Fort Meade, which has a population of over 6000, was named for George Meade, who was an Army Lieutenant who served in Florida during the Second Seminole War from 1835 to 1842. The town was settled in 1849 and is the oldest city in Polk County. There are over 300 homes on the National Register of Historic Places in Fort Meade.

If you are a fan of history, it is a great idea to investigate your own family history including your medical history because some illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and even mental illnesses can be hereditary. Talk to one of the Fort Meade area counselors or therapists if you have any concerns or questions.

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Dr. Maxine Lebowitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LMHC, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

Even though I’ve been licensed both as a marriage and family therapist and a mental health counselor for over 30 years, it’s hard for me to define exactly what school of therapy I practice. My therapeutic style is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with a lot of Neurolinguistics Programming in the mix. I am constantly studying new techniques and approaches because what will help you is most important knowledge I can have. Early on I was strongly influenced by Alfred Adler who was a contemporary of Freud. Adler believed that childhood experiences influence how we feel about ourselves and how we react to various situations. Like Adler my basic theory is that people are always moving from feeling not quite good enough to feeling significant, feeling we matter. We all need to feel significant to have the confidence, drive and energy to meet the world head on, knowing that we'll be successful. I’ll work with you like I do with my other clients to help you learn to access and nurture those traits within yourself that will make your life significant to you, help you live up to your values and, in some small way, make the world a better place. A person usually needs to feel good about themselves before making lasting changes. As a client you will know that I am in your corner. We’re going to be finding your strength, intelligence, compassion, and motivation that is already there inside you and help you learn how to use these qualities to make the changes you want to make. . Other clients describe me as a nurturing, empathetic, encouraging person. I hope that’s true. I do know that I promise to listen, really listen and hear what you are saying and help you make the changes you want to.

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Rhea Lee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

As a License Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in South Florida, I have direct experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families with a wide range of challenged and concerns with areas of expertise including: abuse, anxiety, co-morbidity, family/relationship concerns, daily life stressors, depression, psychosis, sexuality, trauma and work/school related stress. Aside from private practice I have provided services to clients/patients in settings such as partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, community mental health, and educational settings. I have a true passion for wellness and advocacy and enjoy connecting with individuals of all backgrounds, and assisting those who may be in need of (or want) additional support. Despite differences, a similarity we all have, is life experiences, and the inevitable challenges and changes we may face. Reaching out for therapeutic support should feel like a collaborative alliance where you, as the client, feels heard (free of judgement), so you are able to not only acknowledge concerns, but also feel in control on your process. I am looking forward to getting to know you and hope that I am the clinician you are looking for to hear your trust and assist you in healing, finding peace, welcome true self-acceptance and/or recovery.

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Pamela Sherwin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I have been working with clients for over 30 years to help them make better choices so that they can be happier and more content, realize what strengths and good qualities they already posses, and to add coping behaviors to build upon those positive attributes. I utilize a variety of approaches that focus on the present and coping with current stressors, as well as identifying when any past issues needs to be addressed further to free up one’s energy to move in the direction they would like to go. I like to identify practical, manageable, as well as possible changes with my clients that can be reached by making changes they have control over - in small steps or leaps, respecting the pace a client wants. I include some practical coping behaviors from CBT, assertiveness and boundary setting, mindfulness and DBT types of treatment, as well as evaluating life style choices when changes in self care that may be advisable (but up to the client, of course). I also keep in mind the bigger picture of a client’s background and current life situation. For example, making changes in the middle of a pandemic may need a somewhat different focus, as well as with other life events like illness, divorce, moving, etc. I have worked with clients from young adulthood to elderly and of various ethnicities with respecting individual, family, and cultural values and issues. I am always willing to learn more from an individual’s experiences and welcome feedback as we work together In their counseling. I am available for morning and afternoon sessions

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Kristel Avilus

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
7 years of experience

Hello! Im happy your here! Let’s figure this out together. I am a Licensed clinical Social worker with 7 years of experience working with clients to help navigate through unresolved trauma. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual abuse, 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, client-focused rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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!

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Melissa Elliott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello, My name is Melissa Elliott, but I like to go by Leesa. I have been a licensed mental health counselor in Florida for over 30 years. I admire you for your courage to seek counseling by recognizing areas in your life that need peace, happiness and balance. I believe that in working with the right counselor, an individual can shorten the journey to achieving their personal goals. I enjoy being a part of the journey. I encourage my clients to add practical tools to their existing tool kit. This will enable them to apply these tools in both current and future situations. One of the approaches I use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which explores the relationship between our thoughts and feelings and how they impact our behaviors and choices. There is not just one approach that fits all, so I like to tailor the sessions based on the individual and what works for them. My life and work experience give me insights into the following areas: relationships, parenting, aging parents, work issues, infertility and adoption. If you choose to work with me, I look forward to being part of your journey.

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Karen Marconi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Sandra Ala

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

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Angela Heck

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida with 4 years of counseling experience. I am passionate about counseling, it is what I love to do, and have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & depression. I create a no-judgement zone with my clients, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I specialize in working with couples and individuals in alternative lifestyles and identifying as LGBTQ+, and promise to always have a safe space for my clients. I will tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy and being vulnerable takes courage, and I am honored if you decide to open up with me and share your story. I am here to be a facilitator in your healing journey as you become a better version of yourself.

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Molly Sanders

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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 as well as utilize our time wisely. It takes an immense amount of 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 together.

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Renee King

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Fort Meade
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Meade

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade. 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 Fort Meade, 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade, elsewhere in Polk, 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Meade, 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 33847 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 Fort Meade counselor?

Before seeing your Fort Meade 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. Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade, 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.

Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade, 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 Fort Meade 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 Fort Meade.

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

33841, 33847

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