Therapists in Jacksonville, FL
As a dedicated and compassionate professional, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and uncover the strength within themselves to grow and heal. With a background in substance abuse and social work, I offer a collaborative and empathetic approach to therapy, working with clients to explore the roots of their struggles while fostering resilience and self-discovery. I specialize in substance abuse, anxiety, & depression and use evidence-based practices, such as Recovery Dynamics & CBT, to help clients achieve meaningful change in their lives.
As a dedicated and compassionate professional, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and uncover the strength within themselves to grow and heal. With a background in substance abuse and social work, I offer a collaborative and empathetic approach to therapy, working with clients to explore the roots of their struggles while fostering resilience and self-discovery. I specialize in substance abuse, anxiety, & depression and use evidence-based practices, such as Recovery Dynamics & CBT, to help clients achieve meaningful change in their lives.
The journey to effective change begins where you are; and realizing this is only one chapter of your life; you have the choice how your future chapters are written. I truly believe real change is achieved when you recognize and accept your current situation, "It Is What It Is" (often a mixture of comfort/discontent). Our journey begins by identifying and utilizing your strengths as building blocks for change. My goal is to help you embrace and work through your struggle, be it mood/emotion, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, or simply identifying and cultivating a deeper happiness in life.
The journey to effective change begins where you are; and realizing this is only one chapter of your life; you have the choice how your future chapters are written. I truly believe real change is achieved when you recognize and accept your current situation, "It Is What It Is" (often a mixture of comfort/discontent). Our journey begins by identifying and utilizing your strengths as building blocks for change. My goal is to help you embrace and work through your struggle, be it mood/emotion, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, or simply identifying and cultivating a deeper happiness in life.
My ideal clients are adults who are tired of feeling disconnected — from their partners, from their own bodies, or from a sense of sexuality that feels healthy and free. They come to me carrying shame they never chose, questions they have never felt safe asking, and a quiet longing for something more. Many are couples struggling to feel close again. Others are individuals healing from trauma, exploring their identity, or navigating the tension between their culture or faith and who they truly are. I help them move forward by creating a space that is honest, affirming, and free of judgment — where real healing can begin.
My ideal clients are adults who are tired of feeling disconnected — from their partners, from their own bodies, or from a sense of sexuality that feels healthy and free. They come to me carrying shame they never chose, questions they have never felt safe asking, and a quiet longing for something more. Many are couples struggling to feel close again. Others are individuals healing from trauma, exploring their identity, or navigating the tension between their culture or faith and who they truly are. I help them move forward by creating a space that is honest, affirming, and free of judgment — where real healing can begin.
I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts/feelings/behaviors without judgement. My approach is client-centered, focusing on understanding each person's unique experiences and working collaboratively to develop practical strategies for growth and healing. With experience in Anxiety/Mood Disorders/Trauma/Life transitions/Relationships/Substance abuse, I offer a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to meet your individual needs. I like to help clients develop self-awareness, build resilience, and cultivate healthy patterns of thinking and behavior.
I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts/feelings/behaviors without judgement. My approach is client-centered, focusing on understanding each person's unique experiences and working collaboratively to develop practical strategies for growth and healing. With experience in Anxiety/Mood Disorders/Trauma/Life transitions/Relationships/Substance abuse, I offer a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to meet your individual needs. I like to help clients develop self-awareness, build resilience, and cultivate healthy patterns of thinking and behavior.
Hello, I am a clinical social worker who has practiced in multiple setting over the last 18 years and I value the experience of creating trust, empathy and understand in the treatment process. I want each person to feel seen and heard. I believe that healing happens when someone has that experience. I want you to be curious about yourself. It is important to me that you find a way show-up for yourself and others with grace and compassion.
Hello, I am a clinical social worker who has practiced in multiple setting over the last 18 years and I value the experience of creating trust, empathy and understand in the treatment process. I want each person to feel seen and heard. I believe that healing happens when someone has that experience. I want you to be curious about yourself. It is important to me that you find a way show-up for yourself and others with grace and compassion.
Being a mom can be beautiful, and brutally overwhelming. If you’re carrying invisible weight while trying to hold everything (and everyone) together, you’re not alone. Hi, I'm Olivia Lauzon, LCSW/LICSW and Certified Perinatal Mental Health provider. I specialize in working with mothers navigating trauma, anxiety, burnout, and the deep identity shifts that come with parenthood. Whether your trauma is recent or rooted in childhood, becoming a mom has a way of bringing it to the surface. The sleepless nights, the mental load, the pressure to “do it all,” it can stir up old wounds in ways no one prepared you for.
Being a mom can be beautiful, and brutally overwhelming. If you’re carrying invisible weight while trying to hold everything (and everyone) together, you’re not alone. Hi, I'm Olivia Lauzon, LCSW/LICSW and Certified Perinatal Mental Health provider. I specialize in working with mothers navigating trauma, anxiety, burnout, and the deep identity shifts that come with parenthood. Whether your trauma is recent or rooted in childhood, becoming a mom has a way of bringing it to the surface. The sleepless nights, the mental load, the pressure to “do it all,” it can stir up old wounds in ways no one prepared you for.
