What’s more exciting than living so close to Miami? Not much. The residents of Opa-Locka get to enjoy all that Miami-Dade County has to offer: the beaches, the weather, the nightlife to name just a few.

But not all of its residents are soaking in the sunny Miami-Dade life. Many Floridians in this town are struggling with their mental health, just like others all across the country. When internal troubles have you feeling down, consider reaching out to an Opa-Locka-area therapist today to get the support you need. You'll have access to therapy, counseling, crisis intervention, and much more.

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Karen Maldonado

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSPC, LCMHC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am living in Naples, Florida now since June of 2018 after 5 years of directing a counseling center that I founded in January of 2013 in North Carolina. I started as the sole practitioner then added a few counselors as clientele began to grow and by the end of the second year there were 12 counselors working in our center. There were interns from several universities accruing hours toward their graduate degrees in professional counseling and I was their supervisor. All graduated successfully and some stayed on to accrue hours toward licensure and before I moved to Florida several obtained their licensed professional counselor statuses in the state of North Carolina. I loved working with my clients and I truly enjoyed supervising the interns. I left the center in good hands in January of 2018 to be closer to family in Florida where I am also licensed. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Church Leadership with a concentration in Bible in 2006 and then continued at Southeastern University to earn my Masters of Science in Professional Counseling graduating in 2009. I began counseling at Hope Counseling Centers in Lakeland, Florida in 2008 working under the supervision of three supervisors; one Licensed Mental Health Counselor and two psychologists while working on my masters degree, internship and state licensure. My degree conferred in February of 2010 after completion of my internship. I obtained my state licensure in Florida in 2014 and my North Carolina State Licensure in June of 2015 after relocating there. After moving to Florida I kept many of my North Carolina clients that were interested in video-conferencing. I received my Board Certified TeleMental Health credentials in 2018 from the Center of Credentialing and Education. My focus is to continue to work with my clients through online counseling to help with mood disorders, life adjustments, relationship issues and learning new communication skills. My approach is mainly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) although I also have a client-centered perspective and draw from solution-focused brief therapy when appropriate. CBT deals with what you think about situations in your life because this will cause you to feel a certain way and in turn your actions and reactions will be the result. You may have some automatic thoughts about situations in your life that you are not aware of. Cognitive behavioral therapy will help you to be able to recognize what your automatic thoughts are, measure the validity of those thoughts and remove any irrational thinking that may exist replacing that thinking with more rational thinking. I am also able to integrate Christian counseling into sessions if my clients prefer a strong biblical perspective. I am a licensed minister with the Assemblies of God since 2007. I look forward to working with you to help you come to a point where you no longer need counseling.

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Alexis James

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,CCTHP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hey! My name is Alexis and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the states of Florida and New York. I have also held a certification as a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I have experience working with individuals throughout the lifespan. I am most passionate about working with women of color, specifically black women, but of course I am happy to offer support to any individual in need. My goal as a therapist is to find solutions that work for you on an individual basis, helping you to discover the true potential of your life, so everyday can be a celebration, and feel like a real ‘breath of fresh air.’ There may be no magic button or quick-fix solution when it comes to changing things from the past that have been difficult, but what we can do is work together to find comfort and resolve in the difficult areas of your life, and the challenges you have to face. Through various techniques and long-standing approaches with proven results, we’ll be able to figure out what behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living your best life, and finding meaning in everyday situations. My specialty areas include: anxiety, adjustment related stress, relational stress, parenting issues, and trauma. I tend to utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-based modalities, along with other theoretical orientations to guide treatment. I am easy going, excited, motivated, and truly passionate about my role as "helper". I’m a mother, wife, sister, and so much more. I enjoy traveling, shopping, and interior design. I love to watch reruns of the Office and murder mysteries. I love connecting with my clients and I look forward to speaking with you and working together! PLEASE NOTE: I AM AVAILABLE TUESDAY AND FRIDAY MORNINGS ONLY AT THIS TIME FOR LIVE CHAT SESSIONS.

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Arlene Bishop

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,CAP
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinician in Florida and a transplant from New York with over 24 years of experience working as a Psychiatric Social Worker. I have worked with a diverse group of clients including from the Caribbean, seeking assistance for several diagnoses such as ADHD, Bipolar Dis., Depression, Anxiety, Addiction to Relationship issues, Career Challenges, and PTSD. My counseling style can be described as eclectic drawing from my wealth of experiences. I integrate many clinical approaches such as Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness therapies I believe everyone needs a good listener to talk to at times. I believe by creating a treatment plan to empower and guide you through the ups and downs of life‘s challenges will lead to a successful outcome. I am ready and able and I am looking forward to walking that journey with you.

