Genna Lo Presti
“During these times, it may be hard for you to see all the little things we do to avoid intimacy. Instead of clinginess, try support. Instead of agonizing, try releasing. Self-pity is just sadness in the pejorative.”- Renata Adler. As an experienced clinician with almost twenty years of promoting “the bigger picture,” I understand the inevitable strains of societal pressures and mounting anxieties that precipitate today’s emotional supply and demand. And moreover, how our immediate environments (both personal and professional), less than secure attachments, and unresolved traumas tend to strip us of our inherent worth and propagate low self-esteem. Our pasts can slowly rob us from our intrinsic worth and freedoms if we aren’t careful. Let’s remain vigilant to our reactionary minds that sometimes cause us to flail in unnecessary despair. I have applied psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, CBT, strength-based, inner child workings, and trauma focused therapies within acute psychiatric and multiple behavioral health settings for most of all my career. Since graduating with my Bachelors Degree in 2006, then Masters Degree in 2010 and eventually gaining licensure as a Clinical Social Worker in 2014, I also have learned and grown from the beautifully destructive cycles of life. I respect the individual in relation to their environment and offer my utmost sincerity and earnest attempts at a full understanding of the person as a whole being, from start to never finish. I utilize humor and impersonations as a form of stress relief. I will comfortably guide you to embrace the normality of your dysfunctions while highlighting the uniqueness of life, so you can begin to feel a little less consumed. I am an attentive listener with a tender spot for all of humankind. I truly hope I am granted the privilege of working with you.
Althea Sawyers
As a Florida Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I work online using evidence-based models of therapy that get results. I help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma-related issues, goal-setting and performance hurdles, and other areas of self-empowerment. My mission is to empower you to manage and become an overcomer of the obstacles and "stuckness" caused by these issues, so that you can start accomplishing your goals, begin feeling fulfilled, to confidently step out of the shadows and fears caused by past traumatic events by taking back the reins of control into your life, and to start living a life of fulfillment, peace, balance, and strength! Let me accompany you on your journey of rediscovering and re-establishing your strengths, and help you become equipped with the tools you need to become better problem solvers. It’s not easy to decide on which therapist may be best for you, but I’m hoping you will take a leap of faith and allow you and I the chance to work together. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon and to helping you accomplish your goals!
Lynn Snyder
I am licensed in Florida with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with mental health and substance abuse issues such as: stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
April Lewis
I am a licensed Clinician and Certified Tele-mental therapist with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients various issues including stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship and family issues, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Diana Soto
Hi, I’m Diana Soto--a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that understands how difficult it can be to reach out for help. If you have found yourself on this page, know that this is the first big step in your journey towards healing. Over the past 17 years I have had the privilege to work with individuals from all walks of life experiencing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship issues, high stress, codependency, trauma as well as grief and loss to name a few. My passion has always been to help others and now it has become my purpose—to walk with you on your journey to self-actualization and help you take back control of your life. In our therapy sessions, my goal is to provide you with a non-judgmental and collaborative space. Everyone needs a little extra support and a safe space to be able to process what challenges you may be facing. I know life at times can get the best of us and it becomes hard to find our balance in the chaos of the day to day. Trauma is never your fault and together we can help you achieve your goals using your own unique strengths you already possess.
Paul Sohr
I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, parenting issues, & 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.
Robert Barrett
Hi, my name is Robert Barrett and I have been licensed in Florida as a clinical social worker (LCSW) since 1996. For more than 30 years I have provided counseling and psychotherapy for clients for a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depressed mood, relationship concerns, personal stress, job stress and other difficulties. As a state of Florida certified sex therapist, I am qualified to provide counseling for problems related to sexual function and sexual behavior issues. I have a Master of Social Work degree from Florida International University in Miami, FL, and post-graduate training as a clinical sexologist. I am the past clinical director of Southwest Florida Employee Assistance Program and the past Program Director for Human Services Foundation of Lee County. For ten years I was the student behavioral health counselor at Florida Southwestern State College, Punta Gorda campus. I have been a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy since 2001. In counseling I utilize a “strength-based” approach known as solution-focused brief therapy. SFBT is based on helping you build solutions by focusing on your current circumstances and your hopes for the future. I also integrate concepts of cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) for identifying the underlying thought patterns that may be contributing to psychological distress. My focus is to help individuals and families navigate life’s sometimes arduous transitions, and my style is to offer a sincere interest in assisting clients get through difficult challenges.
