Marcia Schick
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over four decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on creating a welcoming, affirming space where clients from all backgrounds can explore their challenges and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship dynamics, and addiction recovery. With deep expertise in LGBTQ+ support, I offer a progressive, non-judgmental therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique identity and lived experience. My practice is grounded in evidence-based techniques and a genuine commitment to understanding each client's individual journey. I believe in empowering individuals to discover their inner strengths, develop resilient coping strategies, and create meaningful, positive change in their lives. Whether you're navigating personal transitions, working through emotional challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Kimberly Smith
As a licensed therapist in Florida and Michigan, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ experiences, and addiction challenges. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their most profound personal struggles. My therapeutic work focuses on helping individuals develop self-love, improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and heal from past experiences of discrimination, violence, and systemic challenges. My practice embraces a holistic perspective that honors diverse identities and experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for healing, growth, and empowerment. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to supporting your path toward emotional wellness and authentic living.
Francesca Thomas
I am licensed in Florida with more than 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, domestic violence, criminal justice issues, relationship issues, & parenting 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Pamela Grove Gougelman
As a licensed therapist in Florida with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including social anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and midlife challenges. My approach is deeply attuned to individual experiences, particularly supporting older adults, women, and those managing chronic stress or life disruptions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering clients to develop stronger self-understanding, improve communication skills, and cultivate meaningful connections. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop resilient strategies for personal growth. Drawing from comprehensive clinical training, I offer a holistic approach that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Dr. John DeGaglia
The selection of a psychotherapist is an intensely personal private intimate decision. Therapy is about one thing: focused communication. With the appropriate modification of language, we can think differently. If we think differently, we can change behaviors. And if we consistently change behaviors, they can become long-term, therapeutic, healthy change. Yes, that journey begins with the first step. My journey began last century with graduate school and licensure. Spent many years working with our incarcerated brothers and sisters. Their needs are real and varied. Being on the “outside” doesn’t mean you aren’t still incarcerated. Spent over a dozen years working with a Native American community. So many needs and so little time. A very special time in my life working with all ages, all needs, often through the assistance of an interpreter. From that chapter, I moved into substance abuse eventually becoming clinical director at several programs. Sobriety like therapy is a day-to-day process and there is nothing wrong with that. Perfection is not possible but excellence is attainable! Lastly, as a former first responder, spent over a decade assisting that community with critical incident stress. Actually, earned a doctorate with the research we all generated together. Nothing quite prepares you for that profession and the significant costs it exacts but if you would just like the opportunity to be, in a kind of ministry of presence, that is one of the reasons I am here . . . And for all, sometimes absolutely the best therapy comes from being with someone in a special moment without saying a word. So, how bout it? Even if it is not me, will you continue your search and seek? Why? Because there are some people on this Earth who do not need to meet you, be in a relationship with you, who know without a shadow of a doubt you are special! Unique! You are worthy! And although it may not be fashionable, will tell you are loved! Enjoy your journey and take that step and just maybe our paths will cross. Looking forward to it . . .
Dr. Sarita Schapiro
Are you having trouble coping with everyday problems? Do you feel overwhelmed in trying to deal with a close personal relationship? Is your child or teen struggling or making poor choices, or are the challenges of parenting too much to handle? Are you going through a difficult life transition? Life situations can be stressful and can lead us to question our judgment and fill us with self-doubt. You try to address the issue, even with the support of family and friends, but this often does not lead to effective solutions. You may become depressed, frustrated, angry or anxious, or have difficulty managing your daily responsibilities. I am a Florida licensed Psychologist with over 30 years experience working in private practice and a variety of public settings, including clinics, hospitals, universities and correctional facilities. I served as expert witness in forensic cases involving trauma, head injury and custody. I am a bi-lingual (Spanish/English) therapist working with individuals, families and couples from different backgrounds. I develop a solution-focused dialogue to identify the problems that bring you in and re-frame them into realistic, workable goals. My aim is for you to leave each session feeling that you have learned a new way to approach your specific situation with strategies to try until our next appointment. My objective is to make every session productive. I combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapeutic approaches in therapy. My goal is to help you build resilience in dealing with life’s stresses. I focus on life skills coaching, parent guidance, problem solving, cognitive restructuring, and remediation using behavioral and practical strategies.
Brandi Horak
I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages, couples, individuals, teens and children, with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety and PTSD. 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.
Paul Zukas
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ilkem Onder
I am licensed in Florida and Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. As a therapist, I believe that it is important to understand holism when treating the mind, body and behavior and thus look at things as a whole. My mission is to help my clients discover their own beliefs and how to move towards a healthier and fulfilling life. I strive to formalize various treatment approaches that are geared to fit the client’s individual needs and further help address maladaptive patterns in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment.
Jaclyn Booth
I am licensed in Florida with 13 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. 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.
Shelly Mentus
I’m a licensed therapist in Florida with over 15 years of experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and parenting issues. I work with individuals and couples to build stronger, healthier relationships by focusing on trust, communication, and emotional connection. As a Christian, I believe in providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I use a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, to support each client's unique path toward change. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, helping them address depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and relationship issues. My goal is to empower you to overcome negative thinking patterns and move toward a happier, more fulfilling life. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, movies, bowling, and time with family and friends. I'm here to support and guide you, meeting you where you are and helping you reach where you want to be. Quote: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ― Maya Angelou DISCLAIMER: BetterHelp does not provide written documentation or letters for any reason, including legal matters, workplace grievances, court proceedings, disability claims, custody matters, emotional support animal requests, or other third-party purposes. As your therapist, my role is to support your mental health and emotional well-being within the scope of therapeutic services provided on the platform. FLORIDA BOARD TELEHEALTH REQUIREMENTS: The Florida mental health licensing board requires video sessions instead of phone sessions for telehealth services to ensure client safety, proper assessment, and verification of identity. Here are some key reasons behind this requirement: 1. Standard of Care – Video sessions allow therapists to observe nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanor, which are critical for accurate assessment and effective treatment. 2. Client Identification & Security – Video sessions help verify that the therapist is speaking with the correct client, reducing risks related to identity fraud or unauthorized individuals participating in therapy. 3. Ethical & Legal Considerations – Florida law requires licensed mental health professionals to maintain appropriate documentation and standards of care comparable to in-person therapy, which video conferencing helps facilitate more effectively than phone calls. 4. Crisis Management – In case of a crisis or emergency, a video session allows the therapist to assess the client’s environment, emotional state, and potential risks, providing better support and intervention if needed.
James Price-Chandler
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jacqueline Mcintosh
As a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and healthy coping strategies across various life challenges. My clinical expertise spans depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, addiction support, and anger management. I am particularly passionate about guiding clients through communication difficulties, social anxiety, and personal growth journeys. My therapeutic style emphasizes compassionate, culturally responsive care that honors each individual's unique experiences and strengths. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop meaningful insights, and cultivate self-love. My commitment is to walk alongside you, offering professional guidance and genuine understanding as you work toward healing and personal transformation.
Joy Townsend
I am licensed in Florida and AL with 5 years of providing therapy services on an individual and group basis. I have over 24 years experience as a social worker. 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 with kindness and compassion. I am an empathetic listener who is happy to help.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Southgate, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Southgate, 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 Southgate.
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 Southgate, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Southgate and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.