Denise Mason
Hi! My name is Denise and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina and Florida as well as a Licensed Independent Social Worker- CP in the state of South Carolina. I graduated from Norfolk State University's Graduate School of Social Work in 2000, concentrating in Family Systems Practice and Hampton University with a Bachelors of Arts in 1995. I have been a therapist for over 15 years with degrees in psychology and clinical social work, as stated above. I specialize in mood and adjustment disorders such as depression and anxiety as well as trauma associated disorders, but have worked with a variety of disorders dealing with, but not limited to behaviors, relationships and grief. I currently work with adults, children and families. I enjoy working with people and bring my genuine self to the work that I do. I am honest, open and direct, but warm and encouraging at the same time. I love to see the humor in different situations where some might not expect. I believe that humor can work in therapy when needed. I provide support from the initial session and throughout the entire counseling experience. I am here to work together with you to get you to the life that you want for you and your loved ones. I incorporate goal-setting for your mental health, personal and professional life. My counseling approach is client centered and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Stages of Change as therapeutic interventions that will help you with the issues you struggle with.
Darlyn Martinez
Welcome! I provide individual therapy to adults dealing with a variety of challenges including: anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions/adjustment issues, complex trauma, and attachment issues. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you have been in therapy before, it is important to choose a therapist that you feel connected to and has experience in treating the areas that align with your needs. Therapy is an intimate experience, a collaboration between you and the therapist. I take that role seriously and understand that to do my best work, I need to understand each client holistically. I feel like my biggest asset is the ability to see a client's strengths, empower them to achieve their goals, and support them throughout the therapeutic process Therapy helps uncover strengths and learn new skills that will allow you to deal with the challenges that arise in life. A successful therapy experience does not mean a person is cured, it means the person has the inner and outer resources to deal with the ups and downs of life. My goal is to help you develop the skills necessary to successfully deal with life, on your own terms. With warmth, compassion, and a bit of humor, I aim to create a safe, supportive environment to help foster personal growth and healing. I have experience working in a variety of settings including outpatient, Telehealth therapy , and schools. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and approved Clinical Supervisor. I look forward to working with you!
Abraham Knowles
Hello! My name is Abraham Knowles and am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in Florida. I earned my Master’s degrees in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Florida in 1995. I have since worked as a school social worker and also have worked in a variety of other fields including community mental health, substance abuse, and home health. I have worked with clients in a variety of modalities including individual, group, and family counseling as well as case management. I draw from a variety of counseling approaches but mostly cognitive behavioral and humanistic/ client centered therapies. I have helped clients with many presenting problems, especially depression, anxiety, and trauma. Outside of my work as a therapist/ social worker, I enjoy reading, movies, and theater as well as spending time with my wife (married 31 years) son (25), daughter (21), and grandson (4) at their various activities. I have been a volunteer with my church’s youth group for over 20 years. It takes courage to seek support to work through difficult issues and I’m proud of you for taking that first, very important step. I love listening to and supporting people through difficult circumstances and working with them to develop and implement a plan for improvement. I would love to work with you to provide support and assistance as you work toward symptom reduction, confidence, improved relationships, life purpose, and positive change.
Beatrice Lafleur
Hello! My name is Beatrice and Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your emotional well-being. I look forward to helping you navigate and effectively manage your mood and stress. I received my master’s degree from Barry University and am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Oregon. My experience over the past 16 years have been in the mental health field and worked 5 years at a Florida State Hospital. This was an inpatient setting to help others that may need more intensive and long term support in stabilizing their mental health. For the past 9 years I have changed course to work with people in the community in their work to improve their well-being. I use a solution focused therapy technique to help everyone work on their goals in life. I have also experience in person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR trained. I strive to respond to messages within 24 business hours. I understand that finding a therapist that you are able to connect with can be stressful within itself. However, I look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions. In whatever you choose, just remember to not give up on yourself and the process. I look forward to helping you mindfully live.
Dr. Lauren Serdencuk
Hello there, my name is Dr. Lauren Serdencuk and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida. I obtained a Bachelors degree in Psychology from CUNY Queens College, a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mercy College, and a PhD from Nova Southeastern University. I am also a Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) in the state of Florida. I specialize with populations including Substance Abuse, Chronic Illness, Depression, and Anxiety. I come from a Solution-Focused approach, meaning we explore solutions for the future instead of focusing on the past. I think I can help you if you are desiring change, are willing to take on challenges, and exploring new possibilities.
Leonardo Custidiano
I have experience in various settings in the field of counseling. I have worked in a residential program that provided housing to adults struggling with mental illness and addiction. I have also provided family counseling to parents and teenagers with behavioral issues. Currently, I provide family counseling and prevention services to families that have been involved with the Department of Children & Families. As such, I have experience working issues such as domestic violence, trauma, parenting, life transitions, addictions, and coping with mental illness. My experience, education, and training has led me to adopt an eclectic and integrative approach to therapy. This is because everyone has different needs and flexibility and adaptability are important in therapy. For instance, I can employ cognitive behavioral techniques if there is immediate need for symptom relief, but would move towards psychodynamic principles if there is a need to address the root cause of a psychological and/or emotional distress. Having said this, there are universal elements in my approach to therapy. First, the relationship between the client and the therapist would be a crucial focus of therapy. Second, there is an emphasis on the here and now, but I would never neglect someone's personal history, especially if they are effecting the present. Thirdly, goal setting would be a crucial part of therapy.
Molly Owens
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who would love to hear your story and help you achieve your goals. In my work as a counselor, I have helped clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety and stress management, coping skills, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues, life changes, grief and loss, and self esteem . I have experience helping clients learn and improve self care strategies, communication skills, and conflict resolution techniques. My therapy style is compassionate and engaging. My approach combines client-centered, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. You and I will collaborate to identify your treatment plan and goals and we can adjust as needed. I know it takes courage and discipline to begin (and continue) counseling and self-reflective work. I believe in your ability to heal, grow, and learn. I would love to help you navigate whatever season you are currently facing. I look forward to meeting with you!
Dr. Daniel Sciarra
I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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 take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Anne Sutherland
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience directly working with individuals and an additional 5 years of working in behavioral healthcare administration. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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!
Melissa Dobson
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Astatula
Finding the best therapist close by in Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula. 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 Astatula, 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula, elsewhere in Lake, 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Astatula, 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 34705 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 Astatula counselor?
Before seeing your Astatula 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. Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula 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 Astatula, 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.
Astatula 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 Astatula, Florida
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 Astatula 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Astatula:
34705