Therapy can help you learn healthy coping skills to overcome many challenges in life, like family conflict, low self-esteem, or the symptoms of a mental health condition. If you’re interested in therapy, consider online therapy. Barriers like a lack of available providers or concerns about cost can make it difficult to find in-person treatment. An online platform like BetterHelp can make therapy more accessible and convenient.

With BetterHelp, you can establish a therapeutic relationship with a licensed clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, or other mental health care professional from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. The therapists on the platform provide individual treatment to young adults, middle-aged people, and seniors, using evidence-based interventions to help them improve their overall wellness and meet their treatment goals.

Whether you feel stuck in your life or need help working through the psychological effects of family conflicts, therapy can help.  If you’re looking for an online therapist, VA has many options available. The Virginia therapists, social workers, and counselors below are licensed to provide online therapy statewide.

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Justin Cross

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: MA,MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, living and working in Virginia as an outpatient counselor. I have masters degrees in counseling and theology. Prior to working in the counseling field, I worked for nearly seven years as a hospice medical social worker. I am experienced in working with victims of trauma, people who have depression, and those with anxiety. My approach to counseling is person-centered, meaning that it is my goal to unconditionally accept you where you are in life before beginning to work with you on what you would like to change. I also use cognitive-behavioral therapy to help you cope with your symptoms and learn new thoughts and behaviors.

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Dr. Darlene Anderson

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: PhD, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Darlene Anderson, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina, and a Nationally Recognized Board Certified Counselor (NCC). I have 30 years of experience working with teens, adults, couples, and families in various settings such as community mental health facilities, schools, hospitals, detention centers, and private practice. I graduated with my bachelors degree from Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN, my masters degree in Counseling from the University of the District of Columbia, and most recently with my doctorate degree in Social Work from Morgan State University - Baltimore, MD in 2018. I have worked with clients in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina through various issues and concerns, which includes depression, drug and alcohol abuse issues, low self esteem, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, codependency issues, trauma, behavioral issues, and stress related issues. My clinical approaches include the following: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy . Taking the steps to improve one's life requires courage, change, and commitment. So great job in taking this first step. I believe that everyone has the internal capacity to bring positive change in their thinking and overall lives . I am here to help you through the process and at the pace in which you are most comfortable. Looking forward to working with you!

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Megan Hines

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello and Welcome My name is Megan Hines, PhD, LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Virginia. I also hold a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a Concentration in Crisis and Trauma. In addition, I have completed a 2 year intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with Behavioral Tech. My work includes working in both inpatient hospital settings and outpatient community mental health settings where my work has included individual counseling and group counseling as well as Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP). My theoretical orientation includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a a therapist, I have worked extensively with clients who have mental health concerns and/or alcohol/substance use concerns. I am here to offer and create a safe, secure, and supportive space for you to discuss the concerns and challenges which are bringing you to therapy. I am here to listen, support, and walk through these moments with you. Offering skills and techniques in a meaningful way for facing those challenging moments and providing self-empowerment while building a life worth living. Please, reach out if I can be of help to you in your journey.

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Sarah Axley

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello! First of all, take a second and give yourself a ton of praise for recognizing that you are having difficulties and reaching out for help! You have already conquered one of the most difficult steps in the process! So a little about me…My name is Sarah Axley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my education at Virginia Commonwealth University in psychology and social work. In addition to my Master's Degree in Social Work, I also completed a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Aging Studies with VCU’s Department of Gerontology. I have provided psychotherapy since 2009 in an outpatient mental health clinic, an intensive community-based setting and now in a hospital, where I am currently employed full time. I obtained my License in Clinical Social Work in 2012 while doing my clinical work in an outpatient mental health service where I worked with individuals of all ages, backgrounds and with various diagnosis, to include Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma Related Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I am considered to be an LGBTQ+ informed psychotherapist. I have experience working with clients dealing with grief/loss. I have also provided psychotherapy services to help clients better manage stressors due to COVID and the current social and political climate. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one. Whether it is to process/gain insight, to build on skills to manage symptoms, to change thinking patterns to better serve you, to improve communication, etc., we can work together to help you to better understand yourself and to help achieve your goals. I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic approaches (cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, mindfulness training, etc.), based on your needs and preferences. I operate from a strength’s perspective. You are more resilient than you realize. With the right and knowledge and tools, you can manage anything! I see clients Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday late morning/afternoons. In between sessions, you will likely be completing tasks to help you work to achieve your goals. That is where a lot of the work happens! If I sound like I could be a good fit for you and what you’re looking for in a psychotherapist, let’s do this! Warm regards and well wishes, Sarah Axley, LCSW

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Savannah Harness

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Hello- I have been a licensed LPC counselor in Missouri for the past five years and was recently licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, District of Columbia, Maine, and Virginia. Working with individuals, families, and couples has provided me with the ability to assist individuals throughout many aspects of their lives. I have had training in DBT, CBT, EMD-R and continue to grow my therapeutic knowledge through self-training and through clinical training. I have had the pleasure of working in many different fields throughout my life time and feel this has provided me with the ability to look at situations from a variety of different perspectives. I firmly believe that when a person makes the choice to make changes in their life then they are on the path to becoming who they want to be. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with determining who you want to be. Thank you, Savannah Harness, LPC

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Patricia (Trish) Woodson

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: MEd,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I have been a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia since 2001. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from children and adolescents to adults and families. I feel that my purpose as a counselor is to help someone be the best that they can be and to navigate whatever issue they may be facing. I have worked in a variety of settings: local mental health clinic, private practice and school settings with students with mental health challenges. My approach to counseling is accepting, warm and encouraging. I use solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and client centered therapy as my main approches in working with others. I have significant experience in working with parenting issues, step families, ADHD, couples counseling and grief. I work very hard to stay up to date on the most current trends and resources available.

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Julia Johnson

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Courtney Williams

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I AM HERE TO HELP YOU HEAL, FEEL BETTER, HAPPIER AND START ENJOYING LIFE AGAIN! As a mother of two and a military spouse, I understand the demands of being everything for everyone else outside of yourself. I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults of various backgrounds including military, psychiatric, and individualized therapy, but my passion lies with women/couples and their over all mental wellness!

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Carolyn White

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome! I provide virtual therapy in California, Virginia, and Alabama for anxious high-achievers and recovering perfectionists struggling with finding satisfaction in life, relationships, or work. I help you figure out what’s going on, let go of the panic, and feel more in control of your life by teaching you what to do with your feelings of anxiety, anger, and overwhelm. 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. My approach is warm, compassionate and direct. The therapy process involves learning about yourself, recognizing your patterns, and actively working on making changes to meet your goals. I will make jokes, cheer your wins, listen to your pain, challenge you, and offer practical experiences to build your confidence as you create the life you want. I have over 14 years of specialized experiencing supporting active duty military, first responders, veterans, government professionals, engineers, financial analysts and contracting officers with their unique work-life challenges.

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Dr. Emma Norfleet

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, with over 40 years of experience in the mental health field. Over the past 2 decades, I have explicitly focused on TRAUMA and its negative impact on the lives of children, teens, adults, and the elderly population. I integrate both evidenced-based psychotherapies and faith-based principles to help survivors of trauma learn how to "TRIUMPH OVER TRAUMA." I help clients with mood-related disorders, stress and anxiety, cope with grief and loss, and trauma, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. As a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS I), I offer an eight or 12-week anger management class. I have over 20 years of experience working with couples and families to improve their communication and relationships with each other. I provide a therapeutic, open, and safe environment for clients to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. So, let's step up into the PAIN to access your GAIN.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 3,078,759 people live in VA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Virginia support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Virginia?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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