When it comes to finding a therapist, Buffalo, NY has options, but it isn’t so simple to find the therapist that’s right for you, even in a big city. Treatment methods vary, and even evidence-based practices may be more effective on some mental health conditions than others. A therapist who specializes in the therapeutic method that works best for you may not be available in your area. Or may not be a good personality match. 

Online therapy through a service platform like BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed mental health care providers who specialize in treating a variety of conditions from obsessive compulsive disorder to post-traumatic stress disorder. By simply filling out a simple online questionnaire BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your personal needs. And because a strong therapeutic relationship can be key to your success, if for any reason you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, you can switch for no additional cost. 

Online therapy can also be a convenient solution for busy professionals, parents, or students. Sessions fit easily into any schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Therapy can help you to process past experiences, manage worry and stress, and establish a foundation for mental health and happiness. If you have been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, whether to find relief from trauma in your history, learn healthy coping strategies to manage stress and heal relationships, or simply to take a more holistic focus on your health and wellness, contact BetterHelp to get started with a licensed professional who can help you build the life you deserve. 

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Colleen Canfield-Smith

Offering therapy in NY
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
21 years of experience

I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can explore the issues and challenges they face. I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic partnership to help uncover the strengths and resources we all possess in order to bring about the changes we desire in our lives. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I have always been a “helper” and over the years have worked in a variety of capacities in schools, hospitals, community service agencies, primary care offices, and as a mother to three children and two big dogs. I believe that each role has helped me to better understand the issues my clients face in their own lives. I hold a Master’s degree in counseling psychology from Boston College, as well as a Certifications in Integrated Behavioral Health for both Pediatrics and Primary Care. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and strength-based therapy to help my clients deal with life changes, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, and job stress, to name a few. I believe in using humor, relaxation training, and mindfulness techniques to help my clients as we work together to reach their goals. I fully believe that my clients are the expert on determining their needs and guiding their work.

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Elizabeth Kotkin

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMFT
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

My name is Beth Kotkin. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in New York and California with more than 30 years experience. I spent half of my career in the San Francisco Bay area, working with families impacted by alcohol and drug issues, as well as trauma survivors and those with depression and anxiety disorders. I also specialize in inner child work and those who struggle with codependency and family of origin issues. I trained with John Bradshaw and designed and directed one of his programs in the Bay Area. I moved back to my home town of NYC in 2009 and have been working with clients in New York since then. I would describe my approach as warm, empathic and collaborative. I will listen to your needs in a nonjudgemental atmosphere, and tailor my approach to meet what works for you individually. I utilize a motivational approach with an emphasis on finding mutually agreed-upon goals and solutions. I am focused on providing counseling to individuals and families who are touched by alcohol, drug or other addictive problems. I also specialize in treatment for abuse and trauma survivors. I have experience with adults in a supportive strength-based trauma-informed approach. My specialties include depression, grief, anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse and recovery, codependency, survivors of abuse and trauma, and healing the inner child.

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Marissa Boscia-Wittekind

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC,CASAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to make progress towards your goals. I encourage you to be honest with me about your needs so that your experience is productive and beneficial to your well-being. You can trust that I will be honest with you in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. I have an eclectic style, drawing on a variety of strength based techniques such as CBT, emotional regulation, and relaxation techniques. I have a warm, engaging style and my approach is collaborative, practical and solution focused. I approach each session with the understanding that the individual is the expert on themselves and that they bring a unique set of needs, goals and strengths. My belief is that my role is to help empower and guide each individual to see their potential and get “unstuck” from patterns that have not and are not working for them. My number one priority is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel supported in order to explore your experiences and challenges. That being said, our first session will be focused on building rapport. You will find yourself sharing about who you are and what has brought you to seek out therapy. We will talk about your history and background and begin to explore your initial goals.

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Saudia Garnette

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
5 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in the New York area with 5 years of experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I use evidence-based treatment modalities that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I will provide a solution-focused approach and I believe that everyone deserves a space where they feel safe, not judged, supported, and understood.

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Kaye Henry

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, & family conflicts. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Alexis James

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC,CCTHP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hey! My name is Alexis and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the states of Florida and New York. I have also held a certification as a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I have experience working with individuals throughout the lifespan. I am most passionate about working with women of color, specifically black women, but of course I am happy to offer support to any individual in need. My goal as a therapist is to find solutions that work for you on an individual basis, helping you to discover the true potential of your life, so everyday can be a celebration, and feel like a real ‘breath of fresh air.’ There may be no magic button or quick-fix solution when it comes to changing things from the past that have been difficult, but what we can do is work together to find comfort and resolve in the difficult areas of your life, and the challenges you have to face. Through various techniques and long-standing approaches with proven results, we’ll be able to figure out what behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living your best life, and finding meaning in everyday situations. My specialty areas include: anxiety, adjustment related stress, relational stress, parenting issues, and trauma. I tend to utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-based modalities, along with other theoretical orientations to guide treatment. I am easy going, excited, motivated, and truly passionate about my role as "helper". I’m a mother, wife, sister, and so much more. I enjoy traveling, shopping, and interior design. I love to watch reruns of the Office and murder mysteries. I love connecting with my clients and I look forward to speaking with you and working together! PLEASE NOTE: I AM AVAILABLE TUESDAY AND FRIDAY MORNINGS ONLY AT THIS TIME FOR LIVE CHAT SESSIONS.

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Melissa Lovell

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with seven years of experience providing therapy to a diverse group of people. I strive to provide a warm and supportive space for you to learn and grow. I value the uniqueness of those I work with, taking from a variety of therapy approaches that can be tailored to fit your needs. I also have training and experience in offering trauma informed care, as well as using both art therapy and mindfulness teachings. My focus is working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and depression. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you!

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Madison Lock

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Pamela Trifaro

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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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Julie Rose

Offering therapy in NY
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My specialty is the healing of sexual abuse trauma for women, men and teens. I am also a Christian Therapist. But work with people of all faiths. 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. 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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How to find counseling in Buffalo

Finding the best therapist close by in Buffalo 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 Buffalo. 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 Buffalo, 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo, elsewhere in Erie, or in the greater state of New York.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo may not take health insurance, some in the state of New York 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 New York 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 Buffalo, New York 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 NY, 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 14207 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo, New York 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.

Buffalo 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 Buffalo.

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

14201, 14202, 14203, 14204, 14205, 14206, 14207, 14208, 14209, 14210, 14211, 14212, 14213, 14214, 14215, 14216, 14218, 14220, 14222, 14231, 14233, 14240, 14241, 14260, 14263, 14264, 14265, 14267, 14269, 14270, 14272, 14273, 14276, 14280

Popular cities near Buffalo, NY

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