Judith (Judy) Durdan
Hi! My name is Judy Durdan and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Florida and Connecticut. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University in 2001. I have extensive experience working with a variety of people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I've worked with people who are diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, forensics, homelessness, and veterans, as well as people who just want an ear to hear them and help guide them through the steps to feeling whole. My goal is to help adults in difficult times figure out how to address those issue through thoughtfulness and mindfulness, utilizing their own strengths and experiences, as well as, a few skills I have to offer. The treatment is an agreed upon approach created through support and understanding, and my approach being adjusted to your needs. Please contact me so that, together, we can find the most convenient and beneficial time that we can meet to tackle those issues. Enjoy your day!
Mary Boyle
I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for ten minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.
Joel Brooks
As a licensed therapist with over four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse personal experiences—from relationship dynamics and identity exploration to managing stress, anxiety, and emotional transitions. I bring a depth of understanding to working with individuals across various life stages, with particular expertise in addressing communication challenges, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My approach is deeply respectful, client-centered, and designed to honor each person's unique journey. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-understanding, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections. Whether you're experiencing workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or seeking deeper personal insights, I'm committed to supporting your path toward healing and self-discovery. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities, offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and develop powerful strategies for personal transformation.
Renee Lafriniere
As a licensed therapist in Florida with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I have a deep commitment to addressing issues across diverse life stages—from young adulthood through aging and end-of-life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication skills, social connections, and healing from isolation or shame. I particularly enjoy working with women, multicultural populations, and individuals experiencing significant life transitions. Whether supporting those managing mood disorders, processing grief, or exploring life purpose, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful insights and strategies for emotional wellness. With 25 years of professional experience, I bring a nuanced, empathetic perspective to our work together. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and cultivate resilience through collaborative, personalized therapeutic support.
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!
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.
David Powell
Navigating today's complicated world can be incredibly difficult... Romantic relationships, family, job, finances, health, general stress... And who can we talk to when we need to confide our deepest challenges? Who do we turn to when we've tried everything we can think of and finally realize we need some help? Choose a therapist who gets real results! Unlike most of my colleagues who mainly utilize Psychoanalytic and Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) therapies, my practice also uses Solution-Focused and Motivational-Enhancement approaches. I've extensive experience successfully counseling clients through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, substance use (including food/weight gain), confidence and self-esteem, sexual and performance issues, grief/loss and trauma, as well as other more serious psychological challenges... As a generalist I will help you face any and all obstacles that have stood in the way of your becoming the best you that you can be. Whether this is your first time seeking help or if you've not gotten the results you hoped for from therapy in the past, together we will take a fresh new approach, make quick progress, and then support those gains as you move forward... Life is meant to be lived and enjoyed, not endured. You deserve some inner peace, so let's get you on the road towards a fresh start! My BetterHelp office hours are TUESDAYS ONLY (2pm - 10pm EST)
Alicia Cherrybon
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of postgraduate clinical experience. I have worked with varied populations helping clients with presenting problems including self-esteem, family issues, stress, anxiety, addiction, relationships, trauma, depression, other chronic mental health diagnoses, career issues and more. I started my career before I’d graduated college, working at a crisis hotline. I went on to work with individuals struggling with severe and persistent mental illnesses in community mental health both before and after graduate school. Once licensed in 2015, I was able to expand the reach of my practice, working with more children, families, couples and individuals, who either had a mental health diagnosis, or a specific situational concern. I took some time away from practicing after that to be a stay at home mom and focus on my own healing and learning. I've learned so much since becoming a mom, that I now feel that’s my best qualification- the journey of healing and growth that I’ve personally taken. It has made me a better therapist, and fostered in me a new motivation to help others reconnect with their inner resources and purpose. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be processed with a sense of safety and acceptance. 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 and empower you in that journey.
Mia Hall
I am licensed in Florida with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. 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.
Elizabeth Hofrichter
I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Wendy Dunn
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, empathetic therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique story, strengths, and potential for healing. My clinical work focuses on supporting teens and adults through various emotional and psychological challenges. I draw from evidence-based practices to provide thoughtful, personalized care that honors each individual's journey toward emotional resilience and well-being. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to help clients build self-understanding, develop effective coping skills, and create positive pathways toward emotional health and personal transformation.
Jennifer King-Fields
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience who specializes in working with adolescents and adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, executive functioning, and relationships. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel understood while building practical skills to manage stress, improve focus and organization, and develop healthier connections with others. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, helping clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and patterns while learning tools they can use in everyday life. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by school or life demands, struggling with motivation or follow-through, or experiencing conflict in friendships, family, or dating relationships, I tailor therapy to meet you where you are. I aim to help clients build confidence, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change so they can feel more in control, connected, and capable in their daily lives.
Elizabeth Marcinski
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in person-centered support of individuals navigating complex life transitions, mental health challenges, and personal growth. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, explore their life's purpose, and build resilience through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community and neurodivergent populations. My work includes supporting those experiencing panic disorders, family dynamics, and gender identity exploration. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I create a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their challenges, develop stronger coping strategies, and cultivate greater self-understanding. Whether you're working through life transitions, seeking to improve self-esteem, or navigating complex personal experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strengths and create meaningful, positive change in their lives. Together, we can work towards understanding, healing, and personal growth.
Morgan Assidy
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida specializing in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating high-stress and complex situations. With a professional background in juvenile justice, community mental health, and family services, I bring a deep understanding of the systems that impact my clients’ lives—including schools, courts, and child welfare. I have extensive experience supporting at-risk youth and adults, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and court-involved cases. I help clients manage issues such as anger, defiance, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions, while also guiding parents in building structure, communication, and effective discipline strategies. My approach is direct, supportive, and solutions-focused. I use evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care to help clients develop practical skills, improve emotional regulation, and create lasting change. I believe therapy should not only provide insight, but also real tools that can be applied in everyday life. Having worked closely with probation, diversion programs, and community agencies, I am comfortable navigating complex systems and advocating for my clients when needed. I understand how overwhelming these processes can feel, and I work to make them more manageable and less intimidating for families. I am committed to creating a space where clients feel respected, understood, and empowered. Whether you are seeking support for your child, your family, or yourself, my goal is to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and stability.
Find a Therapist Near You in Polk City , 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 Polk City.
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.