Mind Diagnostics is user-supported. If you buy through a link on the site, we earn a commission from BetterHelp at no cost to you. Learn More

Deborah Hilyard, LMHC

Experienced mental health professional

Provides online counseling through BetterHelp

At a glance

Deborah is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.

5.0 stars
Clients are very satisfied with Deborah. View 56 reviews
Speaks English
Offers Telehealth visits
Licensed in Florida

Recent reviews

Deborah Hilyard has been very helpful in that she has provided a safe space for me to share troubling afflictions and scenarios present in this phase of my life. experienced and wise is what I’ve needed to navigate chronic illness and starting aging in my early 60s.

Reviewed April 2024

She always makes me laugh and feel secure when we are talking. I never feel judged and I always feel understood. When I don’t understand why I am feeling a certain why, she is able to talk me through and come to conclusions on my own! She’s amazing and I love that we can have serious breakthroughs and fun moments as well!!

Reviewed November 2023

More about Deborah

  • 34 years' experience
  • Female
  • LMHC

Hi. I am Deborah K. Hilyard and have been a licensed mental health counselor for over 30 years in Florida. While I have worked in different venues during that period of time and have seen a diverse group of people from all aspects of life, we all share basic wants and needs. I completed my graduate degree in counseling at the University of Memphis in 1988 and worked in the campus career counseling office during graduate school years. I later worked for the U. S. Air Force and U. S. Navy in their family centers setting up a new transitional program for service members leaving the service and then later mental health counseling for the service members and their families. Service members and their families are under some of the greatest stress with the uncertainties in their lives, along with clinical depression when feeling as if they have no control of their lives. As might be expected there are many relationship issues with the separations that families often go through. I have worked with clients through their relationship issues, anger, anxiety and depression frequently. I have also worked with many clients with parenting issues, career challenges and work discord. I have also worked in the foster care system doing comprehensive assessments on the children, their previous and current environment and their parent(s) or guardians. My experience includes working with victims and their significant others in regards to emotional, physical and sexual abuse. The past two years I have been at Betterhelp working with issues of every kind.

My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines client centered, cognitively-behavioral, solution focused and rational-emotive counseling, although I will tailor the dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

It takes courage to seek out for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps 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!

Specialties

* Stress and Anxiety

* Relationship Issues

* Trauma and Abuse

* Depression

* Grief, loss

* PTSD

* Aging & Caregiving Issues

Specialties

Stress Anxiety Trauma and abuse Anger management Depression Coping with life changes Addictions LGBT Relationship issues Family conflicts Grief Intimacy-related issues Eating disorders Sleeping disorders Parenting issues Self esteem Career difficulties Bipolar disorder Coaching Compassion fatigue ADHD Abandonment Adoption and foster care Aging and geriatric issues Attachment issues Blended family issues Caregiver issues and stress Codependency Commitment issues Communication problems Control issues Coping with natural or human-caused disaster Dependent personality Dissociation Divorce and separation Domestic violence Eating and food-related issues Emptiness Family of origin issues Family problems Fatherhood issues Fertility issues First responder issues Forgiveness Guilt and shame Hospice and end-of-life counseling Impulsivity Infidelity Isolation / loneliness Jealousy Veteran and Armed Forces Issues Mood disorders Narcissism Obsessions, compulsions, and OCD Panic disorder and panic attacks Personality disorders Phobias Polyamory / non-monogamous relationships Postpartum depression Post-traumatic stress Prejudice and discrimination Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Self-harm Self-love Sexual assault and abuse Social anxiety and phobia Traumatic brain injury Women's issues Workplace issues Young adult issues

Treatment Approaches

  • Client-Centered Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Mindfulness Therapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Psychodynamic Therapy
  • Solution-Focused Therapy
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy

Licenses

Deborah Hilyard's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1538239991.

  • LMHC · Florida · MH4832 · Expires March 2025

About online counseling

Affordable.
Pay a low flat fee.
Convenient.
Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
Available now.
There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.

Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.

Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.

Reviews for Deborah Hilyard

All reviews have been submitted by clients after seeing the provider.

Overall rating:

5.0

56 reviews

5
4
3
2
1

Clients mention: Amazing Recommend Helpful Great Helped Supportive Thank you Listens Warm Insightful

Deborah Hilyard has been very helpful in that she has provided a safe space for me to share troubling afflictions and scenarios present in this phase of my life. experienced and wise is what I’ve needed to navigate chronic illness and starting aging in my early 60s.

Reviewed April 2024

She always makes me laugh and feel secure when we are talking. I never feel judged and I always feel understood. When I don’t understand why I am feeling a certain why, she is able to talk me through and come to conclusions on my own! She’s amazing and I love that we can have serious breakthroughs and fun moments as well!!

