This is Michele Lescard's avatar and link to their profile

Michele Lescard

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, Welcome to Better Help counseling! I know you might feel nervous, but I want to Congratulate You for taking the first step towards your healing journey. Mental Health is a vital part of who we are and how we function in this unpredictable adventure we call life. I have over 10 years experience working with clients who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, family conflict, relationship/marital issues, self worth, mood disorders, stress, abuse/neglect, paranoia, panic, parenting guidance, trauma and spiritual growth. I have also worked with adults who have special needs, including autism and intellectual disability. I believe in order to live a healthy life, we need to focus on all three elements: our physical, mental and spiritual health. Just like a rope needs all three strands to be strong, we need all three of these elements healthy to weather anything. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients set goals and objectives as they work through their struggles. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment so we can work together to reach your goals. I enjoy working with people helping them find their inner strength as they seek solutions and build their tool box full of coping strategies to manage life. We all need a tool box of strategies to help us navigate the struggles life brings. I believe wholeheartedly that everyone has their own strengths and gifts, we only need to open our minds and take the time to discover them. Let me help you on this journey to self discovery and self empowerment so you can reach a state of healing and peace. A little about me. I graduated in 2002 with my Masters in Social Work from University of Chapel Hill in North Carolina, "Go Tar Heels"!! I really loved living there with the beautiful seasons. I grew up in Miami, FL and currently live in a small town called Lake Wales, FL. Although, I miss the seasons, I am a Floridian at heart with the beaches, palm trees, southern live oaks and the luxury to access both gorgeous sunrises and sunsets!! Everyone deserves to have someone they can share their thoughts and feelings, so let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you on your healing journey. Sincerely, Michele Lescard, LCSW

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Samantha Campagna Bonomo

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMFT,BC-TMH,N.C.C.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
3 years of experience

My name is Samantha Campagna. I graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from Mt. Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts and a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from Barry University in Miami, Fl. I've worked in mental health since 2016 with identifying individuals who benefit from community services and I've worked with children involved in child welfare. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I also practice natural family systems as a family therapy approach. I have experience working with individuals struggling with negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood instability, depressed mood, challenging irrational beliefs, anxiety, history of trauma, and identity development.

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Steven Nikolsky

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
21 years of experience

Hi, and thank you for reviewing my profile. my name is Steven Nikolsky, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts and an Independent Licensed Social Worker in Florida. I have my graduate degree from Boston University in Massachusetts. My primary location is in Massachusetts. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy that the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport and trust bond in their relationship. I utilize a range of types of therapy depending on the individual and the presenting problem and have had some training in hypnotherapy for stress and anxiety. I have worked in private practice therapy, and hospital emergency room crisis work with a specialization in mental health and addictions. I work with the courts regarding 90-day involuntary commitments for substance and alcohol abuse as well as 72-hour holds for severe mental health commitments. I work with "young adults" through "older adults". I also work with various insurance companies in providing “Employee Assistance Programs” for work related issues. I have a firm belief that not every client and therapist will be a match and encourage changing therapists if there is any discomfort or issues. I look forward to working with you and wish you happiness and success in your journey.

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Holly Caruso

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida & Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Jonathan Pintaluga

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
15 years of experience

Jonathan Pintaluga, MS, LMHC began to study Psychology in 2001, at the University Of Central Florida. He has worked with adults in a variety of environments, ranging from local agencies, private practice, as well as colleges. Working with adults in different settings, led to his practice expanding to include working with children, families and couples. He works with a wide range of mental and behavioral issues including anxiety, depression, attention problems, substance abuse, anger and trauma. The life issues people face are also an important part of his practice: adolescence, death and dying, divorce, relocation immigration, addiction, assessment for surgery, social and diversity issues. Jonathan creates rapport with his patients by spending the time needed to build a supportive and comfortable therapeutic relationship. He is eclectic in his approach to psychotherapy in order to create the right treatment plan for his patients’ needs. The modalities he utilizes range from cognitive behavioral, client focused and supportive therapy. Jonathan is a member of The American Psychological Association. He is a graduate of Albizu University, class of 2003. Jonathan interned at Goodman Psychological Services Center (GPSC or Goodman Center) is an outpatient treatment facility for mental health and speech and language services, providing mental health services to over 15,000 members of the South Florida community, including children, adolescents, and adults. Jonathan employs a combination of cognitive behavioral, client focused and supportive therapy in the process of therapeutic change.

This is Natasha Deshommes's avatar and link to their profile

Natasha Deshommes

Offering therapy in FL
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am Licensed in Florida with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Lauren Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Williams

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in the State of Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in assisting individuals with various difficulties ranging from helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse and am a specialized provider in addressing anxiety and insomnia-related difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, and I utilize evidence-based approaches including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to assist individuals in exploring ways in which the situations going on around them have led to certain thoughts and feelings impacting their behaviors and problems in their day to day lives. Collaboratively, we will work together to explore these issues and to reduce the level of distress these issues have been causing you in your day-to-day life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am looking forward to working with you on this journey!

This is Sabrina Alexander's avatar and link to their profile

Sabrina Alexander

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 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, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Elizabeth Porfert's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Porfert

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Athina Smalios's avatar and link to their profile

Athina Smalios

Offering therapy in FL
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 19 years of professional work experience in the state of Florida. I have experience in helping individuals with managing stress and life challenges, coping with grief and loss, anger management, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and resiliency and I am eager to help you along this journey!

How to find counseling in Penney Farms

Finding the best therapist close by in Penney Farms 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Penney Farms. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Penney Farms, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Penney Farms or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Penney Farms area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Penney Farms, elsewhere in Clay, or in the greater state of Florida.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Penney Farms area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Penney Farms therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Penney Farms due to a higher cost of living. 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 Penney Farms 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Florida you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Penney Farms, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Penney Farms 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 lead by a therapist in Penney Farms helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Penney Farms 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Penney Farms therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Penney Farms 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 lot of people in FL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 32043 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Penney Farms counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Penney Farms 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Penney Farms, 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.

Penney Farms has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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 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 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 Penney Farms.

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

32043, 32079

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