In life, it can feel like your history is holding you back. Everyone has a past, but it can be hard to move on. Regrets, depression, anxiety, and stress for the future can make it a challenge. A counselor based in Sarasota can help you cope with your past and allow you to prepare for the future. 

Sarasota is a town with a long history. Today, it stands tall as being the best of a small town and an urban community. A counselor can help you with your history and allow you to live a better life. Talk to a counselor today.

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Lydia Cerpa

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
37 years of experience

With over 30 years of professional counseling experience, I remain sincere and dedicated: with my own self-care I prevent provider burnout. It is a privilege to support clients who are seeking solutions and positive changes in their life. Clients are individual, important and deserve my genuine empathy with skill to focus on a comprehensive plan to find wellness mentally, physically and spiritually. My experience has included work with individuals of all ages including couples, families and groups. I have collaborated with various professionals including educators, clergy, medical practitioners, military service members and other counselors. If you prefer to speak Spanish, my bilingual bicultural Puerto Rican heritage from New York City is an asset. It is important to maintain awareness of culture and respect individual diversity when in the counseling process. In 1983 I received an MSW degree in NYC at CUNY Hunter College Graduate School of Social Work. I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Florida and Texas (inactive in NY). Since 2010 I have been a certified yoga instructor, incorporating the tools of mind and body wellness, breath work, mindfulness and meditation to promote balance and stability. In recent years I have worked as a military family life counselor providing non-medical counseling to service members and their families, helping to improve resiliency, relationships and maintain peak performance. Working on military bases around the world and in Florida has broadened my perspective of developing wellness in a variety of places and circumstances. We all face times when consulting a confidential, insightful, unbiased, caring and skilled support person could be useful. If you are ready to find solutions to a difficult challenge in your life, resolve a conflict, or implement strategies to improve wellness with the support of a guiding professional, then consider making an appointment with me for an initial teletherapy counseling consultation today.

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Chelsea Burkell

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,CCATP-CA,CLC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
7 years of experience

I have a passion for working with anxiety, self-esteem issues, behavioral and academic concerns and other life challenges that cause stress. She specializes in working with adults, adolescents and teens. Working with both the individual and family to help with parenting, improve communication, and maintain a healthy connection.

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Dr. Mindy Miller McGuire

Offering therapy in FL
License: PHD LCSW MSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
24 years of experience

I was born and raised in Central New Jersey, enjoying the seasons, playing tennis and vacationing in Florida. Friends asking for advice led to a career in psychology/social work, which was a good fit. After college and graduate school, I moved to Chicago and then ironically, to South Florida! I am Jewish and married for 28 years and have 3 children, ages 24, 21, and 18. My lived experiences in a variety of circumstances allows me to be a very empathetic therapist: Relationships, friendships, spectrum issues, loss, illness, motivation, relational bullying, sociopathy, self-esteem, empowerment/self-strengthening, family issues, career concerns, and sports psychology. At 23, my tennis racket was traded in for figure skates: I have been skating ever since at the Silver Ladies Freestyle Level, in addition to testing in dance. I have been with betterhelp for over 2 years. I feel each of us is unique and our therapeutic pathway reflects that individuality. I enjoy helping clients become motivated to make life changes while exploring their inner self. When experiences are reviewed, they are often examined from a different vantage point, proffering insight to begin the journey of change. I have extensive experience supporting individuals with relationship difficulties, childhood spectrum disorders (ADD, ADHD), parenting, self-esteem and self-empowerment struggles, goal management, career goals/issues, familial concerns, and grief and loss. I'm also interested in the intersection of psychopathy, triangulated interactions (especially related to jealousy), and manipulative tactics within relationships. I take an eclectic approach and enjoy integrating different treatment modalities into session to adhere to the individual needs of the client: Psychodynamic; EMDR (I am EMDR trained), Couples therapy (Gottman Level 1); Systemic, Insight-Oriented, Solution-based, Narrative, Rogerian-Strength-based, Emotion Focused Couples Therapy, Vulnerability Cycle Approach and Cognitive-Behavioral. My specialty is in relationships, change, organization, and self-control. By helping individuals learn how to respond to others' behaviors and daily stresses in a healthful manner, they are able to perform better, live happier, and become mentally healthier. I assist clients to detect deficient life patterns to pinpoint underlying issues for remediation. In turn, clients are able to strengthen their personhood. I particularly enjoy working with couples, helping them communicate and reflect on themselves, each other, and their relationship. Men and women often have very different perceptual styles. Understanding these differences and how to approach and embrace these unique aspects helps couples become stronger and more unified. If you do not see a time on the scheduler that accommodates you, it does not mean that I cannot do a certain time for you. I often schedule "by appointment," especially on weekends. I also utilize a very honest approach, so if you desire to be lulled into a false sense of security, I am not the therapist for you. Quotes: "Who is afraid of the wolf does not go into the forest." Aljona Savchenko "If you live long enough, you experience everything." Scott Hamilton "If you have the choice to be kind or right, be kind and you will always be right." Anonymous "Thinking is difficult, that's why most people judge." Carl Jung "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It is the life in your years." Abraham Lincoln "If you don't have a miracle, you can create one." Nic Vujicic "When people show you who they are, believe them the first time."-Maya Angelou "Your relationship with your therapist will not be perfect." Sue Jacobson. LMHC "If someone isn't nice, be nice anyway." Mother Teresa

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Thuydy Nguyen

Offering therapy in FL
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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.

