Dr. Melinda Lawless Coker
Hi, there! I go by "M.A.," though I have other nicknames, too. I'm a licensed family therapist and a licensed psychologist; I completed my graduate education programs in Miami, FL. I work from a multigenerational family systems approach and incorporate psychodramatic (& sociometric) methods into my clinical work; these are each relational in theory, in reality/in practice, and in the healing process. I believe in establishing clear boundaries and learning what someone's emotional needs are, so that they can make healthy choices and potentially get grounded as often as necessary. I've been a psychotherapist for more than 30 years. This has included working with many different groups of people in various settings (e.g., private psychotherapy, inpatient drug treatment, high school counseling program, county drug treatment, outpatient psychotherapy, women's prison, drug court treatment, etc.). My focus at times has been on healing past personal trauma (e.g., sexual abuse/incest, rape, domestic violence, etc.), as well as anxiety, stress, depression, and borderline personality disorder - among other daily life challenges. I look forward to beginning my work with you and hope you'll ask me questions about anything that will facilitate a useful & relevant experience in therapy for you, personally. I hope to hear from you soon!
Donna San Salvador
I have experience working with individuals (adults and adolescents), couples, and families. I am an EMDR Trained Therapist, specifically designed for trauma treatment! I assist clients having issues with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, substance abuse, anger management, relationship conflict, and grief. I understand that each client is unique and work with them to find the best way to achieve their goals, and thoroughly explore all treatment suggestions. Choosing counseling is usually a decision made after the client has explored other methods of resolving the issue; the goal is to find the best solution together as quickly as possible. I have had much success with adult clients suffering from anxiety and depression. I work with client's diagnosed with gender dysphoria using WPATH guidelines, and have helped many clients achieve their goals of transition. I know that not every counselor is a good fit for each client, but my clients find that sharing their unique history and details surrounding their issues with me is easy to do. This is also true with couples in conflict. After earning a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling, I became licensed in the state of Florida as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I am also a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC).
Steven Carlson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida with over 36 years of experience. I have worked with all age groups and most problem areas in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Oklahoma and now Florida. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD and weather phobias. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My therapeutic approach focuses on encouraging and assisting clients to develop perseverance, become more flexible, and increase their self-worth through evidence based social work modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Supportive Therapies, and Problem Solving Strategies. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Samantha Schwartz
As a licensed therapist in Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and addiction. I am deeply committed to guiding individuals toward self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, addressing issues like panic disorder, mood challenges, life transitions, and family dynamics. I understand the profound impact of experiences such as divorce, pregnancy, and personal struggles with shame and self-esteem. My goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and reconnect with their inherent strength and purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting worry, low mood, major life changes, or relationship problems, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Lisa Westcoat
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) working in Florida with 14 years of experience working full-time in the mental health field and in addiction treatment. 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 that 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?
Sandra Sunter
As a licensed therapist in Florida with nearly four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging transitions, heal from grief, and rebuild self-esteem. I have extensive expertise in supporting women, caregivers, young adults, and older individuals facing significant life changes. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on addressing issues like isolation, communication challenges, workplace stress, and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, chronic health conditions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for healing and transformation. I am committed to helping clients rediscover their inner strength, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and create meaningful paths forward. My work emphasizes self-love, forgiveness, and empowerment, guiding individuals toward more fulfilling and authentic lives.
Jennifer Gardner
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Florida in 1996, my Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University in 2002, and obtained my LCSW (SW 16005) in 2019. I have experience working with adults of all ages, children, and families over the past 20 years in a number of different settings. I offer clients compassion, understanding, and patience in order to explore feelings, emotions, and patterns that may be getting in the way of living a happier and more fulfilling life. I take a person-centered approach in which clients are able to take more of a lead in therapy in order to discover their own solutions. I encourage, support, and guide the therapeutic process without interrupting or interfering with the client’s process of self-discovery. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and caring environment for clients to be able to open up and freely express themselves. Clients are able to be vulnerable and share their fears, struggles, and emotions that they do not feel comfortable sharing with their friends or family.
Elizabeth Carter
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 32 years of professional work experience. I'm also a certified addiction counselor (MAC). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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.
Antonio Vega-Pacheco
I am a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 29 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and group therapy. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, abuse history, and domestic violence survivors and perpetrators. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am a good listener and a very patient human. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Michelle Edmond
I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience & 5 years primarily focusing therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Joy Townsend
I am licensed in Florida and AL with 5 years of providing therapy services on an individual and group basis. I have over 24 years experience as a social worker. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey with kindness and compassion. I am an empathetic listener who is happy to help.
Megan Karn
Hi, I’m Megan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy to help children (ages 10+) and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion, empathy, and practical tools for growth and healing. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients thrive when they feel truly seen, supported, and accepted. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your story, gain new insights, and develop skills to move forward with resilience and balance. I welcome clients of any faith or belief system to my practice, however, I offer only secular, non faith-based therapy to my clients. Outside of my work as a therapist, I’m an animal lover, avid reader, wife, mom, and passionate Florida gardener with a love for native plants and sustainable gardening. I believe that nurturing both our inner and outer environments helps create a sense of harmony and connection.
Dannyelle Driver
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation and shame. With experience in trauma recovery, and life transitions, I offer compassionate guidance for those managing grief, ADHD, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in empowering individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and build resilience through collaborative, personalized care. Every journey is different, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care as you move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.
Melissa Tooles
As an ambassador of Christ's love and an advocate of Wellness, I live by my personal mission statement: ‘Live to Ignite, Not Entertain.’ With over a decade of education in School Counseling, Community Counseling, Psychology, and other certifications, my skills enable me to help diverse populations and address their needs by working together through challenging moments.
Find a Therapist Near You in Pomona Park , 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 Pomona Park.
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.