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Lisa Westcoat

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) working in Florida with 11 years of experience working full time in addiction treatment and the mental health field. I strive to create a counseling relationship that is safe and accepting. I have been told I am genuine, encouraging, and direct at times. I have a passion for helping others with a wide range of concerns including low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, communication problems, relationship issues, depression, trauma and abuse as well as coping with life changes. With vast knowledge and experience in working with drug, alcohol and process/cross addictions, family conflicts, guilt and shame, as well as co-dependency and the integration of the twelve-step approach, I hope to assist you in overcoming your struggles. In addition, I also assisted others who have barriers with anger management, control issues, domestic violence, commitment struggles and aim to help reverse a cycle of thoughts and behaviors which are destructive to self and within relationships through challenging irrational beliefs. My therapy style is warm and empathic combining experience, and a sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to the therapeutic process. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I utilize different therapeutic techniques and I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It takes strength and courage to seek assistance and ask for help. I am here to support and empower you on your journey of making positive changes for achieving a more fulfilling and happier life! How can I help you?

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Carolina Dent

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,MEd
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
11 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Carolina Dent. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have 10 years of experience working in many different settings with all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds through telehealth and in the community. I help people to identify their goals, overcome obstacles, meet challenges, and thrive. During sessions, you can expect compassion and understanding, as well as no judgement. It is my goal to provide a safe space that is gentle, collaborative, and direct where you can feel supported, understood, and heard, in order to help you better understand and find a solution to current or long-standing challenges. I customize my treatment to meet the needs and goals of the individual. I know it can be difficult at times to reach out for help and to share your life situations with a stranger. I am here to help. I don't have a magic wand, but I can help you see the magic that is within you. I consider it an honor and a privilege for you to allow me into your life as your therapist. Thank you so much for allowing me be a part of your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Judith (Judy) Hefren

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Counseling is a process where we can work together to bring about change or help you adjust to change that has been forced upon you, with the ultimate goal of improving your quality of life. I am also designated as an adoption competent therapist. I enjoy working with adoptive parents, adults who were adopted, as well as, my personal heroes, the birth mothers. I have also completed training to use Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). With training in both Social Work and Accounting, I am particularly well equipped to help families as they navigate through financial challenges and deal with the relational issues that these challenges may raise. And then there is life and sometimes it is just hard. As Mr. Rogers said, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.” I believe that I can be that person you can trust. I never want to think of anybody being alone, holding on what they’ve been told is unmentionable. As a friend of mine says, “Life is not a dress rehearsal.” We don’t get a do-over. Let’s work together to make the most of it! So, contact me and let’s get together and see if I am someone who you are comfortable with. I’d love to help.

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Patricia Browne

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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.

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Syrenthia Parker

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!

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Laura Powell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Timara Tyler

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with over 7 years of professional work experience in mental health and addiction. I began my studies at Stephen F. Austin State University from which I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Additionally, during my undergraduate studies, I minored in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education and music performance. Following my undergraduate work, I earned my Master of Science in Counseling at Southern Methodist University with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy. I am passionate about community which has led me to working with individuals, young adults, couples and their families in diverse settings such as private practice, therapeutic schools, outpatient treatment, residential treatment, and criminal justice settings. I use a multitude of therapeutic techniques including Expressive Arts, Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I utilize systematic therapeutic practices with a sense of cultural sensitivity while helping you find new passions and purpose. I specialize in working with addiction, spirituality, women's issues, self-esteem, family, couples, divorce/separation, social skills, career, anxiety, depression, and multicultural issues. 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!

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How to find counseling in Opa-locka

Finding the best therapist close by in Opa-locka can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Opa-locka. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Opa-locka, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Opa-locka or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Opa-locka area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Opa-locka, elsewhere in Miami-Dade, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Opa-locka area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Opa-locka therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Opa-locka due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Opa-locka may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Opa-locka, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Opa-locka above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Opa-locka helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Opa-locka therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Opa-locka therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Opa-locka therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 33054 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Opa-locka counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Opa-locka licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Opa-locka, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Opa-locka has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Opa-locka.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Opa-locka:

33054

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