Jenna McDonald
*Hello and Welcome ! I'm Jenna McDonald . I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Western New York and also working with clients statewide (NY) via Telehealth. I work with teens, adults, and couples; specializing in anxiety, stress, life transitions ( ex : work/school stressors), relationship concerns, substance use and trauma. I use different types of therapies to help my clients make progress and start feeling more in control and on their way to a more mentally stable wellness.* My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Person Centered Therapy as I find it helps the client to organize his/her goals so that we can work through those together, based on what is most important and meaningful to that client. Solution Focused therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), are other modalities that can help myself and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to create a path forward. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for clients who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions ( work/life balance, job change/ school/social pressures), relationship issues, anxiety, and depression . I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life. I have had success working with shy clients, young adults , or just those new to therapy who are apprehensive to open up at first , given my down to earth personality. My communication style is working with my clients to understand what it is they are experiencing and build that rapport. My hope is to provide supportive problem solving and collaboration, while I can also be that listening ear. I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. I will also be that realistic reminder to my clients of what is healthy/what is not, so that we can work towards optimal mental wellness. I will challenge my clients and not be a person to enable negative behavior. My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us, and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and track your progress. Sometimes we just want someone to listen to us and have the ability to vent our emotions and frustrations. I can be that person who is neutral, which can give me a great outside view and ability to provide assistance when needed. What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about your past experience with coming to counseling, what worked well with past counseling/ what didn’t, what you are coming to counseling for currently and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there.
Roseanne Jackson
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.
Yelena Shik
Born and raised in former Soviet Union, Ukraine, I immigrated to the United States right after my graduation from a music college. Music and psychology were always my passion! After settling in New York, I got my BA at Mercy College and Master’s degree at Hunter College. I was licensed as a Clinical Social Worker after several years of working in a mental health field. I’ve experienced challenges in my life as an immigrant, female, mother, business woman, etc. ... and I enjoy working with my patients, who have challenges of their own.
Diamond Marie Thaxton
As a therapist, my approach is contemporary and uniquely tailored to each client. Everyone has the answers within themselves and sometimes needs the proper guidance to trust their intuition and develop essential skills for life's complexities. My style is direct yet comforting and solution-focused, ideal for busy individuals who use therapy as a pitstop to reflect and reset. I have extensive experience helping individuals navigate relationship concerns and substance and behavioral addictions, as well as assisting people to become the best versions of themselves. I emphasize accountability, providing assignments to help adopt healthy habits for lifelong change. I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of relationships using methods like the Gottman Method and Imago Therapy. I welcome all types of relationships, including kink-friendly and polyamorous dynamics. My approach focuses on helping couples create stronger connections by encouraging self-reflection and personal growth. Additionally, I support clients navigating the dating scene and those working through challenges such as infidelity, aiming to foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships. I specialize in working with clients who possess a foundational level of self-healing and are seeking to navigate challenging situations with resilience. I do not work with individuals in crisis or experiencing severe mental health symptoms, as my therapeutic approach is best suited for those prepared to engage in solution-focused strategies for personal growth. I exclusively offer live chat sessions as my chosen modality. This approach minimizes barriers to care, providing a comfortable and accessible platform for clients. Many individuals find they can express themselves more effectively in writing and better retain new mental health interventions when they read them. Are you ready to reach a new level of optimal wellness, break down mental blocks, and face challenges head-on with self-compassion and empowerment? Let's work together and make it happen!
Emilia Ward
I am a licensed therapist in New York with over 20 years of professional Social Work experience from Fordham University with a Masters Graduate degree. I have conducted therapy in English/Spanish. I have worked in Hospitals, Mental Health Clinics, Detox Addiction Clinic. I have a broad knowledge of diverse techniques with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Problem-Solving Skills, Interactive Play Therapy and Spirituality Modalities. The patient/client population consisted of small children, adolescents and adult population. My approach is to listen to your inner most thoughts and feelings with gentle guidance to help you process emotions using several different coping strategies.. We can review how you react to certain situations, and explore the best possible solution. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming obstacles that challenge you. Taking the first step, to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You are the narrator of your life. I am here to support you in this very exciting next chapter of your journey.
George Vega
I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Frankie Cancel
I am a New York State licensed therapist with 15+ years of experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, anger, and life transitions. Many of the clients I work with are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—and want real tools to feel better and regain control. In our work together, you’ll find a safe, respectful space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. Therapy is a process, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take that first step, I’m here to support you with compassion, honesty, and encouragement.
Carolin Blakely
I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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.
Vanessa Rios
I am a bilingual therapist licensed in New Jersey and New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I walk alongside my clients on their journey towards wholeness and create open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Viviana Urgiles
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate life's challenges with compassion and depth, specializing in areas like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I offer a holistic approach that honors each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing women's issues, social anxiety, life transitions, and multicultural concerns. My therapeutic style creates a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. My work is deeply committed to understanding individual experiences across diverse backgrounds, with a focus on empowering clients to build self-love, improve communication, and overcome isolation. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship challenges, or seeking greater personal insight, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Frieda S Dub
I am licensed in New York with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & eating disorders. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Lorisa Jones
Life often asks us to juggle more than feels manageable. I help clients prioritize self-care and work through the mental health challenges, work pressures, relationship strains, and everyday stressors that get in the way of living the life they want. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership. Meaningful change happens when therapist and client work together toward goals that matter to you—which is why my practice is grounded in a strength-based perspective. You bring insight into your own life; I bring tools, perspective, and a space where you can express your thoughts and emotions freely. Having a voice in your therapeutic journey isn't optional—it's central. Clients deserve a therapist who listens fully, stays curious, and remains committed to their growth. I strive to be that presence, session after session. If this resonates, I'd welcome a brief consultation to see if we're a good fit.
Leonard Tedesco
I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Michael Smith
As a seasoned licensed therapist in New York, I bring nearly four decades of professional experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice specializes in addressing mood disorders, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, developmental disorders, autism, social challenges, substance abuse and addictions, existential issues, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and structured, drawing from extensive clinical expertise in depression, anxiety disorders, stress and anger management, and neurodevelopmental conditions. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore challenging emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal growth. My approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, existential therapy, client centered therapy, mindfulness therapy, and applied behavior analysis. I look forward to working with you.
Find a Therapist Near You in Menands , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New York (NY)
- 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 Menands.
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.