Traveling the seas of life is not always easy even under the best circumstances. When you are currently dealing with mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression, it can make things that much harder. You may have a hard time finding direction in life and it can be tough to find the confidence that you need to keep going. Struggles like this can really make you feel like you're lost at sea, completely isolated and without an apparent route back home.
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea-area counselors are going to be able to act as your navigators when times get too tough. If your depression has you feeling completely lost, then they can be there to help guide you back to where you need to be. These counselors know how to listen to your problems and they can also give out important advice to help you make progress. You can find yourself again and start to move towards your life goals once more. Just reach out to these online counselors today so that you can start sailing in the right direction.
Lynda Nora Durand
Hi my name is Lynda Nora Durand and I go by Nora. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the state of Florida and New York. I am a Florida native who moved to New York a few years ago. I have a Master in Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Child and Adolescent Studies. I have worked in child welfare as an advocate and counselor to youth in foster care from there I became a crisis counselor for Hurricane Sandy Victims, to then run a crisis respite center for individuals with what we call “severe mental illness” where we provided a peer environment in which individual’s experiencing psychosis but did not rise to the level of hospitalization could have a place to stay away from their triggering environment, and currently I work with victims of crimes. I shared so much detail as to my prior work experience because it speaks to the way I work with individuals. I believe in meeting every person where they are at and providing a compassionate non-judgmental space to process and explore their individual reality. My approach is a combination of Intentional Peer Support, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Need Adaptive Treatment model. I do my best to be creative with the therapy I provide and tailor it to the individual that I am working with. I am so happy that you have taken this step to work on your emotional and mental health and look forward to the opportunity to be a support alongside you in this journey.
Samala Wallack
Caring for you in a safe, therapeutic online environment while promoting healing is my specialty. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for 10+ years, who provides therapeutic services for young adults, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I work with individuals who may experience symptoms related to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, and Gender Dysphoria,. My treatment approaches include utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and artistic modalities to address a variety of challenges including but not limited to trauma, suicidality, self-esteem, academic performance, defiance, anger, depression, anxiety, parenting, and relationship issues. I also customize therapy to your personal situation and goals for treatment. I completed my Educational Specialist degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri, Kansas City, and have a Master of Science in Counseling from Wright State University. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology with a minor in Correctional Science from Oakwood University. My experience includes working with the child welfare system, public vocational rehabilitation system, in-home based therapy, residential treatment care, and outpatient therapy. Let’s partner together to promote healing one therapy session at a time!
Abraham Knowles
Hello! My name is Abraham Knowles and am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in Florida. I earned my Master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Florida in 1995. I have since worked as a school social worker and also have worked in a variety of other fields including community mental health, substance abuse, and home health. I have worked with clients in a variety of modalities including individual, group, and family counseling as well as case management. I draw from a variety of counseling approaches but mostly cognitive behavioral and humanistic/ client centered therapies. I have helped clients with many presenting problems, especially depression, anxiety, and trauma. Outside of my work as a therapist/ social worker, I enjoy reading, movies, and theater as well as spending time with my wife (married 31 years) son (25), daughter (21), and grandson (4) at their various activities. I have been a volunteer with my church’s youth group for over 20 years. It takes courage to seek support to work through difficult issues and I’m proud of you for taking that first, very important step. I love listening to and supporting people through difficult circumstances and working with them to develop and implement a plan for improvement. I would love to work with you to provide support and assistance as you work toward symptom reduction, confidence, improved relationships, life purpose, and positive change.
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.
Helen Lopez
My name is Helen Cruz. I speak both English and Spanish. I graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from UCF and a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Sarasota. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with individuals struggling with negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood instability, substance use, challenging irrational beliefs, anxiety, history of trauma, and identity development.
Robin Monk
Welcome to BetterHelp! I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of FL since 2009. I provided individual therapy to a diverse population in a community behavioral health center until I resigned and became a counselor with BetterHelp. In 2024, I also became licensed in CA as Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I previously worked for 5 years as an in-home parent educator for the University of Florida's Nurturing Program. My therapy specialties are : Stress/Anxiety, Coping With Life Changes, Coping with Grief/Loss, Improving Self Esteem I have a passion for helping others and believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect regardless of race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. I find it rewarding to work with people one on one. I especially like helping people discover strengths they didn't realize they had. People tend to seek counseling when they feel down, worried, frustrated, or upset. Many feel stuck, even hopeless, because what they have been doing hasn't improved the situation. Counseling can often help. Talking about your problems can give you a fresh perspective and help you find solutions. My clients say it's comforting to have someone to talk to that makes them feel safe and heard. They say counseling gives them hope that they can lead more satisfying lives. I prefer strength based client centered approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Brief Solution–Focused Therapy. My counseling style is eclectic, so I draw from other approaches too if I think it can help someone. If you're ready to make changes in your life and want more support in moving forward, please call I’d love to work with you. Services Offered Messaging Live Chat Phone Video
Linda Milewski
Hello, I’m Linda Milewski, a Licensed Clinical Therapist and addiction specialist of 20 years. I hold a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Non Violent Communication (NVC), Trauma-informed Care and Awareness, Tibetan Sound Bowl Healing, as well as Mindfulness practices. Additionally, I hold international certifications in addiction, Employee Assistance Program, and Sober Coaching. After nearly two decades in inpatient psychiatric units, recovery facilities, mental health agencies, and wellness centers, I have helped stabilize many clients suffering from crisis, addiction, trauma, mood disorders and stress responses to various types of trauma. I developed a keen interest in various types of symptoms that create behaviors most would consider detrimental to their lives. As I travelled extensively internationally, delving deeper into the causes of suffering, I began to understand more deeply what (in the Buddhist context), “suffering” means and how we can heal from it. I began looking at the client as a “whole organism” by exploring how the body and its nervous system becomes severely compromised over time stemming from chronic stress. I have learned that when the body is relaxed through certain techniques, there is no room for stress or trauma to be held. Through regulating the body and nervous system, we create a safe and calm therapeutic space from which to find creative and authentic solutions to our daily challenges. I believe that once the body feels safe, we are supported to make deep and life-changing shifts. Non Violent Communication (NVC) is important to me. This modality supports us to speak authentically from the heart, tying in beautifully with mindfulness practices, trauma awareness and the regulation of emotions through somatic work. This method also supports us to set boundaries in ways that are compassionate for ourselves and others, enabling us to foster deeper, more authentic connection. My approach with each client is to provide support, accountability, and structure that honors and helps clients to step out into post traumatic growth. Through use of a range of techniques, tools and therapeutic approaches, I see transformations in my clients as they experience a strong feeling of overall safety and well being. I look forward to hearing from you and going on this journey of healing and self discovery with you!