McKenzi Rae Shelpman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, NPT-C
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Not accepting new clients
Life can be unpredictable and difficult to navigate alone. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure how to process what’s coming up for you. My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your emotions, better understand yourself, and feel supported while building tools to manage life’s challenges and move forward with confidence.
Life can be unpredictable and difficult to navigate alone. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure how to process what’s coming up for you. My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your emotions, better understand yourself, and feel supported while building tools to manage life’s challenges and move forward with confidence.
Dr. Absar Tahir is an adult psychiatrist double-boarded in psychiatry and internal medicine who specializes in evidence-based, holistic, and individualized care. He graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees. Dr. Tahir completed sequential residency training in both internal medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota followed by psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Absar Tahir is an adult psychiatrist double-boarded in psychiatry and internal medicine who specializes in evidence-based, holistic, and individualized care. He graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees. Dr. Tahir completed sequential residency training in both internal medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota followed by psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, low self-esteem, unresolved trauma, grief, or relationship challenges, and often feels emotionally overwhelmed or “stuck,” yet genuinely wants change. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and emotions, along with validation, practical coping tools, and support in recognizing patterns and triggers. Their goals include emotional stability, clearer communication, healthier boundaries, stronger relationships, healing from past pain, and greater self-trust. What they truly want is relief from distress, deeper connection, and empowere
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, low self-esteem, unresolved trauma, grief, or relationship challenges, and often feels emotionally overwhelmed or “stuck,” yet genuinely wants change. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and emotions, along with validation, practical coping tools, and support in recognizing patterns and triggers. Their goals include emotional stability, clearer communication, healthier boundaries, stronger relationships, healing from past pain, and greater self-trust. What they truly want is relief from distress, deeper connection, and empowere
Suffering is a universal part of the human experience and navigating it alone only makes it harder...that's where I come in.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just stuck, therapy can help you find clarity, healing, and hope. You don’t have to be in a full blown crisis to benefit…sometimes it’s just about recognizing you aren’t loving the way things are going right now. Our sessions will be a confidential space to be real, be heard, and begin to feel better.
Suffering is a universal part of the human experience and navigating it alone only makes it harder...that's where I come in.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just stuck, therapy can help you find clarity, healing, and hope. You don’t have to be in a full blown crisis to benefit…sometimes it’s just about recognizing you aren’t loving the way things are going right now. Our sessions will be a confidential space to be real, be heard, and begin to feel better.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to heal, grow and better understand themselves, even if they are unsure where to begin. Whether you are feeling over whelmed, emotionally stuck, struggling in relationships, or simply carrying the weight of life's challenges, therapy can provide support and direction. Together, we work toward identifying core concerns, building healthy coping strategies, and creating meaningful lasting change.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to heal, grow and better understand themselves, even if they are unsure where to begin. Whether you are feeling over whelmed, emotionally stuck, struggling in relationships, or simply carrying the weight of life's challenges, therapy can provide support and direction. Together, we work toward identifying core concerns, building healthy coping strategies, and creating meaningful lasting change.
You're the one who notices the empty water glass before anyone asks, who texts to check in, who has the plan ready before the question is asked. You're the strong one who anticipates every need before it's even spoken, and people lean on that. Then the room empties, the day goes quiet, and a smaller question surfaces: who is actually looking out for you? Somewhere under the years of being reliable, your own identity started to feel like a blurred reflection. There's a persistent, hollow ache that comes from putting yourself last, and lately you've been wondering what it would mean to put yourself somewhere near the front.
You're the one who notices the empty water glass before anyone asks, who texts to check in, who has the plan ready before the question is asked. You're the strong one who anticipates every need before it's even spoken, and people lean on that. Then the room empties, the day goes quiet, and a smaller question surfaces: who is actually looking out for you? Somewhere under the years of being reliable, your own identity started to feel like a blurred reflection. There's a persistent, hollow ache that comes from putting yourself last, and lately you've been wondering what it would mean to put yourself somewhere near the front.
Tamir Shabazz
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MS
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Life can throw all kinds of challenges our way, leaving us feeling stressed, anxious, or just plain down. When things get tough, it helps to have someone to speak with who gets it and can help you make sense of it all. I understand the weight of feeling misunderstood or disconnected from the world around you. Sometimes, it feels like no one sees or hears you, but I’m here to listen, to support, and to walk with you as you figure it out. Together, we can uncover your strengths and navigate the tough spots with clarity and confidence.
