Marsha Oxamendi
I believe in positive counseling with the goal of empowering you to work toward your personal growth. My counseling style is respectful, compassionate, sensitive, and non-threatening. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including grief, anger management, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and trauma. I am a Florida-licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from Florida State University in 2010. I have worked with persons from varied backgrounds. I have provided mental health counseling to prisoners, individuals and groups in anger management sessions, dialysis patients, veterans and their families in hospice care, and pregnant and postpartum women. I look forward to giving you support and helping to empower you in your personal growth so you can achieve all your goals!
Waynette Speakman
Hello, My name is Waynette Speakman. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I am also a Board Certified -TeleMental Health Provider (BC-THP). I graduated from the University of South Florida in 2007 with a Master's in Counseling. I primarily work from an Adlerian counseling perspective as it utilizes psychodynamic, cognitive, and behavioral techniques. I incorporate cognitive and behavioral strategies into counseling to facilitate goal-directed positive behaviors, while also taking into account past history, birth order and family dynamics. Adlerian therapy is goal directed and future focused, therefore we will not spend too much time on past history, rather add it to the other pieces to create the best possible picture. I will integrate solution-focused strategies and motivational interviewing techniques to encourage problem solving from a positive goal oriented perspective. I am really excited to meet you and start working with you.
Karen Bradt
11/28/25 It is winter in the mountains. I have turned off video scheduling availability. If you want video please just let me know. I am into frequent power outage season and video is not always a possibility. I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified trauma professional. I graduated from the University of Central Florida with a BSW in social work, a certificate in Addictions, and an Master's in clinical social work. I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, agoraphobia, borderline personality disorder and depression; clients with a history of physical and psychological abuse, self harm, sexual abuse, and other traumas. I utilize a combination of traditional talk therapy, education on how trauma affects our brains, and implementation of practical tools and action steps to achieve the changes you want to make in your life. I believe talk therapy is helpful but that it takes action to reprogram your brain's reactions to triggers. Most clients I have worked with who are experiencing any form of anxiety believe they are crazy. I assure you it is not crazy. Your brain is meant to function in the way it does to protect you. I also wholeheartedly believe physical and mental health are intertwined. I will ask you to experiment with new techniques and reactions to triggers and difficult relationships. I provide the knowledge of tools and techniques but you are the expert on you. Generally, I start with getting to know you and what you want to work on. We move into education on your specific diagnoses and on brain function and how we can reprogram. We begin taking small steps using tools I will teach you. All I need is for you to be willing to experiment with new techniques and reactions to difficult situations and people, and to let me know if the specific technique does not work for you so we can try another. Those steps have been as small as having clients who experience agoraphobia sit in a different room for 5 minutes, simple but not easy. I will also focus on your physical health and activity level. There is much research that shows some type of physical activity is helpful. I myself have experienced this. I am a hiker, a former activity leader for the Florida Trail, and wilderness first aid certified. I hike, when I am inactive I definitely experience mood changes. If hiking is not your thing that is okay. We will find something that works for you. 10/01/25 If you have requested to work with me.. I am not refusing you. For whatever reason I receive the message and then clients are removed before I have 10 minutes to respond. Most recent disappeared in 6 minutes while I was reading the client info.
Genee Tinsley
I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 8 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, mood disorders, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse and substance addictions. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and Jungian therapy. I will tailor our dialog 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 change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you on your journey. I look forward to working with you!
Joy Adle
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, grieving a loss, out of balance and alone, it’s time to get support to find a path to regain your peace of mind. You don't need to be alone with sadness, pain or anxiety, I am here to encourage you to develop the skills to find your inner strength and change thoughts and emotional patterns that are keeping you feeling hopeless, stuck or unworthy. I work primarily with individuals in transition who are dealing with change or loss and are seeking support to grow spiritually and emotionally in order to move forward with realizing their dreams. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, with a Master of Science in Counseling and a Master of Arts in Spiritual Psychology. I have 7 years of experience in addiction counseling, family grief counseling and I support my clients to gain insight, strength and a greater sense of self-compassion and well-being. I use a holistic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and communication skills to heal relationships and change addictive behavior. My techniques include physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practices to assist you in regaining your clarity and enthusiasm for your life.
