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Psychologist Michael Pfisterer providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Michael Pfisterer

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 086146, SC LISW 14016
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepression
14 years offering treatment

I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!

Psychologist Jennifer Ricci providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Jennifer Ricci

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 004782
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSelf esteem
18 years offering treatment

"I will look for the flowers by the side of the road; I will laugh and love and be strong. I will try to lighten another’s load this day as I fare along". --MARY S. EDGAR CURRENTLY, I ACCEPTING CLIENTS WHO ARE EITHER FEMALE OR NONBINARY WITH A HISTORY OF TRAUMA THEY'D LIKE TO PROCESS AS PART OF THEIR TREATMENT. THIS DOES NOT NEED TO BE THE MAIN FOCUS OF THERAPY. Hello! Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Jen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC, #004782) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have over 18 years of experience providing both mental health and addictions therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Master’s degree is in Community Mental Health Counseling, Addictions Counseling, and Marriage and Family Therapy (2009), and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Family Studies (2006). I have worked in multiple settings, including shelters, community mental health centers, schools, and private practices. Since becoming a counselor, clients, such as yourself, have come to me for a lot of different things, including trauma (particularly in the areas of childhood abuse, domestic violence, religious trauma, and first responder and military trauma), family and social relationships, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My therapeutic approach is mainly from family systems theory, which summed up says “we are not islands”. We are influenced by the world, or the “systems” around us starting from birth (and even before). These systems influence how we see the world and how we make decisions. When things happen to us (good or bad), our system shapes how it affects us and what our reaction turns out to be. I also “borrow” concepts from other theories, such as taking unhealthy beliefs about oneself and changing them into healthier patterns to reduce negative feelings, providing supports, a quick solutions-focused treatment (when it fits the goal), mindfulness and hands-on activities, and emotions regulation techniques. I am also EMDRIA-trained in EMDR, specialized for telehealth, and will provide EMDR treatment to clients found to be appropriate and motivated. I see counseling as a didactic relationship, or in other words, a journey we take together. You are the “expert” of you. Your individualized counseling experience should be focused on what you want and your goals. My job is to help “guide” or “lead” you in achieving those goals, while you continue to actively participate and do your best to reach your goals. I will support you as you do so. It’s like we build a house together. I am responsible for the frame and structure of the house; while you get to fill the rest of it in, make it look the way you want it to, and in the end, turn it into the home you want it to look like. Starting counseling can produce negative feelings, such as worry or fear; but part of the journey we go on is to work on processing those feelings together right from the start. I want to provide a safe environment for you that is warm, respectful, trauma-informed, and meets your individual needs. I look forward to meeting you should I get to do that. Thank you for taking the time to look at my page!

Psychologist Gerard Riconda providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Gerard Riconda

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 046130
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
28 years offering treatment

I received my Social Work Education through Fordham University School of Social Services. During the course of earning my Masters, I worked with families and children in the Foster Care System. I worked briefly as a Medical Social Worker in a Rehabilitation Hospital. There my clients included amputees, Stroke and Head Injury patients. The bulk of my clinical experience spans 25 years and with difficult hard to reach clients with a full line of diagnosis'. I am comfortable working with all client populations. I consider my strongest suit to be empathy. Although I have experience with various clinical modalities, I believe that no size fits all. Together with the client, I will discover the best approach to address the clients needs.

Psychologist Dr. Sheriffa Gallwey providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Dr. Sheriffa Gallwey

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW-R 074040, FL LCSW SW17779
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am a mental health treatment provider licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Florida with over 25 years of treatment experience working with individuals, groups and families. I have provided assistance to individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting issues, career challenges, physical trauma and emotional abuse. My approach is supportive and engaging using an eclectic treatment foundation, based on cognitive and dialectical behavioral tenets given each person's unique circumstances. Developing goals and working towards milestones can be daunting, I look forward to discussing your goals and working with you towards success.

Psychologist John Shafer providing different types of therapy in Kensington

John Shafer

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 071443
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years offering treatment

By way of introduction, I am John Shafer, LCSW-R. In 1998, I graduated from Syracuse University's School of Social Work with my master's in social work. Throughout my social work career, I strived to learn from the highest credentialed and experienced professionals. Background wise, I have experience working with people in the following areas: rural community mental health settings, school-based mental health settings, city and suburban settings. Vocationally, diversification of approaches to working with people from an array of different environments provided my basis for success. I worked with people across the spectrum of age ranges from three years old to people in their nineties. Also, I gained experience working with people from different socio-economic statuses. Over the years, my ongoing diversity training afforded me opportunities to hone my clinical skills related to populations covering a wide gamut of racial and ethnic backgrounds. I sought to develop techniques to address gender identity expressions that was done in a culturally sensitive manner. Along the way, I prided myself on developing counseling and psycho-therapy skills. In the course of working with people, the therapy models I used most often included: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. In general, my employment opportunities accorded me the chance to develop clinical skills. I implemented different types of therapy such as individual therapy, couple's therapy and group therapy; all of which provided me with professional development opportunities. Interweaving professional experiences with evidence based therapy models, I work collaboratively with people to attain client-centered and person-centered goals.

