This is Dr. Amanda Veldorale-Griffin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Amanda Veldorale-Griffin

Offering therapy in FL
License: PhD, LMFT
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida with a PhD in Family Relations from The Florida State University as well as an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Kentucky and a BA in Psychology from The University of South Florida. I understand that starting therapy can be scary and I strive to make your experience I positive one. I believe therapy should be a collaboration between therapist and client. You know your situation better than I do. I will combine my therapeutic expertise with your expertise about you, your family, and your situation to create workable solutions for you. I operate from an approach that draws on your strengths to help you and your family function the best it can! I am an LGBT affirmative therapist with a passion for helping families. I specialize in working with parents, children, adolescents, survivors of trauma, and LGBT clients. I am also a certified Relationship Enhancement instructor.

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Jessica Otton

Offering therapy in FL
License: BSW,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Making the choice to seek counseling is a difficult one and I am happy you have decided to reach out. My name is Jessica Otton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I earned my Bachelor and Master of Social Work degree from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2011. I have worked most of my professional career in medical social work . I also have experience working in substance abuse rehabilitation settings and also private practice.. I worked for 8 years at a local hospice, including in-patient, home and nursing home settings. I also have experience working in addictions / substance abuse, with both court mandated and voluntary clients. I have worked with all age groups, including infants, children, adults, and the elderly. I have worked with clients with a variety of personal issues such as, death/dying, grief/loss, life transitions, depression, anxiety/stress, family problems, and substance abuse addictions. My counseling style is a strengths-based approach, utilizing cognitive behavioral and solution focused techniques. My hope for us is that we are able to develop a strong and trusting, therapeutic relationship, in which you feel most confident in expressing yourself. We can work as a team to reach your desired goals...MY goal is to help you reach YOUR goals! I look forward to working with you.

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James Alves

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Thank you for visiting my profile. I offer a safe and judgment-free opportunity for people to discuss problems or challenges they are facing. I work with a diverse combination of professionals, blue collar workers, parents, graduate students, agency administrators, seniors, and others. I enjoy helping clients explore alternatives for understanding the past, experiencing the present, and moving into the future. My approach involves talking in plain language and, as appropriate, with a bit of lightness and humor. I transitioned to counseling after a successful 32-year career as a private practice lawyer. My life experiences, previous professional history, and compassion help me help clients. I work with clients on relationship issues, toxic workplace concerns, anger management, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, assertiveness training, career choices, and other concerns. I enjoy working with caregivers for the elderly, disabled, or ill.

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Dr. Brianna Brandon

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Therapy should always feel like a safe and cooperative experience and I take pride in ensuring that my clients feel well-equipped to manage their difficulties when they leave our sessions. I take a collaborative and holistic approach with my clients to help them assess what is most important to them in every aspect of life so they can lead happy and healthy lives. When we understand our values, we are then able to alter our behaviors to align with those values and decrease overall feelings distress. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based therapies that have been shown to create lasting change for clients. While I provide therapy services for many different issues, I specialize in helping individuals who have difficulties with sleeping, weight loss, anxiety, and stress.

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Christine Block

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Marcus Litterst

Offering therapy in FL
Self esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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!

This is Thomas Mitchell's avatar and link to their profile

Thomas Mitchell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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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Sharon Bowen

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in the field of social work for over 10 years. In my career, I have worked with families and children as an advocate, case manager, and therapist. I know that therapy can be a scary step but I am here to help in your journey. I am here to help no matter where you are in the therapeutic process - whether this is your first time or you've seen others in the past. We will work on this journey together and move forward at your pace. Therapy can bring out all sorts of feelings, but we will get through them as they arise. My goal is to provide a safe and open environment for you to feel free to address anything that is on your mind. I strive to be nonjudgmental, caring, and compassionate. I believe the therapeutic relationship requires trust on both your end and mine. I look forward to working with you!!

This is Mirical Saddler's avatar and link to their profile

Mirical Saddler

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois and Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

This is Kasey Moore's avatar and link to their profile

Kasey Moore

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of mental health experiences including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, aging concerns, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to therapy by integrating physical health and nutritional counseling with an array of different mental health approaches to better personalize each therapeutic interaction. Thank you for reaching out for help. Recognizing that there are changes you would like to make is the first step toward living the life you envision for yourself. Please feel comfortable to reach out to me or any other therapist if you have any questions or concerns about the therapeutic process.

How to find counseling in Polk City

Finding the best therapist close by in Polk City 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 Polk City. 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 Polk City, 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City, elsewhere in Polk, 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 Polk City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City, 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 33868 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 Polk City 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 Polk City 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 Polk City, 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.

Polk City 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Polk City.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Polk City:

33868

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