1. Jacksonville Therapy
Credentials: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and practice owner with extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
Specialization: Anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship challenges, major life events, inner child work, life coaching.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI). Humanistic foundation with Judeo-Christian values available upon request.
Populations Served: Motivated individuals and couples ready for change. Adults seeking individual therapy and couples counseling.
Background: Therapist shows up as authentic self, valuing trust, connection, and comfort between client and therapist as essential to therapeutic relationship. Genuine, compassionate, non-judgmental approach with honest feedback.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: Remote counseling services via telehealth. Specializing in providing therapy from the comfort of client’s own space.
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Contact: https://www.jacksonvilletherapy.com
Initial Consultation: Contact through website to learn about services and schedule appointment.
2. Thriveworks Jacksonville
Credentials: Team of licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatric professionals including Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ concerns, anger management, stress management, insomnia.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, strength-based approaches.
Populations Served: Adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Military and veteran populations. Women’s issues specialty available.
Background: Multi-location practice with team of diverse professionals. Therapists include veterans and professionals with varied backgrounds including nursing, education, and mental health counseling.
Insurance Accepted: Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, Florida Blue/BCBS, United Healthcare/Optum, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). Accepts GatorCare Insurance.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Jacksonville office and telehealth services available.
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Contact: (904) 567-7203 | https://thriveworks.com/jacksonville-therapy/
Initial Consultation: Schedule first appointment by phone. Practice aims to provide same-day or next-day appointments when possible.
3. Elite DNA Behavioral Health Jacksonville
Credentials: Team of licensed therapists and psychiatric professionals providing comprehensive mental health care.
Specialization: Stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, mental health diagnoses requiring psychiatric evaluation and medication management.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, couples therapy. Full spectrum of psychotherapy and psychiatric services.
Populations Served: Adults and adolescents seeking therapy or psychiatric care. Patients in Jacksonville and nearby areas.
Background: Practice offers full spectrum of psychotherapy and psychiatric services recognizing that mental health care often requires more than one approach. Care plans developed 1:1 with compassionate professionals.
Insurance Accepted: Full list of payment types and insurances accepted available on website. Strives to make care accessible and affordable.
Session Format: Both telehealth and in-person services available at Jacksonville location.
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Contact: https://elitedna.com/locations/jacksonville/
Initial Consultation: Call to speak with New Patient Liaison and schedule psychiatric consultation or therapy appointment.
4. Deborah M. Baker Counseling
Credentials: Deborah M. Baker, PhD, Florida Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 30+ years of experience in counseling and psychotherapy.
Specialization: Anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders.
Therapy Approaches: Evidence-based counseling and psychotherapy approaches tailored to individual needs.
Populations Served: Adults and individuals with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.
Background: BA in Psychology from Jacksonville University. MA in Counseling Psychology from University of North Florida. Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. Over three decades of clinical experience.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person and telehealth sessions available.
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Contact: Contact through Psychology Today or practice website.
Initial Consultation: Contact practice to discuss concerns and schedule initial session.
5. Connected Counseling Community Center PLLC
Credentials: Licensed professional counselor and practice founder with over 40 years of dedicated service to military families, veterans, and diverse communities.
Specialization: Trauma, military and veteran mental health, anxiety, depression, life transitions, crisis intervention.
Therapy Approaches: Evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Experience establishing counseling centers in both military and civilian settings.
Populations Served: Military families, veterans, and diverse communities. Adults and families navigating trauma and life challenges.
Background: Reputation for excellence and rapid recovery built over four decades. Experience serving as expert witness in civilian and military courts. Established counseling centers in military and civilian settings.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person and telehealth services available.
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Contact: Contact through practice website or directory listings.
Initial Consultation: Reach out to discuss therapeutic needs and begin work with experienced counselor.
