Finding the right therapist in Lakeland, FL can feel like a big step, especially when stress starts to affect work, relationships, or day-to-day routines. For people exploring counseling in Lakeland, Florida, therapy in Lakeland and online therapy can offer a practical way to connect with licensed professionals who support concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. In a suburban area where schedules, commuting, and provider availability can all shape care choices, online sessions can make it easier to begin therapy in Lakeland without putting more strain on an already full week.
For those comparing therapists in Lakeland, FL, BetterHelp offers flexible online therapy through one of the world's largest networks of providers, with more than 30,000 qualified professionals globally and match times that average 24 to 48 hours. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible individuals' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. If insurance is not available, subscription pricing typically ranges from $70 to $100 per week.
Connie Branham
As a licensed therapist in Florida with over four decades of clinical experience, I bring a compassionate and seasoned approach to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting challenges, and self-esteem concerns. I understand that seeking therapy requires courage, and I provide a supportive, understanding environment that respects individual values and beliefs. My approach is grounded in empathy, drawing from years of professional practice and a deep commitment to helping people discover their inner strength and resilience. With a focus on Christian-centered counseling, I offer a warm, respectful therapeutic space that honors your personal journey and supports your emotional and spiritual growth. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing guidance and support as you work towards healing and personal transformation.
Lucia Stanfield
As a licensed therapist in Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is compassionate and holistic, addressing challenges ranging from depression and relationship dynamics to trauma recovery and personal growth. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their deepest struggles—whether related to anxiety, life transitions, family dynamics, or personal identity. My therapeutic work centers on empowering individuals to develop self-understanding, resilience, and meaningful strategies for healing. My expertise spans diverse areas including mood disorders, social challenges, sexuality, workplace stress, and interpersonal relationships. I'm committed to meeting each client exactly where they are, honoring their unique experiences and supporting their journey toward emotional well-being and personal transformation. I draw from evidence-based practices to provide personalized, thoughtful guidance that respects each individual's background, values, and goals. Together, we'll work collaboratively to navigate life's complexities and cultivate sustainable emotional strength.
Linda Oberle
I have a Master's in Social Work, which I achieved in 2011. I have worked most of my career in child welfare, since 2000. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Michigan. I am well versed in substance abuse, parenting problems, and crisis intervention. Within that realm I have worked with people who have physical trauma and emotional abuse. These are concerns that are most often involved in child welfare cases. I am very attentive and interactive with clients. I am non-judgmental and respectful of all different cultures. I have worked mostly with solution-focused counseling. I will ensure that your treatment plan is driven by your needs. You are in the driver's seat to achieve a successful and happier life. I will advocate, support and empower you to meet your needs. I am looking forward to meeting you!
Irma Lacayo
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I have been working in the mental health field since 1993. I have worked with different populations and settings. I obtained my bachelor's degree from The University of Miami and my masters degree from Barry University. My approach is eclectic, using cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, client centered therapy, solution focused therapy, rational emotive therapy etc., I believe that I can help clients meet their needs and improve quality of life. My purpose is to empower clients so that they can live a happy life. It takes courage to seek help but it's worth it. I encourage you to take the first step seeking professional help in order to experience happiness. I hope that you give me a chance to work with you.
David Shirly
I am a licensed therapist in Florida dedicated to supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as social anxiety, workplace stress, life transitions, and interpersonal communication. My therapeutic practice is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique experiences. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal transformation, I provide a supportive environment for meaningful healing and growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop practical strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and creating positive life changes. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and move towards a more fulfilling life.
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)
Ladonna Williams
I have 20 years experience as a licensed mental health counselor in the state of FL. I received my degree at Rollins College. It's counseling program was ranked #1 in the Southeast when I was enrolled. I have provided therapy to adults from all walks of life, i.e. first responders, law enforcement officers, veterans, college students, parents, teachers, and retired. My counseling approach is cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and humanistic. My counseling style is warm, interactive, respectful and compassionate . I commend and praise you for seeking to learn healthy strategies so you can thrive.
Dr. Aynne Rosenberg
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Florida. I have over 20 years of experience dealing with a multitude of issues. I have a Ph.D. in counseling psychology, a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, and a Doctorate in Ministry D.M. My philosophy is simple: treat others with dignity, compassion, respect, and consideration. My approach is non judgmental but honest. I especially enjoy working with clients' dreams in a Gestalt modality. So if you are struggling with unforeseen events or life's curveballs, please start your journey here. Help is just a call away. Dr. Aynne
Cathiana Philippe
I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.
Hillary Gonzalez
Hi and welcome! I’m Hillary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker residing in Florida. I am licensed in Florida and Idaho! I enjoy having the opportunity to help and support resilient individuals like you, who are seeking care to achieve personal goals, improve overall wellbeing, and navigate life’s challenges. As a clinical social worker, I aim to create a safe space where you are fully supported, at ease, and comfortable. I am committed to offering you care that is specific to your needs, and am looking forward to meeting you! I utilize a person-centered, strengths-based approach to ensure all my clients feel empowered, supported, and seen. I utilize modalities that support emotional regulation, align with your values, and create a safe space for personal growth. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am here to support and help empower you in your journey of healing and growth. My main areas of expertise are: - Autism / Neurodivergence - Autistic / Neurodivergent Parenting and Caregiver Stress - Anxiety - Depression - Executive Dysfunction Some of my other areas of expertise include: - Chronic Illness - End of life / Hospice - Geriatrics / Older adults - Life transitions - Substance Use / Nicotine addiction / Vaping addiction - Low Self Esteem - Caregiver Stress and Burnout
Steven Brashear
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Austine Nwaobi
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Christy Evans
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate challenging experiences, including depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, from children to young adults to older individuals facing midlife challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on addressing communication difficulties, feelings of isolation, and struggles with purpose and identity. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through various life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and workplace dynamics. My work also encompasses helping individuals heal from trauma, manage relationship challenges, and develop healthy coping strategies. I believe in creating a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My goal is to empower individuals to understand themselves more deeply and build stronger, more fulfilling connections in their personal and professional lives.
Sandra Juste
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, discover life purpose, and cultivate personal growth through compassionate, evidence-based therapeutic techniques. My expertise spans critical areas including depression, addiction recovery, self-esteem enhancement, anger management, and supporting individuals through significant life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a nurturing, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner strengths and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Drawing from a trauma-informed and client-centered perspective, I believe each person has unique resilience and capacity for healing. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering genuine support and collaborative guidance as you move toward greater emotional balance and self-understanding.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Lakeland, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Lakeland, 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 Lakeland.
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 Lakeland, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lakeland and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.