Surest Therapists in Florida

Finding a therapist who accepts Surest (formerly Bind) insurance can make accessing mental health support both convenient and affordable. With 1994 verified therapists in Florida who accept Surest, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy to address concerns like anxiety, stress, or relationship challenges. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, high-quality care covered by your Surest plan.

Find therapists near you in

MiamiJacksonvilleOrlandoTampa

Availability updated: 7/18/2025

Deborah Hilyard

(she/her)

Deborah Hilyard, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
32 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for over 30 years. I received my masters in counseling at the University of Memphis. I worked with college students while getting my masters with personal career counseling. After becoming licensed in Florida, I worked specifically with service members and their families with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, spouse and child abuse and marital issues. During the past 3 years I have worked with young adults to retired adults addressing individual, work and family issues. It has been my pleasure to guide hundreds of people to a healthier, happier life style that enables them to do what they want to in life without what appears to be impossible barriers like depression, stress and anxiety.

Stephanie Bardales

(she/her)

Stephanie Bardales, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! Bienvenido! Let's take a moment to reflect on the courage it takes to begin therapy. You are brave. Change is hard, but the rewards of healing from distress, trauma and internal pain are powerful. As are you! I have experience helping people with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, bereavement, loss, family/relationship conflicts, self-harm, anger management, parenting, child welfare system, foster care, adoption, school transitions, divorce, abortion, survivors of narcissism, career changes, stigmatized experiences and other major life changes. I can assist you identify patterns and help break the multigenerational trauma cycle and create new patterns to help you find fulfillment in your life. I love working with people from all ages and walks of life. We will work at your pace and challenge you when you are ready. I am happy to make accommodations as requested. I will ensure you have a safe space to process and complete the work that needs to be done to make therapy successful. Non-traditional beliefs, ideas, and experiences are welcomed to be explored without judgment or pressure to conform. In fact, some the most rewarding therapy sessions for my clients have been discussing unique philosophies that are contrary to popular opinion and culture. I pride myself in maintaining a strong work ethic, staying well organized, focused and applying strong self-care interventions. I work 4 jobs, 7 days a week, morning until night. I will do my absolute best to ensure our sessions begin and end on time. However, due to the nature of this career, there are occassions where I may be delayed with another person to evaluate for additional interventions (therapists are mandated reporters in Florida). Please keep this in mind when considering mental health services. If delays do occur, I apologize in advance. I will make sure you receive the best therapeutic services possible.

Daniel Celmer

Daniel Celmer, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a human first and a therapist second. I believe in showing up authentically, because real connection is what helps people heal. I care deeply about creating space for people to feel safe, heard, and respected. I don’t pretend to have all the answers—but I know how to walk beside you as you find your own. Who I am is someone who believes in your ability to grow, even when things feel messy.

Liz Gazala

Liz Gazala, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I obtained my masters degree from NOVA Southeastern University. I have been practicing since 2015; I started out at a homeless shelter, moved to in-home family/parenting therapy and from there worked at a local high school for several years. Meanwhile, I was building my private practice working with clients suffering from addiction. Currently, I run my own private practice working with teens and adults looking for support for a variety of concerns.

Tanya Richardson

Tanya Richardson, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
14 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome. I'm Tanya, and I'm here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or weighed down by past experiences? Do you find yourself repeating patterns you’re ready to break—or struggling to cope with daily stress, trauma, or emotional pain? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this on your own. My clients often describe me as warm, compassionate, intuitive, and deeply present. They’ve said things like, "She helps me think in ways I never have before," and "Working with Tanya has been life-changing—it saved my life." What sets my approach apart is the strong, trusting connection I build with my clients. That therapeutic bond is the foundation of the meaningful work we’ll do together. I take an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy—drawing from multiple evidence-based methods to tailor your care to your unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, and Schema Therapy, among others. Our work together will focus on: Gaining insight into patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you Learning healthy ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma Building resilience and emotional regulation skills Processing pain and fostering healing in a safe, nonjudgmental space Creating sustainable change for a more empowered, fulfilling life Therapy can be life-changing—and it starts with a conversation. I’d be honored to support you on your path toward healing and growth.

