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Dr. carissa ferguson-thomas

Offering therapy in PA
License: Psy.D,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I hold a Doctorate and Masters in Clinical Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and a Master’s and Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have provided individual, couples, and family therapy for more than twenty years. I am trained as a cognitive behavioral therapist but my approach is eclectic, person-centered and trauma-informed. I work with the individual where they are and together we explore and develop plans to overcome the challenges they are facing. I have worked with clients in various settings and helped them address depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I can also help you navigate intimate relationship difficulties, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss. Starting therapy can be stressful in itself but I can help ease that stress as I provide a safe, judgement free environment and provide compassion and understanding that allows you to speak freely about your thoughts and feelings. I believe a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship is the most important part of creating lasting change. We will work together to address your concerns, overcome barriers, and identify your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Helen Ford

Offering therapy in PA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in Pennsylvania and Delaware with over 10 years of experience working in multiple types of settings; including, Outpatient Settings, Transition Homes, Schools, Communities and Client Homes. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including; trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, blended-families, foster care/ adoption, and other issues pertaining to transitions and developmental stages of life. Maya Angelou once said, “ My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. “ I try to embody this beautiful quote in how I counsel my clients. I believe that the keys to our healing are within us and that with support, compassion, respect, and sensitivity we can overcome those real and perceived barriers keeping us stuck. I utilize an integrative style that includes theoretical practices such as; Systemic, Narrative and others, I try to meet my clients where they are and utilize the methodology that most speaks to their needs. You have taken the first and most courageous steps towards being healthier and happier by realizing that you need a change and support in making those changes. Arthur Ashe stated it best when he said, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” I am happy to be a part of your journey and a resource to support you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Heesoo "Karina" Kim

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD,LCSW,LCADC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
24 years of experience

Such a pleasure to meet you. I am happy you want to work on goals to change your life. I value change, hope, optimism, compassion, positivity, gratitude, mindfulness, and learning from those who have overcome multiple barriers but have still followed their dreams. I also value being kind to people and animals. I appreciate that life is precious and we need to live in the moment and treasure it and the people and animals we love. Psychotherapy Specializations include: depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, phobias, sexual abuse/sexual assault, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), traumatic brain injury, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, social communication issues, relationships (friendships, love, family, etc), fertility issues, adoption, LGBTQ, work stress, career transition, childhood abuse and neglect, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, couples counseling, substance use disorders, and working with children and adolescents. I believe that a therapist who has a diverse range of work experience can help clients on a deeper level. Thus, I have gained other experiences across various states (besides providing psychotherapy for 23 years for individuals across all socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds), including administration and management, directing clinics, implementing and auditing compliance measures, authorizing inpatient detoxification for substance use disorders and acute inpatient mental health admission in managed care settings, public health administration, clinical supervision, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, teaching since 2004 at the graduate school level, research, training, developing programs, writing and implementing policies, community outreach, and in-home therapy services. Counseling Techniques: Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused CBT, Affect Regulation, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I believe that weekly live sessions are most effective in helping people. I look forward to getting you to where you want to go as quickly as possible.

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Joanne Scarrone

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I have alway been interested in what makes people tick. Why are we so different and yet so much the same? I love my work because people and their issues are always unique no matter what age or gender. My name is Joanne Scarrone and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I earned my Bachelors of Arts Degree from Seton Hill University and my Masters Degree from Duquesne University. After graduation, I trained/worked with a psychologist for 11 years. This opportunity deepened my understanding of how our minds and bodies are interconnected by teaching me the physiology of the brain and body. My practice includes modalities that treat depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, stress, isolation, abandonment. I believe that people are always doing the best that they can given their current resources. When I am not counseling, I love to garden and paint. My favorite artistic endeavor is portraiture because I strive not just for a likeness but for a person's essence.

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Julie Mayer Norvilas

Offering therapy in PA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
12 years of experience

As a rooted relationship therapist, I am passionate and committed to helping my clients explore their growth potential, both in relationships and individually. By nurturing insight and providing consistent support, you will have the opportunity to work at your own pace and work through issues that you feel are preventing you from moving forward. I provide Individual, Couples and Family therapy in addition to Life Coaching. I have extensive experience supporting clients from the full spectrum life cycle. I am passionate about play therapy, parent coaching, relationship therapy as well as individual therapy to help all of my clients identify where they may want help and how to build skills to meet their goals. I was recently named 2021 Best of Perkasie's Counselor of the Year! I use a warm, and curious approach. This is a collaborative process, and we will work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Together we will work on identifying goals that meet your unique needs.

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Melody Dascanio

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Licensed in Pennsylvania, with over 11 years of professional work experience, some of my specialty areas include treating survivors domestic violence and narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents, severe trauma, trichotillomania, BFRB disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety. I am a level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Specialist. I offer many treatment modalities, including EMDR. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ -related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story! You have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges in your life. The role of therapy is to help you realize your own power and support you through your personal journey. I'm humbled by each and every person that allows me to be a part of their journey and look forward to working with you! In my free time, I enjoy taking care of my cats, dogs, parrots, and horses. In addition to a degree in psychology/counseling, I also have a degree in music and enjoy playing piano, clarinet, and violin. I am proud to be a bass clarinetist in the North Pittsburgh Symphonic Band and a Bb Clarinetist in the Musician's Concert Band. I also enjoy bluegrass music and have been a singer in my family's bluegrass band "Keep Off the Grass" for many years. My friends describe me as unique, humorous and quirky; all qualities that I am proud to incorporate into the way I provide therapy. I do not always post all available times throughout the week onto the calendar, as my schedule can be flexible when needed. If you need a day or time that is not offered, don't worry, just send me a message- I pride myself in working hard to find days and times that work for each individual person!

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James Eller

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.Ed,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am also a School Counselor and coach. I had to overcome a lot of adversity which led me to pursue counseling as a career. I am really passionate about helping people through many different circumstances and situations. Everyone is different and my counseling approach is geared to the individual and presenting issue(s). I've worked with a variety of students/clients over the last 10 years, so I am comfortable working with almost any issue or problem. The most prevalent have been depression, anxiety, drugs/alcohol, peer/family relationships, bullying, and grief. Grief is my specialty. I have attended many trainings and workshops relating to grief and continue pursue avenues to increase my professional knowledge and experiences. My own life experiences have also taught me a lot about grief and how to best support people through the grieving process. I look forward to connecting with my clients and navigating through the counseling process as a team.

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Darla Miller

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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!

This is Dr. LaQuista Erinna's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. LaQuista Erinna

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Connecticut, North Carolina, Massachusetts, California, and Georgia with over 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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Jessica Lonzi-McVay

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania and South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. *I am only able to accommodate chat sessions at this time*

How to find counseling in Girard

Finding the best therapist close by in Girard 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 Girard. 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 Girard, 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard, 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 Girard area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard, 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 16417 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 Girard 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 Girard 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 Girard, 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.

Girard 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Girard.

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

16417

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