Melissa Nadler
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor who uses several therapeutic styles including cognitive/behavioral and reality therapies. My strengths include empathy, compassion, humor, and sensitivity to any issue that is brought to the "couch." My job is to help you help you and in doing so I am along for the ride and journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. I work with a varied clientele covering many different issues and feel that my approach is both inviting and invigorating in terms of allowing clients the opportunity to find a healthy path that was designed especially by them for them. I have experience with many different clientele and therapeutic settings including private practice, community agency, legal system, and college counseling center. I have worked in the prison/court systems, private practice, and college counseling center, and feel that I have the perspective that is necessary and desired for a successful therapeutic relationship. I am involved in the Veterinary Community of Central Florida as a consultant, therapist, and wife of a local veterinarian. I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in psychology. I also have both a Masters and Specialist Degree in Education with a focus in Mental Health Counseling. All three of these degrees are from the University of Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and New Jersey.
Cecile Ollar
It takes courage to admit that your life is not fulfilling and that you are not happy with your life. And even more courage to take the first steps towards making a change. If you are ready to take those steps I am here to support and empower you on your journey. My counseling style is interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in labels. My approach is eclectic in that I combine various techniques to meet the client where they are. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the State of Florida. I have over 10 years of experience working as a therapist in a variety of different environments. I have worked with clients suffering from a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual trauma or emotional abuse. I like to use mindfulness based practices to increase a personal awareness, cultivate compassion, build resiliency and help you to stay grounded in the present moment. I look forward to working with you!
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!
Jerrold Jacobson
My ideal client might be any individual in need of assistance to help themselves feel better, more capable-confident and able to resolve whatever 'problems in living' have interrupted their lives. There are times we may need the support of another caring person, perhaps not directly involved with our lives, to listen, reflect, help us consider alternative approaches. This perspective remains central to my intervention techniques, delivered with sensitivity to individual needs. My specialty is born of the blending of two bodies of knowledge, one focused on interpreting everything as behavior through the lens of learning theory and the other chemical dependency/abuse of substances (CAP). The intersection of these areas can be fruitful, giving rise to creative counseling applications & excellent outcomes. In addition, my practice evolved to include knowledge gained from groups, Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, and Substance Abuse. As a seasoned professional counselor I've had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, typically full-time employment supplemented by a private practice. Having been employed by an Area Agency on Aging in PA, since relocating to the State of Florida my most recent experience was with the Department of Juvenile Justice. Private practice has ranged from court-ordered (Anger Management, Batterers' Intervention Program, Substance Abuse) to EAP to self-referrals. It would be my distinct pleasure to assist you in addressing & resolving any identified issues contrributing to disturbance of your emotional balance. Please contact me at your earliest convenience; I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Elena Parsons
Cancer is a frightening diagnosis. It can conjure up thoughts of spending long periods of time in difficult treatment, feeling ill, suffering and possibly even dying. If you or a loved one has cancer or any other life threatening illness, it is important to learn the physical, emotional and spiritual tools to help you through this challenging time. Everyone’s experience is different which is why I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. With over 35 years experience as a licensed counselor, I have worked with addictions, mental illness, couples & family therapy, chronic illness, coping with life changes, grief and loss. My specialty lies with chronic illnesses, especially cancer, since it was so pronounced in my family while growing up. I am certified as an Interactive Guided Imagery ℠ Practitioner helping clients draw on their own inner resources to find creative ways to problem solve and to support healing. The greatest challenge to a life threatening diagnosis is often your own inexperience facing what seems so insurmountable. There is no good reason you should take this journey alone. That is where the support of counseling steps in providing a listening ear, help with the anxiety and stress that often accompanies this type of diagnosis and providing helpful referral information. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Stephanie Taylor
I am licensed in Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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!
Vanessa West
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a strong believer that everyone has the power within themselves to truly heal from any past hurts and to return back to their pure joyful state of existence and be happy in one’s life sometimes we just need a little hope and inspiration and guiding force to get back on track!!! I can be that guidance you may need !!!
Karen Cino
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Patricia Duff-Fleming
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, end of life issues & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Annaliese Foster
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies. I have extensive experience addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, career difficulties, and life transitions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome barriers like social anxiety, communication challenges, isolation, and self-esteem issues. I'm particularly passionate about guiding clients through transformative experiences such as relationship changes, workplace stress, and personal growth journeys. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, collaborative environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, trauma, mood disorders, or seeking greater self-acceptance, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine understanding and professional support.
Crystal Kelly
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients through compassionate, culturally-informed counseling that honors each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a warm, affirming space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. I am particularly passionate about supporting young adults, women, and individuals working through social anxiety, attachment issues, and life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build resilience, improve communication, and cultivate self-love. My work is grounded in understanding the intersections of personal experience, cultural identity, and emotional healing. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Gary Jacobs
I am licensed in Florida with 25 years of professional work experience primarily with crisis management. I have been employed in emergency rooms, jail-prison, substance abuse-rehab, nursing homes and have facilitated care to every age group including couples and family issues. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I have encountered every aspect of mental health including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, ptsd. bipolar, schizoaffective, relationship discord, coping with grief, coping with loss, intimacy related issues, anger, motivation, & self-esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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. I am simply a tool helping you transition or seek a more fulfilling and happier lifestyle. With your courage, I am here to support you in that process.
Kylie Carlson
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida with 7 years of experience supporting people through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, conflict, and life’s everyday challenges. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I meet you where you are and support you in discovering what works best for you. When helpful, I draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to provide practical strategies and tools that can make daily life feel more manageable. You are the expert on your life, and I’m here to walk with you as you take steps that feel meaningful and right for you.
Nicole Ferrer
I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. With extensive expertise across multiple areas of mental health—including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues—I genuinely believe in the transformative power of healing and growth. I am skilled in evidence-based therapy approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness techniques, and I love guiding my clients through their journey toward emotional well-being. I am deeply committed to creating a warm, compassionate, and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My versatile skill set and heartfelt approach ensure that I can effectively help individuals overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.
Find a Therapist Near You in Sarasota Springs , 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 Sarasota Springs.
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.