Do you have several days or weeks of intense energy and feeling hyper alternated with days or weeks of severe depression when you cannot even get out of bed? Do you sometimes go for days without sleep, but other times have to sleep for days? You may be suffering from bipolar disorder, which can be treated by one of the many counselors around the Alachua area.

Some fun things you can do to relax include visiting the San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, which has miles of trails to explore or you can check out the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo that has a small zoo and playground for the kids. Take some time to enjoy the town after you visit one of the counselors for treatment.

This is Jamie Saley's avatar and link to their profile

Jamie Saley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I know how difficult but rewarding the process of self-change can be. I hope to offer empowerment and validation to the clients that I work with, as well as solutions to the problems you are facing. I am a big believer in positive thinking, and that small steps can add up to big changes. I know taking steps to better yourself can feel daunting, and I am here to offer support and accountability on that journey. If your efforts to achieve change typically result in to-do lists that become lists of unaccomplished goals, please reach out to me and allow me to assist you. I spent many long years of my life working odd jobs and wandering around life aimlessly before finding my calling in therapy. I attended the University of Central Florida to complete my Master's in mental health, and I have worked in community mental health agencies, including traditional outpatient, inpatient, schools and clinics, substance abuse, and with adults and children from diverse walks of life and backgrounds. I have a Solution-Focused background and utilize elements of CBT, and ACT. I am a big believer in the science of mental health and what current research shows, and I like to find approaches that are tailored to my individual clients. I also believe that our experiences in life have lasting impact, which is not something to be battled against, but rather incorporated into our own personal versions of mental health. I believe in research and skill-building, but also that this is not a one-size fits all process. I look forward to working with you to achieve change in your life!

This is Vanessa Hinklein's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Hinklein

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMHC, MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and also hold an MCAP (Masters Level Certified Addictions Professional) with a specialization in anxiety, panic, depression, hopelessness, marriage and family issues, dysfunctional families, substance abuse, chronic relapse, PTSD and trauma. I am also a CRPS (Certified Recovery Peer Specialist) with 14 years in substance recovery myself. I hold a Masters in Arts degree from Liberty University in Professional Christian Counseling & Marriage and Families. I am formally trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) to treat trauma and PTSD. I have an extensive history working with individuals who suffer from PTSD, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality and daily stressors. I also have experience working with those who suffer from substance and process addictions. I work with LGBTQ+ individuals and continue to train and educate myself on LGBTQ+ growth and changes. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals that suffer from trauma and PTSD. Welcome to the first day of your new life. I look forward to working with you progress through your daily struggles and help you grow as an individual. I have a passion to help others heal and look forward to working with you through his new chapter in your life.

This is Lugannys Lopez's avatar and link to their profile

Lugannys Lopez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Lugannys Lopez and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, and a National Certified Counselor. I have three years of experience working with at-risk children, adolescents, and their families in a community mental health setting. I have worked directly with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, substance abuse, anger management, communication, parenting problems, ADHD, and family conflicts. My counseling style is interactive, strength-based, and collaborative. I believe in the therapeutic relationship and building good rapport with my clients to create a safe space to have open dialogues about their concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. We will work collaboratively to discover strategies and solutions that work best for you. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Being aware of your needs and seeking help is a difficult yet courageous choice. If you are ready to take that step, I would be honored to walk with you on this healing journey, to support you, and empower you towards the path to wellbeing. I look forward to working with you!

