Marcia Schick
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over four decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on creating a welcoming, affirming space where clients from all backgrounds can explore their challenges and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship dynamics, and addiction recovery. With deep expertise in LGBTQ+ support, I offer a progressive, non-judgmental therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique identity and lived experience. My practice is grounded in evidence-based techniques and a genuine commitment to understanding each client's individual journey. I believe in empowering individuals to discover their inner strengths, develop resilient coping strategies, and create meaningful, positive change in their lives. Whether you're navigating personal transitions, working through emotional challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Dr. Robert Nolan
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, with over 30 years of experience working as a counselor, college professor, and consultant. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, lifestyle changes, personality disorders, Bipolar disorder and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma, as well as substance abuse issues. My counseling style is considerate and personable. I believe in treating all people with compassion, respect, and sensitivity, and I believe that you know yourself best. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our relationship and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Many of us feel a lack of stability emotionally from time to time. To seek a more complete and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change needs to be encouraged and supported . If you are ready to make a change, I am here to support and empower you. I am sure this is something that we can do together and I look forward to working with you!
Cristina Lopez-Mera
My name is Cristina and I have been a mental health counselor for over 20 years. I have worked with clients ages 3 to 81. My specialties are personality disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and abuse, adjustment disorder and sex therapy. I utilize mindfulness techniques with clients that are interested in learning relaxation skills. I am a certified yoga instructor as well. I’m pleased to help you accomplish your short term goals and long term goals, and to assist you to heal through the utilization of holistic healing approaches to become the best version of yourself.
Dr. Kahilah Jones
Welcome, Salutations, and Best Wishes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been in the helping profession for over 15 years. The depth of my experience includes working in the following fields: Marriage and Family Therapy, Human Resource Development, School Administration, and the Judicial System. I have experience collaborating with individuals, couples, families, in addition to NGOs, faith-based organizations, and political representatives. It is my belief that I am not the expert in your life, rather I am just here as a conduit for change that you wish to see occur. Moreover, if I had to liken my role in your life to anything it would be the narrator in the GPS navigation system which provides clear and concise directions based on the destination you have input into the system. I believe that we will work as collaborators to achieve the goals that make sense for you. As a solution focused therapist, I am dedicated to brief treatment, adhere to minimal interventions, and do not delve into underlying pathology that may be present or family history in great detail. In our time together we will focus on the here and now in order to have you achieve goals in a concise and fulfilling manner. I look forward to hearing from you soon! Platinum Wishes, Dr. Kahilah Jones-Whyte
Maggie Zagorova
I am a licensed mental health therapist in the states of Florida. I have a Master’s degree in Mental Health counseling from the City College of the City University of New York. I also hold a certificate in sign language interpreting from Ulster County Community College. My career has spanned a decade, providing mental health services to children, teens families, individuals and couples with a broad range of psycho-social needs. I have a vast experience in working with the deaf and hard of hearing population as well as with children on the spectrum. I have particular expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused therapy working with individuals suffering from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and relationship issues and substance abuse.
Ian Aiuto
Developing a meaningful connection with a personal therapist can lead to long-lasting benefits. While this may prove difficult for some, therapist Ian Aiuto helps clients identify ways to overcome the factors that often prevent them from leading the life they ultimately desire. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you Barriers may include: Anxiety Depression Grief or loss Relationship and boundary issues Substance Use Disorder Sex Addiction "Most people will encounter anxiety and depression at some point in their life, but many will not seek help," Ian says. "It takes great strength to seek help. I want clients to recognize that there is assistance available to them." Therapy can help conquer feelings of: Shame Embarrassment Helplessness Hopelessness Ian will assist you: Discover solutions to your difficulties Engage in beneficial behaviors and thought patterns Remain neutral Help with accountability Ian's work as an adult medical social worker has given him useful insight and experience in helping people overcome grief, manage mental health issues, and find helpful resources in your area. When you're confronted with a personal crisis, talking to a trained therapist can help you conquer those things that hold you back. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Ian T Aiuto MSW, LCSW
David Shirly
I am a licensed therapist in Florida dedicated to supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, and interpersonal communication. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique experiences. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal transformation, I provide a supportive environment for meaningful healing and growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and creating positive life changes. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and move towards a more fulfilling life.
April Lewis
I am a licensed Clinician and Certified Tele-mental therapist with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients various issues including stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship and family issues, & 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.
