Marylise Zwarts
Congratulations for taking the first step into getting better! If you’re here because you are struggling and you want some help, it is essential to find the therapist that is right for you… Maybe you’re just tired of feeling stuck or feeling not good enough. Or maybe you’re exhausted to repeat the same patterns, to keep getting into the wrong relationships. Maybe you can’t get over that person you lost… Maybe you’re looking for help because of disturbing memories that are haunting you, because you can’t take anymore the nightmares, the urges, and the fear. Maybe you feel that nobody understands what you are going through, that nobody can help you to get better NOW ! What if I tell you that therapy can be a fast road to feeling good with yourself? What if I tell you that you can get up in the morning excited about a new day, confident that you’ll make the right choices, happy to face whatever life will be bringing up? Ok don’t get me wrong: therapy is not miracle. You’re not going to get up tomorrow morning in an ideal world without having to put some effort into getting well. But if I do my job, and if you do your part, you can quickly feel better and then work your way towards a happy life, whatever that word means to you. Yes, the right therapy with the right person offers incredible breakthroughs, facilitate closure and can lead to a newer version of you ! Now let me tell you more about me. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have been practicing for fifteen years in France and in the USA as a mental health counselor and fully trained EMDR therapist. I offer my services for individuals and couples, online and face-to-face. But beyond the academic credentials, I have always believed in the importance to meet people where they are, and where they need help. As a trauma specialist and EMDR clinician, I practiced in various countries and environments (including not-for-profit organizations, mental health institutions, residential substance abuse programs, private practice), and I got to meet clients experiencing all sorts of emotional and behavioral disorders. I have been counseling patients feeling stuck, underachieved, burnt out, anxious, depressed and unhappy, but also persons who are suffering from overwhelming feelings due to substance abuse, phobia, loss, grief, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, PTSD, trauma and addiction... I believe that fast progress is a fantastic motivation, so I use my skills and energy towards that goal : I want you to feel better now, so we can work at making you feel good about yourself in any circumstances. I strongly believe that everyone has inner resources to recover from difficult experiences. I am here also to help you reinforce your ego and have a positive perception of yourself. As therapy is not one size fits all, I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as the person-centered approach (Carl Rogers), Cognitive and Behavioral approach (CBT), solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), the psychodynamic approach and EMDR, to guide my clients through a fast healing process. My ultimate goal ? Help you to embrace your life without needing my help (or any therapy) anymore. Together we can get you to feel independent, confident and free to make the choices that are right for you.
Aleisa Keels Wilson
I am a license clinical social worker and a license clinical addiction professional in North Carolina and Florida with over 25 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, co-occurring disorders , career challenges and substance abuse issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional and verbal abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, dignity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person center, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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!
Michele Bonanno
As a licensed therapist with over three decades of experience, I offer compassionate and comprehensive support across a wide range of life challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the unique complexities of human experience, from navigating personal growth to addressing complex emotional landscapes. I specialize in supporting individuals through diverse concerns including stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and interpersonal dynamics. My approach is holistic and person-centered, honoring each individual's distinct journey and inherent strengths. My therapeutic work spans multiple focus areas—from relationship difficulties and life transitions to addressing deeper emotional patterns like isolation, shame, and personal empowerment. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful insights, and cultivate sustainable strategies for emotional well-being. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, processing life changes, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.
Robert Barrett
Hi, my name is Robert Barrett and I have been licensed in Florida as a clinical social worker (LCSW) since 1996. For more than 30 years I have provided counseling and psychotherapy for clients for a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depressed mood, relationship concerns, personal stress, job stress and other difficulties. As a state of Florida certified sex therapist, I am qualified to provide counseling for problems related to sexual function and sexual behavior issues. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Florida International University in Miami, FL, and post-graduate training as a clinical sexologist. I am the past clinical director of Southwest Florida Employee Assistance Program and the past Program Director for Human Services Foundation of Lee County. For ten years I was the student behavioral health counselor at Florida Southwestern State College, Punta Gorda campus. I have been a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy since 2001. In counseling I utilize a “strength-based” approach known as solution-focused brief therapy. SFBT is based on helping you build solutions by focusing on your current circumstances and your hopes for the future. I also integrate concepts of cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) for identifying the underlying thought patterns that may be contributing to psychological distress. My focus is to help individuals and families navigate life’s sometimes arduous transitions, and my style is to offer a sincere interest in assisting clients get through difficult challenges.
