This is Kristin Paulson's avatar and link to their profile

Kristin Paulson

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
26 years of experience

When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience. I help my clients, who include children, adults and families, find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, grateful, whole and safe. While being in private practice for over 18 years, I recognize there is no single approach for all. I am a firm believer in starting where the patient is. If you were to ask any of my patients they would agree I take an approach not unlike a good friend. I believe in listening and encouraging them to find the best answer for themselves. My educational background includes a MSW from Temple University and BS of Psychology from Catawba College of North Carolina.

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Dr. Kimberly Kowalik

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,LPC,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

It takes tremendous courage and strength to ask for help and allow another person into your life when you feel vulnerable and alone. It has been my honor to work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families for the past several years to promote healing and growth. I strongly believe in utilizing a strength-based approach that promotes a partnership between my clients and I so that we may achieve their personal goals together! I specialize in diverse mental health concerns including, but not limited to trauma, behavioral issues, substance abuse/dependency disorders, bereavement, anxiety, depression, anger management, and interpersonal relationship issues. I originally completed my MS in Rehab Counseling in 2013 and my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in December of 2022 so that I may continue to effectively address my client's unique needs.

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Constance Bienkowski

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello, my name is Connie. I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania with about 6 years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflicts, and trauma within outpatient and family-based home settings. My therapy style includes the use of empathy, strength-based focus, and mindfulness. My therapeutic approach includes strength-based and systems therapy. This means exploration and reflection in how people have experienced their family system and how multiple systems in their life continue to affect them; such as school, jobs, community, etc. I find importance in open communication, promoting understanding, and building trust. I want to help others uncover the strengths that they already have to help them with their struggles. To do this, I will find which therapy style best fits the individual. I want to be an additional support for clients who have taken this first step to seek therapy. I look forward to working with you.

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Colette Bone

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

"We all have the capacity to be the heroes of our own story." This is the basis of my counseling approach. I am a professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 10 years of experience counseling, and 14 years total in mental health. I have worked with individuals aged 5-85, and also with couples and group therapy. In this modern world, there are times we can get lost, stressed or overwhelmed when our lives become confusing or when we face a difficult change. It may be that we are just getting in our own way, that we need room to sort through issues and gain new skills; or that a significant mental illness keeps us from living the life we want. We can be helped through our time of pain, frustration, or weakness, until we can become strong, learn to heal ourselves, nurture each other, and access our inner wisdom. While this is the basis of my approach, the details come in meeting clients where they are at, and helping them work towards self-selected goals. I draw from many evidence-based theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral; Emotion-Focused Therapy; Psychodynamic, Narrative, & Mindfulness practice. I also incorporate creative coping skills depending on the client. I welcome each client's own personal beliefs and worldview, so that our work can empower your authentic self. I've worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, trauma, loss, behavioral & developmental issues, relational struggles, and more. I look forward to helping you!

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Dr. Tracy Griffith

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Texas with 20 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & coping with grief and loss. 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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This is Dr. Dennis Gourley's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Dennis Gourley

Offering therapy in PA
GriefAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
50 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 50 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, anger management, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with 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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Jennifer Haney

Offering therapy in PA
License: Mississippi and Alabama Licensed Professional Counselor,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed and experienced in providing counseling on the various challenges life throws our way. Everyone goes through times of stress, tragedy, turmoil and angst. Seeking professional advice during these times can help to ease these difficult feelings. As a therapist, I have helped individuals and couples overcome tough times in life such grief, loss, marital strain and divorce as well as other career and lifestyle transitions. My professional counseling style mirrors my personality in that I am kind, compassionate and have a heart for helping others in need. Please know I am here to help you overcome whatever difficulties or transitions you are experiencing. Collaboratively, we can help you set some personal goals, challenge your inner strengths and help you overcome these challenging times of your life.

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Carmen Altopiedi

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Carmen Altopiedi L.C.S.W. Therapy Works During Difficult times in life, we may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and sadness; these are very normal reactions to situations and traumas we encounter. I would like to assist in coping with some of these feelings. Part of my experience as a seasoned therapist is to assist and listen, and together we can tackle life’s challenges, leading to a healthier outlook on life. I worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, I believe in meeting the client were you are and together developing a therapeutic plan that is tailored to meet you needs. I’ve worked with a vast population with a wide range of concerns, LGBTQ+ senior population, isolation, loneliness, depression, and anxiety to name a few. I look forward to working together.

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This is Jacqueline Jaros's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Jaros

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio & Pennsylvania with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Tina Rowan's avatar and link to their profile

Tina Rowan

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementCompassion fatigue
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, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Leesport

Finding the best therapist close by in Leesport 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 Leesport. 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 Leesport, 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport, elsewhere in Berks, 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 Leesport area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport, 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 19533 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 Leesport 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 Leesport 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 Leesport, 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.

Leesport 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 Leesport.

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

19533

Popular cities near Leesport, PA

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