This is Lauren Kurstin's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Kurstin

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Are you dealing with relationship issues? Life transitions? Coping/stress management difficulties? Marital conflict? Generally overwhelmed? You've come to the right place! My name is Lauren Kurstin and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I obtained my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Miami in 2012 and have been seeing clients ever since! I always aim to provide a warm, confidential, and inviting atmosphere where you can express yourself freely while working towards your goals. I believe you already have the resources you need to be your greatest self, individually as well as relationally. I want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills, and find effective ways to respond to life’s challenging situations. Change is possible! My expertise and true passion surround working with individuals struggling with relationship/marital conflict and/or those going through difficult life transitions. I implement mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral tools, and solution-focused methods within my practice. I know that opening your soul to a stranger requires a great leap of faith. My number one priority is to make you feel safe and heard throughout the process. It is essential to me that we build a genuine connection based on absolute comfort, partnership, and trust! Sometimes it's necessary to laugh :) There is no judgment or bias coming from my end... just pure empathy, warmth, and a calming voice to help you uncover your strengths, and guide you to reach each one of your goals. I know it takes great courage to reach out for that extra support...way to go! I am here for you! :)

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James Malone

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS, LMHC, MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Hello there, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have been working as a Mental Health/Addictions Counselor since 2012. I specialize in Addictions and Mental Health issues, and working with adults. I graduated from Troy University with a masters in counseling and psychology in 2016. As well as being a fully licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida, I also hold certifications as a Nationally Certified Counselor and as a Certified Master's Level Addictions Professional. For the years that I have been working as a therapist, I have developed a theoretical approach that is predominantly based on client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. Although I tend to lean to these approaches, I do consider myself to be eclectic, meaning that I will draw from different therapeutic approaches as needed for each individual. I have an extensive amount of experience providing therapy in different environments to individuals with a wide range of personal issues, including substance abuse/dual diagnosis, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, self-esteem, grief, and family problems. My focus as a therapist is to help individuals heal, energize, and get to the place where they can feel, think and act in the ways that they are searching for. I am also a spiritual individual that relishes helping clients develop a deeper spiritual connection, a more confident sense of themselves and their strengths. I look forward to working with you, and I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.

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Marie Dillinger

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LMHC
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) for the state of Florida. I retired about a year ago and found myself a bit, well, bored. Since I've enjoyed coaching and counseling over the last 15 years, I decided to return to my first love, helping others. I work with individuals, 18+ regarding dissonance in relationships, mood, environmental circumstances, maladaptive behavior issues related to one's health, and developing good communication skills ( a favorite of mine). The foundation of my therapy is Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) simply meaning that what we think influences how we feel which impacts how we behave. So to change any behavior or feeling, we first need to address our thinking. I use a solution focused approach where together we focus on the issue(s) most important to my client. My goal in the counseling process is to assist you in improving the quality of your life. In my counseling environment, we walk together through those areas of life creating difficulty for you and you will learn how to manage, resolve, and reconcile those issues so you can enjoy the quality of life that is meaningful to you!

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Dr. Patricia Bell

Offering therapy in FL
License: PSYD,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hello! We all have moments and experiences when we seek support and advise from those who have been there, and done that and perhaps more. We seek support from those who are considered experts regarding our needs. Well let me say, you have come to the right site and you, now have an opportunity to work with one of the most highly trained psychotherapist in the field of psychology. My name is Dr. Patricia Bell, LMHC (License Mental health Counselor). I have a PsyD. in Counseling from a well respected and accredited university. And I have more than fifteen years experience in the field of Counseling and Psychotherapy. ​I’m confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you whether you’re struggling with Relationships, Depression, Anger Management, Substance-related Issues, Anxiety, or Low Self-Esteem Issues, it is important that you know you don’t have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. During my work process, I often incorporate techniques and ideas from other counseling modalities. However, my foundational reference of training comes from Cognitive therapy. Cognitive Therapy is a modality (therapy) which seeks to challenge and to address negative self-thoughts and behaviors. All in an effort to dismantle and/or alter unwanted behaviors or mood patterns such as depression. My working experiences has included the very young to the most matured with age. I enjoy working with people. And I believe that you too are ready to began your journey of change, as evident by you reaching out. This one act along is a giant positive step in the right direction. I am looking forward to meeting you! Dr. Patricia Bell, LMHC