Mental Health Industry in Florida
Average Therapy Session Costs
Individual therapy sessions in Jacksonville range from $115 to $155 per session for standard therapy, though rates can vary based on therapist credentials, specialization, and session duration. Licensed therapists typically charge $100 to $175 per session. Licensed Psychologists with doctoral degrees generally charge $150 to $250 per session. Psychiatrists may charge $200 to $400 for sessions including medication management. Jacksonville therapy costs are generally lower than South Florida metropolitan areas.
State Licensing Requirements for Psychologists
To practice as a licensed psychologist in Florida, professionals must complete a doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD, or EdD in psychology) from an APA-accredited program. Candidates must accumulate 4,000 hours of supervised professional experience, with the doctoral-level internship satisfying the first 2,000 hours and the remaining 2,000 hours completed as postdoctoral residency or fellowship. Two examinations are required: the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with a passing score, and the Florida Laws and Rules Examination. The Florida Board of Psychology administers licensure with biennial renewal. License renewal requires 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including 3 hours in ethics, 2 hours in prevention of medical errors, and domestic violence training every third renewal period.
Telehealth Regulations
Florida permits licensed psychologists to provide telehealth services to clients located within the state. Florida is a member of PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), allowing psychologists with E.Passport credentials to practice telepsychology across member states. Out-of-state providers can register as telehealth providers to serve Florida clients under certain conditions.
Mental Health Parity Laws
Florida law requires health insurers to provide coverage for mental health conditions. The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) applies to group health plans. Florida’s Mental Health Parity Act requires insurers to provide coverage for biologically-based mental illnesses.
Professional Organizations
The Florida Psychological Association (FPA) represents psychologists statewide, offering continuing education, advocacy, and professional resources. The Northeast Florida Psychological Association serves the Jacksonville area with local networking.
Workforce Availability and Wait Times
Jacksonville has a growing mental health workforce with licensed professionals averaging 9.2 years of experience. Wait times for new patients typically range from one to four weeks depending on the provider, specialty, and insurance acceptance. The city’s fast-paced port and growing tech sector have increased demand for mental health services.
Common Mental Health Concerns
In Jacksonville, commonly treated conditions include anxiety (with approximately 85% of therapists treating anxiety disorders), depression (82%), stress-related concerns (67%), trauma (41%), and relationship issues (38%). Hurricane season concerns and pressures of urban living contribute to stress and mental health challenges.
State-Funded Mental Health Resources
Florida Department of Children and Families manages community mental health services. Lutheran Services Florida Health Systems serves as the Managing Entity for mental health services in Northeast Florida, including Jacksonville. Crisis services and community mental health programs are available for residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of therapy without insurance in Jacksonville?
Therapy sessions in Jacksonville generally cost between $115 and $155 per session for licensed therapists, though rates can vary based on credentials and specialization. Many Jacksonville practices accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, or provide payment plans. Community mental health centers also offer affordable options for those with financial constraints.
How do I find a therapist who accepts my insurance in Jacksonville?
Many Jacksonville therapists accept various insurance plans including Florida Blue/BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare. When browsing therapist profiles, look for insurance information or contact therapists directly to verify coverage. Some therapists offer superbill services for out-of-network reimbursement. Practices like Thriveworks have dedicated insurance coordinators who can check your specific plan details.
Are there therapists in Jacksonville who specialize in military and veteran mental health?
Yes, Jacksonville has a significant population of military families and veterans due to Naval Air Station Jacksonville, and many therapists specialize in military-related issues. Connected Counseling Community Center has over 40 years of experience serving military families and veterans. Thriveworks Jacksonville also has therapists experienced with military and veteran populations.
What therapy approaches are most common for anxiety treatment in Jacksonville?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most widely used evidence-based approach for anxiety treatment in Jacksonville. Many therapists also utilize EMDR for trauma-related anxiety, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Mindfulness techniques and relaxation training are often integrated into treatment plans.
How long does it typically take to see results from therapy?
The time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. For anxiety disorders, CBT is considered short-term therapy typically lasting 12-20 sessions. More complex issues may require longer treatment. Many Jacksonville therapists develop measurable goals to track progress throughout treatment.