This is Melissa Sonthonax's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Sonthonax

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

My name is Melissa Sonthonax and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. I graduated with a Masters in Psychology in 2014 and began working with clients whom suffer from various mental health issues. I have six years of experience in the mental health field. I also have experience working with individuals who specifically struggle with general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, low self esteem, friendship issues, life transitions and other everyday issues. My approach towards therapy is to work with each individual to develop a sense of strength to work through their individual issues and see that they can develop a sense of happiness. I also work with individuals to create healthy goals in order to best help each person adapt to daily life. My passion is to help clients work on outer behaviors that help build confidence within themselves. I understand that each person has their own unique situations, therefore each person will be provided with individual plans of action to help you get back to the place that you desire to be. Each individual can expect to be provided with a comfortable environment where they can share their thoughts/views about their circumstances and be guided, with the help of myself, to work through their circumstances.

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Callie Baquero

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changesCoaching
9 years of experience

I work with clients of all ages to help cultivate healthy coping skills for day to day life. I am a firm believer in my favorite quote by John Milton: "The mind is its own place and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven." At times, even the most self-aware individual can benefit from gaining outside perspective to how they handle daily obstacles. With a special emphasis on mindfulness, I help clients identify tools they often forget they already have in their possession to be their healthiest, and happiest selves. My specialties consist of working with those suffering from women's issues, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and marital/relationship issues. My goal as a therapist is to serve as a crutch in an empathetic, judgment-free environment where my clients can practice being present and learn to overcome negative thoughts on their own. I am also a pilates instructor, so my sessions tend to emphasize a strong emphasis on a mind body connection. I believe a healthy mind, healthy spirit and healthy body are intertwined. We are our best selves when we treat the three with compassion and grace.

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Sophia Mas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 30 years of work experience. I have worked with individuals with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, and the full range of psychotic symptoms and mood disorders. I also have experience and am comfortable working with couples and families. I am a practical, interactive solution focused therapist and incorporate a blend of conventional and alternative approaches - drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques in the process. I have worked with a very diverse population of clients and in many different settings-from acute emergency-based care to community mental health setting to private practice. I take special pride in cultivating a spirit of caring and respect for everyone I see regardless of the problems or issues they might bring to counseling. It takes courage to embark on the healing journey that is counseling. My focus is to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement as they commence the process that will hopefully lead to a sense of wellbeing and vitality. Working at a thought and feelings level can be the catalyst for unraveling the puzzle that is our lives and can lead as well to the resolution of problems and issues that limit our capacity to lead productive and happy lives as we develop the skills needed to navigate the difficulties encountered in daily lives. My passion is to support each individual’s journey with hope as they travel the road to wholeness, wellness, freedom and empowerment. It takes courage to undertake this venture and I am grateful and honored to be able to encourage and validate the personal strength and willingness needed to take this big step forward.

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Rosemarie Manzolillo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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. Together we will develop and strengthen your skills to address any challenges currently in your life. I look forward to being a part of your journey.

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Jennifer Seward

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Hello, First of all, congratulations on taking that first step toward making positive changes in your life. I would be very humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to partner with you on your journey. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for 20 years and have been in the social work field for more than 30 years. I feel my fresh and practical perspective will allow me to bring a new level to helping others. My experience has been focused on youth and adults who have suffered trauma, painful life events, anxiety and depression. I also have extensive experience working with individuals on addressing parenting concerns. I believe in creating a safe and supportive place for healing. I utilize a holistic approach to therapy examining how the environment of the person impacts their ability to function. I also believe in assisting those I serve in finding solutions to their problems in the most nonjudgmental and efficient manner. I will be open and honest with you during sessions but will always be supportive and respectful.

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Lisa Baird

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoachingCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

My name is Lisa Baird, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor within the state of Florida. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their emotional well-being and find the path to personal growth and healing. Over the past 15 years, I have had the honor of helping people from diverse backgrounds to overcome a variety of emotional and behavioral difficulties including those struggling with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, depression, communication, social problems, and career challenges. I strongly believe in the power of a therapeutic relationship and the potential for growth and healing it can offer. My goal as a therapist is to empower my clients, providing them with the tools and insights necessary to navigate life's challenges and discover their own resilience. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I use an eclectic approach that includes techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, person centered and solution-focused therapies. We will work together to establish a dialog and treatment plan that is tailored towards your individual needs. Taking this first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. Thank you for trusting me to walk with you on your journey. I look forward to working with you to solve whatever concerns led you to join Better Help.

This is Dr. Michelle Tatum's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Michelle Tatum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and New Mexico with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Latori Griffin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Latori Griffin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.

This is Odalys De Armas's avatar and link to their profile

Odalys De Armas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & 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.

This is Nokomis Lazenberry's avatar and link to their profile

Nokomis Lazenberry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, Surfside
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Surfside

Finding the best therapist close by in Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside. 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 Surfside, 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside, elsewhere in Miami-Dade, 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Surfside, 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 33154 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 Surfside counselor?

Before seeing your Surfside 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. Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside 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 Surfside, 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.

Surfside 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 Surfside, 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 Surfside 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 Surfside.

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

33154

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