Christine Whittaker
My goal is to help people find meaning and purpose in life, find common pathways between actions and thoughts and create a safe place to find positive solutions. I can find creative ways to approach growth and change in daily lives. For many people, change is difficult, and they cannot move past the barrier of unfamiliar feelings. Together, we find solutions that help move away from anxiety and unfamiliar feelings towards self-confidence. I am an experienced, trained and Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Clinical Supervisor for MFT and MHC, and a life coach specializing in treating individuals with mental, emotional or behavioral disorders or couples experiencing relationship distress. I am skilled to treat disorders and the impact these disorders have on an interpersonal level, relationship networks such as social setting, school, dating, marriage relationships and families. I have worked with individuals, couples and families with all types of needs including mental health issues, relationship or family issues, intimacy and sexuality, relationship addiction, co-dependency, self-esteem, abuse in all forms, deciding to separate or breakup and working through the break up for almost 10 years both online and in my private practice. Not only am I a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I consultant as a Family Divorce Mediator, Child Custody Evaluator, a Nationally Certified Parent Instructor and a Qualified Parent Coordinator. Empathy, compassion and understanding help to take a relational, non-judgmental approach to my work. I aim to make each client feel accomplishment and strength along with realizing their role in finding positive change. I specialize in helping people improve their individual selves or their relationships, move out of feeling stuck, and reduce their anxiety, depression or anger. I encourage a non-adversarial approach in identifying individual, needs and strengths to determine where the breakdown in an individual or relationship occurred in order to strengthen, restructure, reorganize and rebuild. My innate strength of understanding, empathy, compassion, and integrity is my foundation for professional services. My instinctive strengths help in my ability to effectively identify and determine unhealthy individual or relationship patterns to provide direct, simple and straight forward techniques of communicating. This is instrumental in helping people stay grounded, focused and validated. I am a kind, empathetic, compassionate and thoughtful therapist with a personality and list of skills that sets me apart. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy correspond with my style; However, I prefer to individualize treatment for each client by choosing the specific type of theory or therapy that meets individual, relationship or family needs that target the desired outcome of therapy.
Cristina Lopez-Mera
My name is Cristina and I have been a mental health counselor for over 18 years. I have worked with clients ages 3 to 81. My specialties are personality disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and abuse, adjustment disorder and sex therapy. I utilize mindfulness techniques with clients that are interested in learning relaxation skills. I am a certified yoga instructor as well. I’m pleased to help you accomplish your short term goals and long term goals, and to assist you to heal through the utilization of holistic healing approaches to become the best version of yourself.
Kimberly Lincoln
I graduated with my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2010 and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Florida and North Carolina. I have spent a lot of time working with children and youth in the child welfare system as well as with families and helping to bring healing to the family unit while stabilizing whatever crisis the family is currently facing. I have also worked extensively with women who are survivors of childhood sexual trauma, individuals in the LGBTQ community, couples, and men with codependency and addictions. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, MATCH (Modular Approach to Treating Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Conduct), Multi-Systemic Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. My therapeutic style is focused on the individual client and what your needs may be at any given moment. I feel that, while we may be working towards long-term goals, there are times when other stressors may come up in your day-to-day life that need to be immediately addressed in order to refocus back on previous goals. My main goal as a therapist is to help you to feel better in whatever areas of life brought you in to seek therapy. Seeking out therapy is a brave decision to make for anyone, and I am happy that you are here to pursue healing in your life. My hope is that I will be able to assist you in helping you journey through your current life situation. Kimberly’s focus and specialties include: Depression Anxiety Self-Esteem Anger Management LGBTQ+ Oppositional Defiant Disorder Adoption/Foster Care Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Communication Skills
Jennifer Sebreros
Jennifer Sebreros, LCSW As a therapist I have a passion to counsel others so they can live their best life possible. I put all my energy in providing the best quality of care to my clients by creating an atmosphere that is non-judgmental, caring , safe and strengths based. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals by identifying ways they can address problems in their life based on their belief system, culture, values, needs and goals to begin the process of healing and growth. I use a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches in individual and couples counseling and tailor my therapeutic approach according to each client and couple to assist them in reaching their fullest potential. I specialize with working with adults and couples experiencing various issues, such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma ,PTSD, stress management, low self-esteem, adjustment, family conflict, grief ,loss and ADHD. Additionally, I have experience with providing substance abuse counseling to adults. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Central Florida. Additionally , I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my little nephew. I enjoy relaxing, watching documentaries, true crime and movies.I also enjoy yoga, taking naps and drinking my daily coffee. “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. - A.A. Milne
Liza White
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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.
Kimberly Tomlinson
Thanks for your courage in reaching out. I work to honor such courage. I am a Mental Health Counselor licensed to assist individuals, couples, families, and groups in beautiful Florida. My professional experience includes over two decades of working extensively with a broad range of client issues to the degree of specialization in the areas of depression, anxiety, relationships including couples counseling and family dynamics, parenting, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, etc. I also have the ability to offer Christian based counseling if desired. My passion is to continue working with clients in innovative ways to encourage and empower healthy living. I hope to meet with you soon. In the meantime please... Take Care and PEACE!
Sharon Troupe
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.
Abey Adams-Adasah
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Rene Gamboa
I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Daria Perry
Are you currently trying to navigate through the stress of a new life transition? Whether that is becoming a parent, exploring different career options, or ending a relationship just to name a few - I am here to help! Change is inevitable for us all, however reaching out for support during transitional periods can help reduce stress levels and feelings of anxiety. In doing so you will be able to make decisions with more clarity and be able to embrace positive outcomes that you can look forward to in the future. Whether your transitions are anticipated or completely unexpected I will work collaboratively to help you ease your worries and even fears. As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist located in Florida I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, families, and couples within the public health, criminal justice, and private practice settings. I can ensure you that as a clinician I will always lead with compassion creating a safe space for my clients to share their vulnerabilities in a judgement free zone. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Now accepting individuals clients with availability on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Virginia Gardens
Finding the best therapist close by in Virginia Gardens can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Virginia Gardens that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Virginia Gardens. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Virginia Gardens, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Virginia Gardens region and in the state of Florida. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Virginia Gardens or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Virginia Gardens therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Virginia Gardens area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Virginia Gardens therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Virginia Gardens, elsewhere in Miami-Dade, or in the greater state of Florida. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Virginia Gardens area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Virginia Gardens therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Virginia Gardens due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Virginia Gardens may not take health insurance, some therapists in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Virginia Gardens online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Virginia Gardens, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Virginia Gardens psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Virginia Gardens above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Virginia Gardens helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Virginia Gardens therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Virginia Gardens therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Virginia Gardens?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Virginia Gardens therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Virginia Gardens therapy sessions.
Virginia Gardens therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Virginia Gardens therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Virginia Gardens therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in FL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 33166 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Virginia Gardens counselor?
Before seeing your Virginia Gardens therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Virginia Gardens therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Virginia Gardens.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Virginia Gardens licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Virginia Gardens counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Virginia Gardens, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Virginia Gardens has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Virginia Gardens, Florida
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Virginia Gardens therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Virginia Gardens:
33166