South Bay, Florida is full of museums, beaches, and other places to see. Believe it or not, having a variety of interesting and new experiences does the mind well and contributes to personal growth and development. If you have an appreciation for warm weather, then residing in South Bay is another bonus which you will absolutely love South Bay.
While getting out and about is certainly healthy and well-advised, there is nothing which can substitute professional guidance. This is why you have the option of working with a South Bay-area counselor who specializes in helping people rise above any demons they may be facing and eventually grow to be happier and more fulfilled individuals.
Marsha Oxamendi
I believe in positive counseling with the goal of empowering you to work toward your personal growth. My counseling style is respectful, compassionate, sensitive, and non-threatening. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including grief, anger management, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and trauma. I am a Florida-licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from Florida State University in 2010. I have worked with persons from varied backgrounds. I have provided mental health counseling to prisoners, individuals and groups in anger management sessions, dialysis patients, veterans and their families in hospice care, and pregnant and postpartum women. I look forward to giving you support and helping to empower you in your personal growth so you can achieve all your goals!
Dr. Jo Ann Lee
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of Florida with 25 years of experience, working with clients with depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, bereavement issues, issues of sexuality, ADHD, and job-related problems. I have experience working with incarcerated populations, and have helped people cope with the isolation and separation involved, with dealing with the emotional and physical abuse in their past, and with transitioning back into open society. I believe in treating each client with warmth and respect, and value each person for their own individuality. My style combines Cognitive Behavioral. Humanistic, and Solution-Focused therapies, and is always directed by the specific needs of my clients. I respect those that have the courage to address their issues and look forward to supporting and empowering you to make the changes needed for a fuller and happier life. Because I am licensed in Florida, all online therapy, by law, must be video. If you have a problem with this, please click on the upper right hand corner of your page and choose change therapist. Be sure and specify that you want a therapist that is NOT licensed only in Florida, and why. Thank you
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)
Corina Istanich
Welcome ! My name is Corina and I hold a license in Mental Health Counseling (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I went to school at Palm Beach Atlantic University for both my under grad and masters education. Palm Beach Atlantic University is a Christian University and I feel grateful to have attended this school as it has created the person I am today. I believe that my faith has developed me as the counselor I am today and I function with that mentality in counseling. Jesus is the great counselor and I believe that we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I have been working in the counseling field for 8 years and have been licensed for 4 of those years. I have worked the majority of my career in an in-patient addictions center and have expanded to out-patient and in home therapy with a couple different community agencies. In those agencies I have offered services to children from the ages of 4 to adults in their 60's, as well as family therapy. I have worked with an array of issues not limited to family conflict, relationship issues, communication, drugs and alcohol, anger, stress, coping skills and many other life issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a modality that I primarily work with and at times borrowing from other modalities when it is fit. My goal is to build a real, raw and positive relationship while being compassionate and empathetic. I will be sensitive but also direct in efforts to help you find solutions to your current and/or past issues. I also believe that incorporating the use coping skills, boundaries and communication will increase quality of life as well as the quality of relationships. I believe all interactions are the beginning of potential flourishing relationships. With that said, I think that as we grow in counselor and client relationship , this very relationship will better help you with your relationships with family, friends and co-workers. I am excited to meet you and to work with you as you learn new ways to live your very best life! Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey. Additional info: I prefer to do video sessions as we are able to see each other face to face and I am able to pick up on ques that are important in therapy. I am not opposed to live chat or phone call when video is not available but prefer video. If you the time that you need to meet is not available, please message me so I can accommodate you.
Diane Petersen
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have been providing counselling services in an inpatient and outpatient setting for over 20 years. My therapeutic approach is simple. I actively listen without judgment so I can provide the best quality care for all my clients. I have extensive experience helping clients manage stress and anxiety, cope with addictions, and recover from trauma, abuse, grief and loss. 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!
Rosalie Beauchamp
I am licensed in Florida with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
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.
Ashelea McCain
I am licensed in Florida and Alabama with 4 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 depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Lourdes Dorvilus
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with over five years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, and career-related challenges. I support clients who feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from the life they want to live. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and empowering. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings while building clarity, confidence, and emotional strength. Therapy is not about being “fixed” — it’s about learning how to understand yourself, regulate your emotions, and move forward with intention. It takes courage to seek support, and I am honored to walk alongside you as you grow, heal, and step into a more fulfilling life.
Kenneth Rigsby
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over two decades of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. I specialize in creating affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and those working through deeply personal struggles with self-acceptance, communication, and emotional healing. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, focusing on building self-love, processing difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and developing healthier interpersonal skills. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise, helping you discover your inner strength and create meaningful, positive change in your life. Whether you're addressing long-standing emotional patterns or navigating current life challenges, I'm committed to providing supportive, non-judgmental guidance.
Letitia Nicolas
I am a dedicated mental‐health professional with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and almost two years fully licensed supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. My background includes extensive clinical work grounded in evidence‐based therapeutic approaches and a commitment to compassionate, client‐centered care. As a veteran, I bring a deep understanding of the unique stressors faced by service members, their families, and those navigating major transitions. I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorders and relationship concerns. My goal is to empower every person I work with to build resilience, gain clarity, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
Marisa Levin
Hi, I’m Marisa, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns they can’t seem to break, whether that’s anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, or relationship challenges. My approach is both compassionate and direct. I’ll meet you with empathy and understanding, while also helping you take an honest look at the thoughts, behaviors, and patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Therapy with me isn’t just a place to vent; it’s a space where we actively work toward meaningful, lasting change. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, ACT, and solution-focused therapy, but I tailor each session to you. Together, we’ll build insight, develop practical tools, and focus on progress you can apply in your everyday life. Clients often tell me they appreciate that I’m supportive, but also real. I’ll challenge you when needed, always with your growth in mind. If you’re ready for honest support, deeper insight, and real change, I’m here to help.
Michala Haag
As a licensed therapist in Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, and personal growth. I have a deep commitment to understanding the unique experiences of young adults, women, and men as they work through transitions, attachment challenges, and personal development. I provide supportive guidance for those struggling with communication difficulties, isolation, codependency, and substance use challenges. My goal is to create a nurturing environment where clients can explore their life purpose, develop stronger self-love, and build meaningful connections. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients, offering empathetic support as they develop healthier coping strategies and work towards personal transformation. Together, we'll explore your strengths and create pathways to more fulfilling relationships and personal growth.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in South Bay, Florida
Finding a therapist near you in South Bay, 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 South Bay.
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 South Bay, Florida
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving South Bay and the surrounding FL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.