This is Arielle Simpson's avatar and link to their profile

Arielle Simpson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. For the last 8 years I've been working as a mental health therapist with individuals and families in their home and school settings. I've been able to help individuals with varying needs at a wide range of life stages who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, early symptoms of eating disordered behaviors, and other difficulties related to life stress. I currently have certifications and specialized training in addressing distress and traumatic events across the lifespan. My counseling style is empathic, supportive and motivational. I'm eclectic in my use of treatment modalities, however I most often utilize cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and person-centered techniques. I believe it is essential for me to make adjustments to my style if it better enables you to reach your personal goals. I understand it probably has been difficult to make the decision to seek out help in facing whatever is causing you any level of unhappiness. Since you're here I believe that means you're ready to make the transformation you envision. I'm ready to help you work on establishing fertile ground for limitless personal growth.

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Betty Acierno

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Florida. I have more than 14 years experience in the medical and mental health field. I received a masters degree, bachelors degree, and aging certificate from Florida Atlantic University. I graduated with highest honors from the college of social work. I have dedicated half my life to the field of mental health, in particular, codependency and empowerment. I completed my internships and was hired by a local hospice. My specialties there were grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger. My treatment approach is rather laid back, but is set on the foundation of having a therapeutic relationship, to include using theory's such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness. It has been an honor and privilege to assist people through some of the most difficult times of their lives. I love to watch people grow and become empowered to make their own life choices and decisions.

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Vanessa Albergo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Vanessa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico & South Carolina. I am bilingual(English & Spanish) and can provide counseling in both languages. I am originally from New York and moved to South Florida for college and never left.   I have lived in South Florida for over 15 years and have built both a family and career here, I guess the sunny warm weather made it hard to go back :-)   My clinical background in Mental Health began as an undergrad and continued through grad school, working for the public sector for the Department of  Children & Families where I worked with children, then the elderly in skilled nursing facilities and with adolescents in group homes.  I then went on to work and provide services that include counseling and advocacy for oncology patients at one of the largest cancer hospitals in South Florida. In addition to this, I have also worked with adults in inpatient rehab for substance abuse and court ordered treatment, and served outpatient clients in the LGBTQ community. My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),  Psychodynamic, Solution Focused,  and many others that include treatment planning; where my goal is to get my client back to a normal baseline that they are comfortable with and can function in their daily life. I am an open minded, kindhearted and empathetic individual, where my mantra is that I am here for YOU, my job is to assist you in anyway that I can, and help you manage life's daily stressors that may be recent or long-term.  I work daily to remove the stigma that Mental Health has in our society, because the reality is, we all have good and bad days, some just need some assistance and guidance on how to manage it better. I believe we are all one step away from a mental health crisis, life is one big roller coaster of stress, worry, emotion that all revolve around something changing in our life that we were not prepared for and do not know how to adjust to it. So my job is to help you navigate all of that and achieve happiness, peace and overall well being.  You are more than welcomed to message me through Better Help, and be proud that seeking assistance for yourself is one of the bravest things we as human beings can do for ourselves is admit when we need help. My schedule is flexible and am able to provide services in the evenings to accommodate the working person.  Session hours: EST I look forward to working with you! 

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Courtney Coggan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): M.S.,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Board Certified Telehealth Professional with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. With a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychology, I have worked with individuals presenting with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, and the symptoms of stress. I have experience with those dealing with transitions in life such as relationship issues/divorce, returning to work/career change, experiencing a personal loss/familial conflict, etc. I help people struggling with self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth, and those who identify in the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, I have worked in the education field and have helped many students overcome the personal obstacles getting in the way of them being successful in school. I have a deep respect for those who reach out for help because I know how difficult that can be. For counseling, I utilize a strength based and person centered approach that is humanistic and values the therapeutic relationship. I believe it’s important to use evidence based practices that have been proven through research to show the best results possible. My techniques include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and brief solution focused intervention. Every person is different in their needs and I think it’s important to meet clients where they are. I help create a safe space where you know there is no judgment and what is said is confidential. I have dedicated my time to connecting with people and helping them develop a plan to not only overcome the tough times, but also grow in their ability to deal with whatever life hands us next. Counseling has the ability to enhance your life for the better, and I’d love to take that journey with you.

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Ashley Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Hi! My name is Ashley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida. Over the years, I've worked in a wide range of settings, including: child welfare, foster care and adoption, substance abuse treatment, cancer and chronic illness care and recovery, and within the prison system. I work primarily with clients and caregivers affected by trauma or secondary trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and those coping with grief, loss, compassion fatigue, or other life changes. I received both by undergraduate and graduate degrees in South Florida from Florida Atlantic University. My approach to therapy is client centered and trauma informed. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives and thus should determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals.

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Joan Flynn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing as a psychotherapist in the state of Florida. I have 20 years experience working with a wide variety of clients. I have worked with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship problems and emotional or physical trauma. I enjoy what I do and always try to do it well. My counseling style is warm and interactive and I am well versed in approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. Coming in to therapy is challenging emotionally and I will work hard to make sure it is a good experience for you.

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Ginger Santiago

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Cynthia Wells

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Traci Babcock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

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Dr. Glendoria Stephens

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. 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 Oakland

Finding the best therapist close by in Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland. 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, elsewhere in Orange, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 34740 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 Oakland counselor?

Before seeing your Oakland 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. Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, 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.

Oakland 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland.

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

34740, 34760, 34787

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