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Psychologist Melissa Pesce providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Melissa Pesce

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW15618
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years offering treatment

Meaningful change happens when you feel both supported and challenged. My approach is direct, supportive and compassionate. Creating a space where you can feel safe to explore your experiences while being encouraged to move toward your goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their strengths, deepen their self-awareness, and develop the insight needed to create lasting change. Together, we will work to bring greater clarity, direction, and purpose to your life while fostering accountability, growth, and personal evolution. I strive to create an open-minded, nonjudgmental environment that promotes healing, resilience, and transformation. Whether you are navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, or personal growth, I will meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. My integrative therapeutic approach combines trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness-based interventions tailored to your unique needs and goals. I also incorporate evidence-based techniques including strengths-based, solution-focused, family systems, holistic, client-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches. By drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, I am able to provide individualized care that supports healing, fosters self-discovery, and empowers you to create meaningful and sustainable change. Please feel free to reach out about my office hours. I offer 30 minute video or phone sessions. I look forward to helping you grow and move you forward into the next chapter in your life. Let’s get started!

Psychologist Adriana Lara providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Adriana Lara

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 008384, MA LMHC LMHC12353
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

Welcome, my name is Adriana. I am here to help you as you take the first step towards healing and relief. Helping others has been my passion for as long as I can remember. Everyone deserves to be heard no matter their situation. We all need some guidance from and support from time to time. I hope to work together to help you in your journey. I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience as a counselor. I have been in the field for about 12 years. I graduated with a Masters of Science degree from the University of Vermont in 2014. In my time there I worked with teens and young adults with substance use and/or mental health difficulties. My program focused on teaching us the skills we would need to provide effective therapy while also being mindful of diversity. Diversity not only focused on race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation, but the diverse experiences each individual has in their own life. I learned to try and understand a person holistically to better understand how their experience influences their life in all facets. In the last 11 years I have worked with children, teens, families, and adults in rural and urban communities. I have worked with individuals presenting with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. My style as a counselor is eclectic. What I focus on first is building a strong rapport. Getting to know you to build trust is essential in creating a space that allows you to be vulnerable. It can difficult to open up to a stranger so I take the time to build that trust. My approach is mostly focused in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT allows one to look at how their thought patterns impact what they feel and do. Identifying negative thoughts and replacing them with positive, more realistic thoughts can help change your perspective on a situation thus allowing for positive change. I am excited to take the next step in this journey with you. I look forward to working together to find the relief and healing you are looking for.

Psychologist Josely Daniel providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Josely Daniel

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH17941
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am a mental health counselor licensed in the state of Florida with 6 years of counseling experience. Clients whom I have had the honor of working with have dealt with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma and anger management. I also have 20+ years of experience in providing guidance to those facing relationship issues and parenting challenges. My counseling style is eclectic and collaborative, which means that I pull from various approaches based on the client and the needs that he/she has. Also, I work together with you, the client. The three approaches that best describe my general approach consist of Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. So, if you have a goal in mind, but you are having a hard time achieving that goal, I am here to help you become clear about what you want. Then, you and I will look at what you are currently doing to achieve that goal. We will also work together to determine how your thoughts might be affecting your mood and behavior. Throughout our time together we will work to lessen negative outcomes. Truly, I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Mary Boyle providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Mary Boyle

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH18501, PA LPC PC000170
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for ten minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.

Psychologist Thomas Dukes providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

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 Sandra Sunter providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Sandra Sunter

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH2470
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
37 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida with nearly four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging transitions, heal from grief, and rebuild self-esteem. I have extensive expertise in supporting women, caregivers, young adults, and older individuals facing significant life changes. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on addressing issues like isolation, communication challenges, workplace stress, and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, chronic health conditions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for healing and transformation. I am committed to helping clients rediscover their inner strength, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and create meaningful paths forward. My work emphasizes self-love, forgiveness, and empowerment, guiding individuals toward more fulfilling and authentic lives.

Psychologist Brittany Castellanos providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Brittany Castellanos

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW20966
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over seven years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem and confidence, Veteran's issues, & depression. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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. My sessions at this time are mainly through messaging and live chat sessions only, so please keep that in mind when you are booking. Video and phone calls are on a case by case basis, but I am happy to discuss this with you.

Psychologist Kathleen  Wakefield  providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Kathleen Wakefield

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH5306
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and significant life transitions. I have deep expertise working with diverse populations, including young adults, military veterans, first responders, and individuals experiencing major life changes. My approach is compassionate and tailored, focusing on understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly skilled in addressing sensitive issues such as postpartum experiences, blended family dynamics, and end-of-life counseling. I create a supportive environment that honors individual experiences and promotes healing, personal growth, and emotional resilience. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I help clients develop robust coping strategies, rebuild self-esteem, and move toward more fulfilling lives. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, respect, and collaborative healing, ensuring that every individual feels heard, validated, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey.

Psychologist Syrenthia Parker providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Syrenthia Parker

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW20624
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Diane Haskill providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Diane Haskill

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW8801
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I enjoy my 25-year career in social work. I often meet a person at their low point, help identify problems, and help create a plan for change. My specialties are cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapy. I am licensed in Florida and have experience with relationship, communication, self-esteem, and boundary issues, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, and more. I offer an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgment. Life can be overwhelming at times and it takes courage to ask for help. I am available to listen, support, discuss, problem-solve, and share strategies to help create a path forward.

Psychologist Cassandra Waudby providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Cassandra Waudby

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH20073
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am a licensed therapist in Florida, working primarily with adolescent and young adult women to increase confidence, improve communication, develop healthier relationships, and feel empowered to take control and create the life they want. I look forward to working with you to support you on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself!

Psychologist Myamaria Shields providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Myamaria Shields

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW13554, UT LCSW 14229245-3501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Donald Patton providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Donald Patton

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH24642
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Torika Small providing different types of therapy in Shalimar

Torika Small

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW25085
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over seven years of experience in the field. I provide a warm, supportive, and culturally sensitive space where individuals can feel heard and understood. My work focuses on helping clients navigate emotional instability, life transitions, and the lasting effects of childhood experiences. I use evidence-based interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help uncover the root of challenges and guide clients toward healing, growth, and lasting change.

Find a Therapist Near You in Shalimar , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
  3. 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 Shalimar.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Shalimar can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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