It is hard to be depressed when you live in a gorgeous lakefront town like Leesburg, Florida, but if you have depression, you can’t control how you feel. It is not just sadness or feeling sorry for yourself as some people like to think – depression is a real illness that needs treatment and sometimes even needs medication.
Luckily, the small town of Leesburg also has some of the most experienced therapists available to help, so you can get professional support right away. Contact a Leesburg area counselor so you can start feeling better right away.
Waynette Speakman
Hello, My name is Waynette Speakman. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I am also a Board Certified -TeleMental Health Provider (BC-THP). I graduated from the University of South Florida in 2007 with a Master's in Counseling. I primarily work from an Adlerian counseling perspective as it utilizes psychodynamic, cognitive, and behavioral techniques. I incorporate cognitive and behavioral strategies into counseling to facilitate goal-directed positive behaviors, while also taking into account past history, birth order and family dynamics. Adlerian therapy is goal directed and future focused, therefore we will not spend too much time on past history, rather add it to the other pieces to create the best possible picture. I will integrate solution-focused strategies and motivational interviewing techniques to encourage problem solving from a positive goal oriented perspective. I am really excited to meet you and start working with you.
Nickole Wyse
Hello! My name is Nicki, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for clients located in Florida. I have eight years of experience providing therapy in residential addiction treatment, prison, and individuals online. I have worked with patients and clients with widely varying presenting problems including anxiety, depression, low self-worth, codependency, family/relationship issues, guilt, shame, and trauma, to name a few in addition to addiction. I have helped people learn healthy coping skills to reduce maladaptive strategies such as substance use, self harm, negative thought, and other self-defeating behaviors, and begin to build satisfying lives for themselves. I grew up in Michigan, and explored unrelated career paths while moving through my life and relocating eventually to Florida. Life experience inspired me to my destination as a therapist, and in mid-life I earned my BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling online. I am now living in Michigan and am grateful for the portability of telemental health! I have found that people need a safe person to share their innermost experiences with and to be met with unconditional positive regard to break the barriers that stand in the way of progress toward improved mental well-being. I approach therapy with a client-centered orientation with the ability to adjust with appropriate modalities to clients' needs as they are presented, with the goal of increasing clients' understanding and acceptance of and compassion toward themselves. I enjoy learning about others' experiences and interacting in a fun yet soothing way. Exploration of experiences without negative judgment can lead to amazing and meaningful change! While therapy is a very satisfying occupation, I also enjoy making a multitude of things, reading, movies, organizing, and spending time being silly with family.
Vanessa Hinklein
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and also hold an MCAP (Masters Level Certified Addictions Professional) with a specialization in anxiety, panic, depression, hopelessness, marriage and family issues, dysfunctional families, substance abuse, chronic relapse, PTSD and trauma. I am also a CRPS (Certified Recovery Peer Specialist) with 14 years in substance recovery myself. I hold a Masters in Arts degree from Liberty University in Professional Christian Counseling & Marriage and Families. I am formally trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) to treat trauma and PTSD. I have an extensive history working with individuals who suffer from PTSD, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality and daily stressors. I also have experience working with those who suffer from substance and process addictions. I work with LGBTQ+ individuals and continue to train and educate myself on LGBTQ+ growth and changes. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals that suffer from trauma and PTSD. Welcome to the first day of your new life. I look forward to working with you progress through your daily struggles and help you grow as an individual. I have a passion to help others heal and look forward to working with you through his new chapter in your life.
Terriee Smith
Feeling lost or overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Imagine having a dedicated partner in your corner, ready to help you navigate those tough times and celebrate your triumphs. How I Can Help: I’m here to provide the support, guidance, and encouragement you need. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, or other mental health concerns, I will work with you to develop strategies that suit your unique situation. Together, we’ll set achievable goals and build the skills you need to thrive. My Approach to Counseling: My primary method is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a proven approach that combines acceptance and mindfulness strategies with behavior-change techniques. This helps you develop psychological flexibility. I tailor my methods to fit your unique needs, incorporating techniques like dialogue, cognitive reframing, and awareness exercises to help you achieve your goals. Credentials & Experience: With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, I’ve worked extensively with individuals facing dual diagnoses, especially PTSD. My experience spans working with children and adults, addressing a broad range of mental health issues. Your Path to Wellness: I am committed to equipping you with the tools and support you need to thrive, both inside and outside the therapy room. Your wellness journey is my top priority, and I’m here to assist you every step of the way.
