Latonia Jennings
Hello! My name is Latonia Jennings and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I also have a MA in Psychology and am certified as an Education Specialist. I have worked as a professional Social Worker for over 20 years in various fields including child welfare, couples counseling, military veterans issues, substance abuse, criminal justice, domestic violence, and bereavement. As a clinician for approximately 6 years, most of my work has been with grief and loss, couples counseling, domestic violence, and life issues. I believe that good clinical social work is not only compassionate and encouraging, helpful and goal oriented, but also educational. You should not leave a clinical experience just feeling better about your current issue. You should leave with confidence that you have gained new knowledge and skills to help you with future challenges as well. I also believe that individuals are their own experts in what they need. My experience as a clinician has taught me that people have an innate ability to overcome life's challenges on their own; they just need a little help sometimes figuring out how. My favorite quote is: a bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you don't negotiate the turn. You might be feeling like you are at the end of the road right now. I see myself as a co-pilot on your journey of self helping you to navigate the tough terrain and negotiate the turns in order to get back on track. I consider myself to be quite eclectic in my approach to clinical social work. I typically incorporate elements of solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy into my work with clients, as I have found these two approaches, or a combination thereof, to be most effective with a broad range of mental health concerns. Depending on the goals you identify and my professional expertise, I will select the best approach for you, educate you on the approach, and make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome for you. Thank you for taking the time to review this profile. I hope I have an opportunity to work with you but if not, I wish you the best of luck finding the right clinician to help you in your journey. Be well.
Mary Boyle
I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for fifteen minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.
Mabel Castro
I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the states of Florida, New Jersey, District of Columbia and Utah. The clients I work with are full of diversity and have a variety of issues in their day to day lives. Together, we overcome relational turmoil, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. I love helping my clients heal through trauma, pain and/or negative thoughts - that’s why I named my practice Meraki Therapy. The word Meraki means to place creativity, soul and passion in what you do - I believe that is the beauty of what we do in therapy. The first couple sessions, you can expect us to dive into the root of what is getting in the way of your happiness. I take pride in being non-judgmental and easy to talk to this way you can feel comfortable in sharing your story. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which means you can expect to complete homework assignments focusing on your inner-self. At the moment, I am available for telehealth sessions including phone and live chats. I am very flexible in my responses and get back to you within 24 hours. It's important keep transparent communication with each other in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance.
Denise Mollo
I am licensed in Florida and Massachusetts with many years of professional counseling experience. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy -- harnessing the power of the brain to reframe harmful thoughts that influence feelings and behaviors. I also utilize strength's perspective, solution focused, and positive psychology approaches. When clinically appropriate for self-care, I use guided imagery/visualization and meditation. I have helped clients with overcoming stress and anxiety and depression. I've worked with clients to increase motivation, self esteem, and confidence in addition to guiding clients in coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared and embraced without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to explore the challenges of your life and seeking a more fulfilling and happier life experience takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Mariah Stockard
Thank you for visiting my therapy page and providing me the opportunity to work with you! This is the first step and it is something to be immensely proud of. I believe in creating a compassionate and trustworthy space for individuals to utilize therapy in order to meet personal goals. I do this through utilizing evidence based therapy concepts and techniques. My role is to help guide you through processing stressful and traumatic life events; past and recent. I will provide tools and coping skills combined with talk therapy and psychoeducation to assist with a better day-to-day functioning, and hopefully, overall quality of life. I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience in the field of mental health counseling. I have worked with all ages: children, teens, adults as well as couples and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. If at any point you are in need of urgent help or you are in crisis throughout our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK, 988- the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, or 911. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services.
Andrea Thomas
Are you currently grappling with feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, or a persistent lack of motivation? Whether you find yourself struggling with emotions such as sadness, anger, irritability, or have turned to unhealthy coping strategies, today, you stand at the threshold of personal empowerment and inner peace. I am here to accompany you on your self-care and wellness journey, dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore and understand your emotions and behaviors. I am a licensed clinical social worker with an extensive background spanning over a decade, specializing in providing professional guidance to adults, children, and families. My areas of expertise encompass managing stress and anxiety, addressing trauma and abuse, navigating the complexities of grief and loss, adapting to life transitions, enhancing motivation, bolstering self-esteem, and nurturing self-confidence. My approach is rooted in client-centered therapy, where I seamlessly integrate various evidence-based modalities.
Melodie Plaise
I’m a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider, and harm reduction advocate. I have several years of clinical experience serving those who hold marginalized identities, such as the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and TGNB communities. I use a blend of evidence-based, strength-based, race-based, and trauma-informed approaches and interventions to provide an affirming and anti-oppressive space that supports your growth and healing. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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.
Karen Cino
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Mark Radulich
I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.
Melanie Daniles
I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 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 34787 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 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 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:
- 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 Oakland:
34740, 34760, 34787