Reviewed November 2023

Debbie is experienced, insightful, professional, and deeply empathetic. Highly recommend.

Reviewed November 2023

Deborah takes the time that is needed to assess her patients. She asks the most insightful and seemingly simple questions that come only from years of expertise. If you tell her something, she will follow up and offer additional resources as well to help you even more. I appreciate the thought she puts into her work so much, and it’s very evident that’s it’s there.

Reviewed November 2023

Deborah has been nothing but a blessing. She has helped me through so many of my issues, and events. Would recommend her to anyone. Thank you so much!

Reviewed November 2023

Deborah is an extremely kind, understanding, patient, humorous, and insightful therapist. I’ve been doing this (trying on different therapist hats) for a very long time and she’s asked me questions no one has before that truly made me think and reflect on what I was doing. Simple questions, too but that’s so helpful because of how much I personally overthink. She also provides many resources and is an excellent listener, not passive, not aggressive, I’ve truly never met another therapist like her I’d recommend to her to anyone, really. I believe she has that much knowledge and care.

Reviewed November 2023

She really good at helping you find out what the real issue is behind your mental health issues is. She is also very good at breaking down all of the walls I've built up over the years to cope with trauma and this help me process my trauma and move through and beyond it.

Reviewed September 2023

Great listener.

Reviewed August 2023

She is absolutely the best and most amazing and supportive therapist! She truly cares about her patients and empowers me to feel confident in myself.

Reviewed August 2023

She is the best therapist! She is an expert in her field & loves to do it with a passion. She has forever changed my life & I definitely know she can help anyone !

Reviewed August 2023

I’ve only had 3 sessions with Deborah, but her warm and welcoming personality makes it so easy to open up and talk with her. Deborah is empathetic, and great at listening. Her responses are always thoughtful and intentional. I’ve never done therapy before this, so I feel beyond lucky to be matched with a wonderful therapist! Couldn’t recommend her more!

Reviewed August 2023

Deborah is exceptional at letting me express myself and go at my pace. She offers me many different ways to deal with what I am experiencing.

Reviewed July 2023

She's amazing . I'm so glad I found her.

Reviewed July 2023

If you’re in need of a kind good listener, then Deborah Hilyard is who you’ll want. My interactions with her have been productive and enjoyable. I would highly recommend her as a therapist

Reviewed June 2023

Deborah has helped me in a lot of ways, she is understanding and listens to what you need to say while goving you constructive advice. Thank you Deborah!

Reviewed June 2023

Deborah has been so helpful in getting to the root of some of my issues that I never would’ve even thought of. So knowledgeable and friendly.

Reviewed March 2023

I’m very open about what I want to talk about and I appreciate that Deborah lets me ramble through when I need to express things. She is not judgmental and she sends me things to help me through my journey to better health. I know that I am dealing with a lot of things at once, but she has been very supportive in my endeavors.

Reviewed March 2023

Deborah has a great balance of listening and advising. She listens well and gives honest, applicable advice. Very easy to talk to!

Reviewed February 2023

:)

Reviewed November 2022

She is an amazing listener, I'm happy to be paired with her. She's very helpful with suggestions.

Reviewed November 2022

Deborah is positive upbeat and encouraging. She helps me navigate my complicated life.

Reviewed November 2022

Absolutely supportive

Reviewed November 2022

She has been an angel. Very professional, and has helped me a lot in the last few months!

Reviewed September 2022

I’ve been seeing Deborah for 3 weeks now and I am very happy with my experience with her. Her presence is calm and inviting. She asks the right questions and makes me feel heard.

Reviewed September 2022

Deborah is very considerate and supportive. She is very funny and helps to keep sessions light-hearted as possible. This is a huge help to me because I have to laugh through it. She’s very understanding and truly listens. I love Deborah! She’s amazing!

Reviewed September 2022

Deborah has been amazing to work with. I appreciate her direct questions that dig deeper to the root of the emotion or concern.

Reviewed September 2022

Deborah has been super helpful and willing to learn new things with me about my mental health

Reviewed July 2022

She is amazing!

Reviewed May 2022

Thanks again

Reviewed April 2022

I feel heard and acknowledged. She provides helpful perspectives and “tools” to use. Helped identify triggers for future situations. I would highly recommend Deborah!

Reviewed April 2022

So far she is amazing. She hears you.. ACTUALLY HEARS YOU. She offers more than one ways to tackle any situation. I love that I can share my dark humor and not be judged.. rather laughed with.. I am so happy I tried better help one last time..

