Betty Lustig
Hello, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and hold an MEd in Community Counseling from the University of Miami, Florida. I have had many years of experience counseling people who are suffering from anxiety and depression, PTSD, loss and grief, relationship issues and other problems in the field of mental health. I am confident that together we can identify the issues that are troubling you and work together to help you feel better and stronger. While a Client-Centered approach and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are my main treatment modalities, I use others as dictated by my client's needs. The relationship between client and therapist, between you and me, is foremost and will be one of acceptance and trust. Being able to speak freely gives us the opportunity to work through your issues, thus realizing positive mental health. I look forward to sharing this journey with you!
J. Phyllis Brannen
I am a Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Professional with 22 years experience in Private Practice, a Community Mental Health Center and an Alzheimer’s Foundation. I have worked with mental health issues and addictions; caregivers and care-receivers; as well as clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, ADHD and numerous other concerns. My counseling style is interactive and responsive. Together, we will explore your challenges, build your coping skills and find solutions that work. My approach is eclectic, combining many aspects, including empowerment, cognitive and behavioral elements. Your counseling will respond to your unique individual needs. Your interest in counseling implies that you have the courage to change and grow. That is all you need to seek a happier, more fulfilling future. I am here to support and encourage you on this exciting journey!
Amber Carreau Davidson
I am a mental health counselor licensed in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist. And as of 2026 am now a practicing licensed professional counselor in Georgia as well. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anger management, anxiety, domestic violence, PTSD, sexual abuse, panic attacks, and career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced psychiatric hospitalization. My counseling style is empathetic and engaging. I believe in the healing power of humor as well, when appropriate. I prefer for us both to be active collaborators in developing your treatment plan. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral (CBT), solution-focused, and trauma-based. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My Educational Credentials Include: - Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Family and Marriage Counseling from Barry University. - Licensed by the State of Florida for Mental Health Counseling. - Licensed by the State of Georgia for Professional Counseling. - Nationally Board-Certified Counselor. - Certified Clinical Trauma Professional through the International Association of Trauma Professionals. For my professional growth, I continuously read related literature, keep myself up to date with the ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research, and attend conferences and training. Additionally, I am open to educational resources that you, my client, might think would help me to better understand you. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support, guide, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Derylene Proctor
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring three decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, relationship dynamics, addiction recovery, and self-esteem development. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals seeking Christian-informed guidance and those experiencing midlife transitions. My approach focuses on empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication skills, and rediscover personal purpose. I offer supportive, non-judgmental counseling for individuals working through significant life changes, relationship challenges, and personal growth journeys. My therapeutic work emphasizes healing through self-love, forgiveness, and intentional personal development. I understand the intricate ways isolation, impulsivity, and commitment challenges can impact one's emotional landscape, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside clients as they create meaningful, transformative change.
Sara Zenlea
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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!
Stalburn VanSluytman
My interest in individual and social psychology developed when I was an undergraduate at Howard University in the latter part of the 1960s. While working my way through school I somehow also found time to provide volunteer services at various non-profit agencies in around the Washington DC area. After graduating with a degree in Sociology I worked at Federal Government clerical jobs crunching numbers but I really wanted to work with "real" people. I soon started working in case management and substance abuse counseling in New York City. I was recommended to enter a special accelerated graduate program in Clinical Social Work at Adelphi University by the director at one of the agencies. The Clinical degree launched my entry into a more research-based and specialized area of the field which had grown with the myriad social changes that were taking place in the country (substance abuse; HIV epidemic; two paycheck households; etc.). I moved to Florida in the 1990s I had to make adjustments to a culture that I was unfamiliar with but quickly assimilated to. I had the good fortune of working for some of the best agencies as well as having a successful run as an independent practitioner. I eventually spent my last ten years of employment as a mental health therapist for the Florida Department of Corrections before retiring in 2014. Over the years I have worked with individuals and groups from all walks of life and with a wide variety of concerns. I have also done presentations at schools and churches on the issue of emotional disorders and ways of identifying some of the symptoms in students. My training in Clinical Social Work would be categorized as a psychodynamic approach however, I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Approach and have been a certified trainer and Supervisor of Masters level therapists in the use of that method. Since retirement I have done some part-time quality-control work for a Community Mental Health Center and have been active in doing volunteer work with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, a local Hospice Center, and the American Cancer Society, however, these have been put on hold since the emergence of the COVID pandemic.
