Saint Augustine is the oldest city in the state of Florida, and it is home to many historical sites. Among them is a centuries old Spanish style stone fortress known as the Castillo de San Marcos.

Often, people who have a history of mental health struggles build their own tall, stone walls to protect themselves. While this may feel safe, tearing those walls down is one of the first steps in being able to develop a stronger sense of mental health. Contact a Saint Augustine-area therapist for help and guidance on how to take those first, and most important, steps today.

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Jean-Michael Bouciquot

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Welcome! Are you experiencing a major life transition? Are you feeling stressed hopeless, or overwhelmed? If so, I'm here to help. At some point in our lives we all go through some challenges and need support. Therapy can be that support. I am committed to providing a safe nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and learn about the issues they are dealing with in order to grow and transition into who they would like to be. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida International University. I graduated in 2013 with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University. I am also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we can set attainable goals and achieve success through different therapeutic techniques such as solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapy. I have experience in individual, couples, and family therapy. Along with depression, anxiety, anger management, goal setting, and life transitions. Helping my clients to develop communication skills is one of my specialties.

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Mario Morano

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mario, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living in sunny Florida. I have a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling. I believe that everyone's life has value, and I have definitely found my own meaning working in this field, where I have been fortunate to be able to help many people improve their lives and their approaches to difficult times. My clinical background is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy, and I also utilize approaches from related therapies include Person-Centered, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral, and Reality Therapy. If you are curious about what those are, and what might be the best approach for you, don't hesitate to ask! My approach involves working alongside my clients in discovering what works best for you, celebrating your successes, and non-judgmentally learning from mistakes. I will help you explore the connections between past experiences and current issues, and support you as you confront your past, unhealthy people in your life, or even yourself. I am not shy to talk about past traumas or regrets, and I will not judge you negatively for your past - this is about your future, after all! I do not believe there is a personal problem too small, or too large, to benefit from some good solid counseling. I only ask that my clients come to me with a strong intention of healing, learning, and working on themselves. I am not here to tell you to get a hobby or write positive affirmations on your mirror (though there is nothing wrong with either of those things). I am here to help you make necessary changes in your life, and I kindly request that you participate in your sessions and messaging on this platform, while also utilizing things we have talked about outside of your sessions. Your time on this platform is valuable, and I plan to help you make it count. I look forward to working with you and seeing things improve in your life!

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Shawntia Hall

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) that is passionate about empowering my clients. I am Qualified Supervisor for Clinical Social Work Interns as well. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients change their thought process for a more positive outlook on life. I also have experience utilizing supportive therapy to help deal with emotional distress. I utilize motivational interviewing as I am client-focused and meet the client where they are at in their readiness for change. I am here to help provide you with the tools that you need in order to take steps to improve your life. I have experience dealing with depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, stress, and self-esteem. Each client’s journey is unique and I like to ensure that I am focusing on your specific needs and desired outcomes. Choosing counseling is a first step toward improving your life. I look forward to working with you!

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Althea Sawyers

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMFT,CCHt
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

As a Florida Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I currently work online in Private Practice using evidence-based models of therapy that get results. My experience includes working with clients that present a wide variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma-related issues, goal-setting hurdles, and other areas of needing self-empowerment. My mission is to empower you to overcome the obstacles of anxiety and depression, to become unstuck in accomplishing your goals, to begin feeling fulfilled, to step out of the shadows and fears caused by past traumatic events, to take back the reins of control in your life, and to start living a life of fulfillment, peace, balance, and be the overcomer! I would be honored to accompany you on your journey of rediscovering and re-establishing your strengths, and be equipped with the tools you need to become better problem solvers. I realize that it’s not easy to decide on which therapist may be best for you, but I’m hoping you will take a leap of faith and give us a chance to work together. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon and to helping you accomplish your goals!

