In Ocala, FL, those seeking support for various mental health concerns may find a range of mental health services provided by professionals skilled in the mental health field and behavioral health field. These services are designed to assist individuals as they navigate life's challenges and work towards self-discovery.
Licensed professional counselors and specialists like registered play therapists in Ocala can offer counseling services that cater to specific needs such as past trauma or ongoing mental health concerns. Each mental health therapist employs a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to help clients understand and manage their conditions effectively.
For instance, clinical counseling can be a valuable resource for those looking to better understand their emotions and behaviors, providing tools that may help individuals cope with and eventually overcome the obstacles they face in daily life. This form of therapy often focuses on the holistic improvement of an individual's wellbeing, helping them to develop strategies that foster resilience and emotional health.
Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.
Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Loire Bennett
Hello! My name is Loire Bennett. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I earned my Master's of Counseling degree from the University of South Florida. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient care, outpatient facilities. and private practice. I work with clients who are experiencing issues including, depression/anxiety, substance use disorder, grief, stress management, family conflict, parenting/caregiver stress, and many more. I understand that asking for help can be a difficult yet courageous and rewarding experience. My goal as your counselor is to help you identify and understand your particular issues and concerns and find healthy solutions to address these issues. I believe in treating each of my clients as individuals and work with clients to find what counseling strategies and techniques work best for them. When counseling, I use Client-Centered techniques, especially the use of empathy, genuine concern and active listening. I also use Cognitive-Behavioral strategies, Solution-Focused Therapy and Acceptance/Commitment Therapy techniques. Because clients come from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences, I feel it is important to have different strategies and techniques available for the client to explore. Every client is important to me. I look forward to working with you to help you discover realistic solutions for your concerns. I schedule live sessions (30-60 minutes in length) Wednesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 9am and 7pm. Sincerely, Loire
Nicole Bakewell
My name is Nicole Bakewell, and I was born in New York City but grew up most of my life in the Pocono’s. Growing up, I always had a desire to help people. I have worked with children, couples, and families for over a decade. I have been fortunate to provide clinical services to clients in a variety of settings including community mental health as well as telehealth services. I am trained and use a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet client needs. I see myself as a mechanism that can provide necessary support to help you reach life goals and overcome challenges you may face in your life. My philosophy is centered around Behavioral and Trauma Centered and Focused. By providing a warm, caring, non-judgmental approach you will be on the path to living a more balanced life. My primary availability for sessions is Monday through Friday 5 AM to 10 PM EDT and occasional weekend, however I am available to discuss additional options if that time does not work well for you., I look forward to learning more about you and helping you identify any improvement opportunities that you may be facing in.
Stephen Herz
My name is Stephen Herz. I have a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in Miami, Fl. With over 10 years of helping people overcome or better understand life’s challenges. Using a variety of counseling styles to fit the individual needs of my clients, we together, work to alleviate and better understand the issues affecting their lives. Specializing in working with people suffering from addictions, anxiety and stress, low self-esteem, irrational beliefs, and a history of trauma.
Paula Standberry
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. I incorporate my faith as a Christian into my therapy ideals and practice to offer my clients a spiritual perspective on many of life's challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Nora Schutte
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!
Gerald Syrkett
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Veronica Gill-Reed
As a licensed therapist in Florida, Texas, and Indiana, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and healing strategies. My expertise spans a wide range of sensitive areas, including mood disorders, family dynamics, caregiver stress, and multicultural experiences. I bring a compassionate, responsive approach to addressing issues like self-esteem, isolation, attachment challenges, and the impact of past hurts. With over a decade of professional experience, I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences, process difficult emotions, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My approach honors each individual's unique journey and strengths.
Diann Toney
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, veterans, military families, and individuals facing multicultural and interpersonal challenges. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship transitions, caregiver stress, or personal identity concerns, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, process complex feelings like guilt and shame, and develop healthier relationship patterns. My goal is to empower you to reconnect with your inner strength and create meaningful, positive changes in your life.
Natalie Talpesh
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Elsy Concepcion
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over five years of experience supporting individuals of all ages. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, family dynamics, life transitions, motivation, self-esteem, and building confidence. I believe that each person is the expert of their own story, and I work collaboratively to help you recognize and build on your unique strengths. It takes courage to take the first steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life, and I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion, insight, and support.
Jennifer Lipack
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and women's mental health issues. I bring compassionate expertise to helping clients work through communication difficulties, isolation, body image concerns, and the unique stressors of caregiving. My approach centers on fostering self-love, healing from past emotional wounds, and developing resilient coping strategies. I understand the intricate ways chronic pain, illness, and life transitions can impact mental well-being. Through collaborative and empathetic counseling, I aim to help clients reconnect with their inner strength, build meaningful connections, and create positive personal transformation. Every individual's journey is unique, and I'm committed to providing personalized, supportive guidance that honors your specific experiences and goals. Together, we can explore your challenges, develop practical tools, and move towards greater emotional balance and fulfillment.
Victoria Echeverry Navia
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem concerns. I specialize in working with diverse populations, particularly focusing on young adults, multicultural experiences, and workplace-related stress. My bilingual background in English and Spanish allows me to connect deeply with clients from varied cultural contexts. I'm passionate about addressing issues such as body image, attachment challenges, caregiver stress, and the nuanced experiences of women navigating personal and professional transitions. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and compassionate, designed to help you develop stronger communication skills, manage control issues, and work through significant life changes like divorce or separation. I believe in creating a supportive environment where you can explore your unique experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth.
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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Ocala , 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 Ocala.
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.