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 to achieve a more fulfilling and happier life! How can I help you? **Please note: I provide individual therapy only and do not offer couples, marriage, or family therapy through BetterHelp. Also, I do not provide therapy for porn addiction**
John Checkett
Prof John Checkett (pronounced as in, Check it Out!) is a highly skilled, highly educated therapist holding degrees in several of the social sciences. He's the first man in history to earn a master's degree in Women's Studies in Florida, an academic discipline which he also taught on a university level. He also holds university degrees in communication arts and social work, as well as being an LCSW. He's worked in emergency screening, providing spot analysis for emergency mental health cases with no advance notice. He also worked for years in the prison system, with inmates experiencing mental health difficulties. John'san excellent listener and communicator, and he specializes in problems related to gender, problems between couples -- which are usually matters of communication -- and social justice. He employs an integrative approach, drawing especially upon cognitive behavioral therapy, Jungian and narrative therapy, addressing such matters as self-care, empowerment, self-image, self-esteem and conflict resolution.
Dr. Dr.Claribel Perez
Hello and Welcome! You are here for a reason and your intuition may be pressing upon you to reach out for help, guidance, insights, and healing. I understand how life circumstances, traumas, hurt, and emotional instability can make you feel. If you are experiencing a situation that is challenging your wellness and stability, possibly disrupting optimal living, I am here to help! I commend you for taking the first step to reach out. My name is Dr. Claribel Perez; and many address me as Dr. Claire. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 2005 and a Certified Clinical Sex Therapist in Florida, since 2015. Also, I am a retired English Teacher since 1989, with over 30 years of experience and a retired UCF Adjunct Professor. My counseling tone envelops a communication style characterized by a warmth, caring, resourceful, supportive, and an empathic genuine demeanor, fostering a safe, non-judgmental space. Accordingly, my clinical approach unfolds from getting to know you first followed by building trust; focusing on your presenting concerns, your presenting problem and your overall goals. Afterwards, contingent on your needs, I interweave clinical approaches encouraging a mutual collaborative effort to work on treatment interventions, implementing and adapting therapeutic strategies and tools towards the accomplishment of your goals. In your best interest, I provide you treatment intervention options to "adapt and adopt", a healthy sense of “self”, empowering you towards a positive self-actualization and self-fulfillment (based on The Self Theory by one of my favorite classical Philosophers: Carl Rogers and Albert Bandura). I implement collaborative, evidence-based treatment interventions to address each person’s unique objectives and needs via Teletherapy. Clinical counseling approaches that I implement include: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT) combined with a Psycho-educational Approach, Sex Therapy (specifically the Psychological Barriers Type for women undergoing biological or traumatic issues), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Reality Therapy, and Psycho-dynamic Therapy, tailored to help each individual address their unique wellness goals. A Collaborative Approach entails mutual, interactive, communicative and intentional working together through a formative process, which is essential to your progress. Whether you intend your sessions to strictly involve my listening skills and reflective insights, or whether you wish to establish detailed-specific goals to address specific issues, I will provide a structured framework tailored to provide you the therapeutic strategies, tools, and techniques. Embarking on the first steps towards your therapy journey requires courage and you already deserve a pat on your back for getting started! You are not alone on your journey towards empowerment, healing, and learning. At best, I am committed to provide insights and instrumental tools that will support your needs and goals. Overall, my utmost approach is to provide you a safe therapeutic experience embracing emotional support, reflective insights, well-being, healing, and empowerment. I look forward to working with you. Stay well! ~ Dr. Claire
Theyazan Kohaif
I am a licensed mental health professional in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Colorado, Vermont and Virginia with a decade of experience supporting clients through a variety of challenges. My expertise includes working with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I am committed to providing care that is grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Understanding that each individual is unique, I tailor our conversations and treatment plans to align with your specific needs and goals. I am here to support and guide you on this meaningful journey toward growth and healing.
Richard Mills
I am a professional therapist in Florida with 16 years of experience. I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, low motivation, self-esteem issues, lacking confidence, and depression. I have also helped people contending with unexpected life changes. I work with my clients to develop an open environment where thoughts and emotions can be shared without judgement. The courage and impetus to begin the therapeutic process is an achievement. I look forward to focusing on the goals that you feel are important.
Shellene Hattersley
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirteen years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adults create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida in 2020 and became licensed in Florida in 2022. My journey in the social services field began in 2012, where I discovered my passion for supporting individuals and families through challenging times. Over the years, I have had the privilege of providing individual, group, and family therapy in community mental health settings before opening my own private practice. In my work, I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, and personal growth. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or seeking greater clarity and fulfillment in your life, I am here to offer a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together to build resilience and move toward the life you envision. My approach is strengths-based and trauma-informed, meaning I see each person as more than their struggles. I focus on your resilience, self-determination, and holistic well-being while tailoring therapy to meet your unique needs. I use evidence-based strategies and techniques, but I also honor your personal story and the strengths you already bring to the process. I understand that beginning therapy can be intimidating, and I want you to know that we will work at a pace that feels comfortable and right for you. It is truly an honor to walk alongside you on your healing journey and to support you in creating positive, lasting changes in your life.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Rio, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Rio, Florida starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Florida, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Florida, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Florida
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Rio.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Rio, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Rio and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.