From the town of Midway, there is a breathtaking view of the Timpanogos mountain range. Even though these mountains reach heights of over 11,000 feet, this impressive range is still grounded firmly to the earth. It’s so important to feel grounded in life, and to feel as though you have a sure footing beneath you.
But if mental health or emotional struggles affect your life, you can feel anything but grounded. Instead, you might feel lost, confused and pretty negative about life. Midway-area counselors know what you’re going through, and they are ready and available to listen to whatever’s on your mind, and to offer advice to make things better. Match with a licensed, confidential mental health professional today.
Melissa Pesce
Meaningful change happens when you feel both supported and challenged. My approach is direct, supportive and compassionate. Creating a space where you can feel safe to explore your experiences while being encouraged to move toward your goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their strengths, deepen their self-awareness, and develop the insight needed to create lasting change. Together, we will work to bring greater clarity, direction, and purpose to your life while fostering accountability, growth, and personal evolution. I strive to create an open-minded, nonjudgmental environment that promotes healing, resilience, and transformation. Whether you are navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, or personal growth, I will meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. My integrative therapeutic approach combines trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness-based interventions tailored to your unique needs and goals. I also incorporate evidence-based techniques including strengths-based, solution-focused, family systems, holistic, client-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches. By drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, I am able to provide individualized care that supports healing, fosters self-discovery, and empowers you to create meaningful and sustainable change. Please feel free to reach out about my office hours. I offer 30 minute video or phone sessions. I look forward to helping you grow and move you forward into the next chapter in your life. Let’s get started!
Abraham Knowles
Hello! My name is Abraham Knowles and am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in Florida. I earned my Master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Florida in 1995. I have since worked as a school social worker and also have worked in a variety of other fields including community mental health, substance abuse, and home health. I have worked with clients in a variety of modalities including individual, group, and family counseling as well as case management. I draw from a variety of counseling approaches but mostly cognitive behavioral and humanistic/ client centered therapies. I have helped clients with many presenting problems, especially depression, anxiety, and trauma. Outside of my work as a therapist/ social worker, I enjoy reading, movies, and theater as well as spending time with my wife (married 31 years) son (25), daughter (21), and grandson (4) at their various activities. I have been a volunteer with my church’s youth group for over 20 years. It takes courage to seek support to work through difficult issues and I’m proud of you for taking that first, very important step. I love listening to and supporting people through difficult circumstances and working with them to develop and implement a plan for improvement. I would love to work with you to provide support and assistance as you work toward symptom reduction, confidence, improved relationships, life purpose, and positive change.
Jean Kraljev
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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!
Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer
Change your Life! Your life can evolve and change so that you may find freedom and peace! My mission is to assist you to explore and discover your own answers from within, and to remember, recover and honor your true, authentic self so you can live life with greater ease and abundant joy. Let me guide you to transform your-Self and your life. Hello, I am Peggy Ann Serena Hemmer. I prefer to go by Serena. I have been providing clinically sound, creative, holistic counseling for children ages 3 and up, adults, couples and families since 2004. Prior to my clinical work, I spent 10 years at the county and state departments of mental health and substance abuse. Having studied and practiced many holistic approaches to health and well-being, as well as a variety of life philosophies, my approach to therapy is from a holistic perspective, taking into consideration the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. Knowing youth express themselves through art, and play, I weave Expressive Arts modalities into sessions with youth and their families. I was provided an opportunity to establish an Expressive Arts Clinical Program at a behavioral health residential center for youth. Certified in Rational Hypnotherapy, I am able to guide clients to relief from anxiety, phobias, and addictions. I graduated Summa cum Laude from Capital University with a Bachelor of Social Work degree and received a Master of Social Work degree, from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. In Florida, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Certifications in Rational Hypnotherapy, Gottman Couple's Counseling, and Spiritual Life Coaching. As an ordained metaphysical, New Thought minister and certified Spiritual Life Coach I assist clients, who are seeking, to explore and expand their values, spirituality, and faith. I bring my education, experience, and intuition to my practice and particularly my creativity in my work with adolescents and