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Brett Hall

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michelle Poindexter

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work primarily with minoritized/oppressed populations (i.e. people of color, LGBTQ+ members, etc.) and with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Amanda Daginella

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I received my graduate Clinical degree, M.S. in family therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2014 and previous to this I received my undergraduate degree, B.S. in sociology with minors in psychology and child development in 2011 from Florida State University. I have been in the mental health field since 2012. I received my Masters degree in Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. I have worked with adults, adolescents, children, and their families in both the Miami-Dade and Broward County School settings as well as in both home and clinic settings. I am passionate about a healthy family system being at the utmost importance to allow an individual to live a fulfilled and well balanced lifestyle. My psychotherapy educational background, along with my concentration in both CBT and Solutions Focused therapies assist me in my systemic approach to treatment both in the individual's heart and his or her mind as well as all of the physical environments the individual takes part in daily (work, school, home, social). Disclaimer: I am only conducting video and phone sessions. No messaging sessions will be taking place.

This is Daniel Aviles's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Aviles

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Education, Credentials and Experience I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician and I earned my Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Southeastern University, and my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida. I have worked as a clinician for the past five years and have experience working in private practice, with adults in substance use treatment programs as well as teenage boys who have committed sexual offenses. I believe that people have the capacity to grow and develop as they heal from the wounds they have experienced in the near and distant past. As a counselor I have been trained to help facilitate that process by empowering you to face your past and embrace the challenges of the future. I don’t believe in getting or staying stuck with clients. If, during our therapeutic relationship, either of us feels that you are not making progress or that the process we are engaged in is not helpful, I will be glad to direct you to other resources and/or professionals who may be better able to assist you on your journey to wholeness. As a client, you have a vital role in the therapeutic relationship. It is important that you take an active role by working on assignments between sessions and avoiding the use of mind-altering substances such as alcohol or other drugs that might interfere with the effectiveness of your treatment. Certain types of therapy require abstinence which I will discuss with you more specifically if you choose that type of treatment. Therapeutic Approach My approach to counseling is relational and based on the work of Albert Ellis, Carl Rogers, Carl Jung and Person-Centered Therapy. I draw from several different therapeutic models including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Sometimes, there are traumas or tragedies that disrupt people’s ability to feel good about themselves and connect with the goodness around them. This imbalance can lead to depression, anxiety, addiction and/or other self-defeating behaviors. I will seek to understand your concerns and to help you find effective ways to cope with your problems. I am interested in integrating your spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent that you desire. Helping you find balance in mind, body, spirit and community is one of the best ways to restore your health and well-being. It is important to realize that your active involvement in the counseling process will be the most influential contribution to your success. Your input is essential in establishing treatment goals, risks and benefits of change, the time commitment involved, and other pertinent aspects of your situation. Periodically, we will evaluate your progress and, if necessary, re-design your treatment plan, goals, and/or methods.

This is David Young's avatar and link to their profile

David Young

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Paul Steele's avatar and link to their profile

Paul Steele

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Waldo

Finding the best therapist close by in Waldo 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Waldo. 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 can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Waldo, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Waldo or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Waldo area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Waldo, elsewhere in Alachua, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Waldo area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Waldo therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Waldo due to a higher cost of living. 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 Waldo may not take health insurance, some 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Waldo, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Waldo 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. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Waldo helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Waldo 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Waldo therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Waldo 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 lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 32694 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Waldo counselor?

Before seeing your 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Waldo 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Waldo, 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.

Waldo 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Waldo.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Waldo:

32694

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