Joleen Espinal

Joleen Espinal, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hey, I’m Joleen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the co-founder of CJ Counseling. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who are navigating anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply ready for growth, I’m here to support you in finding clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.

Mercedes Harrison

Mercedes Harrison, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience as School Counselor. I have great deal of experiences working with multiple populations from all walks of life. I collaborate with my clients to help them address their challenges and find their own inner strength! We address challenges like anxiety, mood, stress, adjustment challenges, anger management, conflict resolution, self-expression, goal setting, traumatic experiences, isolation, coping skills, emotion management, and family/peer relationship

Laura Schwades

Laura Schwades, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome!! I’m Laura Schwades, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. If you are reading this, it likely means you are going through something difficult, and I want you to know that you are not alone. Whether you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in sadness, or trying to make sense of past trauma or substance use, I see your courage in looking for support. It takes strength to ask for help, and I truly honor that step. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who are navigating these very challenges. I understand how heavy life can feel at times and how hard it can be to open up, especially when you are unsure if anyone will truly listen or understand. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and never judged; a space where we can talk openly and work together to help you find clarity, confidence, and healing. I will meet you where you are, and together we will build tools that help you manage emotions, understand yourself more deeply, and create meaningful change in your life. Whether you are just starting out or have tried therapy before, this is your space, and I am here to help guide you through it. You do not have to carry it all alone. Healing takes time. But it starts with a single step, and I would be honored to be part of that journey with you. If you are ready to talk, I invite you to reach out. I am here when you are ready.

Katie Allen

(she/her)

Katie Allen, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Katie, a Licensed Clinical Social. Helping and supporting others has been a driving factor in my life; therefore, I began my career as a teacher. My education and experience in the classroom greatly influenced me; however, I saw how difficult it is to learn when one is struggling with many emotional and mental health needs. While in graduate school, I transitioned to working with families in more of a case management role. During that time, I started noticing how the adults I worked with were often struggling and had not received the help they needed. After completing graduate school, I began working in an inpatient hospital that treats mental health and chemical dependency. After several years working with patients individually and facilitating group therapy, I transitioned to managing an intensive outpatient mental health program for senior adults. In this role, I facilitated group therapy and met with patients individually at times. I greatly enjoyed getting to know my clients and cheering alongside them as they made progress. While I value group therapy, I recognize that it is not the right fit for everyone. Therefore, I have set up a private practice to meet the needs of individuals in ways I was unable to do in previous roles. I believe change is possible and that each person has strengths and life experiences that they can draw upon to help themselves move forward. My passion is helping clients utilize what they already have, learn additional tools for coping, and develop healthier ways of thinking.

Casey Thomas

(they/them)

Casey Thomas, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMHC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I began my professional career in 2005 working as a caseworker helping children and families maintain safe and healthy environments as well as financial stability. Since then I have completed masters degrees in counselor education and clinical counseling and was first licensed as a professional counselor in 2014. I'm currently credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida.

Chris Merritt

Chris Merritt, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and major life transitions. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps, therapy can be a place to make sense of where you are and begin creating meaningful change. While I work with a diverse range of clients, I often support professionals facing career-related stress, burnout, or difficult decisions, as well as individuals seeking clarity in the midst of complex relationships or life transitions.

Anthony Lewis

Anthony Lewis, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMHC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Anthony. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling and Human Services, with an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, and hold a Bachelor's in Psychology. I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Crisis Prevention Intervention, and serve as a Crisis Intervention Trainer. My journey in mental health has equipped me with the skills to support diverse populations dealing with complex issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, self-care, relational issues, family issues, parenting, goal achievement, and persistent mental illness. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working as a child protection therapist assisting families in the judicial system, and as a mobile crisis clinician and crisis program supervisor throughout rural Colorado. In my private practice, I've worked with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, utilizing an eclectic style of therapy that blends life experience with established theory. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, respectful, and dignified environment where you can feel supported while being encouraged and challenged to grow toward your goals. I have a strong passion for mental health and helping others. My goal is to provide an environment characterized by safety, respect, dignity, and support while also encouraging and challenging people to keep growing toward their goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or need support as a military veteran, I'm here to help. I also offer SonderMind Video Telehealth for those who prefer or require remote sessions. If you're ready to take the next step in your journey, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work towards achieving your goals and improving your well-being.