Michael Northsea
Hello, my name is Michael. I have been a License Mental Health Counselor in Florida since 2009 and have been in the mental health field since 2006. I have worked with a wide range of clientele from individuals with several and chronic mental illness to suicidal adolescents to inmates facing life sentences. I wanted to tell you a little story about myself. In 2015, I was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer and treated it with chemotherapy. In 2017, I was diagnosed with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia which I learned was a side effect of this initial chemotherapy. I spent a month in the hospital, only growing worse and nearly meeting my demise. I knew I needed a new approach. I began my journey into naturalistic healing with food, herbs, and life-style changes. I was able to heal myself. This experience changed my life and way I counsel. I now believe that the use of food, herbs, and lifestyle changes help your mood, mind, everything! So, I have been thinking a lot about my counseling style. To be honest, I really don’t have one in particular. I use a collective approach. I use a little CBT, DBT, Motivational Interview, Person First, and even Emotion Code. However, I don’t believe just talk therapy makes someone 'happy'. It is a holistic approach. I encourage clients to mediate, exercise, eat whole food.
Keith Jones
As a licensed therapist with 25 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach that honors each person's unique journey. My expertise spans a wide range of therapeutic focus areas, including addressing anxiety, trauma recovery, communication challenges, and personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. I understand the nuanced ways mental health intersects with individual identity, life stages, and personal experiences. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Nixalys Vega
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience in the human service field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am fully bilingual. I’m fluent in English and Spanish, and I value, respect and enjoy cultural diversity. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges that you may face in life. 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. *** Hablo y comprendo el idioma español con fluidez. Para mi es un verdadero placer ayudar a personas de habla hispana en relación a fortalecer su salud mental y mejorar su calidad de vida.
Kay Cooper
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Yvette Sabater-Lenk
I provide compassionate, individualized therapy for children, teens, and adults, helping clients navigate behavioral challenges, developmental disabilities, and emotional difficulties. My work focuses on supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, and complex personality concerns, including borderline personality traits. I have specialized training in evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. This includes strategies for emotion regulation, coping skills development, and behavioral interventions designed to improve daily functioning and relationships. My experience encompasses working with a diverse population, including clients with developmental disabilities, behavioral disorders, and mood or personality challenges. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. I collaborate closely with families, caregivers, and support systems when appropriate, ensuring a holistic approach to mental health and personal growth. Ofrezco terapia compasiva e individualizada para niños, adolescentes y adultos, apoyando a los clientes en el manejo de desafíos conductuales, discapacidades del desarrollo y dificultades emocionales. Mi práctica se centra en ayudar a las personas a manejar la ansiedad, la depresión y preocupaciones complejas de personalidad, incluyendo rasgos de personalidad límite. Con formación especializada en enfoques basados en la evidencia, adapto la terapia a las necesidades únicas de cada cliente. Mi trabajo incluye enseñar regulación emocional, desarrollar habilidades de afrontamiento e implementar estrategias conductuales que mejoren el funcionamiento diario y fortalezcan las relaciones. Tengo experiencia trabajando con una población diversa, incluyendo personas con discapacidades del desarrollo, trastornos de conducta y desafíos emocionales o de personalidad. Mi objetivo es crear un espacio seguro y sin juicios, donde los clientes se sientan escuchados, comprendidos y empoderados para lograr cambios significativos en sus vidas. Colaboro estrechamente con familias, cuidadores y sistemas de apoyo cuando es apropiado, asegurando un enfoque integral y de acompañamiento en la salud mental y el crecimiento personal.
Lisa Lionelli
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, personalized care for adults seeking healing and growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women and men through midlife transitions, relationship difficulties, and personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore attachment issues, process past experiences, and develop healthier emotional patterns. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance, helping you build resilience, find inner strength, and create meaningful change in your life. Whether you're struggling with relationship challenges, addiction, mood disorders, or seeking personal growth, I'm committed to supporting your unique path forward.
Eryka Sandridge
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding and resilience. I have extensive experience helping people address challenges like anxiety, depression, social challenges, and workplace stress. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier coping strategies. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals working through self-esteem concerns, communication difficulties, and life transition periods. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to identify their unique strengths and develop personalized strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship dynamics, or seeking greater self-acceptance, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional guidance.
Find a Therapist Near You in Surfside , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- 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 Surfside.
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.