Your mental health can be like a fortress. When it’s high, it’s an impenetrable fortress that no one can defeat. However, many people’s fortresses have fallen. What should one do? One solution is to speak to a counselor based in Fort Lauderdale. They can help you with your mental state and make sure your mental fortress is up to snuff. 

After all, Fort Lauderdale is known for its fortresses, and if you want them to stand strong, talking to a counselor here can make sure you're always improving, and arming, the fortress in your mind, no matter what danger is at hand. 

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Mark Sandvoss

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Clinical social worker licensed in Florida with over 20 years of experience working in the behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, co-dependency, anger management, co-occurring disorders, self-esteem issues.. I also helped people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic/ existential, strengths based, reality therapy/ choice theory, and a solution focused orientation. I will generate goals you have in order to arrive at a treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first step towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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John Phelps

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. I studied at Florida Atlantic University where I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology (2011), and Masters degree in Social Work (2014) specializing in practice with Adults and Families. During my education I completed my internships in a Crisis Stabilization Unit (Baker Act Facility) and in a college counseling center. Since then I have continued my career as a Therapist working for a community mental health agency working with client's of all ages with diverse backgrounds. I have also volunteered at an LGBT resource center where I functioned as a peer counselor and researcher for healthcare disparities in the LGBT community. Additionally I have developed and facilitated LGBT safe zone trainings to improve support in the community. My approach to treatment is focused treating clients as real people who deserve a therapeutic relationship that is honest, validates their feelings and experiences, and challenges them to change. My counseling style is a more laid back, and I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor, and able to "be real" with clients. I employ education as a tool alongside cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, trauma informed care, and mindfulness skills to help my clients identify and reach their goals.

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Roy Buggee

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
25 years of experience

My name is Roy Buggee and I have been working for twenty-five years with clients who have substance abuse and mental health issues. My career has taken me to different health care facility such as psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, mental health agencies, and substance abuse programs. My passion has been working with clients who have both mental health and substance abuse issues. Also, I am knowledgeable in twelve steps programs such as Alcoholic Anonymous, Al-Anon, Narcotic Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous, and Adult Children of Alcoholics. I am easy going and enjoyed helping others. My counseling style is being respectful to my clients and treating you as an equal. I will be your advocate and facilitate a safe and supportive environment. My approach is client centered and you are the most important in the therapeutic relationship. I specialize in in the following therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Family System Therapy, Person-center therapy and Rational Emotive Therapy. Also, I have experience with clients who have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, borderline disorder, and anti-social disorder. In 2006, I graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a master’s degree in educational counseling. My concentration of study was mental health counseling. Since that time, I obtained my license in Mental Health Counseling in the state of Florida and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I am looking forward in assisting in your recovery.

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Wendy Sloan

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Congratulations on taking the first steps to a healthier you. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida with over 20 years of experience. I believe the relationship with a client should be one that is filled with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I utilize methods such as person -centered and Solution-Focused Therapy styles along with motivational interviewing. This approach allows for clients to be empowered to solve their own problems using their own abilities. This is a goal oriented approach to problem solving that often allows clients to see the change they are looking for sooner. I also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy with clients in which this technique may be useful. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, families and couples. I am glad you have taken the first steps towards making a change in your life and I hope I can help you in your path towards a happier, healthier, you. When you are ready, I am here to support you.

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Cristina Chinchilla

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

If you are here, then you have made the courageous decision to seek help on your healing journey. I want to congratulate you for making that brave choice! My name is Cristina Chinchilla and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I help individuals that are healing from trauma, struggling with their identity, feeling hopeless, without purpose, having difficulties navigating current challenges or simply at a loss on how to cope with the messiness of being human. As a therapist, it is important to me that you feel heard, validated and understood. My goal is to help you feel as comfortable as possible while sharing your most vulnerable thoughts and pain. Using a straight forward approach that is unbiased and objective; we will work on breaking toxic patterns and generational curses. Many years of experience has taught me that amazing growth and change can happen with a few months of hard work and focus. I have extensive background in trauma related mental health issues such as: PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, hopelessness, family violence/abuse, and addiction. My therapy style is a collaborative, strengths based, solutions focused approach to include trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and person centered. Ultimately, I feel that the answers are always within you and my role is simply to help you find them. It is my greatest honor to be part of your healing journey.

