This is Gwen Zorc's avatar and link to their profile

Gwen Zorc

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Gwen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who is passionate about helping others! My goal is to help you improve relationship skills, resolve inner conflict, and increase feelings of well-being. While we aren't able to change the pain of the past, we can choose to take positive action to help find solutions to challenges and reverse negative habits to begin moving towards a future filled with purpose. If you are ready to step in a new direction in life, that day can be today! I will utilize evidenced based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Family Systems. I also use a 10-Step wellness check to assess if clients are keeping in balance healthy living. I combine these strategies with art, nature, and creativity to help you reach your highest potential, achieve your goals, and overall improve your life. I received my Master’s Degree from Florida Atlantic University and my Bachelor’s Degree from Barry University. To obtain licensure in the state of Florida, I completed over 2000 post-graduate supervised hours. I look forward to meeting you in this online forum and I hope I can help you with your current struggles in life.

This is Darlene Mayers's avatar and link to their profile

Darlene Mayers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

Welcome! Chances are if you're reading this profile you are looking for help. I believe life can be hard, but solutions don't have to be! Sometimes we just need help navigating through difficulties. My name is Darlene Mayers and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse disorders and other addictions. I also have a great deal of experience working with individuals with trauma and abuse backgrounds. I also provide life coaching services. I completed my undergraduate studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University where I earned a B.S. degree in Psychology. I completed my graduate studies at Nova Southeastern University where I earned a M.S. degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, sensitive, sincere, respectful and interactive. I utilize a mix of many therapeutic modalities in order to develop the best treatment plan for your success. If you are ready to find solutions, I am here to help.

This is Renée Thompson's avatar and link to their profile

Renée Thompson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

Hello and welcome. I know it's frightening to start therapy and share your private thoughts and emotions with a stranger, but this is the first step to change and healing, so congratulations on this brave move! My name is Renée and I am here to help you be your best self. I believe strongly in the power to change. This means practicing being the person you WANT to be, every day. We are all struggling with the rise of inflation and making ends meet, but I pride myself in getting to the root of your issues, and helping you get back to living a better life, quickly! Whatever your struggles or concerns are, I feel confident that we can identify and overcome them together. My counseling approach focuses on your strengths and resiliency. It recognizes YOU as the expert of your own life. I will support you while we explore and practice making positive changes in your life. With my education, clinical training and experience, I can help you increase self-awareness, tap into your internal strengths and resiliency, learn how to let go of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, consider new perspectives, and find new ways to cope. I am open-minded, empathetic and non-judgmental. I provide a safe and accepting environment for honest exploration of your areas of personal difficulty. I've counseled end-of-life patients, adults, children, and families for a long time, so there isn't anything that shocks me. I will give you my professional perspective, encouragement and offer potential solutions to help you navigate through this difficult time. My goal is to help you live your life to its fullest potential! I aim to help you find meaning, purpose, love and peace in your life and to do this within a short period of time. I am ready to work for you, are you ready to make changes? About me: I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida since 2009. I graduated magna cum laude in graduate school. I have over 20 years of counseling experience with various populations. I have been working for BetterHelp since May 2020 and find this platform user-friendly and extremely successful in helping clients reach their highest potential. I am an expert in grief counseling, and loss to suicide. I am the co-founder of the Tampa Bay Chapter for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This non-profit organization is very close to my heart due to my own loss of a loved one to suicide. I have 10 years of experience counseling hospice and palliative care patients and their families and 15 years of experience with children. It would be a privilege to walk with you through your journey. You are not alone. I look forward to meeting you.

