PuttingFamilyFirst

The therapist listings are provided by BetterHelp and we will earn a commission if you use our link - at no cost to you.

DH Portrait of Dr. Derek Hopson
Online therapist

Dr. Derek Hopson

Helping families find practical ways forward

Credentials
FL Psychologist PY7409
Experience
40 years
Licensed in
Florida
Languages
English
Format
Online sessions

About Derek

Dr. Derek Hopson focuses on family and parenting concerns alongside a broad set of issues like stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief, intimacy problems, anger, self-esteem, and coping with life changes. He has 40 years of experience as a psychologist and works in Florida as FL Psychologist PY7409.

He aims to make therapy straightforward and practical for people feeling overwhelmed by everyday problems. He has provided care in inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and independent practice.

Background and approach

That range means he has seen many kinds of situations and learns what tends to work in real life. Sessions are offered in English and he also accepts international clients. Formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging.

His style is warm, respectful, and attentive. He listens closely and adapts what he does to each person’s situation. Conversations tend to be direct and practical, focusing on steps people can take between sessions.

Dr. Hopson draws on therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. He combines these approaches to match a person’s needs, whether the focus is on mood, relationships, or managing stress.

He also has experience with issues that often affect families and caregivers, including blended-family challenges, caregiver stress, divorce and separation, and aging-related concerns. With four decades of practice, he aims to support clients as they work toward clearer choices and better day-to-day functioning.

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and take small steps toward those values. It emphasizes noticing thoughts without getting stuck in them and is often useful for anxiety, stress, and struggles with motivation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns. It often targets mood, worry, and behavior changes that get in the way of daily life.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will listen to your goals and try methods that fit your situation. That collaborative process means plans can be adjusted as needs change and progress is reviewed regularly.

Online formats make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives. Video calls let conversations feel similar to in-person sessions. Phone, live chat, and text-based messaging offer added flexibility for short check-ins or when scheduling is tight. These options help people continue work between appointments and make it simpler to access a licensed professional from different locations.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Less about arguing with difficult thoughts, more about loosening their grip and acting on what matters to you anyway. Values and committed action carry the work, which suits conversation at a distance.

Client-Centered Therapy

The direction comes from you rather than from a set programme. The therapist offers a warm, non-judgemental space to think out loud and work at your own pace. Online, this rests on the relationship rather than on being in the same room.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT looks at the link between what you think, how you feel, and what you do. You work on noticing unhelpful patterns and practising steadier responses. It suits online sessions well, because much of the work happens between appointments and can be talked through from anywhere.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does he address?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and family problems, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, parenting, anger, self esteem, bipolar concerns, and coping with life changes among others.
What is his general therapeutic approach and style?
His style is warm, respectful, and attentive. He uses direct conversation and practical steps, tailoring methods to each person’s needs.
How long has he practiced and what is his background?
He has 40 years of experience and has worked in inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, and independent practice settings.
What credentials and location are listed?
He is listed as FL Psychologist PY7409 and practices in Florida.
Which languages and international options are available?
Sessions are offered in English and he accepts international clients.
What session formats are offered?
He meets via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to provide flexible options.
How are costs handled for sessions?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.

Next step

Talk to Derek

  • Takes a few minutes
  • Nothing to set up just to look
  • Stop at any point