Finding a therapist in Philadelphia, PA may feel like just one more overwhelming task in an already busy life, but online therapy platforms like BetterHelp can make it simple. BetterHelp has over 30,000 experienced therapists, licensed social workers, and other mental health professionals who provide a number of counseling services that can address anything from depression to addictive behaviors. 

If your past experiences with therapists have left you less than impressed, finding the right therapist can make all the difference in therapeutic approach and effectiveness. With BetterHelp, individuals living in Philadelphia and nearby cities can simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with a therapist that meets their specific needs. If you feel you need a change of therapist you can switch at no additional cost until you find the perfect match for you. 

With the convenience of video chat or text, you may find that sessions feel far less cumbersome and overwhelming to schedule. Online therapy offers all of the tools needed for managing stress and improving mental health and well-being, but without the hassle of trying to get to an office appointment. 

If you’re someone living in Philadelphia and are looking for some guidance in building the fulfilling life that you deserve, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be the starting point to get you moving in the right direction.

This is Laura Pengelly's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Pengelly

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
20 years of experience

Hello! I understand that reaching out for help and support can be difficult and I'm really glad you've made the decision to start counseling. I believe in treating the whole person and will strive to understand you and all of the moving parts in your life. My goal is to offer you a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is warm and interactive. I strive to understand the whole person and believe in treating people with respect and compassion. My goal is to help you to find solutions to your current struggles by exploring the way in which you are looking at the problem and by helping you to identify solutions. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I've spent the past 17 + years working with people of all ages and their families to overcome wide variety of problems. As an LMFT, I'm not only well versed in treating relationship problems of all types; I've worked with many individuals struggling with individual concerns like depression, anger, and anxiety. Additionally, I've worked with a large number of individuals who have experienced trauma and am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. You are not alone. Things can and will get better. I'm really looking forward to working with you!

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Elizabeth "Libby" Burris

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSPC,LPC,LBS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Libby, and I am a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Behavioral Specialist (LBS) in the state of Pennsylvania. I earned my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in 2014 from Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I have 10 total years of experience in the mental health and behavioral health field, and I have worked with a variety of populations including young children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and have experience working with individuals, families, couples, and groups addressing issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, anger management, behavioral issues/oppositional defiance, ADHD, Autism, issues with social interactions and/or social phobias, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues, family conflict, and parenting issues. My therapeutic approach is based on the client’s needs, and I believe there is no one therapy approach that works for everyone, as we are all different and unique individuals. I believe it is important to meet clients where they are, and work collaboratively together towards established goals. I believe in being open and honest in sessions to assist clients with gaining the feedback and assistance they need in making the changes that will better their lives. I believe the client-therapist relationship is extremely important, and there must be a good sense of trust, honesty, and teamwork between therapist and client for therapy to be productive and for goals to be achieved. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to learn a little bit about me, and if you feel I am the right therapist for you, I look forward to working together!

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Amy Bryant

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor located in Pennsylvania and have been in practice for about 30 years. My first career was in music. After leaving New York CIty, moving to PA, and starting a family, I became involved with a postpartum support group and , a few years later, decided to get an MA in Counseling. I feel most comfortable seeing myself as a work partner with my client. You bring your story, and together we explore what changes you might want to make in yourself and in the direction of your narrative to promote your well-being. I have training in many modalities, all of which work better after establishing a space for you that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and respectful, We are not often given the encouragement and the opportunity to talk about ourselves, to pull over for an amount of time each week and make sure we are living as well and deeply as we want to be. That is what therapy can offer, and I hope that the knowledge and experience I've gathered through the decades, both in and out of the office, may be helpful to you.

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Amanda Knickerbocker

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

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Brenda Coffin

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

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Dr. John Howe

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepression
35 years of experience

Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders. I offer psychotherapy to help you change damaging or unhealthy behaviors that affect your relationships with others and with yourself. It is possible to become aware of the causes and reduce or stop your disturbing and upsetting behaviors and make more healthy and satisfying choices. I also provide supportive counseling for individuals and couples to resolve personal or work-related concerns, make decisions and clarify life events.

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Kimberly Holt

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 25+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, and parenting issues just to name a few. I understand individual and family development and am trained in eco-systemic family therapy. It is incredibly important for me to know my clients feels safe, valued, and heard. It is an honor to walk beside someone during a difficult time and provide pathways to healing that fit for each client. I see my role in many ways as to empower, support, and teach as we form a strong therapeutic relationship build on mutuality. Identifying a person’s strengths, looking at patterns, and understanding how a person’s past has influence on decisions and relationships today is incredibly valuable. I myself have raised two young adults and know how difficult it is to blend a family. Relationships are challenging at times however can be so incredibly beautiful. Thank you for making the decision to work on yourself and grow. The first step is often the hardest and you have done it. Bravo!

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Jeffray Feliciana

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. Reaching out to a therapist is a very vulnerable experience. To make this a helpful and healing journey for you, I do my best to prioritize tailoring therapy to your specific needs. I want you to get the most out of these sessions and be able to develop independent skills to manage your mental health through real therapy and evidence-based practice.

This is Charlene Benefiel's avatar and link to their profile

Charlene Benefiel

Offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

This is Jessica Ambrose's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Ambrose

Offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Philadelphia

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 19110 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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

19019, 19092, 19093, 19099, 19101, 19102, 19103, 19104, 19105, 19106, 19107, 19108, 19109, 19110, 19111, 19112, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19118, 19119, 19120, 19121, 19122, 19123, 19124, 19125, 19126, 19127, 19128, 19129, 19130, 19131, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19135, 19136, 19137, 19138, 19139, 19140, 19141, 19142, 19143, 19144, 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148, 19149, 19150, 19151, 19152, 19153, 19154, 19155, 19160, 19161, 19162, 19170, 19171, 19172, 19173, 19175, 19176, 19177, 19178, 19179, 19181, 19182, 19183, 19184, 19185, 19187, 19188, 19190, 19191, 19192, 19193, 19194, 19195, 19196, 19197, 19244, 19255

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