Wanda Barnes

(she/her)

Wanda Barnes, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
20 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Wanda Barnes, I am a licensed mental health therapist LMHC in Florida and a licensed professional counselor (LPC), in the State of Maine. I started working in substance abuse at 17 years old driving the bus that took clients to AA/NA. Many years later I am still passionate about working with those who struggle with addiction of any kind or those who love them. I also worked 9 years with children and families in schools and foster care. Later I opened and operated a mental health clinic in Florida.

Lauren Buck

Lauren Buck, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a licensed mental health counselor that meets you where you are — literally and emotionally. Through secure telehealth sessions, I help adults work through anxiety, trauma, burnout, life transitions, and all the messy in-between moments. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally aware, and deeply human. No judgment. No pretense. Just real talk, real healing, and real tools you can use.

Marissa Gilbert

Marissa Gilbert, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Marissa Gilbert, and I have been practicing therapy for over ten years. I’m excited to work with you and support you on your journey of personal growth and healing. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment. I tailor my approach to therapy based on each client’s unique needs and where they are in their journey. My role is to listen, understand your concerns, and help you gain insights to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're seeking support for depression, anxiety, family issues, or self-esteem, I am here to help you grow and empower you along the way. I strive to be down-to-earth and authentic so clients feel comfortable and connected during sessions. When a client leaves saying their session felt easy or enjoyable, I know we’re making progress in the right direction.

Eyleen Gonzalez

(she her)

Eyleen Gonzalez, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, and welcome! I am License Mental Health Counselor in Florida and I’m glad you’re here. With over 15 years of experience in neuropsychological testing, diagnosis, and therapy, I am deeply committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My goal is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we’ll work toward understanding and overcoming obstacles, creating a path toward healing and fulfillment. I look forward to being part of your journey!

Christopher Turrentine

(he/him)

Christopher Turrentine, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I have extensive experience with individual therapy, working for substance use treatment centers, and working at various psychiatric hospitals. I have worked in roles including Behavioral Health Tech, Case Management, Primary Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor. I have worked with age groups ranging from young children to geriatrics. I firmly believe that in order to help someone, you have to understand them. In order to understand someone, you require personal life experience to truly understand where they are coming from. I am very passionate about what I do. People have asked me previously if I enjoy what I do. I inform them that in my perspective, this is what I "designed" to be. There is no "taking off the therapy hat" for me - this is simply who I am and my purpose. You will learn very quickly how dedicated I am to serving people. I am well-versed in both DSM-IV and DSM-5 (the manuals used to diagnose someone). I have dedicated approximately 31 years of my life to this. Many clients throughout the years told me in their words that I am the "best therapist" they ever had. I encourage you to hire me and judge for yourself. I was entered into two international honor societies (top 15% of students in the field across the span of 8 countries with a flawless 4.0 GPA). Please note: I am a licensed mental health counselor. If you are seeking medication management, you will need to book an appointment with a psychiatrist.

Olushola A. Lawal

(he/him)

Olushola A. Lawal, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Olushola Abiodun Lawal was born and raised in South Florida. He is an alumnus of Florida State University. Shola, as his friends call him, graduated from FSU with his Bachelor's of Social Work in 2013 and again with his Master's of Social Work in 2015. While a student at FSU, Shola gained an interest in the field of substance abuse, child welfare, and mental health disorders/ life coaching. As a Licensed Clinical social worker in the state of Florida, Shola has insight and understanding of the different criteria and appropriate diagnosis for an array of mental health disorders. Shola has over 5 years of experience as a Primary Therapist, case manager, and clinical care coordinator.