Ellen OMalley
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Nicole Bakewell
My name is Nicole Bakewell, and I was born in New York City but grew up most of my life in the Pocono’s. Growing up, I always had a desire to help people. I have worked with children, couples, and families for over a decade. I have been fortunate to provide clinical services to clients in a variety of settings including community mental health as well as telehealth services. I am trained and use a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet client needs. I see myself as a mechanism that can provide necessary support to help you reach life goals and overcome challenges you may face in your life. My philosophy is centered around Behavioral and Trauma Centered and Focused. By providing a warm, caring, non-judgmental approach you will be on the path to living a more balanced life. My primary availability for sessions is Monday through Friday 5 AM to 10 PM EDT and occasional weekend, however I am available to discuss additional options if that time does not work well for you., I look forward to learning more about you and helping you identify any improvement opportunities that you may be facing in.
Jennifer Gardner
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Florida in 1996, my Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University in 2002, and obtained my LCSW (SW 16005) in 2019. I have experience working with adults of all ages, children, and families over the past 20 years in a number of different settings. I offer clients compassion, understanding, and patience in order to explore feelings, emotions, and patterns that may be getting in the way of living a happier and more fulfilling life. I take a person-centered approach in which clients are able to take more of a lead in therapy in order to discover their own solutions. I encourage, support, and guide the therapeutic process without interrupting or interfering with the client’s process of self-discovery. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and caring environment for clients to be able to open up and freely express themselves. Clients are able to be vulnerable and share their fears, struggles, and emotions that they do not feel comfortable sharing with their friends or family.
Dr. Anthony Schefstad
I am licensed in Florida with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, phobias, pre and post incarceration and anti-social personality disorder. I am a practitioner of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and Ericksonian Hypnosis. 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.
Rhonda McEntire
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 25 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and addiction. I offer a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique journey. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly committed to working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ communities, individuals experiencing workplace challenges, and those navigating significant life transitions. My therapeutic work encompasses a wide range of sensitive areas, including trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, chronic health challenges, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilient coping strategies, and move toward healing and self-understanding.
Shellene Hattersley
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirteen years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adults create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida in 2020 and became licensed in Florida in 2022. My journey in the social services field began in 2012, where I discovered my passion for supporting individuals and families through challenging times. Over the years, I have had the privilege of providing individual, group, and family therapy in community mental health settings before opening my own private practice. In my work, I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, and personal growth. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or seeking greater clarity and fulfillment in your life, I am here to offer a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together to build resilience and move toward the life you envision. My approach is strengths-based and trauma-informed, meaning I see each person as more than their struggles. I focus on your resilience, self-determination, and holistic well-being while tailoring therapy to meet your unique needs. I use evidence-based strategies and techniques, but I also honor your personal story and the strengths you already bring to the process. I understand that beginning therapy can be intimidating, and I want you to know that we will work at a pace that feels comfortable and right for you. It is truly an honor to walk alongside you on your healing journey and to support you in creating positive, lasting changes in your life.
Julian Laverde
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Steven Clarke
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and personal challenges. My approach centers on helping clients, particularly men and older adults, work through depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and workplace stress. I bring a compassionate and direct therapeutic style that addresses communication barriers, life purpose exploration, and family system challenges. My expertise includes supporting individuals through significant life changes such as divorce, midlife transitions, and fatherhood adjustments. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful coping strategies and gain deeper self-understanding. I'm committed to helping individuals build resilience, improve interpersonal relationships, and move toward more fulfilling personal and professional lives. My clinical focus emphasizes practical, solution-oriented strategies tailored to each client's unique experiences and goals. Whether you're struggling with personal identity, relationship conflicts, or seeking greater emotional balance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you in your journey of growth and self-discovery.
Find a Therapist Near You in Wausau , 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 Wausau.
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.