Shelly Wilson
I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues. 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!
Robert Shackelford
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 takes courage and I will do my best to build upon that effort.
Hyacinth Thompson
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am passionate about what I do and I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I generally check messages here a few times per day Mon-Sat and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. Welcome again to BetterhHelp.
George Deegan
I have worked with many types of people in my career, but a favorite is helping those struggling with grief. People have come to me after losing a child, a friend, or a parent and even a close long-term romantic partner. Being overwhelmed with conflicting and confusing emotions is common and often they just need to be heard. Your process is unique to you and the last thing you need to hear is, "It's time to move on, stop crying." The goal is to take ownership of your grief, and all that comes with it. Sometimes permission is all that you need to allow whatever happens to happen. You are the director of how you choose to grieve. I specialize in addiction, intersex birth differences, grief, anxiety and trauma. Initially, my style is to work towards building a therapeutic relationship with you, always developing trust in its own time until you are comfortable revealing deeper vulnerability. I believe together, with minds combined, we find better solutions to what seems insurmountable. Since high school many have shared private information with me. I suspect they know just how much I can relate to their experiences. As a flawed human, with much life experience, my strength lies in compassionate understanding. I continue to receive letters of gratitude from decades old clients. I humbly respond, "I lit the candle you did all the work!"
Hannah Stucky
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in: coping with grief and loss, coping with life changes, caregiver burden & compassion fatigue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Joy Townsend
I am licensed in Florida and AL with 5 years of providing therapy services on an individual and group basis. I have over 24 years experience as a social worker. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey with kindness and compassion. I am an empathetic listener who is happy to help.
Julian Echeverry
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma with compassionate, personalized care. I bring deep expertise in supporting individuals struggling with self-esteem, social anxiety, and life transitions. My bilingual background in English and Spanish allows me to connect with diverse communities, creating inclusive and understanding therapeutic spaces. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're dealing with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or working through past experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic journey that honors your unique experiences and strengths. Together, we can explore healing strategies that help you build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.
Leigh Jacob
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, personalized care. My therapeutic practice is rooted in understanding the unique experiences of each individual, with a particular focus on supporting older adults through transformative life transitions. I believe in creating a collaborative, supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I work alongside my clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, improving interpersonal relationships, and building emotional strength. My goal is to empower individuals to discover their inner resources and create positive, sustainable changes in their lives. I am committed to providing a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can feel heard, validated, and supported as they work toward their personal wellness goals.
Sharon Wright
I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to guide and partner with the individual to achieve their desired outcome. It is my belief that the answers lie within each of us, but it sometimes takes support and learning the necessary tools to manage and create the necessary change.
Patrick Gribel
I’m Patrick, a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self-worth, burnout, and major life transitions. I also welcome clients exploring identity, culture, faith, or questions of meaning, and I offer therapy in English and Portuguese. My style is warm, collaborative, and depth-oriented. I draw from psychodynamic, attachment-based, psychoanalytic, existential, and humanistic approaches. We will address what is troubling you now while also becoming curious about deeper patterns that may keep it returning—such as early relationships, unspoken expectations, self-criticism, or the roles you often take with others. Therapy with me is thoughtful and unhurried. I pay careful attention, invite reflection, and help bring less-visible patterns into view. My aim is to provide a respectful, nonjudgmental space where you can understand yourself more fully, feel steadier, and make changes that last. Starting therapy can feel vulnerable; you do not need to have everything figured out before we begin.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Oakland, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Oakland, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Oakland.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Oakland, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Oakland and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.