This is Karja Cope's avatar and link to their profile

Karja Cope

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Florida with over 15 years of professional experience. My primary area of specialty include individual therapy ( young to mature adults), relationship/couples therapy, parenting and career issues, adjustment and coping skills, and ADHD and executive functioning concerns. YOU are the expert of your story and I am happy to help facilitate your process of growth, self-discovery and self-determination. You will find that my therapeutic approach varies based on what is needed during our sessions, however, I am consistently client centered, direct and supportive. I do not have your answer, ...you do, and I would love to walk with you as you discover and apply them to your life. Taking the first step to seek therapy takes courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Susan Jamieson's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Jamieson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

We all want to live better and feel better, in one way or another, and I firmly believe that we all have the ability to do so. I also know that there are times when we need help in getting started or with staying on track. My goal is to give you the knowledge and guidance to make that happen. My formal training and professional and personal life experiences have equipped me with the skills and knowledge to help you decide what changes you want to make and how best to make them. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on each person's needs, preferences, and personality. But the one aspect that is a constant is this - it's all about you! I will provide direction and support but every step of the way is done at your pace with every effort made to ensure a productive and positive experience. Note: If at any time you would like to schedule a session with me and do not see a convenient opening on my calendar, feel free to message me your preferred days/times and I will do my best to accommodate.

This is Dr. Jon Freda's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jon Freda

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
AddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist with 25+ years experience, with undergraduate and graduate university teaching, executive & behavioral coaching, professional acting background and military service. My therapy style leans more towards one-on-one counseling, heightening character strengths in the client where they are in their phase of development, and addressing their well-being with behavioral, emotional and cognitive suggestions to manage current and repetitive issues. I work with adults and senior adults, veterans, performing artists, media/entertainment industry , professionals, executives and CEOs. Ongoing progress is measured by mutually agreed upon client actions . My approach blends cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-commitment, existential, and mindfulness approaches incorporating improvisational techniques to understanding a client's journey to facilitate adaptive choices in a client's lifestyle.

This is Hayley Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Hayley Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 1/2 years of professional work experience. I graduated with my master's degree in Missouri from UMSL. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. My work experience includes one on one counseling to those who have wanted to work through relationship failures, traumas, and those working to improve different aspects of their life to become their healthiest version of self. In addition I work with individuals to help them to identify any behaviors that can be impairing to aspects of their life. My goal is to help my clients to improve in themselves and to develop healthy functioning relationships to assist them in living a more fulfilling life. With that being said it starts with working on one's self to become the best version they can be. My counseling style involves using a collaborative approach in order for us both to be apple to work together as a team. This approach I use involves cognitive behavioral , mindfulness, solution focused, and relational counseling. I promote a nonjudgmental, supportive space where I will work to assist clients in developing self-awareness and healthier communication techniques. I look forward to helping my clients develop healthy relationships with other human beings without it becoming an emotional roller coaster ride filled with anger and hurt. In congruence with this I also want to assist my clients in creating a sense of emotional well-being to develop a more confident sense of self and fulfilling life. If you are ready for healthy changes within yourself, I am here to support and empower you on your journey. I look forward to working together!

This is Dr. Catherine Bukovitz's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Catherine Bukovitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

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, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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. I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other.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.

This is Nixalys Vega's avatar and link to their profile

Nixalys Vega

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience in the human service field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am fully bilingual. I’m fluent in English and Spanish, and I value, respect and enjoy cultural diversity. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges that you may face in life. 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. *** Hablo y comprendo el idioma español con fluidez. Para mi es un verdadero placer ayudar a personas de habla hispana en relación a fortalecer su salud mental y mejorar su calidad de vida.

This is Lauren Rodriguez's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Rodriguez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Alachua
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

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

How to find a therapist for counseling in Alachua

Finding the best therapist close by in Alachua 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 with therapists in Alachua that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Alachua. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Alachua, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Alachua region and in the state of Florida. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Alachua or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Alachua therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Alachua area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Alachua, elsewhere in Alachua, or in the greater state of Florida. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Alachua area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Alachua therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Alachua due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Alachua 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Alachua online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Alachua, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Alachua psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Alachua 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Alachua provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Alachua?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Alachua 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Alachua 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 Alachua 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in FL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 32615 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Alachua counselor?

Before seeing your Alachua therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Alachua therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Alachua 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 with a Alachua counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Alachua, 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.

Alachua has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Alachua, Florida

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 Alachua 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 to customer service 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 Alachua.

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

32615, 32616

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist