While people hope counseling services will help them work through their challenges and achieve emotional wellness, they may find it challenging to find a counseling center or independent practice that provides the supportive environment they need. You have a few options when looking for mental health counseling in Lakeland. There are independent practices and community resources to consider, or you can work with a mental health professional online through a platform like BetterHelp.
Online therapy can be a flexible, accessible option that can help you overcome some of the barriers to mental health treatment. With a platform like BetterHelp, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. Plus, with more than 30,000 providers on the platform, it can be easier to find someone who is the right fit.
While BetterHelp does not offer psychological testing or family counseling, providers on the platform can provide individual psychotherapy services and solution-focused therapy that can help you with a range of life stressors and mental health concerns. You can work with a certified marriage and family therapist, psychologist, or other mental health professional who can help you identify your unique challenges and the approach to treatment that may work best for you.
If you’re looking for a therapist in Lakeland, FL, connect with one of the providers below to learn more.
Dr. Melinda Lawless Coker
Hi, there! I go by "M.A.," though I have other nicknames, too. I'm a licensed family therapist and a licensed psychologist; I completed my graduate education programs in Miami, FL. I work from a multigenerational family systems approach and incorporate psychodramatic (& sociometric) methods into my clinical work; these are each relational in theory, in reality/in practice, and in the healing process. I believe in establishing clear boundaries and learning what someone's emotional needs are, so that they can make healthy choices and potentially get grounded as often as necessary. I've been a psychotherapist for more than 30 years. This has included working with many different groups of people in various settings (e.g., private psychotherapy, inpatient drug treatment, high school counseling program, county drug treatment, outpatient psychotherapy, women's prison, drug court treatment, etc.). My focus at times has been on healing past personal trauma (e.g., sexual abuse/incest, rape, domestic violence, etc.), as well as anxiety, stress, depression, and borderline personality disorder - among other daily life challenges. I look forward to beginning my work with you and hope you'll ask me questions about anything that will facilitate a useful & relevant experience in therapy for you, personally. I hope to hear from you soon!
Frances "Tansie" Walker
I am a seasoned therapist with 33 years experience providing caring approaches to help you heal life’s hurts and restore hope. I will provide a safe place where you can be open and honest with the circumstances of your life. We will work as a team to identify goals to help you achieve the outcome you desire. When life brings challenges and hurts that seem difficult to overcome. When you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, or angry. When work is overwhelming and you feel you need a change. When your relationships are strained and communication is difficult. When you have lost a loved one, or your marriage has failed. When you have lost hope and your faith is wavering. When you struggle with parenting and your children seem out of control. When you find yourself turning to alcohol or substances or other self destructive things just to feel better. Then get support from one who understands and has experienced many of these painful life events, someone who can relate to what you are going through with care and compassion and help you gain insight, perspective, and show you a way out, so that you can feel hope again. I offer an integrated approach of counseling, coaching, and life experience that addresses the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I offer caring Christian perspective while respecting your personal values and beliefs. My approach is tailored to your needs with a goal to help you restore balance and find freedom from painful issues, and move forward. I work with individuals and teens, parents and families, and couples. I have an M.S in Counseling and a Ed.S in Family Systems from Georgia State University, with an undergraduate in Psychology and Sociology. I have 32 yrs experience as a counselor and 15 years experience as a college faculty at University of Pheonix, Clayton State University and the American College in Ga.
