Finding the right therapist in Albany, NY can take time, even with more local options than some surrounding parts of the Capital Region. For people seeking therapy in Albany, it can help to look beyond the closest office and focus on fit, style, and experience with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or ADHD. BetterHelp makes it easier to browse licensed therapists serving those in Albany and across New York, including providers who offer online therapy and who may be experienced in working with LGBTQ+ clients, BIPOC communities, and people navigating life transitions in places like Troy, Colonie, or Latham.

For many adults in the Albany area, online care can ease common barriers like packed schedules, commuting, and limited appointment availability for in-person therapy. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible individuals' average copay is $23 per session*. With more than 30,000 qualified providers globally and a matching process that met 93% of user* preferences in 2024, the platform can help people find licensed support from home through video, phone, or in-app messaging.

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Psychologist Dr. Debra DeFour-Pierce providing different types of therapy in Albany

Dr. Debra DeFour-Pierce

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 002471-01
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years offering treatment

My name is Dr. Debra DeFour-Pierce. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York and have a doctorate in clinical-school psychology. I am a certified school psychologist with experience in formal and informal psychological assessment. I received my doctorate from Pace University and a certificate in Crisis Management from Long Island University. In my 30 years of working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a school setting, I have dedicated myself to helping clients gain insight into how their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs impact their life situation(s). My clinical approach to treatment is eclectic and culturally sensitive. I am dedicated to working with my clients to develop effective coping strategies, by incorporating cognitive behavioral-rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic theory, an interpersonal approach, and encourage the use of mindfulness. I have actively collaborated with clients seeking help for various concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-awareness, coping with life changes, family conflicts, relationship issues, and parenting issues. Once a relationship develops between us, you will see that my clinical approach is direct, respectful, empathetic, and sometimes humorous. I am here as your ally to explore several options of how to work through your current issues and will be able to provide you with useful strategies to deal with your current stressors. I am here to help you achieve and foster stronger mental and emotional health. I look forward to working with you on your journey to gaining insight and self-awareness. SPECIALTIES Stress Anxiety Grief Trauma Depression Self esteem Parenting Issues Teen Issues LICENSING LMHC #002471-01 (Expires: 2022-10-31)

Psychologist Pamela DiGangi providing different types of therapy in Albany

Pamela DiGangi

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 002025-1
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
36 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York State and have provided mental health counseling for over 30 years to people of all ages. I worked as a school counselor for 32 years at the Kenton UFSD, a suburban school district just north of Buffalo, NY. I also provide family and couples counseling at the KenTon Family Support Center. Many people feel stuck at times but do not know how to make changes to allow them to enjoy their lives to the fullest. My approach to counseling incorporates a few styles of therapy to help clients clarify goals, understand their own behaviors and self-talk, and take charge of their future. Clinical areas of treatment include anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationships, stress management, conflict resolution, work and career issues, grief & loss, and anger management. I strongly believe in the dignity and worth of people and am dedicated to helping people find a productive healthy path.

Psychologist Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan providing different types of therapy in Albany

Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 001453
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York state with approximately twenty years of experience in working with multicultural individuals dealing with wide range of challenges. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families focusing on mending relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, women's issues, and life coaching. I believe every individual is unique, so I tailor my person-centered approach from a variety of modalities; including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic approach. I like to focus more on the present and help you be able to move forward to a better, happier and healthier life. I have extensive experience with working with individuals of all different ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Coming from a multicultural background I pay special attention to the cultural context. I am especially passionate about working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds, and providing linguistically sensitive, culturally appropriate, and multicultural focused treatments tailored to your background and presenting concerns. I am a strong believer in positive thinking. I am all about moving forward. I would like to know your past; however, I don’t like to dwell on it. I would like to help you move forward so you can enjoy your present and look forward to your future. With lots of empathy and dash of humor, I can help you overcome anything!

Psychologist Laura Varriale providing different types of therapy in Albany

Laura Varriale

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 080652
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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.

