I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has worked over the course of 23 years in both inpatient Crisis and outpatient counseling settings with individuals, couples and families, ages 4 y.o. to 85 y.o. in Florida, Utah, Maine, Arizona, and several other countries. I am very versatile in my approach, tending to begin where you, the client are first, then tailoring my interventions from that point on. My specialty is in working with PTSD, i.e. abuse , and primary and secondary traumas, and have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, including the Flash Technique. I have also frequently worked with the Chronically Mentally Ill person, including those with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Dissociative issues, and Depression, as well as those in various Life Transitional stages, Ex Pats, HSPs, and Developmental delays. I have also counseled a few individuals with up to middle stage Dementia (since newer Rx leaves them with tremendous adjustment issues) and their caregivers and parents struggling with parenting issues. My highest comfort level is with ages 18 and over in Individual sessions. My counseling style is ecclectic, with a warmth of engagement and focus on acceptance, positive regard, and trust-building, but can be highly solution-focused and brief as needed in the course of your therapy. I use a Motivational Interviewing technique to identify both what it is the client truly desires, as well as what they do not want, or are not motivated to achieve, and why. I then will shift to a more Strengths-based and Skill-building approach and the use of Cognitive-Behavioral and Humanistic interventions with a Family Systems and Developmental perspective on relational issues. I have done my own personal counseling work, and recognize it to be a powerful, yet courageous endeavor in a person's life. Good therapy can transform you and it is a gift to be able to engage in it. Every person is precious, and deserving of respect, kindness, and a place to be fully heard, accepted, and a place to develop their best selves in a healing, compassionate environment. I consider my work as a therapist to be a sacred trust, a privilege, a calling, and part of my own journey as a fellow human being. Working with you will be an honor to help you on your very unique path toward a healthier you, and in the style you determine to be the most helpful and supportive.

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp. My name is Lydia Antonatos and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in the state of Florida. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Saint Thomas Aquinas University in psychology and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. With almost two decades of experience in human services and mental healthcare, including 13 years in different clinical roles. I have worked with a diversity of individuals and their families in a variety of settings, such as governmental social services, community mental health, non-profit organizations, crises help lines, and hospital-based intensive outpatient programs. I am well versed in working with anxiety, mood disorders, addictions stress management, self-esteem issues, phase of life problems, among other concerns. I have a strong desire to motivate and empower others while providing them with the necessary tools to become more self-reliant and lead fulfilling lives. The combination of my academic foundation and varied professional roles have shaped me into the well-rounded mental health counselor I am today. However, my life journey, including volunteer work, travel, and exposure to diverse cultures, has also enriched me profoundly, deepening my understanding and connection to the complexities of human nature. At the heart of my treatment style is establishing and nurturing an authentic and solid therapeutic alliance with each client. My approach to counseling is compassionate, validating and solution focused. Employing a blend of cognitive-behavioral strategies, humanistic interventions, and other evidence-based techniques, I strive to tailor a treatment plan that aligns with the person’s preferences and unique needs. I truly believe I can help others help themselves, to lead more meaningful and productive lives; regardless of who they are, where they come from, or what circumstances they are in. I want to be able to transmit hope to anyone- even to those who can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. I have the experience and ability to address a wide spectrum of issues related to: • Anxiety and stress • Mood disorders (Depressive and Bipolar disorders) • Low self-esteem • Anger management • Substance use/dependence and addictions • Difficulties related to the social environment • Tapping into available community resources I look forward to working with you in any forum that you feel more comfortable with. Years of experience: 13

I have been been working in the mental health field for over 27 years. I have a Master of Arts in Community Counseling. I am a certified right response instructor as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have received training in techniques of various modalities of counseling. To include but not limited to, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, certification in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, family structures and systems, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Much of my specialization is in dealing with families in crisis. When crisis hits us it can be debilitating for all involved. For well over 25 years I have been going into homes, schools, community activity programs and at times the work place. This has allowed for closer relationships with many of my clients and their families. These relationships have improved the outcomes for many. It is my belief that trust works both ways. It is not expected that you will want to come in and divulge your every little secret. In time the we will a partnership where trust and honesty is key between the counselor and client. This partnership together will assist in your journey to a happier and healthier self. As a result of these positive relationships we will be able to look at how to assist in establishing a more stable environment for your continued growth. Unfortunately many of life’s crisis’ lead to high anxiety, depression, defiance and a lack of motivation. Many have suffered post traumatic stress or other environmental stress factors such as employment, pandemic and economic issues. When life hits, it often affects our own relationships with those we love. This is primarily because what affects one person in a group of others, often affects the others as well. This is true of couples who may not be getting along or a child who has difficulty in a particular area. Personally, it is my belief that in order to tackle a problem it takes more than just one problem solver. Therefore it is important to bring to the table those who support you in your everyday lives. There are many people who do not feel as though they do have a support system. The idea is to discover your support system when perhaps you think you have none. While it is important that each person strives to be the best version of themselves it is also just as important that all involved in any way have a voice. To better oneself it must be important to understand our own abilities, strengths and needs. There are times when it seems difficult to see the beautiful in our lives and this would be a great time to pull in one of your supports. Remember, the idea is to be free of counseling one day and this is how we become empowered to move forward. In all actuality I’m a realist. That is to say that I tend to focus on why it is you are coming to see me and focusing on what it is you want to tackle in the moment. It is also very important to consider what is happening today that has caused your need to seek assistance, now. That is to say let’s keep it real. Being transparent is of utmost importance if the counseling relationship is to grow. There is nothing that will be said on my behalf that is not genuine as I believe this is how that trust grows. In the same manner it is important that you feel as if you can be transparent without judgment with your counselor. Due to the many years of crisis counseling it is my belief that there is nothing I haven’t seen. This because during crisis is when we are also most vulnerable. During these times many will say and do things that may not have occurred minus the crisis. This is understandable so it is important that you understand there is no perfect person. The goal is to strive to feel and be a better version of yourself. As a mental health professional the most insightful thing I have learned is that everybody is different in that they have their own thoughts and desires. However, we are all the same in that most people really do want to feel a strong sense of confidence, self esteem and in the end self actualization. The better one feels about themselves the greater the chance of improving ones circumstances. It is therefore important to understand how the past effects you today (without dwelling in the past) and how to use that fact to your advantage for a better tomorrow.

I am a mental health counselor (she/her) licensed in Florida and Washington State with over 14 years of experience working as an assessor and a mental health specialist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Mood Disorders and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ineffective communication skills, grief, stages of life issues and career challenges. My therapy style is relaxed, patient and supportive. I collaborate with clients to determine the goals of treatment and the best approach for each individual. I incorporate client’s strengths as well as the areas of concern. My approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, dialectical behavioral and solution focused therapy. It takes self-awareness and courage to identify barriers to the positive life you want and to make the decision to work toward making those changes. I’m pleased to partner with you on this journey. I’m looking forward to meeting you and to starting the journey!

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. I also treat addiction, grief and loss, and many other life issues. Each individual has their own experience. Yet, feelings are universal. I work with adults, children and families.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.

I am licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have worked for both inpatient and outpatient organizations and I have over 10 years experience in private practice. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management & depression. 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.

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can be overwhelming and take courage. I am excited to begin this therapy journey with you and want you to feel as comfortable as possible.

I am licensed in Florida and Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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!

I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & 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!

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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.

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

I am licensed in California , Washington State, and Texas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.