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Sophia Mas

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of work experience. I have worked with individuals with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, and the full range of psychotic symptoms and mood disorders. I also have experience and am comfortable working with couples and families. I am a practical, interactive solution focused therapist and incorporate a blend of conventional and alternative approaches - drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques in the process. I have worked with a very diverse population of clients and in many different settings-from acute emergency-based care to community mental health setting to private practice. I take special pride in cultivating a spirit of caring and respect for everyone I see regardless of the problems or issues they might bring to counseling. It takes courage to embark on the healing journey that is counseling. My focus is to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement as they commence the process that will hopefully lead to a sense of wellbeing and vitality. Working at a thought and feelings level can be the catalyst for unraveling the puzzle that is our lives and can lead as well to the resolution of problems and issues that limit our capacity to lead productive and happy lives as we develop the skills needed to navigate the difficulties encountered in daily lives. My passion is to support each individual’s journey with hope as they travel the road to wholeness, wellness, freedom and empowerment. It takes courage to undertake this venture and I am grateful and honored to be able to encourage and validate the personal strength and willingness needed to take this big step forward.

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Lilybel Gomez

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! My Name is Lilybel Gomez! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with managing and coping with stress, anxiety, addictions, anger management, trauma, personality disorders, depression, among many other areas. I believe in a collaborative patient-therapist relationship to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I also believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and providing a safe and supportive environment to allow you to comfortably share your experiences. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started and choosing me as your therapist.

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Susana Potter

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Susana Potter, LMHC, BC-DMT, and I am a body-centered psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. My expertise in dance/movement therapy allows me to understand that often times mental health disorder is rooted in a lack of connection with the body. I offer an embodied approach to counseling which goes beyond traditional talk therapy and integrates dance therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, yoga therapy and mindfulness. In addition to working with Betterhelp, I also own a private practice where I work with adults who deal with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma. I am passionate about my work in uplifting BIPOC, queer folks and allies to feel empowered enough to create the life they want. At the core of my private practice is a firm mission of inclusivity and diversity competence. You can learn more about my work at www.bodywisepsychotherapy.com My Therapeutic Style: I offer an embodied focus to help you move past difficult situations, trust your gut and live life fearlessly. I can help you master mindfulness skills so that you can live your life NOW and break free from depression, anxiety and trauma. I will meet you exactly where you are and navigate this journey with you. I believe that although not everyone is dealt the same hand in life, each individual has the potential to create the life they want. I believe that true change requires understanding and the willingness to accept. I am proud to serve LGBTQ+ and BIPOC identified individuals. Am I the right therapist for you? Follow that "gut feeling."

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Juleen Clarke-Campbell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.

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Diana Schaffer

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years of experience

I’m so glad that you are reaching out to find help in this chaotic world we are living in! So many people choose to live in “anxious mode”, but by taking this first step, we can work toward changing your life to “happy and stress-free mode”. I started my journey as a behavior disorders teacher turned elementary school counselor. After retirement, I continued my career and followed my dream of earning my license and opening my own counseling practice. In my practice I have worked with all ages dealing with various issues such as post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, grief, depression, family relationships, abuse, divorce, and couples therapy. I also worked with many clients referred from the Division of Family Services relating to parenting skills and child abuse/neglect. I love helping people change their mindset from “I can’t take this anymore!” to “Oh, life is good after all!” Sometimes another person’s perspective on situations helps volumes, and that is what I do. I help offer solutions using a variety of techniques in a non-judgmental and compassionate way. My style includes Behavior-focused therapy, Person-centered therapy, and Reality therapy, with some Mindfulness all rolled in together to fit your personal needs and unique personality. I love life, and each day is an adventure-I hope that I can help you on your journey to find this same love of life!

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Suzanne S Harrell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I specialize in using mindfulness, breath work and Yoga as tools for creating mind-body awareness in the reduction of stress and anxiety. I believe that you are the expert of your story, that you already have everything you need inside of you to heal, 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.

How to find counseling in Sarasota

Finding the best therapist close by in Sarasota can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Sarasota. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Sarasota, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Sarasota or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Sarasota area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Sarasota, elsewhere in Sarasota, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Sarasota area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sarasota therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Sarasota due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Sarasota may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Sarasota, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Sarasota above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Sarasota helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Sarasota therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Sarasota therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Sarasota therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 34234 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Sarasota counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Sarasota licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Sarasota, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Sarasota has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Sarasota.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Sarasota:

34230, 34232, 34234, 34236, 34237, 34239, 34276, 34277, 34278

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