Psychologist Vicky Burgh-Harris providing different types of therapy in Albany

Vicky Burgh-Harris

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 076375, AZ LCSW LCSW-22136
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in New York State. I have over 22 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents and individuals with developmental disabilities. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, bullying, OCD, anxiety, and alcohol and substance abuse related issues. My counseling style is open, honest and interactive. My approach is to work with clients to develop a plan that will determine the best approach to better work with the client to achieve their treatment plan goals. My approach combines solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a holistic approach. I will work with you to find the approach to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist David Ackerman providing different types of therapy in Albany

David Ackerman

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 038001
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
22 years offering treatment

I am an individual and couples therapist licensed in New York, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have also helped clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have also helped those who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. I am considered to be warm and compassionate, and my style is working interactively with clients. My approach combines humanistic, psychodynamic and goal-oriented therapy with a wide range of client issues, and a diverse client base. I have worked with chronic mental illness, including anxiety, depression, personality and eating disorders. In addition to self-esteem issues, life transitions and chronic illness. My goal is to establish a meaningful alliance, and collaborate wih you to develop better coping skills and more satisfying relaionships. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Assata Thomas providing different types of therapy in Albany

Assata Thomas

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 012647
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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!

Psychologist Luann Esen providing different types of therapy in Albany

Luann Esen

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 052836
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Viviana Urgiles providing different types of therapy in Albany

Viviana Urgiles

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 090637, TX LCSW 115734
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving clients across New York and Texas, I specialize in trauma treatment and have dedicated my career to helping individuals heal from the lasting effects of traumatic experiences. With 15 years of clinical experience, I provide a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive environment where clients can process difficult experiences, restore a sense of safety, and move toward lasting emotional healing. My practice focuses on working with individuals affected by trauma, complex trauma, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), childhood abuse and neglect, interpersonal violence, domestic violence, sexual trauma, medical trauma, grief and loss, and other significant life-altering experiences. I understand that trauma can impact every aspect of a person's life, including relationships, self-esteem, emotional regulation, trust, physical health, and overall well-being. Using trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches, I help clients understand the effects of trauma on the mind and body while developing effective coping skills, emotional resilience, and healthier patterns of functioning. My goal is to create a therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the healing process. In addition to trauma treatment, I work with concerns that commonly accompany trauma, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, attachment wounds, social anxiety, life transitions, workplace stress, and multicultural challenges. I recognize that each person's story is unique and tailor treatment to meet individual needs, strengths, and goals. I believe that healing is possible, even after the most difficult experiences. Whether you are coping with recent trauma, unresolved experiences from the past, or the long-term effects of chronic stress and adversity, I am committed to helping you build insight, reclaim your sense of self, and create a more fulfilling and balanced life. Together, we can work toward healing, resilience, and meaningful personal growth.

Psychologist Leslee Negus providing different types of therapy in Albany

Leslee Negus

Clinician
License Type(s): DC LICSW LC200004014, AZ LCSW LCSW-23520
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Lawrence Propper providing different types of therapy in Albany

Lawrence Propper

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW-R 021518
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
40 years offering treatment

As an MSW , Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and College Professor I bring over four decades of clinical experience supporting individuals through emotional changes. My practice focuses on helping clients manage and address episodes of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, stress, life transitions , and family conflicts. I draw upon evidence based approaches to accomplish these goals. I specialize in addressing deeply personal struggles such as social isolation, communication barriers, self esteem challenges, and feelings of guilt or shame. My therapeutic approach centers on helping clients develop stronger self-understanding, improve communication barriers, and feelings of guilt or shame. My approach is putting myself in the other person's place, focussing on guiding individuals towards self-love, getting connected again, and gain a renewed sense of life purpose. With a commitment to understanding each person's unique life events, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, develop healthier coping strategies, and cultivate greater emotional resilience. My therapeutic style emphasizes encouraging self-awareness, respect, and personal autonomy in their own expressed goals. I have a career in college teaching and at the same time am particularly attuned to the needs of older adults that are looking forward to an objective, compassionate therapeutic approach. Drawing from extensive professional expertise, my goal is to empower clients to reconnect with their inner strengths, build resilience, and create positive change in their lives. I am hopeful we can work together toward personal growth and a genuine sense of happiness.

