In life, we all know that we don't have that much time to make our life happen. We need to get out and enjoy everything life has to offer. However, when one is dealing with depression, anxiety, or various other health problems, it can be a challenge to enjoy life. A counselor based in Estero can help. 

Estero has an interesting history. It was founded by the followers of a man named Cyrus Teed, who said he was immortal. Of course, the following he had dwindled after he passed away. No one is immortal, and that’s why we need to enjoy life as we know it. A counselor can help you do that. 

This is Jan Hernandez's avatar and link to their profile

Jan Hernandez

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW, BCD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
35 years of experience

I am a graduate of Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research Masters Program. Since then, I have worked in adoption, with hospice, and with a variety of people with different problems in my private practice of 25 years. Some of these include relationship counseling, individual counseling, obesity, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, alcoholism, drug addiction, women's issues, and geriatrics. Working with people to be the best that they strive to be is always the only goal that I have. I will help you discover what is right with you. We will use your strengths to make you the best you can be. It only takes a serious commitment from you. Sometimes we may have to dig a little deeper, and that is OK, too. There is no "cookie-cutter" counseling! However, I will always treat you with the respect that you deserve, and encourage you to use the intelligence that you have within you to resolve your issues. It takes courage to change; it often takes a person in emotional pain as well. Whatever has brought you here, I salute you for taking that first step! I look forward to helping you on your journey as you find out how small changes in behavior and thinking can lead to big changes in your life, one step at a time. I am a Certified Diplomate through the National Psychotherapy Association, a Masters Addictions Counselor through the National Association of Addiction Counselors, a member of long-standing in the National Association of Social Workers, and a Masters Addictions Counselor through the National Association of Forensic Counselors. Let's get started on your being the best that you want to be! You are incredibly and beautifully complicated, and you will be impressed with all of your complexities that we will discover together as you begin your journey of self-discovery! Jan

This is Kimberly Sharpe's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Sharpe

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC, CAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kimberly, and today, I challenge you to embark on the journey of becoming a better you. "Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional." I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Certified Addictions Professional. I provide therapy to those struggling with a variety of mental health issues, and will help you acquire skills necessary in coping with life's challenges. I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse/addiction, grief and loss, sexual abuse and trauma, adjustment disorders, anger management, and couples/relationship issues. I have been practicing for 20 years, and have worked in numerous mental health settings throughout the years. I embrace the opportunity to help you overcome life's challenges, and find the peace you deserve. Let's work together to create the positive change and personal growth you desire. I look forward to assisting you on life's journey.

This is Sandra Treston's avatar and link to their profile

Sandra Treston

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Congratulations for taking your first step towards a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life! It takes courage and wisdom to seek help, and I’m so glad that you’ve decided that you deserve more out of life. Life struggles are painful and can feel overwhelming. But they can also be gifts in disguise, pushing us to get out of our comfort zones, get out of auto-pilot, examine why we do what we do, and break free of old patterns that are not working for us. In essence, pain is a signal for an opportunity for growth. I would be honored to work in partnership with you to inspire, motivate, educate, empower and support as you work towards the life that you want. My name is Sandra Treston, and I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with over 15 years of experience working with adults facing multiple different obstacles, in multiple different settings. I am an open-minded, non-judgmental, empathetic and compassionate therapist who uses a strength-based approach when helping my clients become the best version of themselves. I truly believe that we all have what we need inside of us to achieve our wildest dreams, but many times life hits us and we forget just how magnificent we are. I will work with you to provide the skills, support, encouragement, and sounding board you need to help you rediscover the strength, wisdom, and courage you always had. My goal is to inspire and challenge you to face your obstacles head-on, and together we will create a plan of action what will align you with your best version and vision of yourself. I’m very excited to start working with you! Wishing you peace of mind, and total wellness always, Sandra Treston

This is Dr. Shane Kinney's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shane Kinney

Offering therapy in FL
License: Ed.D.,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Hello, I am a Counseling Psychologist that has been working since 2001 with a variety of clients dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Sleep Disorders, ADHD, Moderate to Severe Mental Illness, and Substance Abuse. I am also a college professor and have taught at several different colleges and universities since 2008. My published research is in the use of Motivational Interviewing with college students to improve their persistence and GPA. As a Counseling Psychologist, I don’t focus so much on a diagnosis, as much as how the problem is affecting the client. I view clients with a perspective that we all have times when things don’t go so well, and that we all have strengths that help us overcome. My job is often to identify those strengths and how to incorporate them in a way that allows the client to overcome current issues. I try to adapt to the client's needs, for example: in some situations, I can be very direct, or I can elicit insight through a series of questions. I try to utilize the family to help create a cohesive support unit, creating an effective environment to support the client as they accomplish their goals. Counseling models utilized: Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Humanistic, and Systems. Something important I utilize in therapy, but is not a model, is respect. If a client respects themselves and others, there is pretty much no door they can't open. Through my years of practice, and working with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, I often find respect can fix many issues we have. Thank you for your time, I look forward to helping you on this journey.

This is John Tallarido's avatar and link to their profile

John Tallarido

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am an individual, couples and family therapist licensed in Florida with over 25 years of experience working as as a therapist, counselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges and a host of other life issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and solution-focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Linda Hubbard's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Hubbard

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, 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.

This is Danielle Montana's avatar and link to their profile

Danielle Montana

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and have worked with clients addressing concerns of stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, self-esteem and confidence, chronic medical conditions, life transitions & depression. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Motivational Interviewing. I believe in a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship and will work with you on creating a path of positive change. It takes courage to reach out, to seek a more fulfilling life and to take the those first steps. I look forward to meeting you. Respectfully, Danielle

This is Michelle Lorenzo Marin's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Lorenzo Marin

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & 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.

This is Dr. Donna St. Hillier's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Donna St. Hillier

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am a licensed PhD in Florida with 40 years of professional experience. Over these years, I have engaged in helping clients with stress and anxiety related issues and coping with grief, loss and depression. I especially enjoy working with folks my own age, commonly referred to as the "geriatric generations". I believe that you are the author of your own life story and that you have many strengths and life experiences that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. To participate in therapy can take courage and I look forward to meeting with you and your courage!

This is Lynn Scott's avatar and link to their profile

Lynn Scott

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

How to find counseling in Estero

Finding the best therapist close by in Estero can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Estero. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Estero, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Estero or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Estero area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Estero, elsewhere in Lee, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Estero area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Estero therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Estero due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Estero may not take health insurance, some in the state of Florida may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Estero, Florida working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Estero above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Estero helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Estero therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Estero therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Estero therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 34135 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Estero counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Estero licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Estero, Florida can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Estero has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Estero.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Estero:

33928, 33929, 33967, 34135

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist