Melissa Pesce
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!
John Craig
Hello! My name is John Craig, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My aim is to offer you a safe and secure setting with the resources you need to work through and overcome mental health problems. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD and trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorders and other psychological problems that interfere with living a happier and more fulfilling life. My counseling approach is warm, nonjudgmental, client-centered and empathetic. I employ a range of science-based therapeutic treatment methods, to include: Rogerian approach, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Reprocessing and Motivational Interviewing. If you feel you are ready for a change, please contact me for an initial consultation to help determine if we are a good fit and to establish an initial therapy session. I look forward to hearing from you soon. John Craig, LCSW
Opree Joyner
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a board range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamic distresses, poor communication styles, and emotional abuse. I am proud of my dedicated career utilizing compassionate skills that achieve meaningful behavioral outcomes assisting individuals, groups, and families specializing on co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. My counseling style is empathetic, client-centered, humanistic, and solution-focused. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, without stigmatizing labels. I’ve work successfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds with a variety of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, addictions, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, co-dependency, major life transitions and attachment disorders. I recognize the courage it takes to seek professional help and the difficulty with making meaningful change. I have dedicated my professional life with helping anyone who may be ready to use counseling for next steps to begin living a more fulfilling and self-empowered life. I appreciate and admire the strength and courage necessary to reach out and seek counseling. It remains my honored to work with individuals negotiating life challenges by providing compassionate and empowering integrative psychotherapeutic interventions for recovering individuals and their families tailored to best fit their needs. My goal is to help you discover or rediscover your untapped potential. I look forward to working with you.
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!
Vanessa Seron
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have direct experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families with a wide range of challenges and concerns. My counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals. Identifying one's strengths and coping skills that can be used to help work through various issues is an important part of my therapy approach. You have taken the first step in creating a healthier, happier you and I would be honored to help you in that journey!
Dr. Shannon Holliker
Hello and Welcome! It is great to see that you have decided to take this step into further self-discovery, self-growth, and reflection. Therapy is a process, but doesn't necessarily require you to know exactly what type of support you might need. Actually, many people enter therapy to discover they have other things they also want to address. Sometimes, it's about the rewarding process to self-discovery that can be the motivation. Regardless of how you got here, my goal is to provide you with unconditional support. My approach is about honest dialogue. Too often there is a belief that saying 'certain things' in therapy is not acceptable. The reality is that it is the best place to have such discussions about feelings, thoughts, and approaches to challenges. It is also equally important to celebrate what may even feel like small victories. As we reach adulthood, we can tend to think that celebration is less important when it is super important. I hold a PhD in Public Affairs (Social Work Focus). This credential has provided me the opportunity to continue teaching college and doing research in critical areas of mental health. I have two Masters' degrees, in Social Work and Child Development and Education. I went back to pursue my second Master's in Early Childhood because one of my specialties is parenting and providing counseling support to very young children, supporting families affected by trauma or stress due to issues with their young child, and trauma response. I am passionate about helping parents with their own anxiety and depression (or other challenges), providing support to families affected by medical stress (a child with a chronic illness or in the NICU or a parent with medical concerns), assisting with support for intervention of developmental or behavioral concerns, fertility, and/or any concerns related to your family dynamics. My experience has also been in providing different therapy interventions to young children (0-5 years) with their family. I have assisted many families in identifying and addressing family challenges that could contribute to their young child's emotional or behavioral concern. Through this platform, our focus would be on your concerns or challenges in parenting and/or mental health or other areas, and we would work together for an end goal. I am also passionate about providing individual therapy to support anxiety, problem-focused depression, burnout, and effects of trauma. These challenges can present differently for different people and no feelings are 'wrong.' Our world is filled with a variety of unique cumulative stressors and this can make it sometimes difficult to identify the cause. Things such as, burnout, from the daily challenges can create more complex feelings of loss, confusion, and depression because they are often minimized by our own beliefs. I want to conclude by sharing that not everyone requires walking through their past to understand their current circumstances. There are lots of approaches to therapy as it is just a form of support. The duration of therapy also depends on many factors, but I believe that you and I should always form goals we can track progress. I'm happy you decided to stop by and that you are considering the process of therapy. I look forward to working with you!
Gerald Syrkett
I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & 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!
Diane Haskill
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.
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.
Jonathan Cottrell
As a licensed therapist in Colorado, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. With extensive experience working with adults, I'm particularly skilled at supporting those struggling with mood disorders, social anxiety, chronic health conditions, and personal growth obstacles. My therapeutic practice draws from evidence-based techniques tailored to each individual's unique needs. I focus on creating a compassionate, collaborative environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful coping strategies, and work towards personal empowerment. Whether you're managing stress, seeking clarity about life purpose, or working through interpersonal challenges, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine understanding and professional guidance.
Ana Budeguer
I am licensed in the state of Florida, with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse as well as coping with grief and loss. I was born and raised in Argentina, and I've lived in the US for over 20 years. I have extensive experience also working with immigrant populations and I truly understand the difficulties immigrants endure while adjusting to the new challenge of living abroad. 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 the first steps towards a change can be the hardest. I am here to support & empower you along that journey.
Dr. Sabrina Brown
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem issues. I specialize in addressing nuanced experiences such as isolation, social anxiety, workplace dynamics, and women's mental health. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive, creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, heal from past experiences, and rediscover their sense of purpose. I understand the profound impact of life transitions, attachment dynamics, and personal growth journeys. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking to understand yourself more deeply, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.
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.
Deliciah Smith-Blanks
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. I have extensive experience addressing challenges such as anxiety, family dynamics, grief, self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice honors diverse experiences and identities, creating a compassionate space where clients can explore their unique journeys. I draw from evidence-based approaches to help individuals develop stronger communication skills, process challenging emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through significant life changes, workplace challenges, social anxiety, and personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with stress, seeking deeper self-understanding, or working through complex emotional experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Taft, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Taft, 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 Taft.
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 Taft, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Taft and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.