In life, having a bad past can keep you down. Everyone has a few demons from the past they fight, but if you can’t let it go, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and apathy. A counselor based in Utica can be able to help you.
Utica has had a shaky past. It has been called “Sin City” because of its past involvement with crime and corruption. However, the city has since moved on from that reputation and has since become a shining beacon. You can improve as well, but you need to speak to a counselor first if you want to succeed.
Velma Jones
As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges with compassionate, culturally-informed care. I bring a deep understanding of women's issues, life transitions, and multicultural experiences to my therapeutic approach. My work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and navigate personal growth. I'm particularly skilled in supporting young adults, addressing workplace challenges, and working with individuals experiencing stress, mood disorders, and interpersonal difficulties. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each client's unique journey. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, process challenging experiences, and discover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, seeking personal transformation, or working through life transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Maryellen Dance
Thank you for taking the first step by reaching out for help! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State. I have over 6 years of counseling experience specializing in drug and alcohol addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. I have worked in substance abuse facilities, domestic violence centers, hospitals, and other mental health clinics. I primarily utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy however I also often use techniques derived from Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life so I hope that working together you can guide me to help develop goals and work through struggles. Life can throw many challenges at us and I believe that working through these trials by partnering with a counselor can be very scary but incredibly rewarding. Everyone has the right to live their life as their happiest and healthiest self and I believe I can help you achieve this. I look forward to hearing from you as you begin your journey to a better you!
Rachael Hyatt
I am a licensed clinical social worker living and practicing in New York City for over 4 years. I have helped clients with a broad range of concerns including anxiety, stress, relationship issues, depression, grief, loss and living with chronic illness. I completed a masters degree in Social Work at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. After my studies, I started my career working as a hospital social worker in various areas of care including the emergency department, intensive care unit, oncology and transplant services. I have had the opportunity to live and work in various regions of the United States, including the Mountain West, West Coast and East Coast. This experience has given me the ability to understand a vast array of demographics. I come from a multicultural family and understand the dynamics of growing up in ethic diversity. I enjoy the combination of urban city living and outdoor recreation and love to surf. My approach to therapy is rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and focuses on using techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness. As your therapist, it is my goal to form a trusting relationship and provide you with a safe environment to explore emotions, identify things that you'd like to improve in your life and work together to achieve your goals. I look forward to working with you.
Richard Strand
I have dedicated twenty years of my professional life to the pursuit of a thorough and complete knowledge of human behavior. My intention is to understand people who want to change, experience satisfaction, serenity and the achievement of personal growth. As a Clinical Social Worker I try to cover every possible scenario one could imagine. Looking at multiple dimensions of you as a person, your environment and timeline, as well as how affected you have been during your experience of the different life stages. Supporting the process to find or reach your own personal goals. I use a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment to help determine the areas in your life you need or want support. My approach to therapy is client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing when appropriate. Most of my practice has focused on issues with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and addictions. I am aware of the technological transformation that has occurred in the way we live and communicate. Therefore, I have embraced online therapy as a way of providing relief and healing through therapy, counseling, coaching and support. More importantly, my goal is to have a successful therapeutic relationship with you, based on a deep understanding of your needs.
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.
Aileen Stotter
I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. 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.
Jacquetta Mcghie
Hello. I'am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York. I have been working for 13+ years with families and clients of all ages. I enjoy helping and supporting clients on their individual journey. I have helped clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, adjustment issues, relationship challenges, anger management, self esteem, not being raised by biological family, and more. My therapeutic style allows for adjustment, as I meet clients where they are, understanding that some might appreciate more direction, while others require less. Through it all, I uphold the value of vulnerability, walking alongside clients, building trust. I put my clients in the driver's seat, as we unravel complicated feelings, trauma, and pain, in order to gain peace, wholeness, and empowerment. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first step towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.
Julissa Aquan
I am a licensed therapist based in New York, dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, courage, and clarity. I specialize in supporting clients through significant life transitions, relationship concerns, grief, and emotional distress. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply respectful of each person’s unique story. I believe healing occurs when we feel truly seen and supported, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where clients can explore, grow, and reconnect with their inner strength. My work is grounded in a holistic and culturally responsive framework that honors the connection between identity, experience, and emotional well-being. Drawing from evidence-based practices and a foundation of empathy, I help clients uncover new insights, build resilience, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, and I am committed to supporting meaningful and lasting transformation. I look forward to connecting and supporting you as you take this important step toward positive change.
Louise Abitbol
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.
Briana Dow
I am licensed in New York with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.
Dina Mazzella
I am licensed in New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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!
Nina Mantelman
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, explore life purpose, and work through challenging experiences like guilt, shame, and stress. I have extensive experience supporting diverse populations, including older adults, caregivers, veterans, and individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem challenges with empathy and professional expertise. My practice is grounded in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore personal growth, develop emotional resilience, and cultivate meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in honoring each person's unique journey and supporting them in discovering their inner strength and potential. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to help clients transform difficult emotions, build self-understanding, and move toward more fulfilling lives. I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance.
Brooke Ayoub
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), who is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing )trained and graduated from SUNY, University at Buffalo. I have worked in various mental health settings in both Erie and Niagara County working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and post traumatic stress disorder. I practice trauma-informed care with my experience derived from working with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. I also hold a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Auburn University and is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) at New York State Education Department, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR). My primary focus is assist and support individuals with mental health diagnoses entering the workforce. Lastly I am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 500), who enjoys bringing yoga, ayurveda, and mindfulness meditation into her practice. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and you have the strength and ability to overcome the challenges you're facing. It takes courage to reach out for support and take the first steps toward creating a more fulfilling and balanced life. I am honored to help individuals working through challenges like stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, low motivation, self esteem, and coping with life changes. I'm here to support and empower you through that process, providing guidance and helping you build the tools you need to move forward.
Rudyard Maza
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with despression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Find a Therapist Near You in Utica , 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 Utica.
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.