Janet Angueira
I am licensed in Florida with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Brandi Horak
I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages, couples, individuals, teens and children, with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety and PTSD. 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.
Lucila Coba
My name is Lucila Coba, I'm licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, stress management, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and life transitions. My approach is integrative which allows me to draw from various therapeutic modalities to tailor therapy to your individual and unique needs. In addition, I'm a bilingual clinician (English and Spanish). 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! I'm looking forward to start working with you in your healing journey!
Dr. Sherry Acosta
Hello, I'm a licensed Mental Health Professional in Florida with over 20 years of dedicated experience in individual therapy. Throughout my career, I have had the honor of supporting numerous clients as they navigate through life's challenges and strive for personal growth and fulfillment. Whether you're dealing with depression, relationship troubles, intimacy issues, motivation, self-esteem, or confidence, I am here to provide the guidance and support you need. My therapeutic approach is both direct and casual, yet deeply empathetic and flexible. I believe that each individual is the expert of their own story and possesses unique strengths that can be harnessed to overcome obstacles. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and honestly. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life requires immense courage. By seeking therapy, you are demonstrating a commitment to your well-being and personal growth. I am here to walk alongside you on this journey, offering unconditional support and a compassionate ear, while also providing the honest feedback and insights necessary for meaningful progress. I understand that choosing the right therapist can make a significant difference in your therapeutic experience. With my extensive experience and approachable demeanor, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your personal goals and improve your day-to-day experiences. Let's embark on this path of healing and self-discovery together, working towards the life you envision for yourself.
Ivonne Fraga
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida with over 8 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped clients navigate a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, family conflict, parenting concerns, life transitions, low self-esteem, and stress-related issues. Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or uncertain about how to move forward. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences while developing practical tools to create meaningful and lasting change. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each client's unique needs. I integrate evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method interventions, mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed care, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I believe that healing happens when people feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relationship difficulties, family challenges, trauma, grief, or major life changes, therapy can provide the support and guidance needed to move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. Taking the first step can be difficult, but you do not have to face life's challenges alone. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing, growth, and greater emotional well-being.
Dory Richards
Dory creates a space where people can exhale. Her presence is steady, warm, and deeply attuned - the kind that helps you feel seen rather than evaluated. She works with individuals, couples, and families who are ready to strengthen their sense of self, repair disconnection, and communicate in ways that actually bring them closer. Her areas of focus include rebuilding self-worth, resolving relationship conflict, developing confident parenting strategies, navigating life transitions, managing anxiety, and establishing boundaries that protect peace instead of creating distance.
Ashley Irish
Clients often describe me as warm, thoughtful, and easy to talk to. My approach is grounded in evidence-based care and informed by experience across a variety of behavioral health settings, including outpatient treatment, schools, correctional programs, and community-based care. I work with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, attention-related difficulties, emotional regulation concerns, and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. I believe meaningful growth begins with supportive relationships, practical skill development, and a collaborative therapeutic process. Together, we will identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build on existing strengths, and develop sustainable strategies that support long-term wellness and personal growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, practical, and tailored to each individual's unique needs, goals, and experiences. I integrate evidence-based behavioral therapies with a strengths-based perspective to help clients improve emotional wellbeing, navigate life challenges, strengthen relationships, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and behavior. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, attention-related difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. My therapeutic style balances warmth, compassion, and support with direct guidance and accountability when helpful. I take a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing that meaningful and lasting change often involves multiple areas of life, including emotional health, relationships, work, and daily functioning. Clients can expect a welcoming, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where they are encouraged to openly discuss their experiences, concerns, and goals at their own pace. During the first session, I focus on building a strong therapeutic connection, gaining an understanding of current challenges, and identifying strengths, patterns, and areas for growth. Together, we begin developing meaningful and realistic treatment goals tailored to each person’s needs, values, and long-term wellbeing. I aim to create a collaborative space that balances emotional support with practical direction, helping clients feel understood, grounded, and empowered as they begin the therapeutic 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 Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, 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 Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
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 Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.