Is life like a quiet relaxing stroll along the river walk? Or do you feel like you're trudging down a busy city street? If you're having more daily trudges instead of relaxing strolls because of personal hardships, a qualified counselor or therapist may be able to help.
Consider reaching out to a mental health professional today if you're suffering from mental illness, struggling to cope with trauma or loss, or just need someone to talk to about relationship or family difficulties. A wealth of Live Oak-area therapists are available to provide you with the support you need to enjoy more strolls than trudges.
Lori Miller
I’ve spent my life confined to a wheelchair, so I believe I have a unique understanding of just how challenging life can be and the strength it takes to ask for help. Whatever your struggles, I believe the first step to helping you overcome them is to build a connection with you based on commonly shared thoughts, feelings, and actions impacting how we feel, how we relate to others, and how we achieve our goals. Once you and I have identified any unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and actions standing in your way, we will work together on a plan to help you succeed by giving you the skills, confidence, and belief that your emotional well-being doesn’t depend on others or events you can’t control. While pursuing my Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of West Florida and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I have gained 12 + years of clinical experience helping adults, teens, children, and families heal from a variety of emotional wounds to include: PTSD, grief and loss, intimate partner violence, physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect. I have worked with veterans, people dealing with substance dependence, homelessness, and chronic health problems. In sum, my approach is not to make you relive the past, but to help you recognize--and ultimately, change--the core hurtful beliefs and actions fueling your current anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem and relationship conflicts. I am ready to listen when you share, sit in silence when you need it, and best of all, cheer on your successes!
Sus Austill
Your story honors me As you have a path that is unique to you. I offer to walk with you … To provide support over rough ground, To offer tools for repair or new directions Or just a chance to tell your story. I bring 40 years of sobriety, 39 years of parenting; 28 years of working with children, adolescent, adults and families in the areas of mental health, substance use disorders and crisis stabilization in settings including outpatient, residential and inpatient. Personally, I also benefitted greatly from six years of therapy as I believe a good therapist has a therapist. Thus, my style has become intuitive over time instead of using just one type of therapy. My virtual toolbox includes genograms, recovery based therapy, motivational interviewing, empathetic listening, gestalt therapy, cognitive-behaviorlal theory, narrative therapy, mindfulness and tai chi. Areas of speciality include PTSD/Moral Injury/Compassion Fatigue; Substance Use/Abuse/Dependency; ADHD; LGBTQ+; Depression; Anxiety, Childhood Trauma and Family Systems. I especially welcome people who may feel marginalized or isolated in this time of heightened stress as we are coping with a pandemic. I offer to walk with you to provide support over rough ground, to offer tools to ease your path forward or just a chance to rest and share your story in safety.
Fabiola Desire
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Kimberly Hines
In this journey called life, we often deal with unexpected crises such as job loss, death of a loved one, aging family members, health issues and ongoing life transitions. Welcome to Life University where often we are never prepared for the lessons being taught. That's where I come in to help with providing coping skills and resources that assist with managing the unexpected. Many of the technique I use are: Mindfulness, Cognitive-Based and Strength-Based therapies and Solution Focused. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has served in the field of social work for the past 15 yrs. My background includes working with foster care and adoptive families, HIV/AIDS population, LGTBQ+ communities, BIPOC communities, medical social work and end stage renal and kidney transplant patients , hospice, palliative care and older adults. I would love to help you on the journey to gaining tools and resources that can help with restoring balance in your life. Response submitted will be addressed within 24 hours of submittal.
John Brennan
I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in Florida with over five years of experience working with children. I also have over fifteen years experience assessing and diagnosing abused and/or neglected children many of whom were in foster care. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, ODD, ADHD, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and parenting issues. My therapy style is nonjudgmental and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is mostly solution-focused in order to make progress during the first session and to keep you moving towards your goals. I will personalize our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek therapy and everyone deserves a more fulfilling and happier life. Many people are busy and want to see changes immediately. With your motivation and hard work, positive results should be noticeable within a short period of time. If you are ready to work, I am here to motivate and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!
Ruth Cook
I am licensed in Florida with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
Renee Lafriniere
As a licensed therapist in Florida with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I have a deep commitment to addressing issues across diverse life stages—from young adulthood through aging and end-of-life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication skills, social connections, and healing from isolation or shame. I particularly enjoy working with women, multicultural populations, and individuals experiencing significant life transitions. Whether supporting those managing mood disorders, processing grief, or exploring life purpose, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful insights and strategies for emotional wellness. With 25 years of professional experience, I bring a nuanced, empathetic perspective to our work together. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and cultivate resilience through collaborative, personalized therapeutic support.
George Vega
I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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.
Katherine Howes
Hi I’m Kate! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. My main goal when working with clients is to meet them where they are at and help them find confidence in moving forward. Every person is unique and their treatment should be the same. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have worked within the juvenile justice and school systems for most of my professional career and find this helps me interact well with people from all different walks of life. I want to help you find the strengths within yourself and build upon them to find success in whatever your goal is in counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and strength. Let's work together to keep this momentum moving forward toward a positive future.
Anthia Casanova
I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, LGBTQ-related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will help with 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 your journey.
Michelle Edmond
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience & 5 years primarily focusing therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Tahaji Smith
A little about me: My name is Tahaji Smith (she/her), and I decided to make a huge career change 5 years ago. I am currently a Master of Social Work graduate, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of public service experience. Previously, I worked for 17 years as a 911 call taker and dispatcher for one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the nation, but I decided to pursue a career doing what I love…helping others become the best version of themselves. My experience has offered me the opportunity to assist clients that are attempting to manage life’s challenges in the midst of stress, anxiety, low motivation, issues with self-esteem, lack of confidence, depression, substance abuse, and crisis events. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue by helping others that help others. I work closely 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.
Samuel Moses
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience (LCSW, MCAP, NBCCH, CEAP), soon to be S.A.P./EAP Certified, also working towards Certification in NBHWC/IFC Health & Wellness Coaching specialties, CISM specialty certifications, Certified Mediator Certifications, Parenting Coordinator Specialty Certification and RRT Specialist Certification Designations. I have experience in helping clients with persons experiencing stress, anxiety, panic, trauma, abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder, ADHD and neurodivergent thoughts/feelings, issues & behaviors. I also have experience working with persons experiencing depression, heartbreak, heartache, grief, sadness. I work with individual's (adults, parents/co-parents, young adults, teens) & couple's clients to create an environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Take the first step and sign up for therapy!
Dawn Witherspoon
You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or tired of carrying everything alone. Anxiety, stress, or big life changes might leave you feeling lost or disconnected. You want to feel calmer, more confident, and in control. I offer a safe space where you can slow down, untangle your thoughts, and build tools for lasting change- so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Every person deserves compassionate, evidence-based care that honors their unique story. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and complex grief. I incorporate a multidimensional, eclectic approach that draws from evidence-based and integrative therapies, tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re seeking to overcome a traumatic event, manage overwhelming emotions, or make meaningful changes in your life, I’m here to offer a safe, supportive environment where healing and growth are possible. My approach is collaborative and client-centered—focused on meeting you where you are and walking alongside you without judgment.
Find a Therapist Near You in Live Oak , 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 Live Oak.
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.