April Lewis
I am a licensed Clinician and Certified Tele-mental therapist with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients various issues including stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship and family issues, & 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.
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.
Michelle Skoien
Resiliency means “bouncing back” from difficult experiences. I believe everyone is resilient. My passion is to help others learn to deal with difficult experiences and ‘bounce back’. My goal is to help you to have balance in your life (physically/intellectually/emotionally/spiritually) through skills, which you will learn about during our sessions, in a comfortable welcoming environment. Dealing with difficult experiences are what led me in the direction of becoming a helper for others. I am grateful to have learned about, and been able to help, individuals for the past twenty five years who have battled many types of experiences. I can help you learn skills to help with feelings associated with grief and loss, whether due to a trauma or the loss of a loved one. I also teach skills to help children learn to cope in the classroom environment. As you learn and practice these skills, you can expect to gain a sense of calmness and confidence. My belief is that “…suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5: 3-4. My goal is to try instill the belief in you, that there is always hope.
Lucila Coba
My name is Lucila Coba, I'm licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, stress management, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and life transitions. My approach is integrative which allows me to draw from various therapeutic modalities to tailor therapy to your individual and unique needs. In addition, I'm a bilingual clinician (English and Spanish). 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I'm looking forward to start working with you in your healing journey!
Odalys De Armas
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ruth Auguste
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida. She works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. 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.
Heidi Collins
I am a mental health and addictions counselor, licensed in Florida as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) with over 12 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, relationship issues, ADHD and more. My therapy style is warm, caring and interactive. My Christian worldview forms the lens through which I view clients. I believe that every person has dignity since they were made in the image of God. I also believe that everyone has depravity due to sin. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and will never shame you for anything you share with me. It takes a lot of courage to share the painful and shameful parts of yourself, and I will always hold your heart gently during those times of sharing. I want to know the whole you and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and emotion focused therapy. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
brianna kegelman
Hi there, Congrats on making it to this step! Looking into therapy can be overwhelming, whether it is your first time or your familiar with it. You may think, is this really for me? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in this journey. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. Whether you are going through a crisis or not, having someone unbiased to talk to can help. You have to find the right fit and I hope I can be that, but if not I would love to provide you with other resources. I believe in making therapy an accepting and safe place that provides compassion, honesty, and focusing on Progress rather than Perfection. I work primarily with individuals, children, adolescents, families, couples, college students and the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience and enjoy working with issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relational issues, autism spectrum disorder, gender and sexuality issues, grief, trauma, schizophrenia and individuals adjusting to college. I work to bring into the counseling space a dynamic, engaging and eclectic style that focuses on each individual client being unique in their own way. I aim to provide an open and accepting space for individuals to come to. We focus on the progress, rather than the perfection in therapy and in life. Please message me with any further questions you may have.
Kaley Melville
I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is not to tell you who to be — it’s to help you better understand your story, strengthen your voice, and feel empowered to move forward with clarity and confidence. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of a private practice, where I have been one of the leading therapists for the past six years. In that time, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families navigating some of life’s most challenging and transformative moments. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and direct when needed — always grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. I specialize in conflict resolution, communication breakdowns, major life transitions, and healing from relational trauma. I also work closely with individuals experiencing high pressure situations, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, offering compassionate support while building practical coping tools. Additionally, I have experience guiding individuals, couples, and families through the end-of-life cycle and the complex grief that can accompany it. As an active professional athlete and former Division I dual-sport collegiate athlete, I also specialize in working with athletes of all levels. I understand the unique pressures of performance, identity loss after injury or transition out of athletics, body image concerns, burnout, PTSD related to injury or loss, and performance anxiety. I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience into this work. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or simply ready to grow, we will work together to help you regain a sense of control, strengthen your resilience, and move toward the life you want to create.
Find a Therapist Near You in North Sarasota , 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 North Sarasota.
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.