College towns are great for young people to grow into better people. But sometimes they need a little bit of help from a counselor. Luckily, a counselor in State college is ready to help you understand, and better yourself.

It’s the third-safest metropolitan area in the US, meaning that’s it’s a safe location for those young and old.  It was originally a town, but it grows to help those that were at Penn State.  It is known for the university in the area, but even if you aren't here just to study, having a counselor here will help you feel safe and secure no matter the odds. 

This is Katharine Starrantino's avatar and link to their profile

Katharine Starrantino

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW, M.Ed
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hi there, I’m glad to see you have taken the first step to feeling happier and healthier. My name is Katharine and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have master’s degree in clinical social work and an additional master’s in sex and relationship therapy. I believe that you have the strength in you to make big changes, and I am here to support and empower you to reach whatever goals you may have set. I understand that your relationship with your therapist is integral to you being successful in reaching your desired results. I have an optimistic mindset and work to encourage and build up the clients I see. I work a solution focused approach, which means that I want to help you reach your goals quickly and efficiently. This often means that there is "homework" between our sessions to ensure you are working towards the changes you seek. If you're unsure about the solution focus approach and want to learn more, we can do a session to see if it would be a fit for you. I have worked in different settings including private practice, medical settings, and community based mental health. I have seen clients who are struggling with familial conflict, communication, intimacy issues, body image, grief and loss, anxiety, caregiver stress, and challenging life transitions or adjustments. I look forward to working with you and creating positive change in your life! Regarding my confidentiality and safety practices: I take confidentiality seriously and will not disclose the confidential information you share without your consent, except under the circumstances that I believe you are a danger to yourself or others. Pennsylvania state law requires me to disclose information in these cases. By continuing to seek therapy with me you are agreeing to these terms. If you are not agreeable to these terms, I recommend you find another provider. This can be achieved by logging into your account, click on the icon in the top right corner of the counseling page, and choosing “Change Counselor” from the drop-down menu.

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Brittany Beach

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania with four years of experience in outpatient therapy and ten total years within the mental health field. I want to make it known that no matter what you are experiencing it is not too small or too big, because at the end of the day you are the only one in your mind/body experiencing whatever presenting problem you have and I am hear to help, guide, foster, and process with you. My counseling style is interactive, positive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels, your life is your life. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, client-centered, and psycho dynamic theories. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jennifer Rowles-Romito

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC MA ,CTMH CMHIMP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Jenna and I am a PA licensed psychotherapist who is board certified. I also am certified in telemental health as well as being certified as an integrative medicine provider. I own and operate my own private practice in addition to offering virtual therapy services. I began my work as a domestic violence counselor over 25 years ago, and became licensed in 2009. I provide person-centered therapy in a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment. My mission is to help you achieve your best possible self! Challenges that I am best suited to treating are anger management issues, relationship concerns, marriage and family problems, co-dependency challenges, domestic violence , victims of violent crimes, and women's empowerment issues. I also am trained to assist you in managing anxiety and panic disorders, depression, grief and loss, divorce and custody, sexual assaults, spirituality, and PTSD. I treat any gender, all ethnicity, and any religious orientation. I utilize the following approaches when working with clients: REBT, CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness. I also have a wealth of information to share in how nutrition and food choices can aid in improving your mental health! I would be honored to collaborate with you in how best to reach your goals!

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Eileen Schrader

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
30 years of experience

You can feel better. Your life can become happier, your relationships more enjoyable. You can begin to feel a purpose in the reality of this challenging world. I have seen in 30 years of experience people begin to love themselves, and experience the joy of loving others. One of my goals was to work with the Life Span--and I have seen people from 2 to 96! Many people feel unlovable and think no one really understands them. I can listen without judgment. You can tell me your experiences and your feelings. Maybe you feel disappointed or abandoned in life or confused about your direction. Someone may have hurt you. Maybe you are having family problems. You may feel anxious or depressed. Teaching simple and practical tools can help. Taking the time to just talk about your experiences and feelings is so important. Everyone needs to be heard with empathy and to feel that their lives and struggles are heard. There is no problem too big or too small. Before I became a therapist, there were so many different jobs to learn from--office work to factory work--from restaurant work to cleaning houses, to selling hot dogs at the baseball stadium!-- from teaching to copywriting to becoming a Department Head of Social Service in a health care facility, my varied work experience gave me a window into the stressors men and women face on the job. Doing my own work in therapy, required of every student in my graduate school, really transformed my life. It would be a pleasure and a privilege to be a part of your work.

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Amanda Perry

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have 10 years of professional experience working as a school counselor and recently started as an outpatient therapist as well. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd) with both children and adults. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek 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 Sheera Maitland's avatar and link to their profile

Sheera Maitland

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and have 12 years of professional counseling experience. I have helped clients obtain relief from issues of stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, as well as depression. I know that reaching out for help isn't always easy. The unknowns can be scary and I'm here to walk you through each step of the way. I believe that we all have many strengths and that anyone can use those assets to overcome the things that challenge us in life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is courageous and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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 Traci Krider's avatar and link to their profile

Traci Krider

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with over 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Jennifer Kimlingen's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Kimlingen

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
9 years of experience

Welcome! I am very glad you have landed here. Grief and loss can be very confusing and difficult journeys to navigate, however, with the right support, you can begin to explore a new path forward. Although death is a part of life, humans constantly receive unhelpful messages about how, when and where to grieve. There is NO right or wrong way to move forward, only your way, keeping your loved one close to you always. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has spent the majority of my career working in end-of-life care. I provide services for anyone experiencing any type of loss due to a death and specialize in grief counseling for all ages, prenatal loss, prolonged grief disorder and supporting children's bereavement through education and play therapy. Additionally, I offer support for individuals working through anxiety, depression, parenting issues and postpartum changes. I commend you for seeking support. I am a safe space for you to begin expressing your feelings in a safe, confidential and compassionate place.

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This is Corinne Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Corinne Jones

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 State College

Finding the best therapist close by in State College 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 State College. 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 State College, 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, elsewhere in Centre, 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 State College area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 16804 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, 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.

State College 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 State College.

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

16801, 16802, 16803, 16804, 16805

Popular cities near State College, PA

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