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Cecilia Bezi

Offering therapy in FL
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Cecilia Bezi. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an exceptional ability to listen. I am very empathetic, enthusiastic, and I can motivate you to produce the needed changes to grow. Life is dynamic, and sometimes crises are challenges to produce those changes in ourselves and in our environment. I will be active with you in your journey. I have plenty experience, more than 15 years, working with Behavioral and Cognitive therapies. I work with EMDR to elaborate past events and traumas, so the present can be lived fully.

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Robert Wendel Jr.

Offering therapy in FL
License: LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

Are you a Florida resident interested in Tele-Health services? Are you having mental health issues like depression, anxiety, stress. trauma, PTSD, anger / mood issues, substance use, or other symptoms? Or just need someone to talk to? If so, I am your Guy! Let me tell you a little about myself, My name is Robert “Bob” Wendel Jr. , LCSW, MSW and I am the CEO / Mental Health Professional who owns and operates New “U” Therapy Services LLC. I am a U. S. Marine Corps Combat Veteran and a Retired Police Officer (27 years). I have experience in Counseling and Therapy in Inpatient Mental Health Facility. I am a Saint Leo University Master’s Degree (MSW with Advanced Clinical Practice) and have a LCSW license to practice in the state of Florida. My extensive life, education, and work experiences have allowed me to help people of various problems, lifestyles, and all walks of life. I use a variety of types of therapy and treatment options like CBT, DBT, Client Based, Solution Based, Motivational, and Realistic Therapy (just to name a few). If this is something that might help “you” then set up and appointment and let us begin to help “You” get the help “you”want. Remember…It is all about “You!”

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This is Linda Colebrooke's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Colebrooke

Offering therapy in FL
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience

You should know that I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. That I am a graduate from Palm Beach Atlantic University, a private Christian College, with a master's degree in Counseling Psychology. I have worked since graduation in 2013, in the following settings: Community Mental Health, Inpatient Psychiatric, Forensic, and Civil Commitment. My approach to therapy is a blend of several therapies to include: Strength Based, Narrative, Psycho Dynamic, Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral. Not one singular approach fits every person. I believe that the ability to utilize a blend with these various therapeutic approaches, empowers people to understand that struggles and challenges don't define them. You will be able to take away a sense of being heard and understood. We will examine how your internal thoughts impact your behavior. We will look for patterns in your thinking and connect them with experiences in your past. We will engage in a journey that takes you through understanding self and what has brought you to your current issue. You will learn to realize that you are not defined by your problem.

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Laura Powell

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Dr. Brenda Goldwater Lerner

Offering therapy in FL
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in Florida with about 10 years of professional work experience. I help people who experience stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, who have career difficulties, as well as depression and those who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorders. I provide clinical “holistic psychotherapy” for individuals and couples. My early training is in behavioral medicine (an interdisciplinary field that studies the connections between the mind, the body, and the emotions). Through the years, I expanded my training towards a “spiritual integrative approach to psychotherapy.” This includes the application of techniques like mindfulness and meditation, among others. It is my belief that each person deserves a respectful consideration of his/her own path of self-examination, and it is my position is to recognize, and adjust my treatment approach to this and your path. In general terms, I assist my subscribers/clients/patients to identify and understand the origin of their symptoms by exploring behavioral, cognitive, and emotional patterns, that may identify a.) lifestyle (physicality, exercise, drug use, sleeping patterns, etc.), b.) core beliefs or “negative programming,” c.) moderate to severe emotional fluctuations, and d.) other manifestations that may arise. My goal is for you to experience greater self-awareness and clarity at all levels of functioning, which will afford you new ways and skills for dealing with the concerns and issues that brought you into treatment. I usually work with subscribers/clients/patients at a minimum frequency of once per week, but other arrangements can be agreed upon based on progress and other factors. I usually begin a psychotherapy relationship with consultation session. During this session, we will clarify your needs and presenting problems; discuss relevant personal and family history; and explore the 'fit' between us. At the conclusion of this session, I will share my initial impressions about your presenting problems and my ideas about how we should address them during therapy. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you should be proud of yourself for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Fort Lauderdale

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, elsewhere in Broward, 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 Fort Lauderdale area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 33337 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, 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.

Fort Lauderdale 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 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 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 Fort Lauderdale.

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

33301, 33302, 33303, 33304, 33305, 33306, 33307, 33308, 33309, 33310, 33311, 33312, 33315, 33316, 33318, 33320, 33329, 33334, 33335, 33336, 33337, 33338, 33339, 33340, 33345, 33346, 33348, 33349, 33355, 33359, 33388, 33394

Popular cities near Fort Lauderdale, FL

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