For those looking for therapists in Sarasota, FL, BetterHelp can make it easier to connect with a licensed provider online. This page features licensed therapists and counseling options for adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship strain, or major life changes. All providers are licensed mental health professionals, including LMHCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs. In a Gulf Coast community shaped by busy seasons and regional travel, online care can offer a practical fit for people balancing work, caregiving, or a full calendar.

For people exploring therapy in Sarasota, Florida, online therapy sessions can reduce common barriers while still offering evidence-based support such as CBT. BetterHelp works with more than 30,000 qualified providers worldwide, and many people are matched within 24 to 48 hours. BetterHelp accepts insurance through a range of insurance plans, and eligible individuals' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. If insurance is not available, subscription pricing typically ranges from $70 to $100 per week.

Read more
Psychologist Jennifer Botsch providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Jennifer Botsch

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH16239
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
8 years offering treatment

My name is Jennifer Botsch. I am a LMHC and have a MCAP. I have been working in the mental health and counseling world for 7 years and have experience ranging from inpatient counseling to outpatient counseling. I have worked with a large variety of clients with a broad range of concerns including depression, anxiety, coaching, trauma, addiction, and crisis counseling. My practice hours are in the evenings on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. I generally can respond in the evenings. You can also book a live session with me ahead of time. Please remember that BetterHelp (or sister site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away! *Please keep in mind that I do work full time and may not be able to get back you immediately. *The sessions that are available are for 45 minutes

Psychologist Star Hess-Cabarle providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Star Hess-Cabarle

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH23954
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Star, and I began my mental health counseling career in 2016. My primary interests are working with trauma, substance use disorders, and general mental health and wellness. I also hold a Master's degree in exercise and nutrition sciences and I am a NASM certified personal trainer, so I believe that the mind and body are connected and contribute to overall health and wellness! I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, finding what works best for each individual client. This means that I consider all aspects of a person's life and well-being, not just their mental health symptoms. I am trained in diversity and inclusion and take a nonjudgmental stance in my professional practice, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and understood in our sessions. My main therapeutic modalities include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Strategies for Self-Improvement and Change, and Seeking Safety. These approaches allow me to tailor our work together to your unique needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or any other challenge, we will work collaboratively to find the best path forward for you. I specialize in a wide range of areas, including addiction, ADHD, anger management, antisocial behavior, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, family relationships, grief and bereavement, intimate and romantic relationships, LGBTQIA+ support, military and veteran support, multicultural and diversity issues, narcissistic personality disorder, OCD, phobias, PTSD, sex and intimacy issues, stress, and trauma. I also offer SonderMind Video Telehealth for those who prefer or require remote sessions. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and supportive environment where your voice is heard and valued. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment. If you're ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, I would be honored to work with you. Let's find what works best for you together.

Psychologist Thomas Dukes providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Thomas Dukes

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH7325
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
28 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Aimee Gandy providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Aimee Gandy

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW9529
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
16 years offering treatment

Welcome! Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm glad you're here. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, processing trauma or grief, or navigating difficult family or relationship dynamics, therapy can provide a space to better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change. I work with adults and seniors facing a wide range of concerns, including stress management, anger, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, identity concerns, women's issues, chronic health conditions, and major life transitions. With more than 16 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through some of life's most challenging seasons. My goal is to provide a compassionate, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to build healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, and create lasting positive change at a pace that feels right for you.

Psychologist Robin Lavine providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Robin Lavine

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH12736
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years offering treatment

My clients have taught me that everyone, (even though you think you're different) wants the same thing: to be heard, understood, and validated, so it's safe to love and be loved. With the use of psychodynamic, Jungian, and humanistic style, I listen to your stories from childhood or yesterday as we identify, explore, and process your feelings. You may find that it's okay to be angry at your mother. I'm only a phone call away and would like to assist you realize your best self. Men, that means you, too. I have 17 years of clinical experience working one-on-one, with couples, or in groups while practicing in mental health agencies, hospitals, residential facilities, and prisons. When will we start?

Psychologist Dr. Anthony Schefstad providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Dr. Anthony Schefstad

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW4780
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuse
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, phobias, pre and post incarceration and anti-social personality disorder. I am a practitioner of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and Ericksonian Hypnosis. 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.

