Your mental health can feel like a ship. Built by the right people, it can sail the waters and triumph over the seven seas. No storm can stop it. However, if it’s built by the wrong people, the ship can sink and you're left under the sea. Who can help in this situation? One person who can is a counselor. 

An Erie-based counselor can help by making the repairs needed to your ship. Erie is known for being the flagship city, so make your own ship as strong as possible. Speak to a counselor today. 

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Dennis Curcio

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with over 15 years of experience working in Residential Treatment Facilities (RTF), private practices , and non-profits such as crisis shelters. I have worked with clients dealing with a wide range of issues to include depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, and self-esteem. I have also worked with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma to include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. While every counseling experience is unique to the individual my goal is to create and provide a safe and judgement free atmosphere where you can explore your issues and concerns. I use an eclectic approach consisting mostly of Rogerian (person-centered), Trauma Focused (Sanctuary Themes), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), and Mindfulness theories to empower clients to find answers I believe they already have to the issues they struggle with. Through therapy one can improve self-management and self-awareness skills to make life's difficulties more manageable. My role as your therapist will be to empower you to open the door to personal growth and new possibilities in all areas of your life. You can expect the first few sessions to be a time of rapport and trust building. After that, we will create a treatment plan of goals that will focus on your therapeutic process in supporting you to achieve what you feel inspired to do. I know it can be difficult to take the first steps towards healing and growth in one's life. If you feel as if you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support you through the process and hopefully to help you realize that on the other side of life's obstacles is a life you deserve to be living. I look forward to working with you!

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Benjamin Shoch

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepression
8 years of experience

Hi I'm Ben. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been a counselor since I graduated from school in 2015. I have worked with children experiencing behavioral problems, teenagers and adults with substance use disorders, and people of all ages with concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, developmental trauma, and OCD. I have worked as a counselor in an outpatient mental health agency, outpatient drug and alcohol clinic, university, and outpatient private practice. I have particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and people experiencing problems related to drugs and alcohol. My counseling style is eclectic. I use a variety of counseling techniques and approaches when I am working with a client. The approach I take and techniques I use depend on what the client needs and what is the best fit for them. Some of the techniques I frequently utilize come from Experiential, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Person-Centered Therapy. I am a very easy-going person. I am very approachable and easy to talk to. I have a good sense of humor and use this in my work with client's when appropriate. I look forward to meeting you if you decide to have me as your therapist.

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Marlena O'Kane, NCC

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hello. I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step to reach out through BetterHelp and choosing us to start the next chapter of your journey. Whether you are seeking hope, healing or support, I feel privileged to provide the safe space for you to do so . Counseling is about finding a therapist who truly listens. If you are ready to be heard, you've come to the right place. I have my Master's Degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I also hold a school counseling certification, and I am a national certified counselor. I have been in the field for 16 years now working with a variety of populations from children to adults. As a licensed therapist, I focus on Cognitive Behavioral techniques. If this sounds like jargon, it's ok! You only need to approach therapy with your authentic self, and I will do the same. I have worked with people struggling with sadness and depression, addiction, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, anger, relationships, grief, eating disorders, phobias and parenting; just to name a few. It’s my objective to support you in reaching your goals at your own pace. I’m here to facilitate personal growth when you are feeling like it might not be reachable. My goal is to allow you to feel safe, supported and challenged, yet empowered. I will listen, guide and support you to be the best version of yourself you can be! Whether you decide to work with me or another therapist, I am proud of your strength for getting to this step and I wish you health and happiness moving forward. Please reach out if you feel that I could be helpful to you!

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Vanessa Martin

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist with over 8 years of experience working with individuals who experiences grief, trauma, emotional struggle, and stress. I have worked with clients who have challenges concerning anxiety, depression, intimate partner, violence, relationship issues, sobriety challenges, parenting issues, and career struggles to name a few. I also helped many who struggle with discovering who they are among the many roles/relationships they engage in. My passion is to help others. My joy is to be a part of their journey. Individuals, couples, and families rich, with diversity, traditions, and discovery make the journey that much richer. Therapy is an investment in yourself and self-care is the cornerstone of the investment. I like to build relationships of transparency, safety, and trust within the therapeutic alliance. Discovering innate and building coping skills is a part process to be realized in therapy. My focus as a therapist is to assist clients in feeling supported as they discover the prescription for their own healing. My therapy style is adaptive, and interactive and centers on encouraging the development of self-care and accountability in establishing yourself as a priority in your own life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-education, and rational-emotive therapy through a strength-based lens. I will tailor our interaction to meet your specific needs and self-expressed goals and outcome. I appreciate the challenge of deciding to create change in your life. The best thing about therapy is you will not have to travel the road toward change alone. Congratulations on living your best life!

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Dr. William Conti

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Hawaii, California and Pennsylvania with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & depression. 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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Kimberly Brown

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 + years experience in counseling. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns which included addictions, gambling, relationship issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, familial conflict, emotional and physical abuse. My therapy style is warm. I understand that sometimes seeking help can be extremely overwhelming and find that having a safe and caring place to express yourself is imperative. Together we can work on creating this unique space based on your personal preferences. I ensure that every client that I work with receives individualized care specific to your needs. Courage and vulnerability are essential in change. Taking the first steps towards a happier life is progress in itself! If you are ready to make that step, I am here to encourage and support you! I look forward to working with you on this journey!

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Susan Briggs

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 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 work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Tonya Lane

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Melanie Kautzman

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & coping with life changes. 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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Nickia Lowery

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and Pennsylvania with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Erie

Finding the best therapist close by in Erie 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 Erie. 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 Erie, 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie, elsewhere in Erie, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Erie, Pennsylvania 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 PA, 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 16546 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 Erie 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 Erie 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 Erie, Pennsylvania 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.

Erie 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 Erie.

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

16501, 16502, 16503, 16504, 16507, 16508, 16510, 16511, 16512, 16514, 16515, 16522, 16530, 16531, 16534, 16538, 16541, 16544, 16546, 16550, 16553, 16565

Popular cities near Erie, PA

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