Psychologist Dr. Danielle Beaumont providing different types of therapy in Albany

Dr. Danielle Beaumont

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 102925
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years offering treatment

I am a licensed therapist who believes healing starts when you can finally be yourself without fear of judgment. As a Black therapist, I intentionally create a space where individuals from my community feel safe, understood, and supported—without having to code-switch or over-explain their experiences. This is a space where you can come as you are, not as anyone expects you to be, and feel comfortable expressing what’s real. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with a deep focus on trauma recovery, social anxiety, and personal growth. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care while remaining relatable and down-to-earth, allowing us to have honest conversations while also doing meaningful, structured healing work. Together, we focus on building self-love, gaining clarity, and helping you reconnect with your purpose. I work collaboratively with clients to develop resilience and practical strategies for emotional well-being, always honoring the unique experiences that shape who you are. My practice is especially affirming for individuals from marginalized communities, where your story is met with understanding, compassion, and respect. I am committed to helping you transform difficult life experiences into opportunities for growth, strength, and self-discovery. Whether you’re navigating social anxiety, processing past trauma, or simply trying to better understand yourself, I’m here to walk alongside you, with empathy, authenticity, and the professional support you deserve.

Psychologist Justin Dantzler providing different types of therapy in Albany

Justin Dantzler

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 015074
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

Justin, LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Life Coach with more than 12 years of counseling experience and 17 years of work in the non-profit sector. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. His extensive background includes serving as a Director for a state-funded agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as providing services as an Applied Behavior Specialist. Justin has also facilitated mentoring groups for youth and adults and provided counseling and support to at-risk and underserved populations. As a first-responding firefighter, Justin brings a unique understanding of the pressures faced in high-stress environments, including the challenges of emotional resilience, burnout, and work-life balance. He works with adults, young adults, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, offering support in areas such as anxiety, depression, stress, men’s issues, and personal growth. Justin takes a holistic, person-centered approach—meeting clients where they are and helping them move toward where they want to be. Whether supporting someone through a major life transition or helping them uncover the patterns affecting their well-being, he focuses on empowering individuals to become their best and most authentic selves. Outside of his professional work, Justin has been married for more than 10 years and is a proud father to a 24-year-old daughter and an school aged son. Justin believes that we are often harder on ourselves than the world is on us. With compassion and evidence-based guidance, he is committed to creating a space where clients feel supported, seen, and equipped to move toward a healthier, more grounded version of themselves. Justin works with adults, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community. He offers individual counseling via tele-therapy (HIPPA compliant video/online counseling). He has availability for virtual sessions. A word from Justin: At times, we tend to be harder on ourselves than the external world. We are all people, being. Let’s work together to help achieve your ideal self.

Psychologist Merrie Bartlett providing different types of therapy in Albany

Merrie Bartlett

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 060045
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years offering treatment

People come in to my virtual office every day with different presenting problems, some kind of pain, and yet are all looking for the same thing. They are looking for peace. What is peace? Peace is being free from stress and anxiety. Peace is the experience of living in your own body and spirit and being at home there. A feeling of calm amid the storm. While we cannot have this peaceful feeling all the time, we can have it more. In therapy we can explore what the obstacles are to your peace and figure out how to overcome those obstacles. I have an eclectic approach tailored to the needs of each person I work with. I look forward to getting to know you and to helping you define your goals for therapy.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Albany, New York

Finding a therapist near you in Albany, New York starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In New York, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across New York, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In New York, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in New York

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in New York

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across New York, including residents in Albany.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in New York do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Albany, New York

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Albany and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist