In Lake Wales, the skies are clear, and the palm trees are big. There's not much to dislike about living in this sunny Florida town. Whatever you need, Lake Florida has it whether its shopping, dining, living, or care. Even in the area of mental health care, Lake Wales has you covered.
There are a variety of qualified mental health professionals to provide you with the support you need whether you're dealing with trauma, loss, relationship difficulties or mental illness. All you have to do is reach out and schedule an appointment with a professional today to get the care you need.
Henry "Jay" Swedlaw
As a licensed therapist in Texas, Florida, California, Wyoming, New Mexico, New Hampshire, and Arizona with 10 years of experience on this platform, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, compassionate spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing relationship challenges, anxiety, and personal growth obstacles. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I offer expertise in addressing depression, stress, social anxiety, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal communication. With a commitment to inclusive, non-judgmental care, I support clients exploring sexuality, gender identity, relationship structures, and personal empowerment. Drawing from two decades of clinical experience, I help individuals develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting trauma, relationship transitions, or seeking deeper self-acceptance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional guidance.
Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer
Change your Life! Your life can evolve and change so that you may find freedom and peace! My mission is to assist you to explore and discover your own answers from within, and to remember, recover and honor your true, authentic self so you can live life with greater ease and abundant joy. Let me guide you to transform your-Self and your life. Hello, I am Peggy Ann Serena Hemmer. I prefer to go by Serena. I have been providing clinically sound, creative, holistic counseling for children ages 3 and up, adults, couples and families since 2004. Prior to my clinical work, I spent 10 years at the county and state departments of mental health and substance abuse. Having studied and practiced many holistic approaches to health and well-being, as well as a variety of life philosophies, my approach to therapy is from a holistic perspective, taking into consideration the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. Knowing youth express themselves through art, and play, I weave Expressive Arts modalities into sessions with youth and their families. I was provided an opportunity to establish an Expressive Arts Clinical Program at a behavioral health residential center for youth. Certified in Rational Hypnotherapy, I am able to guide clients to relief from anxiety, phobias, and addictions. I graduated Summa cum Laude from Capital University with a Bachelor of Social Work degree and received a Master of Social Work degree, from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. In Florida, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Certifications in Rational Hypnotherapy, Gottman Couple's Counseling, and Spiritual Life Coaching. As an ordained metaphysical, New Thought minister and certified Spiritual Life Coach I assist clients, who are seeking, to explore and expand their values, spirituality, and faith. I bring my education, experience, and intuition to my practice and particularly my creativity in my work with adolescents and adults. Having provided counseling for people of all ages, from all backgrounds and socio-economic levels in residential treatment centers and private practice, I have acquired a broad awareness of the variety of challenges many people face and have witnessed the intrinsic ability we each have to overcome those challenges and to thrive. Originally, I founded my private practice in 2006 in Worthington, Ohio, and later moved it to Westerville, Ohio. Because I incorporate my background and experience in dance, Tai Chi and Qi Gong, drama, visual arts, and pottery, I was sought after to provide therapy for children as well as adults and couples. Along with my formal education and experience, I am certified in many holistic approaches. I am a Reiki Master Teacher, an Advanced Theta Healing practitioner, an Access Bars Practitioner and taught Qi Gong and Tai Chi for the State of Ohio Employees. Currently, my practice is located in sunny Saint Petersburg, Florida. During my career, I have developed and presented a variety of workshops for families and providers. Including: Ohio Department of Health - Birth to Three Conference -“Maternal Depression and Effects on Infants”- Co-Presenter Ohio Department of Aging Governor’s Conference on Aging - “Advantages of Tai Chi”, Presenter Ohio Department of Mental Health Millennium Conference - “Moving through Recovery”- Presenter “Use of Expressive Arts and Play in Counseling Adolescent Youth in a Children’s Residential Center”- Presenter “Bullies, Bullied, Bully Victims”- Presenter “Separation, Attachment, and Placement”- Foster and Adopted Children Presenter Cancer Support Community Leadership Conference, Washington, D.C-Co-Presenter -“Distress Screening” My publications include: I Am Me, I Am, A Pearl's Wisdom Book. Hemmer, P. A. Serena(2020). https://www.amazon.com/Am-Me-Pearls-Wisdom-Books/dp/B08JJLMSB7. I Don't Need Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/i-don-t-need-counseling. Is My Child Too Young for Counseling. https://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/is-my-child-too-young-for-counseling. The Empowerment of Homeless Women: Implications for Future Advocacy Issues Seventh Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) and Scherocman, J. (2002) Depression: Developmental Considerations from Birth to Eighteen Sixth Annual Symposium on Undergraduate Scholarship. College of Arts and Sciences. Capital University. Herndon, P. (former name) Stattmiller, L., and Wernicke, C., (2001)
Joia Hillman
My name is Joia Hillman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. With extensive experience working with individuals and their families in various settings—home, community, and hospital environments—I have gained a deep understanding of the importance of a collaborative approach. This involves working closely with clients, families, and multidisciplinary teams to assess and address life’s challenges. My counseling philosophy centers on empowerment. I strive to help every person I work with overcome obstacles and develop healthier coping mechanisms. I am passionate about forming therapeutic relationships, which I believe are the foundation for meaningful change and personal growth. I am so happy you have taken the first step towards better well-being. Reach out today, and let’s work together to navigate life’s challenges. I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
Cheryl Freimuth
