The atmosphere is typically warm and sunny in Lakeland, and this isn't simply due to the weather. The people themselves always strive to provide a certain warmth and you enjoy living in such a friendly community. The depression that you face on a daily basis makes it much more difficult than it used to, though. When you feel symptoms of anxiety and depressive thoughts are creeping up on you, it becomes tough to appreciate the friendly atmosphere.

You need a Lake City counselor that can act as your ally in this fight. They will be able to stand by your side and listen to your problems. It is possible to turn your situation around when you have the right help. Contact a Lake City counselor today to get the help that you need.

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Anna Alberti

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Anna Alberti, LMHC. 25 years of counseling experience. Let me assist you on your journey to a healthy mental health. I have tools that can help you with stress management, healthy relationship communication, motivation for change and identifying your goals for treatment. Assisting clients in identifying their needs, motivation for change and life balance has been my journey as a counselor. Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) with Mindfulness have proven scientifically to assist clients in evaluating their needs and how to change unhealthy negative thinking behaviors which prevent their happiness and journey to joy. I utilize psychoeducation tools and a Holestic approach to counseling (Mind, Body, Spirit balance) Let's explore your goals together to help you find the peace and happiness you deserve in your life!

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Sharleen Nwakwesi

Offering therapy in FL
License: BA(Psychology) ,BSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

Sharleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose approach to therapy is client-centered, and solution-based. She aims to provide a non-judgmental and supportive approach to the counseling experience. In so doing, her clients are empowered to make choices and decisions geared to have an optimal impact on their lives. Sharleen believes in building collaborative relationships with her clients, based on therapeutic values of mutual respect, trust, and caring. Throughout the therapeutic process, this provides her clients with an opportunity to build on their existing strengths, in order to set their individual goals. Sharleen has a Bachelor’s in psychology (BA Psych), a Bachelor of social work (BSW), and a Master’s degree in Social work (MSW) from the Universities of Toronto and York. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Sharleen has worked with a wide variety of clients and has over 30 years of professional counseling experience. She specializes in counseling individuals and/or their families who are coping with the impact of various physical and/or mental health-related matters. Often this involves counseling in areas of adjustment to illness and disability as well as related caregiver stress. This could include (but is not limited to): acute and chronic medical illnesses, acquired brain injury (ABI), dementia and other cognitive disorders; geriatrics, bereavement, as well as individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. In summary, these words from Theodore Roosevelt resonate with Sharleen’s general approach to working with her clients: “Do what you can with all you have, wherever you are.” Sharleen looks forward to helping YOU achieve YOUR goals, wherever you happen to be in your life’s journey!

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Dr. Shawyna Murray

Offering therapy in FL
License: PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida and I have worked in the field providing client focused therapy to clients of all ages and stages in life. I am a graduate of Nova Southeastern University and I came to the field because I enjoy hearing stories, and the opportunity to help others create new life stories. My goal is always to offer a safe space to process and work through the various challenges that life presents. In that safe space, it is my sincere honor to listen to your needs and concerns and partner with you to create a plan to help you meet those challenges as they come, judgement free. I also work with couples and families, helping to positively change relational and communication patterns. I also enjoy working with families with members living with Alzheimer's disease, or other Dementias, Cancer and other chronic illnesses, to help them navigate the anxiety and to prepare for the journey these illness' can take them on. Whatever side of this experience you find yourself on, I would like to be there to help.

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Helen Cook

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA,MSN,MST
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger management
17 years of experience

A part of each person already knows the solution to the issues that arise. Often that part has gone into hiding because of trauma that has occurred. It takes courage and sometimes a trusting relationship to allow that part to share. My name is Helen Cook. I'm a licensed mental health counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I have worked with adolescents, couples and adults during my 12 years as a counselor. My training as a nurse with 21 years in the Army, a biology teacher for 11 years and a WW (Weight Watchers) coach for 20 years has also impacted my counseling skills. Working with couples using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), training in EMDR, Brainspotting and hypnotherapy have given me many tools to help others. Mind-Body connection is also very important and I strive to identify and work this connection as often as necessary to help people heal.

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Sunshine Wilder

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and Bipolar Disorder. I consider my treatment approach to be one of an eclectic nature with modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Modification, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Coping Skills Development. 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.

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Dr. John Stiles

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed inFlorida with 40 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 believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Monica Lett

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
5 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, lgbt-related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Laura Soderholm's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Soderholm

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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!

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This is Simone Escalante's avatar and link to their profile

Simone Escalante

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
3 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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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!

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How to find counseling in Lake City

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake City 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 Lake City. 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 Lake City, 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City, elsewhere in Columbia, 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 Lake City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City, 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 32056 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City, 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.

Lake City 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 Lake City.

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

32025, 32055, 32056

Popular cities near Lake City, FL

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