Linda Losi
Greetings, my name is Linda Losi. I am a graduate of Barry University in 1996. I am also a retired Registered Nurse. I have 35+ years of expertise in the following areas; Anxiety, Trauma/Abuse, Dual Diagnoses, ADHD, ASD, Depression, Personality Disorders, Women and LGBTQ+ issues. I work collaboratively with my clients using various modalities of treatment such as, "Solution Focused", Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Heart Centered Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, etc... In the past the thought of going to therapy was a scary prospect. The thought of a painful journey turned people away. Therapy doesn't have to be a tough journey. There's laughter, tears and yes, even pleasant memories to be had. Welcome to my judgment free zone. Be ready to work, change ONLY comes with action. So, come and gain insight and judgment that you ALREADY possess in an open and transparent environment. EVERYONE is welcome! 😊☮️
Jerrold Jacobson
My ideal client might be any individual in need of assistance to help themselves feel better, more capable-confident and able to resolve whatever 'problems in living' have interrupted their lives. There are times we may need the support of another caring person, perhaps not directly involved with our lives, to listen, reflect, help us consider alternative approaches. This perspective remains central to my intervention techniques, delivered with sensitivity to individual needs. My specialty is born of the blending of two bodies of knowledge, one focused on interpreting everything as behavior through the lens of learning theory and the other chemical dependency/abuse of substances (CAP). The intersection of these areas can be fruitful, giving rise to creative counseling applications & excellent outcomes. In addition, my practice evolved to include knowledge gained from groups, Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, and Substance Abuse. As a seasoned professional counselor I've had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, typically full-time employment supplemented by a private practice. Having been employed by an Area Agency on Aging in PA, since relocating to the State of Florida my most recent experience was with the Department of Juvenile Justice. Private practice has ranged from court-ordered (Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, Substance Abuse) to EAP to self-referrals. It would be my distinct pleasure to assist you in addressing & resolving any identified issues contrributing to disturbance of your emotional balance. Please contact me at your earliest convenience; I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Samantha Schwartz
As a licensed therapist in Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and addiction. I am deeply committed to guiding individuals toward self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, addressing issues like panic disorder, mood challenges, life transitions, and family dynamics. I understand the profound impact of experiences such as divorce, pregnancy, and personal struggles with shame and self-esteem. My goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and reconnect with their inherent strength and purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting worry, low mood, major life changes, or relationship problems, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Marianne Penichet
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Helen Apostolatos
As a licensed therapist in Florida and South Dakota, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with a deep understanding of first responder challenges and end-of-life counseling. My professional approach centers on compassionate care for those experiencing depression, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns. My practice is rooted in creating a supportive, understanding environment where clients from diverse backgrounds can explore their emotional experiences. I bring a trauma-informed perspective to my work, particularly when supporting first responders and individuals facing significant life transitions. I am committed to providing personalized, empathetic care that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're struggling with stress, seeking to build resilience, or working through difficult life experiences, I aim to offer guidance that empowers you to discover your inner strength and create meaningful change. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and respectful, focusing on your individual needs and goals. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and develop effective coping strategies.
Ann Garfield
I am licensed in Florida with 40 years of professional work experience. My upbringing and graduate school education was in New York. I have therapeutic experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, certain trauma, relationship issues, and motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with family challenges, coping abilities and strategies with life changes and creating new ones. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that have and will assist you in overcoming situations that challenge you. I have experience with holocaust survivors as well as their adult children and families. Whatever you face, 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 and empower you in that journey.
Alison Kimball
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, & parenting 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Michael Schwing
I am licensed in Florida with 22 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 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Crystal Kelly
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients through compassionate, culturally-informed counseling that honors each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a warm, affirming space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. I am particularly passionate about supporting young adults, women, and individuals working through social anxiety, attachment issues, and life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build resilience, improve communication, and cultivate self-love. My work is grounded in understanding the intersections of personal experience, cultural identity, and emotional healing. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Nancy Bass
I am licensed in Florida with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.
Sergio Castillo
Hello, I'm an adolescent and family therapist based out of Sarasota, Fl. I am passionate about helping youth who are struggling with intense emotions, difficulty expressing themselves, and are having frequent conflicts at home or school. I have experience working in Baker Act facilities and have experience helping those in crisis. I can also help parents who may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to support their child. These families want peace, stronger communication, and tools to manage stress and anger. They seek understanding and a safe space to rebuild connection and trust with one another.
Dannyelle Driver
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation and shame. With experience in trauma recovery, and life transitions, I offer compassionate guidance for those managing grief, ADHD, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in empowering individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and build resilience through collaborative, personalized care. Every journey is different, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care as you move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.
Find a Therapist Near You in Lakeland , Florida
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Lakeland.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.