adults. Having provided counseling for people of all ages, from all backgrounds and socio-economic levels in residential treatment centers and private practice, I have acquired a broad awareness of the variety of challenges many people face and have witnessed the intrinsic ability we each have to overcome those challenges and to thrive. Originally, I founded my private practice in 2006 in Worthington, Ohio, and later moved it to Westerville, Ohio. Because I incorporate my background and experience in dance, Tai Chi and Qi Gong, drama, visual arts, and pottery, I was sought after to provide therapy for children as well as adults and couples. Along with my formal education and experience, I am certified in many holistic approaches. I am a Reiki Master Teacher, an Advanced Theta Healing practitioner, an Access Bars Practitioner and taught Qi Gong and Tai Chi for the State of Ohio Employees. Currently, my practice is located in sunny Saint Petersburg, Florida. During my career, I have developed and presented a variety of workshops for families and providers. Including: Ohio Department of Health - Birth to Three Conference -“Maternal Depression and Effects on Infants”- Co-Presenter Ohio Department of Aging Governor’s Conference on Aging - “Advantages of Tai Chi”, Presenter Ohio Department of Mental Health Millennium Conference - “Moving through Recovery”- Presenter “Use of Expressive Arts and Play in Counseling Adolescent Youth in a Children’s Residential Center”- Presenter “Bullies, Bullied, Bully Victims”- Presenter “Separation, Attachment, and Placement”- Foster and Adopted Children Presenter Cancer Support Community Leadership Conference, Washington, D.C-Co-Presenter -“Distress Screening” My publications include: I Am Me, I Am, A Pearl's Wisdom Book. Hemmer, P. A. Serena(2020). https://www.amazon.com/Am-Me-Pearls-Wisdom-Books/dp/B08JJLMSB7. I Don't Need Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/i-don-t-need-counseling. Is My Child Too Young for Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/is-my-child-too-young-for-counseling. The Empowerment of Homeless Women: Implications for Future Advocacy Issues Seventh Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) and Scherocman, J. (2002) Depression: Developmental Considerations from Birth to Eighteen Sixth Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) Stattmiller, L., and Wernicke, C., (2001)
Linda Milewski
Hello, I’m Linda Milewski, a Licensed Clinical Therapist and addiction specialist of 20 years. I hold a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Non Violent Communication (NVC), Trauma-informed Care and Awareness, Tibetan Sound Bowl Healing, as well as Mindfulness practices. Additionally, I hold international certifications in addiction, Employee Assistance Program, and Sober Coaching. After nearly two decades in inpatient psychiatric units, recovery facilities, mental health agencies, and wellness centers, I have helped stabilize many clients suffering from crisis, addiction, trauma, mood disorders and stress responses to various types of trauma. I developed a keen interest in various types of symptoms that create behaviors most would consider detrimental to their lives. As I travelled extensively internationally, delving deeper into the causes of suffering, I began to understand more deeply what (in the Buddhist context), “suffering” means and how we can heal from it. I began looking at the client as a “whole organism” by exploring how the body and its nervous system becomes severely compromised over time stemming from chronic stress. I have learned that when the body is relaxed through certain techniques, there is no room for stress or trauma to be held. Through regulating the body and nervous system, we create a safe and calm therapeutic space from which to find creative and authentic solutions to our daily challenges. I believe that once the body feels safe, we are supported to make deep and life-changing shifts. Non Violent Communication (NVC) is important to me. This modality supports us to speak authentically from the heart, tying in beautifully with mindfulness practices, trauma awareness and the regulation of emotions through somatic work. This method also supports us to set boundaries in ways that are compassionate for ourselves and others, enabling us to foster deeper, more authentic connection. My approach with each client is to provide support, accountability, and structure that honors and helps clients to step out into post traumatic growth. Through use of a range of techniques, tools and therapeutic approaches, I see transformations in my clients as they experience a strong feeling of overall safety and well being. I look forward to hearing from you and going on this journey of healing and self discovery with you!
John Checkett
Prof John Checkett (pronounced as in, Check it Out!) is a highly skilled, highly educated therapist holding degrees in several of the social sciences. He's the first man in history to earn a master's degree in Women's Studies in Florida, an academic discipline which he also taught on a university level. He also holds university degrees in communication arts and social work, as well as being an LCSW. He's worked in emergency screening, providing spot analysis for emergency mental health cases with no advance notice. He also worked for years in the prison system, with inmates experiencing mental health difficulties. John'san excellent listener and communicator, and he specializes in problems related to gender, problems between couples -- which are usually matters of communication -- and social justice. He employs an integrative approach, drawing especially upon cognitive behavioral therapy, Jungian and narrative therapy, addressing such matters as self-care, empowerment, self-image, self-esteem and conflict resolution.
Dr. Shannon Holliker
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!
