Your mental health can be like a fortress. When it’s high, it’s an impenetrable fortress that no one can defeat. However, many people’s fortresses have fallen. What should one do? One solution is to speak to a counselor based in Fort Lauderdale. They can help you with your mental state and make sure your mental fortress is up to snuff. 

After all, Fort Lauderdale is known for its fortresses, and if you want them to stand strong, talking to a counselor here can make sure you're always improving, and arming, the fortress in your mind, no matter what danger is at hand. 

This is Mary Skinner's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Skinner

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am MH counselor/therapist with a counseling style that is warm, empathetic, integrative, pragmatic, and person-centered. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one in which you and I work together to discover creative strategies, solutions, and, at times, even humorous insights to help you practice new ways to thrive. I have experience counseling adult individuals on family/relationship issues, and matters coping with grief, trauma, addiction, existential concerns, sexuality, and recovery. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and client-centered counseling. My work draws its influence from the counseling theories and styles of Carl Rogers, Carl Jung, and Murray Bowen. My goal is to overcome stigmatic labels and empower the client on a path to wellness. I look forward to working with you!

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Kathleen Ferrara

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

Kathleen Ferrara, MS, LMHC Welcome! My name is Kathleen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 12 years of clinical experience providing mental health and substance use counseling services to a wide variety of different populations and age groups. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in psychology and my graduate degree from Capella University in Mental Health Counseling. I have had the privilege of working within a variety of settings, such as hospitals, residential crisis houses, eating disorder treatment centers, and outpatient clinics. I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, addiction, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is a combination of person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy. I strive to display empathy, compassion, and acceptance throughout the therapeutic process. One of my primary goals as a counselor is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings openly so that together, we can begin to build a positive and trusting therapeutic relationship and start working toward your goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Yuridia (Valerie) Polonsky

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi and welcome; you have taken a big and brave step in seeking help! My name is Valerie Polonsky, and I am a caring therapist. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, and the elderly. I specialize in family and couple conflict, depression, anxiety, individual and professional development, divorce, ADHD, phobias, crisis intervention and life changes, and Post Trauma. As a professional, my focus is on being able to listen to my clients and meet them where they are; in order to create a space of reliable containment for them. To facilitate the resolution of issues that affect a healthy and good quality of life in a respectful environment.

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Christina Carraway

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Whether you are feeling depressed, struggling with anxiety, or seem to choose dead-end relationships, I’m here to provide a safe space where we can work together on resolving your concerns. I approach talk therapy with optimistic enthusiasm. I love working with clients who are facing transitions in their lives. It allows me to witness them overcome challenges and come out stronger on the other side. I’m a curious person by nature, so it’s a joy getting to know those I work with. My strengths as a therapist include a non-judgmental attitude, strong empathy and insight, and experience with a wide variety of clients with all types of issues and challenges. My therapy approach is based primarily on cognitive behavioral principles. Of note, I have a professional interest in mixed (neurotypical/neurodivergent) relationships. On the personal front, I have traveled extensively which has given me a broad perspective on how culture shapes our experiences and values. As a single parent, I know the pleasure and challenges of raising a (successful) child on my own. In terms of education, I studied clinical social work at the University of South Florida and became licensed (LCSW) in 2004. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, 7 of those in direct service with clients, in a variety of settings. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Sharon Morgan-LaMar

Offering therapy in FL
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working as a Medical Social Worker/Clinician and as a Mental Health Counselor. I am licensed to practice in Ohio and Florida, and Maine. I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University, with a MS Degree in Social Administration. I have spent the past 18 years working for the Department of Veteran Affairs where I provide veteran’s of the Armed Forces with Case Management, Crisis Intervention, and Individual and Group Therapy. I view the counseling process as an alliance between the client and therapist, and considers the client to be the expert regarding their lives. I believe that within the structure of the therapeutic relationship, clients an access their inner strengths and promote change. My approach is based on the belief that clients are in charge of their counseling experience. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Client Centered Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy and my goals as a counselor is to provide a safe environment where the client and myself can explore their interests, develop goals and determine strengths and assets as they move toward their goals. Areas of Treatment: Depression Anxiety Grief & Bereavement

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Brittney Kindt

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I received my Bachelor of Social Work in 2017 and Master of Social Work in 2018 both from Florida State University. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I have experience working in a Trauma and Mental Health residential treatment facility and also in crisis stabilization units. 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.

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Faith Campbell Powers

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS MFT,MS LFMT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Connecticut and more recently in Florida. I can work with you to help you improve your relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I will provide a non-judgmental safe space with respect and compassion for you to work through your problems. It takes courage to ask for help in life, but you made it here to look so you've taken a first step! I look forward to working with you!

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This is Delsondra Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Delsondra Allen

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, burnout and compassion fatigue, career difficulties, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am passionate about helping couples build healthy reciprocal relationships. 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.

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Susan Huerta

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida with 15+ years of experience. I have worked with clients having a vast range of issues of all concerns, included but not limited to, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, addiction, and career and lifestyle issues. I have worked with domestic violence, physical trauma and physical and emotional abuse issues. My clinical style is calming and interactive. It is my belief that everyone should be treated with respect and compassion. I utilize the modalities of CBT(Cognitive Behavioral Techniques), RET (Rational Emotive Therapy) and Solution Focused Therapy. Change requires strength and a personal willingness to achieve one's required goals. If you feel the time is right for you to begin your work. I am here to guide you on your journey.

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Adrian Marin

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinician in the state of Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I am passionate about helping clients who are struggling with stress, clinical depression and anxiety; impactful events that may be the root of trauma or abusive situations; improving motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I pride myself in being genuine and creating an a safe non-judgmental environment where your private thoughts and feelings can be shared. If you are reading this, you are courageous for taking the initiative to reach out and do something about your circumstances. Let's explore together how you can fulfill your goals and lead a happier life. Rest assured, you have my sincere support.

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How to find counseling in Fort Lauderdale

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, elsewhere in Broward, 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 Fort Lauderdale area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 33334 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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.

Fort Lauderdale 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Fort Lauderdale.

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

33301, 33302, 33303, 33304, 33305, 33306, 33307, 33308, 33309, 33310, 33311, 33312, 33315, 33316, 33318, 33320, 33329, 33334, 33335, 33336, 33337, 33338, 33339, 33340, 33345, 33346, 33348, 33349, 33355, 33359, 33388, 33394

Popular cities near Fort Lauderdale, FL

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