Thomas Dukes
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.
Lynda Wright
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida with 17 years of experience. I have worked with people who have been challenged by trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety and life changing situations. I have additionally worked with people struggling with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My approach is solution focused, client centered, client strength based with a focus of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. When working with clients I strive to make their experience positive, genuine, respectful and safe. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strengths needed to make positive changes in your life. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage and I am glad you have decided to begin your journey. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to assist you in identifying your goals and achieving them.
Frances "Tansie" Walker
I am a seasoned therapist with 33 years experience providing caring approaches to help you heal life’s hurts and restore hope. I will provide a safe place where you can be open and honest with the circumstances of your life. We will work as a team to identify goals to help you achieve the outcome you desire. When life brings challenges and hurts that seem difficult to overcome. When you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, or angry. When work is overwhelming and you feel you need a change. When your relationships are strained and communication is difficult. When you have lost a loved one, or your marriage has failed. When you have lost hope and your faith is wavering. When you struggle with parenting and your children seem out of control. When you find yourself turning to alcohol or substances or other self destructive things just to feel better. Then get support from one who understands and has experienced many of these painful life events, someone who can relate to what you are going through with care and compassion and help you gain insight, perspective, and show you a way out, so that you can feel hope again. I offer an integrated approach of counseling, coaching, and life experience that addresses the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I offer caring Christian perspective while respecting your personal values and beliefs. My approach is tailored to your needs with a goal to help you restore balance and find freedom from painful issues, and move forward. I work with individuals and teens, parents and families, and couples. I have an M.S in Counseling and a Ed.S in Family Systems from Georgia State University, with an undergraduate in Psychology and Sociology. I have 32 yrs experience as a counselor and 15 years experience as a college faculty at University of Pheonix, Clayton State University and the American College in Ga.
Margaret Johnston
I am a LMHC therapist, public speaker community organizer, social and environmental activist and have been listening for decades. I received my formal education at University of North Florida as Master of Clinical Psychotherapy, 2013. I also took a 9-month internship under Ed Wilder, in Clinical Pastoral Education, in deep listening. I worked in the Talk program at Wounded Warrior for 8 months- the warriors talked; I listened. Did you go through trauma? Are you, right now, in a high stress situation? Do you keep losing your patience or your professionalism at the wrong moment and you don’t know why? Do you keep getting in your own way? I use Trauma Supportive Therapy to safely address, as slowly as need be, the pain of the past that keeps coming to trip your defenses at all the wrong moments, in your present. I can be that supporting presence who will help sort it out by listening- really hearing you. Reflect your depth of feelings back to you. Validate what are your unmet emotional needs. I practice the therapy of defining personal meaning, so, together we will facilitate your thinking of your options, planning, purpose, and goals for living a meaningful life without being afraid of tripping over your past or yourself. I practice person centered therapy by meeting you where you are. I strive to be culturally sensitive, non-prejudicial and use strength-based therapy as a jump point, truly believing I am the guide for you, but you are the treasure/wisdom keeper. Of all the reasons people come to therapy: anger, guilt, anxiety, changes, transitions, depression, trauma, jealousy, and “it is just not working anymore”, the extra burden of race and racism is more than just a nuance to be nodded at in therapy. I will view race as central to all the other pieces, when it is central to you. I am inclusive, secular, competent, affirming and non-judgmental. I have worked with people in transition, people who are very much defined, “but things got complicated”, people in the communities of LGBTQA, Polyamory, Kink, non-gendered. Each are safe and welcome here.
Karrie Dolan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with clients with grief and loss, perinatal and maternal issues such as grief and loss and fertility issues, caregiver and caregiver burnout support, support for parents or caregivers with children with autism and clients who have been diagnosed with complex medical issues. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, positive, respectful, and safe. I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in doing great things and overcoming your challenges. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and draws heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am looking forward to working together to identify your goals and work to achieve them!
Michele Bonanno
As a licensed therapist with over three decades of experience, I offer compassionate and comprehensive support across a wide range of life challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the unique complexities of human experience, from navigating personal growth to addressing complex emotional landscapes. I specialize in supporting individuals through diverse concerns including stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and interpersonal dynamics. My approach is holistic and person-centered, honoring each individual's distinct journey and inherent strengths. My therapeutic work spans multiple focus areas—from relationship difficulties and life transitions to addressing deeper emotional patterns like isolation, shame, and personal empowerment. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful insights, and cultivate sustainable strategies for emotional well-being. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, processing life changes, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.
Linda Cavett
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
Sarah Cooper
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over a decade of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues like social anxiety, workplace stress, trauma recovery, and interpersonal communication. My approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women, young adults, and those experiencing significant life transitions. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of personal healing. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise.
Patricia Roebuck
I am licensed in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, setting boundaries, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression, mood disorders and substance use. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions 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.
Steven Brashear
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.
James Hoy
I am licensed in Florida, Oklahoma and Oregon with 10 years of professional work experience. My certifications include Master Certified Addiction Counselor, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, executive coaching, spiritual issues, aging, bereavement/hospice/death, anxiety, depression, loneliness, socialization, holistic mental health solutions and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and 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, and will share my mental and spiritual health knowledge and tools to help remind you of the truths you have within yourself.
Theyazan Kohaif
I am a licensed mental health professional in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Colorado, Vermont and Virginia with a decade of experience supporting clients through a variety of challenges. My expertise includes working with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I am committed to providing care that is grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Understanding that each individual is unique, I tailor our conversations and treatment plans to align with your specific needs and goals. I am here to support and guide you on this meaningful journey toward growth and healing.
Katharine Alfs
As a licensed therapist with over four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My practice focuses on wellness and healing and helping individuals develop new skill sets to improve coping. Drawing from years of clinical experience, I offer a very nuanced empathetic approach that honors each client's journey and cultural background. My goal is to provide thoughtful and personalized support that empowers clients to navigate challenges with resilience and hope.
Austine Nwaobi
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Southport, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Southport, 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 Southport.
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 Southport, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Southport and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.