This is Frances "Tansie" Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Frances "Tansie" Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Counselor License Type(s): Ed.S,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
34 years of experience

I am a seasoned therapist with 33 years experience providing caring approaches to help you heal life’s hurts and restore hope. I will provide a safe place where you can be open and honest with the circumstances of your life. We will work as a team to identify goals to help you achieve the outcome you desire. When life brings challenges and hurts that seem difficult to overcome. When you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, or angry. When work is overwhelming and you feel you need a change. When your relationships are strained and communication is difficult. When you have lost a loved one, or your marriage has failed. When you have lost hope and your faith is wavering. When you struggle with parenting and your children seem out of control. When you find yourself turning to alcohol or substances or other self destructive things just to feel better. Then get support from one who understands and has experienced many of these painful life events, someone who can relate to what you are going through with care and compassion and help you gain insight, perspective, and show you a way out, so that you can feel hope again. I offer an integrated approach of counseling, coaching, and life experience that addresses the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. I offer caring Christian perspective while respecting your personal values and beliefs. My approach is tailored to your needs with a goal to help you restore balance and find freedom from painful issues, and move forward. I work with individuals and teens, parents and families, and couples. I have an M.S in Counseling and a Ed.S in Family Systems from Georgia State University, with an undergraduate in Psychology and Sociology. I have 32 yrs experience as a counselor and 15 years experience as a college faculty at University of Pheonix, Clayton State University and the American College in Ga.

This is Amie Thomas's avatar and link to their profile

Amie Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
21 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a professional Social Worker for the past 20 + years. I have experience working as a psychotherapist with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life changes/phase of life, trauma, and couples/ family dynamics to mention a few. My counseling style is warm, interactive and empathetic. It is important to treat others with dignity and respect on the journey of psychotherapy. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to getting to know your personal life story and supporting you along the way of this journey of life. I will meet you where you are in your process and support with healthy next steps towards goal attainment. I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you very soon.

This is Ricardo Santiago's avatar and link to their profile

Ricardo Santiago

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & self-esteem and much more. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will customize our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique 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 Hailey Moore's avatar and link to their profile

Hailey Moore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional experience. I enjoy helping others navigate life stressors by overcoming anxiety and depression, and increasing confidence and self-esteem. 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 Irene Juarez's avatar and link to their profile

Irene Juarez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoaching
12 years of experience

I am bilingual (Eng/Spa) licensed therapist in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients learn about themselves to work through stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and executive or career development 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 Debra Thomas's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am privileged to be a part of your support system.

This is Alexandra Poolt's avatar and link to their profile

Alexandra Poolt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in FL, The Villages
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
16 years of experience

Hello and welcome to therapy! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16 years of professional work experience. I have certifications in both New York and Florida states, and can treat individuals from either geographical area. That being said, being a social worker has afforded me to work with a variety of people on a wide range of issues. I am also educated with a Master's Degree at Columbia University and have studied the impact of family and environmental stressors on the brain. I can work with those who are trying to understand and learn more about why they are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depressive symptoms. The places where we reside, the people whom we interact with whether loved ones at home, or in with workplace, and how we feel about ourselves internally can all play a role in our emotional health. I can attest to witnessing individuals gaining access to hope and moving toward changes in their lives through the therapeutic process once they have gained a sense of control through the use of specific tools or even through having an objective person to process their feelings. Depending on your needs, we can work to understand your thoughts and the impact on behaviors you wish to address, we can learn about your somatic experience (body/mind connection), and we work together to explore setting achievable goals. While I have treated those with chronic or severe emotional health-related issues, my work at Better Help best serves those who are coping with recent stressors as I am only available 2 days of the week, Tuesdays and Thursdays for client sessions. I prefer working with clients who will be able to do scheduled text, phone, or video sessions as this is the best way for me to connect during the work week. I am available initially for texting with the idea of setting a schedule for treatment as therapy works best with structured time where we can delve into matters. I will try my best to respond to texts in between the sessions within 24-48 hours as your questions or concerns are important to me. If you think we may be a good fit, reach out and we can set some time aside to talk. I look forward to meeting you as you explore the therapeutic journey. Alexandra

How to find a therapist for counseling in The Villages

Finding the best therapist close by in The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages. 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 The Villages, 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages, elsewhere in Sumter, 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in The Villages, 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 34785 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 The Villages counselor?

Before seeing your The Villages 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. The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages 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 The Villages, 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.

The Villages 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 The Villages, 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 The Villages 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 The Villages.

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

32159, 32162, 32163, 34785

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist