and couples facing issues with depression, anxiety, communication, infidelity, parenting issues, addictions and OCD. My approach to counseling is from a cognitive-behavioral framework to help empower the client towards change. The loss and hardships that I have faced in my own life have helped me to be empathic with my clients. If you are ready to make changes in your life and relationships I am here to help you take that step.

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Maria Gimenez-Cruz

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
8 years of experience

I have 7 years of clinical experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, and ADHD. My specialization is in helping people reach their “inner strength” by developing age appropriate skills to push through life challenges . I am committed to building a collaborative relationship with you were together we will identify and practice tools to promote your personal growth. We will identify your strengths, and problem-solve together. Through this process I will commit on making you feel understood and supported by being a genuine, caring therapist. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, interpersonal, and strength-based counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you through this process. I look forward to working with you!

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Jennifer Gardner

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Florida in 1996, my Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University in 2002, and obtained my LCSW (SW 16005) in 2019. I have experience working with adults of all ages, children, and families over the past 20 years in a number of different settings. I offer clients compassion, understanding, and patience in order to explore feelings, emotions, and patterns that may be getting in the way of living a happier and more fulfilling life. I take a person-centered approach in which clients are able to take more of a lead in therapy in order to discover their own solutions. I encourage, support, and guide the therapeutic process without interrupting or interfering with the client’s process of self-discovery. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and caring environment for clients to be able to open up and freely express themselves. Clients are able to be vulnerable and share their fears, struggles, and emotions that they do not feel comfortable sharing with their friends or family.

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Dr. Zereana Jess-Huff

Offering therapy in FL
License: PhD,MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Hello! I am so glad you've taken the first step to improving your mental health. It takes a lot of courage to step out of the shadows and get help. Please take a moment to have compassion for yourself as you navigate our system. My name is Dr. Zereana Jess-Huff and I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am currently accepting individual patients ages 13 and older. My approach to therapy is extremely educational and focused on something we call behavioral activation. My goal is for you to leave each session feeling heard, understanding our plan, and having something to practice in the real world. Week after week you can expect to build upon your skill set as we move you towards living your healthiest and best life possible. I practice using several evidence-based theories but do so in a way that is relatable and relevant. I specialize in adolescents (13 and older), ADHD, CPTSD, Depression, Social Anxiety, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I also am trained to treat certain process disorders including shopping addiction, gambling addiction, and even love addiction. I also have a keen interest in women's health and working with the LGBTQIA population especially those individuals who identify as transgendered. It takes a lot of courage to commit to counseling and to begin working on steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I'm here to support and empower you to be the very best version of yourself. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Dr. Peter Dell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship 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. 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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Katia Jacques

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with three years of professional experience, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy. My focus lies in helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, bipolar disorder, and the complexities of life adjustments. Through a client-centered approach, I aim to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where we can collaboratively explore and address your unique needs. My commitment is to assist you in building resilience, fostering self-awareness, and achieving positive mental health outcomes.

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Paul Comeau

Offering therapy in FL
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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!

How to find counseling in Lake City

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake City 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 City. 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 City, 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 City 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 City 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 City, elsewhere in Columbia, 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 City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake City 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 City 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 City 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 City, 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 City 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 32056 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 City 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 City 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 City, 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 City 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 City.

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

32025, 32055, 32056

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