Winifred Cooke-Freeman (LCSW)

I am Licensed Clinical Social worker in the State of Florida. I have 10 years of experience working with a variety of populations including Families, people experiencing homelessness, people coping with addictions, people who have been incarcerated, Veterans, and Victims of Crime. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you likely have many strengths that will assist you in your work to attain your goals. It takes courage to seek out and make positive changes in your life. My therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused therapy, client centered therapy among others. The approach will be tailored to your needs. I am warm and empathic, and I am here to support & empower you in your journey. DISCLAIMER: BetterHelp platform does not provide written documents, therefore I am unable to provide letters or documentation for legal cases, workplace grievances, or court-related matters. As your therapist, my role is to support your mental health and well-being within the scope of therapy. FLORIDA BOARD TELEHEALTH REQUIREMENTS: The Florida mental health licensing board requires video sessions instead of phone sessions for telehealth services to ensure client safety, proper assessment, and verification of identity. Here are some key reasons behind this requirement: 1. Standard of Care – Video sessions allow therapists to observe nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanor, which are critical for accurate assessment and effective treatment. 2. Client Identification & Security – Video sessions help verify that the therapist is speaking with the correct client, reducing risks related to identity fraud or unauthorized individuals participating in therapy. 3. Ethical & Legal Considerations – Florida law requires licensed mental health professionals to maintain appropriate documentation and standards of care comparable to in-person therapy, which video conferencing helps facilitate more effectively than phone calls. 4. Crisis Management – In case of a crisis or emergency, a video session allows the therapist to assess the client’s environment, emotional state, and potential risks, providing better support and intervention if needed.