Welcome to a peek into my life. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), in the beautiful sunshine state of Florida. I have been blessed to have many tassels on my hat of life. I began teaching Anatomy/Biology at the high school level over 36 years ago, then became an adjunct professor in the mental health program, where due to my background in Biology I was asked to teach Human Sexuality to the counseling students. I have practiced mental health counseling for 25years, and during that time have had the opportunity to develop a great bag of tools to help with my client's metamorphosis into a confident individual. As a mental health counselor, I mainly work with couples who are dealing with communication issues as well as intimacy issues. I am often called upon to assist people dealing with parenting dilemmas. During my year's teaching and counseling, I have been blessed to develop a common sense and eclectic style of therapy. I always tailor my mode of therapy to the client's best interest. I firmly believe the client must be the focus, therefore Client-Centered Therapy is always the foundation, as I believe respect, trust, and self-awareness is essential to the client-finding their answers to their concerns. I feel each person has all the answers or solutions to their concerns or stressors within, just where God has placed them. I want to assure you that there isn't too much under the sun that I haven't seen, heard, or experienced as a counselor. I also want to assure you that this road that we are about to embark upon is a journey that we will take together; Hand in hand, side by side. I am here to support and help you as you travel this amazing trail to self-awareness I am very aware of the courage and strength that one has in order to ask a stranger for help, in such major life's trials and tribulations. I admire you for taking these first difficult steps and am excited to embark on this healing process. I am excited to get started walking along beside you as we continue to once again find your place of peace.
Beth Cutler
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with anger management. 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!
Connie Hobbs
Hi , my name is Connie Hobbs and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional in Florida. I have worked over 12+ years in the field of counseling. I have had the pleasure of working with all populations including adults, teens, and children. I have two Masters from Stetson University, one of which is in Counselor Education and the other is in Mental Health. I believe education along with life experience makes the most complete and empathetic therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, parenting problems, ADHD, and foster care and adoption to name a few . My counseling style is warm, friendly, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My therapeutic styles are eclectic utilizing cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches. I feel it is not a one size fits all approach. The therapeutic relationship is utilized to achieve your desired result. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out, come here, share, and want a more fulfilling and happier life, and I want to take those steps towards change with you! If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Taryn Temmer
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Master’s Level Certified Addictions Professional and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 8 years of clinical experience. My specialty has been working with adults and adolescents who have a wide range of concerns including substance dependence, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma from abuse & neglect, challenges with careers, adjustments to life as well as grief and loss and other life events. Before I became a therapist I practiced law for over 17 years and specialized in Family Law, Custody Disputes and Criminal Defense. I counseled client’s on a range of issues from Adoptions to Bankruptcy. I have a passion to help people and that is why I became a therapist. My style is warm and approachable. I will provide strength and encouragement in a safe environment that builds trust and respect between myself and my clients. I believe in being supportive with an abundance of compassion. My goal is to help build self-esteem and a rapport that is conducive to helping my clients gain the courage and confidence to lead happy and healthy lives. I know everyone’s journey is special and I encourage individuality. I am here to help improve your attitude and outlook on life and face life’s difficulties with the prospect of gaining a voice and freedom to share it!!I will walk along with you through your process and give you a gentle nudge when needed. I will guide you in your endeavors to a better quality of life!! Give me the opportunity to help you on your journey with the encouragement and support we all require!! I will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in our sessions. I will help you with your negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood instability, substance use, challenging irrational beliefs, history of trauma, depression and identity development. I look forward to working with you soon and help you to change your life!!
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!
Geraldine Darrell
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, 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. 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.
Elizabeth Carter
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 32 years of professional work experience. I'm also a certified addiction counselor (MAC). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. 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.
Tania Garcia
Hi there, I am Tania, a Master's level Licensed Clinical Therapist, and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider with over 17 years of experience counseling individuals, couples and families. My approach is to provide you a safe and comfortable space, were you can share your thoughts, feelings and life circumstances. In the process we can explore together healthy and sustainable solutions for you to feel better about yourself, your relationships and hence your life. You may just be looking to reduce the tension and get some mental clarity. Or you may be feeling worried, anxious, sad or even overwhelmed due to different life circumstances or events. I know through my personal and professional experience that it is possible to reconnect with your natural energy to renew yourself, feel great, enjoy your relationships and your life. I look forward to the opportunity to walk this part of the journey with you. Join me today, and I will provide you evidence-based holistic approaches to achieve optimal health and wellness.
Robert Shackelford
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I will do my best to build upon that effort.
Shannon Salgado
I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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. 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.
Stephanie Rosenberg
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Lake Wales, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Lake Wales, 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 Lake Wales.
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 Lake Wales, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lake Wales and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.