Dr. Douglas Rodriguez
I am licensed in Florida and Michigan with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Eric Troy
Hello everyone! Thank you for your interest in therapy and for taking the time to read my profile. Helping others, psychology and counseling has been my passion since the first time I was exposed to this field. As a result, I completed a dual bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. My enthusiasm for this field and helping others led me to continue my education at the graduate level and I obtained a Master’s degree in Psychology with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. Also, I have completed a doctoral degree in the field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology. After completing my internship and working as a therapist, I obtained my license. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for mental health and marriage and family therapists in the State of Florida. I have over 14 years of professional work experience. In life you might find yourself facing a variety of challenges or issues. My role as an experienced mental health professional is to assist you in successfully overcoming these challenges. I offer you a judgement-free and confidential environment that will allow you to express any thoughts and anything that would benefit your therapeutic process. Receiving my mental health training and practicing in South Florida, place with a large cultural diversity, it helped me developed the skills needed to work successfully with clients from other cultures as well. Some of my therapeutic approaches are Cognitive, Cognitive-Behavioral, EMDR, Holistic, Narrative, Supportive, Family Systems, DBT, and others. My techniques are specifically tailored to each individuals’ needs and implemented based on the presenting problems. Throughout the years, I have been helping clients with a variety of issues including stress management, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and self-confidence, grief/loss, caregivers' related issues, men's issues, divorce related issues, adjustment disorders, aging related issues, trauma/PTSD, LGBTQ related issues, gender identity, employment related issues, work-life balance, increase in motivation, & others. 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, “hold your hand” and guide you until you reach the desired goals in life.
Heather Wilkie
Hello, I’m Heather Wilkie, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida (MH20343). I bring over 12 years of experience supporting individuals navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. I have extensive experience working within LGBTQ+ communities across all ages, which informs my affirming, inclusive, and culturally responsive approach. While this is a core area of expertise, I welcome and work with individuals from all backgrounds and identities. My style is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in respect. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore what’s bringing you to therapy. Whether you’re navigating relationships, stress, identity, or personal growth, we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. Seeking support takes courage, and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk alongside you as you move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Donna Maso
I am a dedicated and experienced licensed clinical social worker, with over 30 years of professional counseling experience and educational training. I've worked with many different age groups, from young children to the elderly - and assisted clients with a wide range of issues. My experience includes: working in outpatient, transitional, inpatient and crisis services - and with a wide range of populations including the specialization of children diagnosed with AD/HD, abuse & trauma victims of all ages (including shelter, hotline and court services), children's counselor/ child crisis/ protection/ parenting centers, couples, families/ family counselor agencies, military families (family of many veterans), mandatory work referrals, adjudicated adolescents (was executive director of treatment programs), school systems (taught regular and alternative education), offenders (worked in correctional system/ prisons), individuals needing long-term placement, developed programs for the disabled, and those with chronic or terminal conditions (worked as LMSW for hospice - settings included hospitals, nursing homes, ALFs, Memory Care, etc. ) Therapy and counseling can provide relief and personal growth for people seeking positive changes in their lives. It is helpful, especially during difficult times, to have an objective, compassionate professional who will focus on your strengths and abilities, in a confidential and non-judgmental environment. I look forward to meeting with you to begin a journey toward workable solutions and great possibilities on your path in life. Let's begin today. Please note: As a policy, I ask for your agreement to not electronically record telehealth sessions without prior consent. Laws that protect HIPAA confidentiality in the office - also applies to telehealth sessions - including mandatory and permissive exceptions to confidentiality. Thank you.
Gary Jacobs
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience primarily with crisis management. I have been employed in emergency rooms, jail-prison, substance abuse-rehab, nursing homes and have facilitated care to every age group including couples and family issues. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I have encountered every aspect of mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, ptsd. bipolar, schizoaffective, relationship discord, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, anger, motivation, & self-esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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. I am simply a tool helping you transition or seek a more fulfilling and happier lifestyle. With your courage, I am here to support you in that process.
Elizabeth Santilli
As a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, I bring a compassionate and culturally responsive approach to mental health care. My professional experience centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, family dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in supporting women through transformative healing journeys, with a particular focus on building self-esteem, addressing panic disorder, and processing traumatic experiences. My therapeutic practice is rooted in understanding and honoring each client's unique identity and lived experience. I create a warm, affirming space where individuals can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate self-love. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively to help clients develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness and personal empowerment. With a deep commitment to culturally sensitive care, I strive to provide a supportive environment that respects and validates each person's individual journey. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine belief in each client's capacity for growth and healing.
Sarah Spiewak
As a social worker and licensed therapist with a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, family dynamics, and personal healing from past traumas. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My practice is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with a focus on building resilience, enhancing self-awareness, and supporting emotional well-being. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work closely with clients to address underlying emotional patterns, strengthen interpersonal skills, and cultivate healthier coping mechanisms. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or working to rebuild self-esteem, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for transformation and healing. My goal is to empower you to discover your inherent strengths, develop greater emotional insight, and create positive, sustainable changes in your life. I believe that every individual has the capacity for growth, and I'm honored to walk alongside you in this important journey.
Find a Therapist Near You in Midway , 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 Midway.
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.