Avia James
Hello, and congratulations on your first step in becoming BetterHelped. With blended experience in different therapeutic settings and modalities, including Inpatient, Outpatient and Corrections, I am confident that I have the tools, experience and knowledge to assist and support you in your endeavor to rise above life challenges. I hold a Master's of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I am certified as a Co-Occurring Counselor by the Pennsylvania Certification Board and specialize in providing counseling to those affected by both mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that having a strong therapeutic alliance is at the core of successful outcomes. I believe that having a good connection with your counselor is key to putting theory into practice. That being said, my main goal, with any therapeutic encounter I have, is to create a working environment that feels safe, positive and non-judgmental. I employ creative methods in my effort to encourage and allow you to be YOU and to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. I strive to empower you as an individual and help you bring all your personal strengths out to the forefront. I aim to assist you to strengthen the connection with the inner voice I am confident you have deep down, as I aspire to get you to see your ability to self-heal. Thank you for considering me as your next counselor and I look forward to being a part in your self-search endeavor.
Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Sarah Spiro
Reaching out for help takes a lot of courage and I applaud you for taking the first step. I enjoy working with my clients is a private non-judgmental setting and encouraging them to be their best selves. I have worked with a range of different clients and through hard work and patience they have made progress in their personal lives. There is no better feeling in the world than seeing your client make meaningful progress and make positive changes in their lives. I like to describe my style as solution focused while taking the time to understand your emotions and feelings throughout this process. Each person is unique and I like to spend time getting to know you as an individual as we work together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been work volunteering and working as a social worker for over 10 years. I completed my Bachelors degree at Florida State University and completed my Masters degree at Barry University in Miami, majoring in Social Work for both. Currently I live in South Florida with my two large dogs and enjoy the beautiful warm weather. I look forward to getting to know you and being by your side through this process.
Maria Concepcion
Hi, I like clients to feel as if they are chatting with a friend when in session and feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Be assured that I will provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve your desired mental health goals. I have been a therapist for 15 years and do so with compassion, dedication and directness with clients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues at home, socially or at work. I also help those wishing to increase coping mechanisms when dealing with family/friends who abuse substances (co-dependency). By offering insightful, practical tools and informative interaction, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I will work with you every step of the way to bring about the changes you need to improve your thought processes and emotions. As I have stated, our work together will be direct and I will collaborate with you to facilitate a program personalized to your needs, helping you to make the necessary advancement you desire in your life. This will not only be talk- therapy sessions on a weekly basis, I will need your active participation through messaging and completing "assignments" to help us recognize your patterns of thoughts and feelings which then drive your behaviors, so that you can adjust and restructure them accordingly. I also have enjoyed professional experience providing spiritual guidance and reflection to foster personal growth and intimacy with the God of your understanding. Please, feel free to read the comments my past clients have voluntarily sent in about the results they have had working with me. I look forward to working together!
Margaret Johnston
I am a LMHC therapist, public speaker community organizer, social and environmental activist and have been listening for decades. I received my formal education at University of North Florida as Master of Clinical Psychotherapy, 2013. I also took a 9-month internship under Ed Wilder, in Clinical Pastoral Education, in deep listening. I worked in the Talk program at Wounded Warrior for 8 months- the warriors talked; I listened. Did you go through trauma? Are you, right now, in a high stress situation? Do you keep losing your patience or your professionalism at the wrong moment and you don’t know why? Do you keep getting in your own way? I use Trauma Supportive Therapy to safely address, as slowly as need be, the pain of the past that keeps coming to trip your defenses at all the wrong moments, in your present. I can be that supporting presence who will help sort it out by listening- really hearing you. Reflect your depth of feelings back to you. Validate what are your unmet emotional needs. I practice the therapy of defining personal meaning, so, together we will facilitate your thinking of your options, planning, purpose, and goals for living a meaningful life without being afraid of tripping over your past or yourself. I practice person centered therapy by meeting you where you are. I strive to be culturally sensitive, non-prejudicial and use strength-based therapy as a jump point, truly believing I am the guide for you, but you are the treasure/wisdom keeper. Of all the reasons people come to therapy: anger, guilt, anxiety, changes, transitions, depression, trauma, jealousy, and “it is just not working anymore”, the extra burden of race and racism is more than just a nuance to be nodded at in therapy. I will view race as central to all the other pieces, when it is central to you. I am inclusive, secular, competent, affirming and non-judgmental. I have worked with people in transition, people who are very much defined, “but things got complicated”, people in the communities of LGBTQA, Polyamory, Kink, non-gendered. Each are safe and welcome here.
Pamela Grove Gougelman
As a licensed therapist in Florida with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including social anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and midlife challenges. My approach is deeply attuned to individual experiences, particularly supporting older adults, women, and those managing chronic stress or life disruptions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering clients to develop stronger self-understanding, improve communication skills, and cultivate meaningful connections. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop resilient strategies for personal growth. Drawing from comprehensive clinical training, I offer a holistic approach that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Rachael Izquierdo
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT Qualified Supervisor, and Trauma-Informed Yoga teacher with over 26 years of clinical experience treating children, teens, adults, and families. My experience is in diagnosing and treating anxiety, depression, attention problems, and various behavioral and interpersonal problems. I enjoy working with clients on issues surrounding family life, health and wellness, teenage struggles, parenting skills, and communication within the home. I believe in a strong work/ life balance so when I’m not seeing clients you can usually find me practicing yoga, cooking, and spending time with my husband, children, and dogs.
Donna Williams Welch
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, depression, trauma and abuse. 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.
Suzanne Brabant
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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. Let's get started together!
Regina Cox
I am licensed in Florida with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Shae Sellers
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.
James Hoy
I am licensed in Florida, Oklahoma and Oregon with 10 years of professional work experience. My certifications include Master Certified Addiction Counselor, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, executive coaching, spiritual issues, aging, bereavement/hospice/death, anxiety, depression, loneliness, socialization, holistic mental health solutions and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and 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, and will share my mental and spiritual health knowledge and tools to help remind you of the truths you have within yourself.
Faryal Choudry
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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.
Wendy Dunn
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, empathetic therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique story, strengths, and potential for healing. My clinical work focuses on supporting teens and adults through various emotional and psychological challenges. I draw from evidence-based practices to provide thoughtful, personalized care that honors each individual's journey toward emotional resilience and well-being. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to help clients build self-understanding, develop effective coping skills, and create positive pathways toward emotional health and personal transformation.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Leesburg, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Leesburg, 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' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
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 Leesburg.
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' copay is as low as $15 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' copay is as low as $15 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 Leesburg, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Leesburg and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.