Fernandina Beach has a long history of battles and occupations from early colonial times, but has settled into a nice quiet suburb of Jacksonville. Life too can sometimes be filled with small battles and changes in allegiance. When life seems uncertain and you are not sure how to get to the other side, it helps to have someone impartial to talk to.
Counselors in the Fernandina Beach area are available to offer that guidance. These licensed therapists are able to give you a fresh perspective and discover your own allegiances and goals. If you are finding yourself caught in an internal battle, contact a counselor today.
Dr. Melinda Lawless Coker
Hi, there! I go by "M.A.," though I have other nicknames, too. I'm a licensed family therapist and a licensed psychologist; I completed my graduate education programs in Miami, FL. I work from a multigenerational family systems approach and incorporate psychodramatic (& sociometric) methods into my clinical work; these are each relational in theory, in reality/in practice, and in the healing process. I believe in establishing clear boundaries and learning what someone's emotional needs are, so that they can make healthy choices and potentially get grounded as often as necessary. I've been a psychotherapist for more than 30 years. This has included working with many different groups of people in various settings (e.g., private psychotherapy, inpatient drug treatment, high school counseling program, county drug treatment, outpatient psychotherapy, women's prison, drug court treatment, etc.). My focus at times has been on healing past personal trauma (e.g., sexual abuse/incest, rape, domestic violence, etc.), as well as anxiety, stress, depression, and borderline personality disorder - among other daily life challenges. I look forward to beginning my work with you and hope you'll ask me questions about anything that will facilitate a useful & relevant experience in therapy for you, personally. I hope to hear from you soon!
Dr. Michaela Hammer
My specialty & love are helping individuals at transition points of their lives, with a focus from Adolescence to Mid-life and beyond. These are times of dealing with many changes in one's life. These changes may include family, friends, and your role in community. This is also a time when we are surrounded with "Transition Myths" i.e.; How we SHOULD be feeling, acting and thinking. Some of these are Memory Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Physical Fitness, Sexuality, and being Neurodivergent! My goals are to educate and separate myth from fact while helping YOU ease life's transitions so YOU can continue YOUR life with new hopes and dreams, respect and dignity. Each person is UNIQUE! Issues are NOT AGE SPECIFIC and can impact ANYONE at ANY age! With advanced education & experience, I offer Memory Loss & Cognitive functioning assessments. Not all memory loss is permanent. Let me help you down this journey. And I promise, while some professionals may hand you a diagnosis and walk away, I will provide you with all the research and resources I have to offer and will help you look for more answers. People should never have to go through life and hardships alone. One of my newer areas of focus, which was a great unmet need, has been providing counseling for those who have lost a "4-legged" family member. This is an area that I receive referrals not only from veterinarians but also family doctors and OB/GYNs, "I am referring Mrs. Smith as she recently lost her only child...her child was her 20 year old cat, Roxie..." I offer counseling for Pet Grief & Loss. Some individuals have family members with 4 legs vs 2. Those losses are devastating as well and rarely understood by the general public. I have been providing counseling to individuals, couples and families from many races, religions, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds for over 30 years. I work with preteens to those over 100 years young. I have provided therapy in my office, in individual homes, in schools and in retirement communities, nursing homes and hospitals. I have provided instructional in-services on cultural awareness and aging issues. I have set up memory clinics and performed routine depression and anxiety assessments. For me, helping people live better lives has always been what I am about. It is a gift I share every moment of every day. As an older, more "SEASONED" therapist, I have been where many of you are and survived. It has not been easy. I can tell you that with each action comes not one but many reactions and in many areas. My father was the highlight of not only my life but all the lives he interacted with. He was a teacher and elementary school principal. He saw everyone with the same lens and stuck up for the kids picked on. After school, he would give no charge swim lessons to neighborhood kids who were in need. He had cancer in his 30's and only had a 5% chance of beating it, back then, but he did. He lived till age 45 and died suddenly during a vacation with my mother and my little 7 year old brother. I was 25. Even though it was summer break and most teachers and principals were on vacation, the mortuary was standing room only, inside and out. I have a little brother born when I was a senior in High School. Another highlight of my life. He was always athletic, going to the Hood River in Oregon, when he was a young teen, to compete in the Junior Windsurfing Olympics. He is now a full professor at a state college. He does research in cardiac and ultramarathons. My sister, 18 months younger than I was born blue and had seizures all her life. She died suddenly of seizure and heart attack before the age of 50. My mother was a highly educated strong woman who would never give up the fight. However after watching 2 husbands die, one suddenly in front of her, her youngest daughter die suddenly before she was 50 and then one by one, all of her other family members at home, Great Pyrenees and New Foundlands, died. After that, mom gave up the will to live and died within a few years of a broken heart (even though she would never admit it). I divorced my husband after 50 years, I experienced many areas of stigma, prejudice, shame, loss of friends and family and many other areas of life we often take for granted. Being married to 1 person for 50 years was not always easy, but we made it, just not to 51, good and not so good. I developed tools along the way to cope for me and us. Tools you may also need to develop for you and yours. It was a journey that has been heart wrenching but I can guarantee you that this event(the divorce) like the other traumatic events in my life and other successes in life, they have been identified, dealt with. The constant, "ON THE JOB TRAINING" allows me to offer a more empathetic and knowledgeable therapist for my clients. Not all relationships can be saved in the way we wish. Some need to be reevaluated and redefined. I am here to assist you in whatever way YOU CHOSE and support YOU IN YOUR DECISION. And yes, I have gone to therapy to have a neutral third party to help me navigate my future courses. True, I have the formal education and life experiences as well as a "Dr's Bag" full of information and skills, but sometimes all of us need someone on the outside to truly listen, validate and help us navigate through the storms. Take care and Keep in touch. Dr Michaela Hammer
Dr. Arthur Betancourt
Hello, my name is Dr. Arthur Betancourt and I am a clinical psychologist in Miami, Florida. For the past twenty-five years I was on the faculty at the University Of Miami, Miller School Of Medicine. At UM I was able to work with a wide variety of different patient populations. Many of these patients presented with complaints of anxiety and depression secondary to different types of stressors in their lives. My clinical work with these patients was focused on helping them to cope more effectively with the stressors in their lives. This was done by firstly, helping these individuals to examine their thoughts and behaviors and how these contributed to their emotional and behavioral difficulties. Then, secondly, helping them to explore and learn/adopt new and more effective thoughts and behaviors. This process can help individuals to function /cope better. Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to working with you.