Chelsea Burkell
I have a passion for working with anxiety, self-esteem issues, behavioral and academic concerns and other life challenges that cause stress. She specializes in working with adults, adolescents and teens. Working with both the individual and family to help with parenting, improve communication, and maintain a healthy connection.
Diana Franco
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of professional experience in the behavioral health field with 5 years of professional experience providing clinical psychotherapeutic services to adults challenged by issues that have lead to depression, anxiety, grief, transitional life events, and overall psychosocial stressors that have impacted overall mood and functioning. I look forward to helping you explore and understand the origins that brought depression and/or anxiety and patterns that may interfere with your happiness to devise strategies for meaningful changes in your life. As a clinical social worker, I use a holistic collaborative treatment approach as a guiding principal to facilitate change and/or life improvement. I utilize evidence-based approaches depending on the presenting need in a person-in-environment approach. I work to understand how each person interacts within their environment: family, work, social. I want clients to walk away from their initial session feeling heard and understood without judgement by creating a safe space. My motto is "You won't leave the same way you came". We work together to make every session different, while building upon each session to allow a new understanding with a deeper connection to your feelings.
Morgan Ajello
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. I work with my clients to set personalized goals and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. I am a Masters level clinician licensed in both Connecticut and Florida, as well as Board Certified National Counselor. Owning and operating in the private practice setting for the last 6 years. I have years of experience working with individuals on a wide range of issues such as Trauma, Anxiety, Sexual Dysfunctions, Family Conflict, and more. I use a psychodynamic approach that utilizes evidence based techniques such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Trauma focused to name a few. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. And here to help you achieve your personal growth goals. I look forward to working with you.
Allyson DeCastro
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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!
Yshheyna ("EEsh-key-na") Hamilla LMHC
I am licensed in Florida with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping people with stress and anxiety, LGBTW+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse as well as life coping with stress. Desiring to transform your life? Your relationship(s)? You CAN heal and finally leave behind old limiting feelings, traumas, fears, and patterns. Begin a new level of success in your life journey, life purpose and your Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual strength and freedom. As a therapist for 20+ years I have had extensive success with building confidence, resolving relationship issues, healing Trauma, PTSD & ACOA issues. Trained in the powerful tools of A.R.T, a new trauma therapy (Advanced Resolution Therapy, like EMDR), plus Gestalt, NLP, EFT, hypnotherapy, & the Landmark Forum. Together we will transmute your stress, anxiety & traumas into confidence, well-being, freedom & success. All spiritual perspectives are also welcome. You CAN make good progress in your relationship(s)! As a relationship therapist and former County Court conflict resolution mediator, I have helped heal all kinds of relationship issues, in all kinds of relationships. I enjoy transforming relationship concerns and conflicts for couples, families, neighbors, business relationships, LGBT & other relationships into ones that are mutually healthy, supportive and empowering. I have provided many many years of therapy personal help as well as groups in mental health, self-esteem, assertiveness, inner child, women’s groups, etc; 6 yrs of addiction/ recovery groups; 25+ yrs of spirituality counseling, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, intuition development, spiritual tools for prosperity, etc. Author of 33 self-help charts & cards. Over 5 million published internationally.
Elizabeth Lewis Smith
I am licensed in Florida with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Leesburg
Finding the best therapist close by in Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg. 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 Leesburg, 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg, 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Leesburg, 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 34762 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 Leesburg counselor?
Before seeing your Leesburg 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. Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg, 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.
Leesburg 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 Leesburg, 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 Leesburg 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 Leesburg:
34736, 34748, 34749, 34762, 34789