Life can throw all kinds of challenges our way, leaving us feeling stressed, anxious, or just plain down. When things get tough, it helps to have someone to speak with who gets it and can help you make sense of it all. I understand the weight of feeling misunderstood or disconnected from the world around you. Sometimes, it feels like no one sees or hears you, but I’m here to listen, to support, and to walk with you as you figure it out. Together, we can uncover your strengths and navigate the tough spots with clarity and confidence.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life’s challenges but is motivated to make meaningful changes. They may be navigating stress, relationship concerns, identity questions, or symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. What they share in common is a desire to understand themselves better, build healthier patterns, and move toward a life that feels more stable and fulfilling. My ideal client seeks a space where they feel understood, respected, and empowered to set goals that align with their values.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life’s challenges but is motivated to make meaningful changes. They may be navigating stress, relationship concerns, identity questions, or symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. What they share in common is a desire to understand themselves better, build healthier patterns, and move toward a life that feels more stable and fulfilling. My ideal client seeks a space where they feel understood, respected, and empowered to set goals that align with their values.
Hi there! My name is Nikki Messer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. At the heart of my practice, my goal is to help you experience healing and growth as you regain a life worth living. I support adults and teens living with the challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, past trauma, and life transitions. My approach is person-centered; therefore, your individual needs and goals are used to determine my therapeutic interventions. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Hi there! My name is Nikki Messer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. At the heart of my practice, my goal is to help you experience healing and growth as you regain a life worth living. I support adults and teens living with the challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, past trauma, and life transitions. My approach is person-centered; therefore, your individual needs and goals are used to determine my therapeutic interventions. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Hi! I am Nyasha Poitier, I received my master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2014. I have been servicing clients for 14 years and in private practice for 8 years. You've made a very courageous step for yourself! I believe the client is the expert of their lives; in therapy, I am here to serve as a guide to help you explore your deepest thoughts and feelings while providing you with a safe and non-judgmental space.
Hi! I am Nyasha Poitier, I received my master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2014. I have been servicing clients for 14 years and in private practice for 8 years. You've made a very courageous step for yourself! I believe the client is the expert of their lives; in therapy, I am here to serve as a guide to help you explore your deepest thoughts and feelings while providing you with a safe and non-judgmental space.
My mission is to provide culturally sensitive counseling services to adults and children that meet their unique individual needs including healthy relationships with themselves and others to promote healing from various life traumas. I commend you for taking this courageous step toward healing and personal growth. I would like to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more satisfied you.
My mission is to provide culturally sensitive counseling services to adults and children that meet their unique individual needs including healthy relationships with themselves and others to promote healing from various life traumas. I commend you for taking this courageous step toward healing and personal growth. I would like to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more satisfied you.
I offer safe and accessible telehealth - virtual counseling sessions. Even positive transitions can be challenging, hard to understand, or embarrassing to discuss. School transitions, career changes, divorce, domestic violence, parenting differences, personal loss, dating issues, or other life transitions can sometimes seem overwhelming. Because of these changes, you may feel angry, confused, sad, conflicted, or alone. I am here for you, to help you develop skills to cope with life’s changes.
I offer safe and accessible telehealth - virtual counseling sessions. Even positive transitions can be challenging, hard to understand, or embarrassing to discuss. School transitions, career changes, divorce, domestic violence, parenting differences, personal loss, dating issues, or other life transitions can sometimes seem overwhelming. Because of these changes, you may feel angry, confused, sad, conflicted, or alone. I am here for you, to help you develop skills to cope with life’s changes.
I am a psychotherapist with 14 years in private practice, seeing families, individuals and couples. I have dual master's degrees in both mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Since 2010 I have been providing holistic care from both CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and Jungian traditions. Holistic health is an approach to wellness that simultaneously addresses the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual components of health. The goals include integration, stability, hope and even joy.
I am a psychotherapist with 14 years in private practice, seeing families, individuals and couples. I have dual master's degrees in both mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Since 2010 I have been providing holistic care from both CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and Jungian traditions. Holistic health is an approach to wellness that simultaneously addresses the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual components of health. The goals include integration, stability, hope and even joy.
I work with individuals seeking support through stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Clients often come to therapy when they feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or want support in creating healthier patterns and improving their emotional well-being. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach, helping clients identify strengths, develop practical coping strategies, gain insight, and build the confidence and resilience needed to create meaningful and lasting change.
I work with individuals seeking support through stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Clients often come to therapy when they feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or want support in creating healthier patterns and improving their emotional well-being. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach, helping clients identify strengths, develop practical coping strategies, gain insight, and build the confidence and resilience needed to create meaningful and lasting change.
See more therapy options for Jacksonville
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Jacksonville, FL
2,000+
Average cost per session
$129
Therapists in Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Social Anxiety |
| 92% | Health Anxiety |
| 92% | Driving Anxiety |
| 86% | Depression |
| 72% | Self Esteem |
| 67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 91% | Aetna |
| 85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 64% | Optum |
How Therapists in Jacksonville, FL see their clients
| 56% | Online Only | |
| 44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 83% | Female | |
| 16% | Male | |
| 1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Jacksonville?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