Psychologist Dr. Sonia Smith providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Dr. Sonia Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 042694
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York, (LCSW-R), certified Family Life Educator (NAD), an informed therapist in Complicated Grief Treatment Therapy (Center for Complicated Grief), an Empowerment Facilitator with the 4 Real Women International Organization, Inc. (4RWI), and a Relationship Life Coach. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in the field of Social Work supporting individuals, couples and families across a broad scope of life issues, including prevention of child abuse and neglect, grief and bereavement, domestic violence, adolescent gang involvement, community violence and trauma. I specialize in family therapy, psychotherapy and mental health counseling that assist couples, individuals, and families regain rightful balance in their relationships with each other, and their overall wellbeing. I am also a passionate and active advocate for and voice against social injustices that affect the lives of individuals and families, especially women and children. My motto is “Mending the Broken and Healing the Wounded”. I am looking forward to working with you!

Psychologist Marilyn Bryan DeBernardo providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Marilyn Bryan DeBernardo

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 002250-1
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years offering treatment

Hello. I am a NY Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder Counselor with a gambling certification (CASAC-G). I have a combined OMH and NY OASAS Certificate to work with clients with Co-existing disorders (IMHATT). I have over 20 years of experience working as a counselor throughout the Capital Region. I specialize in treating adults, family members and loved ones experiencing problems associated with Addictions, Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Disorders. I have a long history of providing services for Addictions, Codependency, Relationships, Grief and Loss, Trauma and Coping with Anxiety and other Stressors. If you need help to overcome life's hurdles and reach your fullest potential, developing a therapeutic partnership can help you achieve that. If you are tired of feeling powerless to change your circumstances, seeking help is the first step toward finding and living the life you have always wanted. I look forward to becoming a catalyst of positive change in your life and someone who can point you to resources that will best help you achieve that.

Psychologist Roseanne Jackson providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Roseanne Jackson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW23321, NY LCSW-R 083560
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, and New York, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, affirming spaces for healing across diverse life experiences. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem challenges with a deeply empathetic approach. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients navigate profound personal transformations—from healing from past wounds to rediscovering self-love, managing social anxiety, and working through life transitions. I'm particularly committed to supporting individuals experiencing isolation, seeking life purpose, and processing complex emotional experiences like divorce, pregnancy challenges, and midlife transitions. I offer a warm, inclusive approach that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, facing discrimination, processing trauma, or seeking support through significant life changes, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine understanding and professional expertise. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can explore your experiences, build resilience, and move toward meaningful personal growth. Together, we'll develop strategies that empower you to navigate your challenges with strength and compassion.

Psychologist Obaogodara (Preference:Dara) Oluwasanmi providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Obaogodara (Preference:Dara) Oluwasanmi

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 011010
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensed in New York State with four years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, schizophrenia, antisocial personality disorders, relationship issues, aging and geriatric issues, codependency, and self-harm. I also have three years of experience working with individuals with severe persistent mental illnesses and my current full-time position is working in a facility with individuals with such illnesses. My counseling style is based on collaboratively working with clients in achieving the goals set out in therapy. I believe that the building of rapport is an essential element of counseling which helps in building therapeutic alliance. I also believe in treating anyone with respect, understanding and empathy. My approach implements Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy. Each treatment plan will be individualized based on the needs of each client and issue. Seeking therapy is beneficial to one’s mental health and it helps in promoting overall wellness. As you take the step to promote your mental health, I want to mention that doing so is brave. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Psychologist Barbara Clark providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Barbara Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 073540
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, intimacy related issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Louise Abitbol providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Louise Abitbol

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC06253800, NY LCSW-R 071904
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the narrator of your story and that your body, mind and soul have the ability to shift, change and heal trauma. Our work together will help you learn how to use your body and mind's energy system to better manage your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy does take courage. I am here to guide you towards a direction of clarity and hope as we start this process together.

Psychologist Elizabeth Antonio providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Elizabeth Antonio

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 076283
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with mood disorders, stress , anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Carolyn Sultana providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Carolyn Sultana

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 052987
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
31 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York and Connecticut with 30 years of professional work experience. I am a LCSW-R and a CASAC(Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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!

Psychologist Keith Dean providing different types of therapy in Kensington

Keith Dean

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW-R 050581
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Find a Therapist Near You in Kensington , New York

Finding a licensed therapist near you in New York can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in New York, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in New York (NY). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

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 on BetterHelp support adults across New York with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York

When searching for a therapist near me in New York, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across New York, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across New York.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in New York want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in New York without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New York (NY)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

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 Kensington.

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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

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 private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Kensington can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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