Psychologist Elizabeth Carter providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Elizabeth Carter

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH1645
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
32 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Joel Polk providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Joel Polk

Clinician
License Type(s): UT LCMHC 11883202-6004, FL LMHC MH16189
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Joel Polk, and I am a Florida-based Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with nearly a decade of professional experience. I support adults navigating stress and anxiety, depression, and a wide range of life, relationship, and identity-related challenges. I work with clients on concerns related to self-esteem, self-love, communication, motivation, and confidence, as well as relationship and family difficulties, including caregiver stress and fatherhood-related concerns. I also provide affirming support for LGBTQ+ individuals, including concerns related to sexuality and gender dysphoria. My professional background includes experience in both telehealth and structured clinical environments, which has helped shape a calm, grounded, and thoughtful approach to therapy. Through this work, I developed strong skills in emotional regulation, pattern recognition, and clear communication, and I help clients manage anxiety, panic symptoms, control-related concerns, attachment patterns, and feelings of isolation or loneliness with greater clarity and stability. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and goal-oriented. I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused practices to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, build practical coping strategies, and create meaningful, achievable change. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to support you in exploring life purpose, personal values, and meaning while developing tools that align with your goals. When relevant, I am comfortable addressing spiritual, faith-based, or existential concerns in a way that respects each client’s beliefs and worldview. I work with adults and young adults facing issues related to relationships, family conflict, substance use, self-harm behaviors, workplace and financial stress, and the emotional impact of prejudice or discrimination. Whether you are seeking support around anxiety or panic attacks, navigating men’s issues, adjusting to adulthood, or integrating personal beliefs into your healing process, we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I’m glad you’re here.

Psychologist Josefina Fletcher providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Josefina Fletcher

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW8050
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 24 years of professional experience. I specialize in supporting clients through stress, anxiety, family conflicts, grief and loss, parenting challenges, and life transitions. I am certified in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, have extensive experience working with individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges, and am an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where thoughts and feelings can be explored openly. I believe that taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life requires courage, and I am committed to walking alongside you on that journey—offering guidance, understanding, and practical tools to help you move forward.

Psychologist Megan Lundy providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Megan Lundy

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW25252
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My professional approach centers on helping clients manage stress, anxiety, parenting difficulties, and career transitions while building robust emotional resilience. I'm deeply committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can explore personal growth, enhance self-esteem, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My clinical practice focuses on empowering clients to understand their unique strengths and overcome obstacles. Whether you're experiencing workplace challenges, adjusting to significant life changes, or seeking to improve your emotional well-being, I offer personalized guidance tailored to your individual needs. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach that honors each person's journey and potential for transformative healing.

Psychologist Lisa Hernandez providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Lisa Hernandez

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH22188
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. With experience working with diverse clients, I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and family conflicts with compassion and skill. My work centers on fostering self-love, healing from trauma and abuse, and building healthier communication. I'm particularly passionate about supporting young adults, women, and individuals from multicultural backgrounds as they work through issues like social anxiety, grief, shame, and the lasting effects of sexual assault or domestic violence. I also support those navigating immigration experiences, relationship challenges, and identity concerns. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey where you are the expert of your own story. My approach is grounded in respect for your unique background and experiences. I create a safe, affirming space where you can explore your feelings, build resilience, and move toward greater self-understanding and purpose. I'm honored to walk alongside you as you heal and grow.

Psychologist Carlos Suazo providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Carlos Suazo

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH21234
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
6 years offering treatment

I'm a licensed mental health counselor with 6 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging transitions. Over the years, I've developed a strong foundation in helping people navigate addiction recovery, relationship difficulties, career transitions, and major life changes. I also work with clients managing ADHD and the unique struggles that can come with it. My approach centers on understanding the whole person—including the impact of impulsivity, systemic barriers like prejudice and discrimination, and external stressors. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel heard and supported, and where difficult conversations about identity and resilience can happen with honesty and respect. I focus on evidence-based practices to help you build insight, develop practical coping strategies, and move forward with clarity. In addition, I also include faith as a strength to accompany throughout therapeutic process. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine care and without judgment, meeting you exactly where you are in your journey. Looking forward in working with you!

Psychologist John Lott III providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

John Lott III

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW9511
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years offering treatment

I am an ex-professional athlete, product of a broken home, with direct trauma experience and I am here to assist with any mental health, personal development or life's transitions; whether it's divorce, career transition, relationship building, athletic achievement, abuse, getting unstuck, discovering purpose and meaning in life, or just finally deciding to move beyond whatever stuck point you are struggling with. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience to impart to those who are stuck, ambitious, or just confused. My journey is marked by an impressive array of certifications, including Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sexual Offender Treatment Specialist, and Certified Forensic Trauma Specialist. Do you need life support, withhold emotions, feelings and thoughts that you struggle daily? Did you think material items would console you, but only serve to exacerbate the emptiness the more? Have you been dealing with the same issues and can't seem to get over your past? Do you self-medicate, or loathe yourself? Let me assist you!

Psychologist Samuel McDonnell providing different types of therapy in Sarasota

Samuel McDonnell

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH28019
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging experiences. I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and the emotional weight of major life transitions. I'm also passionate about helping people rebuild self-esteem and develop healthy coping strategies. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration. I believe in meeting you where you are and working together to identify what matters most to you. I draw on evidence-based therapeutic practices to help you move toward greater clarity, resilience, and well-being at your own pace. I understand that taking the first step toward therapy requires courage, and I'm honored to support you on that journey. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for as you work toward meaningful change.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Sarasota, Florida

Finding a therapist near you in Sarasota, 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 Sarasota.

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 Sarasota, Florida

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Sarasota and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist