As a close suburb of Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach relies heavily on its larger city connections. Just as the town relies on others through independence, so do the people of the city have to rely on others from time to time. There is no shame in seeking help if you are struggling mentally or emotionally.

If you are facing hardship in your life, you can turn to confidential Atlantic Beach-area counselors. These therapists are trained and licensed to help you with all areas of your personal life. Contact a therapist to get started.

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Melissa Pesce

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

Hi and thank you for having the courage to take this first step. Life is a journey. Through my passion to empower you, I will help move you on a path forward in life. I will guide you through discovering your strengths and self-awareness to bring you clarity and direction. I am open-minded and create an environment that promotes healing and transformation. I was born and raised in upstate New York. Completed my bachelors in exercise science from Ithaca College and a masters in social work from University of South Florida. I am a licensed clinical social worker, LCSW, in the state of Florida. I have over 8 years clinical experience and also the owner of a private practice. I specialize in trauma, sex therapy, polyamory, kink, LGBTQIA+, relationships, couples, My integrative therapeutic approach utilizes trauma focused, cognitive behavior, and mindfulness techniques. These approaches are briefly described as: trauma informed care (TIC) is about safety, transparency, trustworthiness, voice, choice, and empowerment; cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is about the connection of our thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how they affect our daily lives; mindfulness based (MBCT) is being accepted and aware of yourself. Other types of evidenced based techniques I incorporate are strength based, solution focused, family systems, holistic, client centered and culturally sensitive. My office hours are Monday - Wednesday 9am - 3pm; Thursday - by appointment only. Live sessions are offered via phone or video. I look forward to helping you grow and move you forward into the next chapter in your life. Let’s get started!

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Heather Shaver

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am Heather Shaver, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology form the University of Florida in 2004 and completed my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Central Florida in 2006. I was originally hired by internship in 2006 where I was a Victim Advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors. Being an advocate taught me how to use my clinical experience and training to help people through crisis and trying times. I took this training and moved forward with my career. I worked with Department of Juvenile Justice in a lock down facility for residential substance abuse, hospice care, home health care, and private practice. Currently I am the Director of Mental Health Services and work with chronically ill adults. I have a vast knowledge and wide range of treatment modalities. I always start where the client is. I believe that building a rapport and connecting with clients is the most important part of counseling. Trust is what will guide you through these process.

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Faith Schweiger

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,QS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

Welcome! I’m Faith Schweiger, LMHC,QS. I have been a part of the Mental Health Community since 1987. I graduated with an undergraduate degree in Family Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1990. I continued on to graduate from Nova Southeastern University in 1993 with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. In 1996, I became Licensed and have been utilizing my license in versatile, inventive, clever, and forward-thinking ways. Some of the unique experiences I've acquired being a trained, Court Ordered, Supervisor of Therapeutic Supervised Visitation, a Parent Coordinator, Family Mediation, and a Court Ordered Offender Mandated 26 week Duluth Model Batterers Program. I have been Clinical Director of many Mental Health /Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities and my last position was Director of Clinical Services at a Department of Juvenile Justice Treatment Facilities. My specialty is truly.... NON JUDGEMENT. It all just IS. There is no RIGHT or WRONG, GOOD or BAD. How can any of us judge another, when each of us are completely equal and none of us are without err. To focus on another's shortcomings will never make ours disappear. "I haven't failed, I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." - Thomas Edison

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Ashley Knoll

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." - Shannon Adler. As a mental health therapist I believe that all individuals strive for success, connection, feelings of acceptance, significance, and respect. However, negative life experiences influence what we do and how we feel in the present moment resulting in feelings of inferiority and inadequacy. My role as your therapist is to assist in the exploration of your personal story and help uncover sources of distress while helping you develop tools necessary to create a sense of self-worth, confidence, empowerment, and healing. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in various capacities working extensively with adults. My areas of expertise include depression, adjustment issues, adult children of dysfunctional families, anxiety, family of origin issues, military, substance use, trauma, and first responders and their families.

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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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Pamela Quiroz

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hi, I am Pamela, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with others to overcome any challenges, fears, or difficult times they may be facing. I have been working in the mental health field for five years. I have a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Social Work. I am a licensed clinician in the state of Florida. I practice therapy in both inpatient hospitals and outpatient facilities. I have primarily worked with children, teenagers, and young adults, but also have experience working with older populations. I am here to offer you a supportive, individualized, and judgement-free environment focused on your health and healing within various aspects of your life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I utilize a strengths-based, culturally competent, and solution-focused treatment modality that incorporates a multi-system, trauma informed, and wellness approach towards health and healing. 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 every step of the way. I look forward to working with you!

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Kathryn Ronek

Offering therapy in FL
License: MA, LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Kathy Ronek and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) for the state of Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Missouri. I have been working with clients since 2012 and would love to hear from you if you are looking for happiness or contentment, fulfillment or purpose, peace, stability, relief, and success. I work with individuals who are trying to manage issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem deficits, bipolar episodes, adjustments/life transitions/finding purpose, loss, substance abuse/addictions, dual diagnosis, impulse control/ADHD, coping skills training, sports performance issues, and pregnancy/postpartum/women's issues. I have worked in a variety of settings to include assessment and referral, inpatient, intensive outpatient, and outpatient using the modalities of individual, group, and family counseling. My therapeutic priorities include assisting clients to gain independence, improve individuality with a healthy self-concept, manage stress to eliminate feeling overwhelmed, maintain sobriety and stability, and improve overall mental health and well-being. I aim to assist clients achieve their desired outcomes through compassion, support, and encouragement. I use evidence-based counseling techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychoeducation to help clients gain insights and reach their own personal goals. I understand how difficult it can be to take the first step of reaching out for help in a time of need. Together we will establish trust, find the solutions, and build a solid foundation to develop your overall health and well-being. Please contact me today to schedule a confidential discussion of your needs.

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Catovia Rayner

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersCareer difficultiesCoaching
18 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, communication skills, healthy relationships, adjusting to life issues, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & career difficulties. I work with clients seeking support with career counseling. Also , I work with clients from a Christian faith based approach as well. 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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Paul Comeau

Offering therapy in FL
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Torrey Thille

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

I am licensed in Oregon with 5 years of experience providing Therapy and 13 years of Social Work professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma & life transitions . 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 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 Atlantic Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach. 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 Atlantic Beach, 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, elsewhere in Duval, 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 Atlantic Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 32233 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach, 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.

Atlantic Beach 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 Atlantic Beach.

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

32233

Popular cities near Atlantic Beach, FL

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