Fort Myers Beach has a lot to offer its residents, from regular community activities to food, shrimp and other festivals. Celebrating food and life is a good thing, but sometimes you might not feel like celebrating. If you are suffering from depressing thoughts that are keeping you from enjoying life, you should seek help.
Counselors in the Fort Myers Beach area are available now to offer this assistance. These licensed therapists can offer you advice and guidance to work your way through depression and out to the light. Contact a counselor today.
Melissa Nadler
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor who uses several therapeutic styles including cognitive/behavioral and reality therapies. My strengths include empathy, compassion, humor, and sensitivity to any issue that is brought to the "couch." My job is to help you help you and in doing so I am along for the ride and journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. I work with a varied clientele covering many different issues and feel that my approach is both inviting and invigorating in terms of allowing clients the opportunity to find a healthy path that was designed especially by them for them. I have experience with many different clientele and therapeutic settings including private practice, community agency, legal system, and college counseling center. I have worked in the prison/court systems, private practice, and college counseling center, and feel that I have the perspective that is necessary and desired for a successful therapeutic relationship. I am involved in the Veterinary Community of Central Florida as a consultant, therapist, and wife of a local veterinarian. I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in psychology. I also have both a Masters and Specialist Degree in Education with a focus in Mental Health Counseling. All three of these degrees are from the University of Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and New Jersey.
Dr. Vernice Richards
Dr. Vernice Richards is a compassionate and dedicated therapist who is committed to helping you on your journey towards mental and emotional well-being. As a liscenced Mental Health Counselor with expertise in evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, Dr. Richards creates a safe and collaborative space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, Dr. Richards will work closely with you to identify your unique needs and goals. She believes in empowering you to develop resilience and make positive changes in your life. With her expertise and support, you can gain self-awareness, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve lasting positive change. You can trust Dr. Vernice Richards to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where you can explore your concerns and work towards your goals. Through her expertise, compassion, and unwavering support, she will guide you towards greater mental well-being and help you lead a more fulfilling life. Take the courageous step towards healing and growth by reaching out to Dr. V today.
Dabney Hayes
Dabney has a passion for working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including dysfunctional behavior rooted in shame, addiction, self-loathing, low self-esteem, perfectionism, trauma and abuse and grief/loss. I am driven to help individuals heal their wounds, develop a new relationship with their thoughts and transform their lives. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential by living their lives more confidently and authentically. I have over twelve years of experience as a therapist and have provided therapy in individual and group settings. I also have experience helping clients navigate everyday sources of stress such as relationship problems, family conflicts, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, and school/work issues. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults and families, and provide compassionate, non-judgmental care. I use an integrative, client-centered orientation that draws from multiple theories and techniques which includes: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I am a welcoming and caring therapist who respects and empathizes with my clients' experiences without any judgement. You don't have to carry your pain and burdens alone. I look forward to working with you! Years of Experience: 12 years
Elana Cirulnick
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Florida for almost 20 years. I have covered a lot of ground during this time as a Clinician. From counseling children and family to managing employee assistance mental health programming to crisis intervention in natural disasters and more, I have had the privilege of witnessing the boundless human spirit again and again. My approach is mostly solution-focused and mindfulness-based, with ample attention to the mind-body connection. I am a lifelong learner and do not solely rest on the laurels of my past professional or personal experience. If you are reading this than you have already taken a step towards improving your life. I would be honored to join you on this journey.
Joseph Mirabella
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the former Clinical Director of Resolve Community Counseling Center in Naples Florida. Having been licensed in two states (FL & NJ), I have over 27 years’ experience in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling. A retired adjunct professor in the Graduate School of Counseling at Kean University in NJ, I have worked in school and community based agencies, as well as private practice. A Board Certified Master Addictions Counselor (MAC), I have counseled Adults, Adolescents, & Families in both group and individual settings. My wife and I live Naples Florida and are active in community and church affairs. I would describe my counseling approach as client centered with a firm belief that the client is the most important person in the counseling office. I have experience working with clients who have experienced difficulties with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. Most recently, Military veterans and first responders have been a particular focus of my practice. Regardless of the presenting issues, however, I have found that treating my clients with compassion, respect, and empathy have produced sustained results. I am available to meet with clients to further discuss potential remedies for the conflicts that are making their lives stressful.
Andromada Brooks
Hello, Thank you for taking the time out to get to know me a little. My name is Andromada Brooks. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional in the state of Florida with over 7 years of experience . I love what I do for a living, it's my passion. I have had the pleasure of working in a variety of settings and with a culturally diverse clientele. My experience has given me the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families dealing with a broad range of concerns such as life changes, self esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, domestic violence, depression, relationship issues and grief/loss. Just to name a few. My therapy style is compassionate, empathetic, non judgmental and a safe place for you to provide yourself permission to be vulnerable. I believe that setting the foundation for healing and empowerment begins with building the therapeutic relationship where we will establish trust and healing. When working with clients, I see myself as a guide on their journey. I am here to assist them in addressing , exploring and making changes to whatever is causing the problems or hurt in their lives. I will challenge their thinking and other patterns that are not currently serving them in their time of healing and growth. As a guide on their journey, I will empower and encourage them to break the chain of fear, cope with their truth and brighten their light on the pathway to healing. I utilize evidence based therapy approaches and various techniques. However, this will be chosen based on the client's needs. It will my pleasure to assist on your journey , let me know if I can be of service to you.
Jaselyn Sotolongo
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Cody Cook
I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. I am also experienced in working with teens and couples. 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!
Kelly Bujnicki
I am licensed in Florida with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.
Ashly Huffstatler
Welcome!! I am so glad that you are here and working on your self-care! It takes a lot of courage and strength to seek help when it is needed. I want to start off by saying thank you for sharing your trust with me. It can be so hard to give trust to another so I want you to know that a greatly value the trust that you have give to me. Let me introduce myself, my name is Ashly and I am clinical social worker in Texas. I have been in this field a little over 10 years, starting in 2009. I started out at the most entry level position in the field and through time, schooling, and experience I have become able to offer counseling services to all those who are searching for support and a little bit of extra help. I share this with you to offer a little bit about myself to you as well as so you can you know about my background in this field. I believe it is important for you to feel comfortable with me in order for you to get the best experience from our meeting together. I achieved my Bachelor’s in Psychology through University of Mary-Hardin Baylor in 2010 and my Master’s degree through University of Texas at Arlington in 2015. I have experience with ages from 4 to 94, through all stages and walks of life. I have experience in assisting with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, life changes, chronic health issues, and end of life. I have worked in non-profit agencies with youths and their families, interned with veterans, and currently working with adults and seniors in dialysis. I have also had experience inworking in animal assisted therapy with horses. I work with a variety of theories and techniques that will be tailored to you and your experiences. There is not a one size fits all for counseling and you are the expert of you. I want you to feel comfortable talking with me and please let me know what styles work best for you so that you can get the best out of this experience. I am here to support you and your journey. Please know that nothing you say will shock me and I will never judge you. This is a safe space and you can voice your mind and feelings freely. I would like to partner with you on your journey and collaborate with you so that you can meet your goals. Thank you so much for giving me your trust and your times. I know how very valuable these two things are and I will treat them that way. I look forward to working with you. May safety, health, and happiness find you always.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Myers Beach
Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach. 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 Myers Beach, 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach, elsewhere in Lee, 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Fort Myers Beach, 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 33931 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 Myers Beach counselor?
Before seeing your Fort Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach, 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 Myers Beach 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 Myers Beach, 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 Fort Myers Beach 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 Fort Myers Beach:
33931, 33932