Life can sometimes feel like you're chasing after a whale. It’s giant, intimidating, and you have no idea how to chase it. Stress, life problems, and any other trouble you're facing can prevent you from finding your goal in life. This is where a counselor comes in. A New Bedford-based counselor help. 

New Bedford is known as the Whaling City. In life, we are all chasing after our own metaphorical Moby Dick, and a counselor can help you find it by giving you advice and narrowing down how you can catch it. Speak to a therapist and see how they can help. 

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Stella Breytman

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LCSW,LICSW
Relationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

SPECIALIZING IN BIPOLAR, SEXUAL ISSUES, AND RELATIONSHIP ISSUES Stella Breytman graduated from the University of New England with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Since then, she has worked with adults, adolescents, and children treating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief & loss, trauma, domestic abuse, family/couples & relationship issues, sexual issues, and spiritual exploration. Stella has worked in a supervisory role guiding other clinicians and feels comfortable seeing other therapists for treatment or supervision. Stella earned an associate’s degree in Mental Health and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. During her undergraduate program, she received extensive training on domestic abuse and trauma. Additionally, Stella is a certified AASECT sex therapist. Through her private practice, Stella offers online therapy in the state of New York, Massachusetts, Florida, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington and Ohio, focusing on helping adult individuals, couples and relationships with a wide range of challenges including but not limited to; bipolar, intimacy & communication, and sexual health concerns. Stella helps her clients by empowering them to take control of their life, helping them to better understand themselves and what drives their behavior, teaching them skills to manage their emotions and challenges in a healthy way, improving their negative thinking patterns through objective exploration, allowing them to safely explore their past and present challenges or traumas, providing them with resources to use outside of therapy, providing tools to improve and maintain healthy relationships. Stella believes that every human experience is different and everyone deserves a healing process that supports them best. Through an eclectic approach, Stella combines various forms of therapy to create a treatment plan that is customized for the individual needs of her clients. Stella has unconditional positive regard for each and every one of her clients & families. Her policy of acceptance, a strong sense of empathy, and patience in her practice creates a safe space for her clients to heal and improve their mental health. Stella’s dedication to her clients is evident in the way she presents to each session ready to listen, support and help.

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Melissa DeRosa

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Massachusetts with over five years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient psychiatric and medical hospitals with geriatic, adult, pediatric, and oncology patients. I have also worked in outpatient settings and met in-home with families. I have experience working with people facing stress, anxiety, depression, family struggles, and people going through significant life events and changes. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ+ population with gender identity and sexual orientation. I would describe myself as compassionate and warm, and encourage my clients to be in charge of their treatment. Using a strengths-based perspective, I can provide a guiding and supportive resource to help clients find their own strengths and ideas for managing their challenges. I tend to draw on some skills-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy along with other frameworks like as Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. It takes courage to reach out for help and I would be honored to be your partner in confornting those challenges. They may seem overwhelming right now but with time and effort, we can help you overcome those obstacles and learn skills to take on future ones. I look forward to speaking with you.

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Jeffrey Forget

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
32 years of experience

Hello there, my name is Jeffrey Forget (pronounced the French way, like sorbet or parfait, soft g). I have been a practicing therapist for over thirty years, having completed my graduate training at Antioch New England Graduate School in 1990. I am currently licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and New York. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings over the years, including both inpatient and outpatient work. When first meeting and getting to know a client, I strive to identify and use what might work best for that individual, couple or family, as all of us are unique. I believe that my most important job as a therapist is to try my best to understand my client...who they are, where they come from, where they want to go. Though I consider myself primarily an insight oriented psychotherapist based on my training, I am a strong believer in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Above all, I believe in the healing power of the human relationship. If we can forge a trusting, honest, and safe therapeutic alliance, we can move forward toward identified goals. I believe that lasting change is possible. I am optimistic. Be in touch, and let's talk. SPECIALITIES: Mood Disorders Adjustment Disorders Adolescence Aging Marital and relationship issues Parenting and Family matters Existential conflict

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Jennifer Tello

Offering therapy in MA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 12 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, relational challenges, AD/HD, trauma, and parenting struggles. My approach is trauma-informed, assisting in sifting through baggage that weighs us down to let go of unwanted pieces. My goal is to work with people reach their individual potential to be the best version of themselves that they can be. If that's you, then I genuinely look forward to meeting with you.

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Melinda Williams

Offering therapy in MA
GriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts and Vermont, with 20 years of professional, clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with many of life's challenges. Areas of special interest for me are: postpartum challenges and adjusting to being new parents, addiction to substances, coping with grief and building confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will make every effort to tailor the work we do to meet your specific needs. If you are new to therapy, you may have a bit of anxiety about getting started. To help, we will begin by discussing what feels like the right approach for you. No need to tackle everything all at once. We can go at a pace that feels right for you.

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Hsin-Ning (Eunice) Chiang

Offering therapy in MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Massachusetts with 22 years of experience in Professional Counseling and Christian Counseling in both English and Mandarin. I have experience in helping individual clients navigate a variety of challenges, including family conflicts, coping with grief and loss of loved ones and pets, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, career difficulties, and church issues, as well as coaching on the Christian lifestyle and facilitating spiritual breakthroughs. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and purposeful life. If you are ready to take that step with a Christian perspective, and faith-based Biblical counseling, I’d be honored to accompany you on that journey. Prayers may be offered at the end of sessions, as desired.

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Jessica Beard

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jessica Mowry

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Bernice Ruiz

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Andrew Miller

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello. My name is Andrew Miller, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychological Science At Ball State University in 2013, and my Master's of Social Work (MSW) at Indiana University of South Bend in 2016. I have 5 years of clinical experience in Northern Indiana, and received my LCSW in 2019. In 2023, I obtained my LICSW allowing me to serve clients in MA. I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling, including client-centered therapy, problem solving, empowerment approach, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, and Mindfulness. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am always eager to learn new modalities and strategies to best serve the population, and am looking to become certified in Play Therapy. I always ensure my clients are comfortable in sharing their problems without feeling judged. I am a big fan of Star Wars, Marvel comics, Disney and literature. I also enjoy learning about philosophy and spirituality. I look forward to helping you become aware of yourself, and identify helpful resources you can use to be a fully functioning member of society.

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How to find counseling in New Bedford

Finding the best therapist close by in New Bedford can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in New Bedford. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in New Bedford, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in New Bedford or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater New Bedford area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of New Bedford, elsewhere in Bristol, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the New Bedford area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed New Bedford therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in New Bedford due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in New Bedford may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Massachusetts you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in New Bedford, Massachusetts working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in New Bedford above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in New Bedford helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified New Bedford therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a New Bedford therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A New Bedford therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in MA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 02741 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a New Bedford counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A New Bedford licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in New Bedford, Massachusetts can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

New Bedford has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of New Bedford.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in New Bedford:

02740, 02741, 02742, 02744, 02745, 02746

Popular cities near New Bedford, MA

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