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Darrell Patterson

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, I am Darrell Patterson, a License Mental Health Therapist who has enjoyed the privilege and honor of accompanying others on their journey to achieve a psychologically good life. I wholeheartedly agree with the statement “… To deal with minds is the greatest work ever committed to men.” My experience over the past nine years as a mental health clinician has afforded me the opportunity to work with children and families incorporating cognitive behavioral and person-centered interventions proven to achieve positive outcomes. There’s absolutely no doubt that life ushers in a host of issues that can easily trouble the heart, create anxiety, depression and other distresses that interrupt the happiness we all desire to enjoy in our lives. The good news is that there is good reason to be hopeful even if you’re not feeling it at this moment. That’s because the therapeutic relationship that consist of unconditional positive regard and trust provides an extraordinary space to train and educate every power of the mind and body. My background and experience inform my world view and even though our world views may not sync perfectly, there is still opportunity to collaborate in helping to reconstruct positive narratives that define and achieve the quality of life we desire without settling for the pain of distress and unhappiness. I humbly acknowledge the value of wisdom supplemented by the academic achievements that equip me to render counsel and encouragement. I received my undergraduate degree some years ago from Florida State University and enjoyed my first career endeavors as a Commissioned officer in The United States Army, followed by various occupations in the field of business and a corporate trainer before arriving at my authentic call of service to others. It was in 2012 that I graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University with a master’s in counseling and psychology. Virtually all my dedication has been devoted to helping other’s escape the entanglement of depression, anxiety and unresolved traumas. I’m happy to engage in a process of reasoning and healing.

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Skip Dettman

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW ,CAADC ,CHt
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Hello, I am a LCSW currently licensed in Illinois and Florida, I am also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois and am a certified hypnotherapist. Additionally I have a degree in behavioral forensics. I have worked in the field for going on 15 years assisting individuals with many concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, as well as all types of addiction disorders. My therapy style is to meet the client where they are and work alongside them to address their concerns. I am not the expert of any clients, instead focusing on developing a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to begin to address the concerns of the client. My therapy styles range form cognitive behavioral therapy to hypnotherapy, utilizing what works best for the client and what they are most comfortable with. ENtering therapy and asking for help is one of the most courageous things anyone can do, and I am here to assist you.

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Diana Perez-Curry

Offering therapy in FL
License: MSW, LCSW
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

My name is Diana Perez-Curry. I speak both English and Spanish. I graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology and Master in Social Work from University of Central Florida. I have over 22 years working in a social work setting. I have worked with a variety of individuals, children, families and couples from different backgrounds presenting issues ranging from domestic violence, physical and sexual trauma, human trafficking, neglect and post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD) I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing to provide therapy. I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood instability, challenging irrational beliefs, history of trauma, and identity development.

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Westly Francois

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Westly Francois, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida and Georgia. I have over 13 years of acute, outpatient and residential mental health/substance abuse treatment. I enjoy staying physically active, reading books, listening to music, attending sporting events, and spending time with my family and close friends. Recently, I have gained a passion for teaching and mentoring the youth and young adults from all sorts of backgrounds. I have experience with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life stressors, anger management, domestic violence, men issues and even career challenges. My counseling style is personable and interactive. I believe in meeting my clients where they are in their therapeutic process, but also to challenge them to reach for and meet attainable goals. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psycho-dynamic, trauma informed and eye movement desensitization. I will carter our interactions and treatment plan to meet your journey. From a strength’s perspective, you are already winning by being on this site and reading this information. If you are ready to take the next step I am here to support and empower you. I have an efficient and realistic approach in my therapy style, and I hope to help you achieve your best. Let’s work together to help you rewrite your story!

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Lawrence Flynn

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficulties
24 years of experience

Experienced and compassionate behavioral health and wellness therapist driven by an authentic desire to guide and support anyone facing challenging individual and or life difficulties. I am licensed in Florida, Wyoming, and Virginia with 24 years of providing supportive therapeutic mental health, addiction, crisis management, and wellness services for adults, couples, adolescents, children, families, aging adults, and veterans. I also provide Resiliency coaching and mentoring to individuals, managers and executives. Resilience has been identified as the most important core element of goal achievement and overall success. I will specially tailor our interactions, dialog, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and goals. It takes great 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. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am committed to promoting enhanced mental health and well-being through client-centered and ethically supportive therapeutic practices. My clinical approach is always client-centered with a focus on blending client concerns, circumstances, and personal goals with specific treatment and rehabilitative best practices strategies to ensure an effective treatment plan that is unique and individualized to you as the client. I work with clients from a perspective that emphasizes their personal strengths, goals, and resources to create the positive change they are seeking. This therapeutic approach is referred to as Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) which is a strength-based approach based on problem-solving and solution-building regarding the current reason(s) the client is seeking therapeutic services. If you have any questions or concerns before our first session, please don't hesitate to reach out via the BetterHelp platform. I look forward to our sessions and the positive changes we can work toward together! Warm regards, Lawrence

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Allison Hendrickson

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Saint Augustine

Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine. 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 Saint Augustine, 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine, elsewhere in St. Johns, 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 Saint Augustine area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine, 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 32080 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine, 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.

Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine.

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

32080, 32084, 32085, 32095

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