Silvia Bibas
I am licensed in Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have been helping clients with different situations, like stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and walk with you in that process.
Cassandre Rattray
Hi! My name is Cassandre Rattray, LMFT. I’m a South Florida based therapist, proud wife, and mother of two. With over 10 years of experience in counseling individuals, couples, and families, I understand the importance of creating healthy relationships for yourself and your love ones. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about helping you navigate through chaotic relationships patterns. Relationships can often up root past traumas and insecurities and attempting to manage these emotions alone can often lead to significant mental health conditions. With the right therapeutic support, you can learn to identify toxic behaviors and develop effective coping skills to communicate your needs. Ultimately, creating a life that you enjoy! I am also experienced in dating and pre-marriage counseling! As pop culture continues to frame the dating scene, finding “the one” has become overwhelming. I can help you pinpoint negative dating cycles, so you can begin trusting your own intuitive decisions. Becoming #couplegoals is great, but improving yourself is the best goal ever! Let’s get started today!
Paula Standberry
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, 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. I incorporate my faith as a Christian into my therapy ideals and practice to offer my clients a spiritual perspective on many of life's challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Paul Sohr
I am licensed in Florida with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Deborah Kelly
Welcome! I'm Deborah, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you toward personal growth and fulfillment. As a mental health therapist, I bring a laid-back style and a genuine commitment to helping you uncover your strengths and achieve your goals. My approach to counseling is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. Whether you're facing challenges, seeking clarity, or striving to reach your full potential, I'm here to support and empower you every step of the way. With a deep respect for each individual's unique journey, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet your specific needs and preferences. Together, we'll work to identify barriers, cultivate resilience, and cultivate meaningful changes that align with your values and aspirations. Above all, my goal is to see everyone I work with thrive and live their most authentic lives. I'm here to listen, guide, and cheer you on as you navigate life's ups and downs, and I look forward to accompanying you on this transformative path. Let's embark on this journey together and unlock the incredible potential that lies within you.
Elizabeth Hofrichter
I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Briana Barbour
I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), and National Certified Counselor (NCC), licensed in the state of Florida. With over five years of professional experience, I specialize in helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, addiction recovery, trauma, abuse, depression, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing us to explore your goals, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build practical strategies for change. I strive to create a safe, open, and nonjudgmental space where you can share freely and feel genuinely supported. Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act, and I’m proud of you for getting started.
Victory Wynn
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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.
Megan Karn
Hi, I’m Megan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing therapy to help children (ages 10+) and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion, empathy, and practical tools for growth and healing. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients thrive when they feel truly seen, supported, and accepted. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your story, gain new insights, and develop skills to move forward with resilience and balance. I welcome clients of any faith or belief system to my practice, however, I offer only secular, non faith-based therapy to my clients. Outside of my work as a therapist, I’m an animal lover, avid reader, wife, mom, and passionate Florida gardener with a love for native plants and sustainable gardening. I believe that nurturing both our inner and outer environments helps create a sense of harmony and connection.
Gabrielle Gough
Hello! I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker, excited to be able to support you on your therapy journey! My name is Gabrielle Gough, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Jacksonville, FL. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's most challenging moments. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Central Connecticut State University and a Master's degree in Social Work from Florida State University. Throughout my career, I've honed my expertise in individual therapy, specializing in areas such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, end-of-life care, palliative and grief support, advance care planning, and case management. My journey into social work was inspired by my own experiences with loss, which fueled my deep commitment to offering compassionate guidance, advocacy, and support to others facing their own difficult times. I believe in the power of empathy and connection and am dedicated to walking alongside clients as they work through their struggles, empowering them to find strength and healing along the way.
Markita Couch
I am Markita Couch, and as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I work with preteens, teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma, as well as adults navigating stress, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and the lasting impact of adverse childhood experiences. My ideal clients want to understand themselves more deeply, break old patterns, and build healthier, more grounded ways of coping. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their next steps, but they’re motivated to heal, grow, and create a more fulfilling life. I provide a warm, supportive, trauma-informed space where safety and empowerment come first. Whether you're healing from trauma, managing stress, or facing life changes, I offer tools to regulate emotions, build resilience, and help you understand what’s working and what’s not as we shape a path toward healing. Reaching out for support is a powerful first step, and you don’t have to navigate this process alone. If you’re ready to feel more grounded, supported, and understood, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
Find a Therapist Near You in Fernandina Beach , Florida
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Florida can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Florida is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Florida, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Florida (FL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Florida, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Florida with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Florida
When searching for a therapist near me in Florida, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Florida, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Florida.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Florida want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Florida
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Florida without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Florida (FL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Florida
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Florida, including residents in Fernandina Beach.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Florida do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.