James Saganowich
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!
Christine Baker
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida with over 19 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and substance abuse counselor. As a Professional Counselor and a Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager, I am able and capable of providing my clients with a wide range of needed services that involve mental health issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, addictions, PTSD and ADHD. As a Certified Case Manager, I can assess for additional needs required by the family. I also provide special groups for those who prefer a setting filled with other like-minded individuals. My counseling style is warm, relaxing and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My slogan is : "To inspire and motivate people to rise above impossibilities in order to create possibilities" I look forward to working with you!
Thomas Dukes
Having experienced the benefit of being born and raised in Brooklyn, NY I was gifted with exposure to a varied cultural base. My first work engagement in the mental health field occurred in 1996. The facility was a medicaid based dual diagnosis treatment center with the primary diagnoses psychiatric with a secondary substance use disorder. My interactions with the patients flowed naturally and, in my discussions with staff, the owner of the facility suggested that I should get my license in mental health counseling. I began graduate study in 1998 while working full time in varied facilities in order to gain maximum exposure to diverse mental health/substance abuse modalities. My work experience included the Palm Beach County psychiatric crisis stabilization unit, The Drug Abuse Foundation in Delray Beach and the Juvenile Intervention Facility in Broward County. Upon graduation in 2000 and license activation I spent time as a therapist at the Renaissance Institute in Boca Raton. Shortly after the events of 9/11/2001 I began the process of creating a private practice in psychotherapy. During the growth of my practice beyond seeing patients for individual therapy, I provided services for EAP programs, sober house residences and treatment facilities. In December 2010 I closed my practice and relocated with my dogs to western North Carolina. I spent ten years at Pavillon in Mill Spring, NC as a clinical supervisor until November 2020. I continue to reside in North Carolina and hold active licenses in Florida (LMHC) and North Carolina (LCAS). I am experienced with a varied patient demographic and am easy to connect with. While currently semi-retired I continue seeking to help provide guidance and direction for others.
Amanda Sholty
I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or simply a place to feel heard, I am here to walk alongside you. I work best with individuals who are open to growth and ready to take meaningful steps toward change—even if they’re unsure where to begin. Our work will be collaborative, intentional, and centered around your goals and priorities. For relationship concerns, I incorporate the Gottman Method to help couples strengthen communication, deepen connection, and navigate conflict more effectively. If you’re ready to begin a journey of self-discovery and growth, I would be honored to support you. Reach out to schedule a session or ask any questions—I look forward to connecting with you.
Karrie Dolan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with clients with grief and loss, perinatal and maternal issues such as grief and loss and fertility issues, caregiver and caregiver burnout support, support for parents or caregivers with children with autism and clients who have been diagnosed with complex medical issues. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, positive, respectful, and safe. I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in doing great things and overcoming your challenges. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and draws heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am looking forward to working together to identify your goals and work to achieve them!
Gina Cardines
My name is Gina Cardines and I have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida for 7 years and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas for 3 years. With a total of over 20 years experience in the mental health field and 7 years as a licensed therapist, I have experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance abuse, and PTSD. I also have experience working with survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, human trafficking, and other trauma, including those who have served in the military. During sessions, you can expect honesty and unconditional positive regard, with no need to worry about monitoring expressions of self, feelings, language, or reactions. Though I have a base in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, I tailor each session to meet the needs of the client, and utilize an eclectic approach with multiple modalities and interventions to create a safe space, free from judgment, to put each client at ease and help clients to engender genuine change in their lives. I look forward to walking with you on your journey. I am able to see clients in both Florida and Texas, and I am available for video, phone, and chat sessions.
Dr. Oren Hernández
As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and interpersonal dynamics with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring a depth of understanding to diverse experiences, including issues related to aging, workplace challenges, relationship transitions, and multicultural concerns. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers to personal growth. With expertise in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique journeys. Whether you're dealing with life transitions, healing from past experiences, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Karen Epple
Sometimes we all just need someone who will listen and help us manage the stress and worry and find positive ways to cope with it all. Whether you just need to express your feelings in a safe space or want to discover ways to feel empowered and to make the world feel like a better place for yourself and others, I can help you to do figure out how to do that. Are you feeling like your joie de vivre is flagging? I am ready to help you reclaim your joy. I can assist people who are feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed or lonely to find their way back to their best life. I like to provide a warm and friendly environment and feel that there can even be room in therapy for gentle humor. I value each person's story and want you to know I am dedicated to providing an open-minded, safe and compassionate therapeutic relationship with my clients to enable you to share your thoughts and feelings, and to create a comfortable, open and safe environment in which you can move forward towards a happier, more fulfilling life. I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Florida with over 27 years of professional experience. I have experience in a wide variety of settings, and with helping clients cope with grief and loss, to find ways to improve your enthusiasm and motivation, improve your self esteem, and confidence, as well as helping you find the path up and out of depression. I also have experience working with coping with the challenges that can come with life changes I know it isn't easy reaching out to ask for help, and I applaud your courage. Let's take the next steps on the road to your best life together. I am available to speak to you from 3 PM to 8 PM Eastern Standard/Daylight time Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. I hope that your schedule works with mine.
Paula Standberry
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I incorporate my faith as a Christian into my therapy ideals and practice to offer my clients a spiritual perspective on many of life's challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Regina Cox
I am licensed in Florida with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Sharonda Fleming
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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.
Tatyana Blackmon
Greetings and humble salutations. I have faithfully dedicated over 5 years of experience in the field of mental health therapy. My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and adjustment difficulties. I'm here to help you today with any applicable emotional and behavioral concerns you may have. Collaboratively, let's help you become your best self.
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.
Nicole Paolillo
Hi, I’m Nicole! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I specialize in couples therapy, anxiety, stress, life transitions, adolescents, young adults, and perinatal and postpartum mental health. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strength-based, creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll work on coping skills, emotional regulation, communication, and confidence so you can feel more grounded and connected. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating change, therapy will help! Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of their next step. I help you slow things down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and develop insight around patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Sessions are thoughtful, supportive, and tailored to your goals so therapy feels useful, not intimidating! Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. Reaching out is a meaningful first step, and you don’t need to have everything figured out to get started.
Find a Therapist Near You in Port Charlotte , 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 Port Charlotte.
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.