Amy Hutchinson

Amy Hutchinson, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
3 years of experience
Virtual
I am here to walk alongside you on your journey to heal and improve your mental health. With a warm, client-centered approach, I specialize in solution-focused therapy to help clients identify strengths, develop coping strategies, and achieve meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and fosters meaningful change and resilience in children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am also EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained and incorporate trauma-informed care into my practice, helping individuals process past experiences that may be impacting their present. My work draws on a range of evidence-based techniques tailored to each client's needs, whether they are navigating relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions.

Olivia Caser

(she/her)

Olivia Caser, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Aloha, I’m Olivia—a Licenses Mental Health Counselor, military spouse, and yogi—devoted to helping others grow, heal, and thrive. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, & families navigating a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is holistic—I consider how your mind, body, relationships, and environment all play a role in your well-being. As someone who values the whole person, I integrate evidence-based approaches with holistic practices that support emotional, mental, and physical wellness. My style is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on creating a trusting space centered around you. In our work together, you can expect to gain insight, build resilience, and develop practical tools to move through life’s challenges.

Lori Wilson

(she/her)

Lori Wilson, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
33 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed graduate work at Syracuse University and have been practicing for over 30 years, the last 8 being in Florida. I enjoy teaching (and practicing) coping skills for stress, anxiety and depression. Everyone's journey is different and I see myself as respectfully accompanying them on their own journey, reflecting on experiences along the way.

Nicholas Kolos

(he/him)

Nicholas Kolos, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello my name is Nicholas Kolos. I am a licensed mental health counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist. I love my profession and look forward to helping my clients achieve their individual goals. I get excited when I see clients with unrealized potential and then help them become the best version of themselves! I love to help those who are struggling in their personal or work relationships learn how to better communicate their needs and improve the quality of those relationships! I tailor my treatment plans to best help each individual case achieve success!

Sandra Litchmore

Sandra Litchmore, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-QS) with over 10 years of experience helping teens and adults feel more grounded, confident, and empowered. Originally from New York and rooted in Caribbean culture, I've lived in Central Florida for several years and proudly serve clients across this community through different walks of life. My approach is honest, collaborative, and a little lighthearted when it fits. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a real conversation, not a clinical checklist. I’ll meet you where you are, help you recognize what’s already working, and support you in building the changes you want to see. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), DBT skills, and trauma-informed care into a style that’s relatable, supportive, and focused on progress, not perfection. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, identity questions, or just trying to keep it together (when you feel everything is falling apart). I’m here to walk alongside you, judgment-free.

Kate Jaramillo

Kate Jaramillo, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with nearly 15 years of experience working with youth, adolescents, adults, and families to improve their mental health. I specialize in addressing issues related to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I earned my Master's degree Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University. I also completed a certification in loss and healing and a certification in trauma as well as two additional years of post-graduate study, passed the advanced national clinical board, and gained my professional license in the state of Florida afterward. I have chosen to continue my education by taking hundreds of hours of additional courses in the neurobiology of trauma, grief and loss, abuse recovery, child development, parenting, and communication. We all encounter obstacles in our lives. I am confident that I will be able to assist you on this journey providing you with enlightenment and new techniques that will enable you to be able to cope with whatever challenges or obstacles you may be facing in life. If you are wanting to embark on this new journey, schedule an appointment with me today!

Colette Biondi

(she/her)

Colette Biondi, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
40 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) located in Ocala, Florida. I recieved my Masters degree from the University at Bufallo in the Sate of New York. I've been practcing for 40 years and work with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety and depression. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, active listening and support to help clients gain coping skills and independence. Everyone deserves to become the best version of themselves, feel good and make healthy decisions.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Florida rather than a city like Tampa?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Florida from Miami to Jacksonville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Florida.

Will my therapist take Surest (formerly Bind)?

Yes! If you use Surest (formerly Bind) you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Surest (formerly Bind) you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.