This is Dr. Christina Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Christina Gonzalez

Offering therapy in FL
License: EdD,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Hello there-- you made it! Thank you for taking the first step in contacting me! I am a bilingual and bicultural Licensed Mental Health Counselor licensed in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked around the world- in Mexico, in the US, in Germany, in Japan, and in US, and worked in a wide variety of settings, including extensive work in community mental health, substance abuse/addictions, child welfare, and with military and veteran populations. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including couples/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, immigration-related issues, abuse and trauma, divorce and separation, and grief and loss, among other things. I have also worked extensively with the Marine Corps in the area of force preservation and suicide prevention, and have worked with other branches of the service as well, both in the US and OCONUS. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I honestly believe we can work together to find solutions for almost any problem and that we can emerge from challenges stronger, and even more resilient. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness training, and other techniques. I also have incorporated many things I have learned in my travels and interactions with psychology in other cultures and countries into my extensive training. I will tailor our interactions and treatment to help you meet your goals and work collaboratively with you every step along the way. It takes courage to seek for 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. I look forward to working with you!

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Melissa Pesce

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

Hi and thank you for having the courage to take this first step. Life is a journey. Through my passion to empower you, I will help move you on a path forward in life. I will guide you through discovering your strengths and self-awareness to bring you clarity and direction. I am open-minded and create an environment that promotes healing and transformation. I was born and raised in upstate New York. Completed my bachelors in exercise science from Ithaca College and a masters in social work from University of South Florida. I am a licensed clinical social worker, LCSW, in the state of Florida. I have over 8 years clinical experience and also the owner of a private practice. I specialize in trauma, sex therapy, polyamory, kink, LGBTQIA+, relationships, couples, My integrative therapeutic approach utilizes trauma focused, cognitive behavior, and mindfulness techniques. These approaches are briefly described as: trauma informed care (TIC) is about safety, transparency, trustworthiness, voice, choice, and empowerment; cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is about the connection of our thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how they affect our daily lives; mindfulness based (MBCT) is being accepted and aware of yourself. Other types of evidenced based techniques I incorporate are strength based, solution focused, family systems, holistic, client centered and culturally sensitive. My office hours are Monday - Wednesday 9am - 3pm; Thursday - by appointment only. Live sessions are offered via phone or video. I look forward to helping you grow and move you forward into the next chapter in your life. Let’s get started!

This is Marie Vernal's avatar and link to their profile

Marie Vernal

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

My name is Marie Vernal. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here in Florida. I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals and being apart of their healing process, providing tools, techniques and support. My approach is person centered and strength based. I let the client lead and my role is to be an ear and provide you with tools and techniques when necessary. I am trauma informed and trained in different trauma modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT and Eye Movement Desensization Reprocessing. I have over 10 years working with youths, adolescents and adults providing counseling services in different settings including schools, in home, and office settings. I am a trauma informed therapist and I pride myself in getting some of the best trainings to ensure my client's highest to their healing process. I am dedicated to my client's journey and it is important that I have the skillset to provide the tools and technique to heal. I am supportive, laid back and collected. I truly believe that, you the client, are the authors to your own story; my role, is to provide you with the support and tools and techniques to reach your highest potential. My expertise includes working with individuals with trauma, depression and anxiety as well as life transitions.

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Dr. James Welch

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical consultant and executive coach. I am also a trainer and provide training in an evidenced based model for clinicians across the country. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach utilizes Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused models. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for 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. My intent is to respond within 24 hours of initial contact. I look forward to working with you!

This is Arlene Ortiz's avatar and link to their profile

Arlene Ortiz

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

Hello, my name is Arlene and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) I have been providing counseling for about 30 years. I have experience working in various areas of counseling settings and have provided counseling for diverse populations that include different ages, genders, and diverse racial, cultural, and LGBTQ backgrounds. Through the years I have obtained knowledge with concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family/parenting difficulties as well as childhood, adolescent, and young adult adjustments. In recent years I have been trained to work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Although my formal education and initial training were Psychodynamic in nature, I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well. I will tailor our sessions and collaborative treatment planning to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Dr. Dagmary De La Osa-Bermudez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Dagmary De La Osa-Bermudez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lee Mikell

Offering therapy in FL
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & parenting issues. My work history has extensively involved the following: -Chronic mental health issues that interfere with life activities -Child welfare system with both the parents and children, -Criminal perpetrators and victims, -Divorce proceedings and the subsequent reunification therapy goals.

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Gail Gerbig

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

Ready to feel like your best self? Let's talk! I'm Gail Gerbig, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, with 25 years of experience and located at Seaside Mental Wellness in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. You can work with a mental health therapist from the comfort of your own home. Through telehealth sessions, I provide a safe space for individuals to navigate life's challenges. Whether you're battling stress, anxiety, or depression, or simply seeking support through a major life transition, I can help. I utilize a blend of evidence-based techniques, including CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy, to empower you to develop healthier coping skills and build resilience. Our sessions will be a collaborative exploration, where we work together to understand your unique goals and create a personalized path towards emotional well-being.

This is Danielle Vigliarolo's avatar and link to their profile

Danielle Vigliarolo

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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.

This is Nicole Moroz's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Moroz

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Nicole, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I have been working in this field for over 25 years and really enjoy what I do. I consider myself to be easy-going and empathetic. I listen without judgement and my number one priority is to ensure a safe and healthy therapeutic environment for my clients. I am the mother of a 10-year-old son and am married. Both my husband and our son have ADHD and Dyslexia. I have become quite familiar with the IEP process and advocacy. Early in my career I worked with victims of domestic violence (men, women, and children). I have also worked with children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities. I have done intensive in-home therapy for children and teenagers who were at risk of out of home placement. During that time, I also worked closely with parents and caregivers for support. I enjoyed these positions very much. Eventually I began working in the field of forensic therapy and pursued this for a few years. This involved working with clients in the Department of Corrections, both teenagers and adults. I have experience working in a high-level juvenile detention center as well as a prison. Eventually I found my way to substance abuse. I worked for a few years a therapist at a dual diagnosis rehabilitation facility and really enjoyed this. Now I work in a medical facility that provides medically assisted treatment to individuals addicted to opiates. I am a therapist there and treat dual diagnosis clients. Our center also serves the LGBTQ population in the community. Every step that I have taken has led me to this platform. I am very excited and honored to be able to serve you in a telehealth setting. My clinical focus is on Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I also pull from other evidenced based models. We are all different and do not fit into the same therapeutic treatment mold. I have an array of diagnosis I have worked with ~ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Developmental Disabilities and Grief / Loss (Bereavement). I also understand chronic pain, and some of the challenges this brings to day-to-day living. I enjoy working with all age groups and do not shy away from difficult and challenging situations. I feel that we all need someone to talk to and to listen to us. I also feel that we all would benefit by having someone walk alongside us while we figure out how to be the best version of ourselves. I would be honored to meet you and hear your story.

How to find counseling in Lake Hamilton

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton, 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 33851 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton, 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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton.

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

33844, 33851

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