Reviewed April 2022

She’s great and flexible really appreciate her and all she does

Reviewed January 2022

Deborah is a very compassionate person. She validates my feelings and makes me feel heard. She knows how to help me put things into perspective so that i stop repetitive and maybe harmful behaviors. Shes a great listener. She is a great therapist.

Reviewed January 2022

Deborah has a superb ability to listen. She understands my issues. She is very warm and gentle. She guides me to the Healing that Im looking for. Im so Grateful that I was matched with her! Thank You Deborah! AND she ALWAYS responds to my messages!

Reviewed January 2022

She’s very kind and helpful

Reviewed January 2022

I love her! Everytime I have a session I kind of have in mind what i would like to talk about and each and every session helps me incredibly in my healing journey. I would definitely recommend her if you are battling with needing to process your feelings and act on improving your overall mood.

Reviewed December 2021

She’s excellent and I never thought this was going to change me so much!! Thank you Mrs. Deborah. You are wonderful!

Reviewed November 2021

I love Deborah she is amazing

Reviewed November 2021

Deborah takes the time to give you plenty of tips and worksheets to reinforce what is discussed in the live sessions. She has a clinical approach while making it feel like you are just having a video coffee date with a friend. She’s warm and welcoming, and she shows no judgment.

Reviewed November 2021

Deborah’s been an amazing therapist & I’m so blessed to have such an amazing soul to help me

Reviewed November 2021

I could tell immediately that Deborah was the right fit- kind, non judgmental, experienced. I’m looking forward to working on myself in future visits.

Reviewed November 2021

Deborah is a good listener and often makes suggestions based on topics covered during counseling.

Reviewed September 2021

Talking to Deb is like talking to a non-judgemental and supportive family member, I really feel like she listens attentively and is truly sincere with her replies. She's helped me to view things from different perspectives, taught me to turn negative inner dialog to a positive outlook. 10/10 I can't thank you enough Deb :)

Reviewed September 2021

Love how I feel she’s a phone call (or message) away…as to with traditional counselors you have to make list and wait til next appt. to go over w counselor. I guess you could say it’s more that I feel connected to someone who cares.

Reviewed August 2021

Deborah Hilyard makes me feel comfy and is always honest with me and so kind. I have never felt so comfortable with a therapist before. I am lucky I found her.

Reviewed August 2021

Deborah makes me feel seen and heard. She asks thoughtful questions and has positive energy. I highly recommend her!

Reviewed July 2021

Deborah has been great in helping me to find ways to deal with things that cause me anxiety and distress.

Reviewed July 2021

Deborah is amazing and as someone who has had bad experiences with therapist I highly recommend her

Reviewed July 2021

Deborah has been a tremendous source of support. My vision for the future is much brighter now.

Reviewed June 2021

Deborah is very kind and sympathetic with a comforting voice, almost like talking to a family member. After my very first session I felt relieved and became aware with her help that I was stronger than I thought I was.

Reviewed June 2021

When Deborah describes her approach as warm it's not just a line. She took what had me shaking and made me feel as comfortable as if I had done it a thousand times before. I feel more empowered towards my goals of than I have in a long time.

Reviewed June 2021

Deborah is such am amazing person. She really cares about you and she understands more than you can understand yourself. She has helped me so much. I highly recommend it.

Reviewed June 2021

Deborah is kinda and patient. She's got a sense of humour and that's helpful when discussing things that can sometimes feel awkward. I highly recommend her.

Reviewed May 2021

What a lovely person! Very helpful insights and a kind, patient approach to conversation.

Reviewed May 2021

I think Deborah is a responsive, kind and supportive person. She listens well and takes my concerns seriously. She gives me plenty of time to express myself. I like how she gives me worksheets related to my issues I present to her. I would throughly recommend her. Already after only two sessions I feel a good connection. Thank you Deborah.

Reviewed April 2021

Only two sessions but she seems to know a lot about my situation. And give me real advice.

Reviewed April 2021

How was your experience with Deborah?

Frequently asked questions

Does Deborah Hilyard offer telehealth visits?

Yes. Deborah Hilyard works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.

What language(s) does Deborah Hilyard speak?

Deborah Hilyard speaks English.

How many years of experience does Deborah Hilyard have?

Deborah Hilyard has 34 years of experience.

Where is Deborah Hilyard licensed to practice?

Deborah Hilyard is licensed to practice in Florida.

Does Deborah Hilyard accept clients outside of the United States?

No, Deborah Hilyard does not accept clients outside of the United States.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."

What treatment approaches does Deborah Hilyard offer?

Deborah Hilyard offers clients Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.

How can I communicate with Deborah Hilyard?

Deborah Hilyard can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.

How do I get started with Deborah Hilyard?

Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.

Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.

And recovery is possible.

Messaging
Live Chat
Phone
Video

When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.