Finding therapists in Lakeland, FL can feel more manageable when the options reflect real life in a suburban part of Polk County, where commuting, packed calendars, and limited appointment windows can all shape care. For people exploring therapy in Lakeland, FL or counseling in Lakeland, Florida, online support can offer a practical starting point. BetterHelp connects adults with licensed professionals, including LMHCs and LCSWs, who may help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship stress through online therapy that fits more easily around work, family, or school.

For those comparing therapists serving Lakeland with flexible payment options, BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.* If insurance is not available, subscriptions typically range from $70 to $100 per week. With one of the world's largest networks of therapists, more than 30,000 qualified providers globally, BetterHelp offers a flexible way for people in Florida to connect with support from home while exploring care that fits their needs and schedule.

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Psychologist Dr. Nicole Jones providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Dr. Nicole Jones

Clinician
License Type(s): MS LPC 1470, NC LCMHC 5204
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
20 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with multiple state licenses. I am a member of the America Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. These organizations keep me abreast of the current trends and research to better support my clients. I have over 18 years of experience utilizing an array of skills and theoretical orientations, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy. I have worked extensively with clients who experience anxiety, depression, ADD, parenting and relationship issues as well as career counseling. My therapeutic style is attentive, supportive and empathetic. I do not ascribe to "labels" that may further alienate or stigmatize clients. I am an advocate for physical and mental health awareness and well being. I have many community resources to support your journey into a positive direction for your betterment specifically tailored to your individual and unique needs. I am glad that you are seeking support and I will work with you to empower you in learning new and effective ways to process life's challenges. I look forward to working with you. N. A. Jones, PhD

Psychologist Tania Morales providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Tania Morales

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH17927
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 4 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with ages ranging from 3-60 years and with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, parenting problems, mood disorders and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style focuses on building a positive relationship with my clients so they feel safe to discuss their difficulties . I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, solution-focus and counseling. I will tailor our conversations 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. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Sunny Philip providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Sunny Philip

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW17094
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
28 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with more than two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in helping clients navigate self-image, communication problems, social anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach is holistic and adaptive, drawing from evidence-based practices to meet each client's unique needs. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, family dynamics, or personal healing, I provide a supportive environment that honors your individual journey. I'm committed to helping you develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness and personal transformation. With professional proficiency in English, Hindi, and Malayalam, I offer culturally sensitive therapeutic support that respects diverse backgrounds and experiences. My goal is to create a collaborative, affirming space where you can explore your challenges and discover your inner strengths.

Psychologist Francis Prunier providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Francis Prunier

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW20338, MA LICSW 104514
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
46 years offering treatment

As a seasoned therapist in Massachusetts, I bring nearly four decades of professional experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique journey. I specialize in addressing a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and grief. My therapeutic practice focuses on helping clients navigate intricate personal landscapes—from social anxiety and isolation to workplace stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges. I'm particularly attuned to supporting individuals through midlife transitions, young adult struggles, caregiver stress, and complex family dynamics. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their deepest concerns, develop resilient coping strategies, and rediscover personal strength. My goal is to empower individuals to understand themselves more deeply, heal from past experiences, and create meaningful pathways forward. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I'm committed to providing thoughtful, personalized guidance that respects each person's unique story and potential for growth.

Psychologist Tammy Horn providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Tammy Horn

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH5884
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
25 years offering treatment

Hi! My name is Tammy. I am a licensed mental health therapist in Florida (US) with a positive and hopeful outlook! I have over 20 years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, social behavior, and crisis counseling. As well as trauma related issues, sexuality and work related concerns. I have a sense of humor and maintain a hope for the future. It is an honor to work with another person, to gain their trust and help them figure out what's going well, what is causing concern or distress, and to help them find small steps toward a resolution and personal growth. The first few sessions start out with a person-centered therapy approach. However, the information collected in the first few sessions may lead to a better suited theory. I feel that issues like depression or anxiety can be helped with cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT has also been great when working with adolescents who struggle with aggression and conduct disorders. I find dialectical behavior therapy techniques to be useful in a counseling setting as well. My counseling style and approach really depends on the client and what best fits the situation. Person-centered therapy, CBT, and DBT have been my main approach and style. My clients typically meet with me once weekly for 45 minutes. We begin by building rapport and learning about the issues that brought them to seek counseling. It is important to establish a trusting, ethical, therapeutic relationship by form of congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathy in the beginning. Sometimes a person-centered approach leads the client to discover the answers for themselves. My counseling style is primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Brief Solution Focused Therapy so we can develop a plan to help you feel better as soon as possible. Most of the time you will have "homework", which will allow you to identify core beliefs and change the way you feel. We can do short extra sessions during the week, especially during your first month or two, to be sure you have a good foundation for getting your goals met. Whether you are seeking change for a healthier happier life, or just need a non judgmental ear to listen, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Getting to know yourself, take good care of yourself and live well day to day creates more of an ease in life, and affords you time and a place to resolve deeper issues or past trauma.

Psychologist Dr. Shannon  Holliker providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Dr. Shannon Holliker

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW12708
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years offering treatment

Hello and Welcome! It is great to see that you have decided to take this step into further self-discovery, self-growth, and reflection. Therapy is a process, but doesn't necessarily require you to know exactly what type of support you might need. Actually, many people enter therapy to discover they have other things they also want to address. Sometimes, it's about the rewarding process to self-discovery that can be the motivation. Regardless of how you got here, my goal is to provide you with unconditional support. My approach is about honest dialogue. Too often there is a belief that saying 'certain things' in therapy is not acceptable. The reality is that it is the best place to have such discussions about feelings, thoughts, and approaches to challenges. It is also equally important to celebrate what may even feel like small victories. As we reach adulthood, we can tend to think that celebration is less important when it is super important. I hold a PhD in Public Affairs (Social Work Focus). This credential has provided me the opportunity to continue teaching college and doing research in critical areas of mental health. I have two Masters' degrees, in Social Work and Child Development and Education. I went back to pursue my second Master's in Early Childhood because one of my specialties is parenting and providing counseling support to very young children, supporting families affected by trauma or stress due to issues with their young child, and trauma response. I am passionate about helping parents with their own anxiety and depression (or other challenges), providing support to families affected by medical stress (a child with a chronic illness or in the NICU or a parent with medical concerns), assisting with support for intervention of developmental or behavioral concerns, fertility, and/or any concerns related to your family dynamics. My experience has also been in providing different therapy interventions to young children (0-5 years) with their family. I have assisted many families in identifying and addressing family challenges that could contribute to their young child's emotional or behavioral concern. Through this platform, our focus would be on your concerns or challenges in parenting and/or mental health or other areas, and we would work together for an end goal. I am also passionate about providing individual therapy to support anxiety, problem-focused depression, burnout, and effects of trauma. These challenges can present differently for different people and no feelings are 'wrong.' Our world is filled with a variety of unique cumulative stressors and this can make it sometimes difficult to identify the cause. Things such as, burnout, from the daily challenges can create more complex feelings of loss, confusion, and depression because they are often minimized by our own beliefs. I want to conclude by sharing that not everyone requires walking through their past to understand their current circumstances. There are lots of approaches to therapy as it is just a form of support. The duration of therapy also depends on many factors, but I believe that you and I should always form goals we can track progress. I'm happy you decided to stop by and that you are considering the process of therapy. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Imara Cisneros providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Imara Cisneros

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH19678
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

Psychologist Cynthia Harris-Maddox providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Cynthia Harris-Maddox

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC Mh21555
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I'm passionate about supporting clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

Psychologist LaDreamer Harrison providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

LaDreamer Harrison

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LCSW 0904019014, FL LCSW SW25007
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

Psychologist Dory Richards providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Dory Richards

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT2933
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
14 years offering treatment

Dory creates a space where people can exhale. Her presence is steady, warm, and deeply attuned - the kind that helps you feel seen rather than evaluated. She works with individuals, couples, and families who are ready to strengthen their sense of self, repair disconnection, and communicate in ways that actually bring them closer. Her areas of focus include rebuilding self-worth, resolving relationship conflict, developing confident parenting strategies, navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, and establishing boundaries that protect peace instead of creating distance.

Psychologist Matthew Houff providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Matthew Houff

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH25812
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment

I specialize in helping young adults in life transitions. Whether its with school or work, family relationships, or romantic relationships, a lot of things can be in challenging during this stage of life! I also work with clients who have anxiety, depression, or addictions that make them feel stuck in life. Are you ready to feel more grounded, clear-headed, and in control? I’m here to help you get there. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, or just feeling stuck, let’s work together and create the change you want in your life. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to freely explore what’s on your mind. Therapy is a team effort, and we’ll develop a plan that’s tailored specifically for what you need. I draw on evidence-based techniques combined with a holistic, compassionate approach that honors your unique journey.

Psychologist Kayla Swanson providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Kayla Swanson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC Mh27941
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

I'm Kayla Swanson, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. With several years of clinical experience, I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. I draw from evidence-based therapeutic practices to help you build insight, develop coping skills, and move toward meaningful change. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing overwhelming emotions, or seeking to strengthen your relationships and sense of self, I'm here to support you. I'm honored by the courage it takes to begin therapy, and I look forward to walking alongside you on your healing journey.

Psychologist Lori Carpenter providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Lori Carpenter

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW4569
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
33 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. My work centers on helping people navigate stress, anxiety, grief, and the profound shifts that come with major life changes. I'm particularly skilled at addressing self-esteem concerns, compassion fatigue, and the emotional weight of caregiving. With over 20 years working with end of life issues, I have provided individual, family and group counseling for patients and families at some of the most challenging times dealing with chronic illness, caregiver role strain, grief and loss I work with clients on a wide range of meaningful topics: building self-love and stronger communication, overcoming isolation and loneliness, discovering life purpose, and cultivating forgiveness. I also support those working through control issues, codependency patterns, women's issues, and the unique struggles of cancer and addiction recovery. My approach is grounded in compassion and genuine understanding. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your values and perspective, and creating space for authentic healing. Whether you're processing loss, rebuilding your sense of self, or seeking clarity during uncertain times, I'm here to walk alongside you with care and respect.

Psychologist Cameca Murphy providing different types of therapy in Lakeland

Cameca Murphy

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW26212
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions and emotions. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and major life changes. My approach is grounded in compassion and a deep commitment to helping you find your way forward. I specialize in supporting clients with family conflicts, communication struggles, isolation, and feelings of loneliness. I also work with clients exploring self-love, forgiveness, and life purpose—as well as those facing specific life circumstances like divorce, pregnancy, postpartum challenges, caregiver stress, workplace concerns, and financial pressures. I bring cultural awareness and intentionality to my work, honoring the unique identities and experiences my clients bring to therapy. I believe in creating a space where you feel seen, respected, and supported as you heal and grow. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, drawing on evidence-based practices to help you build resilience and move toward meaningful change at your own pace. I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine care and commitment, helping you navigate whatever brought you to therapy. Taking the first step toward healing takes courage, and I'm honored to support you on your journey.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Lakeland, Florida

Finding a therapist near you in Lakeland, 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 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 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 Lakeland, Florida

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lakeland and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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