This is Melissa  Adcock's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Adcock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,CSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Melissa and I am an MSW and LCSW, with more than 15 years in the mental health field. I graduated with honors in 2005 from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. In 2009, I obtained a master's degree in social work from Indiana-Purdue University. I received my clinical social work license from the state of Indiana in 2011 and then from the state of Colorado in 2015 after I traded in cornfields for mountains. Over the last 15 years I've been lucky enough to work with a lot of different populations in many different settings. I sort of feel like I've done it all, like if the mental health field was a menu I've ordered almost everything on it. I hope that means that I bring many years of well-rounded experience to the table. A famous author once said, “The most important things are the hardest to say… because words diminish them. Words shrink things that seemed limitless when they were in your head to no more than living size when they are brought out.” That’s why I’m so glad you’re here. Therapy and talking to someone about your fears and anxieties and other things you’re going through can be really helpful. Those thoughts and feelings that seem really overwhelming? You may realize they are actually pretty tiny when we bring them into the light and take an honest look. Or maybe they’re not. Maybe they’re as big as you thought they might be. And, we can do something about those, too. My therapy style is a relaxed mix of CBT (thinking about thinking), DBT, solution-focused, and motivational dialogue. But, maybe the most important thing to know up front is that therapy and therapists are not a ‘one size fits all’. If we talk and you decide I’m not quite what you need, that is absolutely okay because you are the most important part of this process. You are the driver. This is your time to get to know yourself better in a safe and confidential space so that you can live a life that feels like it’s really yours. I’m really glad you’re here.

This is Dr. Carolyn Hughes's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carolyn Hughes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
45 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work! I have been a practicing social worker since 1985. I have worked in many areas of practice including active duty military members and families, VA hospitals, and community mental health. I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and life transitions. I enjoy supporting people seeking positive life changes. I am a firm believer in real change being very possible. For me, therapy is a support system offering a course of treatment. I usually work with a client for 8 to 10 sessions with a goal of active change and renewed energy and confidence. Give therapy a chance...give me a call.

This is Michael Gusack's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Gusack

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
41 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Michael Gusack. I help individuals with Chronic Illness who are tired of being frustrated and disappointed with their limitations. Master the skills needed to live with creative confidence and freedom. I also specialize in helping people with anxiety and those confronting life transitions. Address these challenges with my proven process to create a satisfying and uncompromised life. I am a published author with 30+ years of experience. A relaxed style makes my approach to cognitive behavioral medicine an eye opening and solution oriented experience.

This is Dr. Freya Meraki's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Freya Meraki

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Counselor License Type(s): Psy.D.
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello there! My name is Dr. Freya Felicia Meraki (she/her/hers; formerly Dr. Thomas)- I would prefer it if you called me Freya, however, if you prefer Dr. Meraki, I will honor that. Life is a journey and sometimes on that journey we need additional help. I often see therapy as a road trip we embark upon together to provide extra help when you need it. You're the driver while I'm a passenger and a guide. This means we'll work together to figure out the best road map for your goals, after all, you're the expert on you and I have expertise in mental health so why not collaborate? In my approach, I do my best to meet you where you're at with what you need. This is your journey after all and I want you to get the most of it possible. I work with you to create a warm, safe environment to explore, practice, experiment, be curious, and test out new skills and ways of functioning. Everyone is doing the best they can with what they have (knowledge, skills, resources, support, energy, etc) and with willingness, people can do better and work towards living a life worth living - not just surviving day-to-day. During our time together, we will also discuss appropriate pacing for you. It's important not to speed through this healing road trip (nor ride the brakes throughout it). When in distress, we may freeze or try to rush through things, however, processing pain (current, future, and past), learning new skills, new ways of functioning, new ways of being, and/or new beliefs can take time and often requires compassion, repetition, patience, and practice. There also might be setbacks or relapses on your road trip, which is normal especially with new habits/behaviors/ways of being/healing, and that doesn't necessarily mean therapy isn't working (nor does it mean you're a failure) - it's just more information to consider in revising or modifying your roadmap to get you where you want/need to be. Treatment approach: I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups ages 13+ years and use integrative and collaborative approaches to treatment, which includes psychodynamic theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and interpersonal process. Specialties: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Death, LGBTQ+, Transgender identity and transition process, Sexual issues, Women's issues, Men's issues, Anger Management, Abuse, Substance use issues/addiction, Stress management, Mindfulness, Identity, Life transitions I am a sex positive provider, including kink & BDSM, relationship style & orientation, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Education: I earned both my Master's degree and Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pacific University, but those are not the end all, be all of my education. I highly value continuing education and often attend various workshops and classes throughout the year in addition to following recent research and literature related to psychology and medical science. Experience: In the field of psychology I have had the following experiences: interning at a county jail, working as a mental health worker in a child residential center, working as a case manager for populations with severe and persistent mental illness, working as a student clinician (several years: graduate school clinic, adult residential for substance use and mental health, an outpatient clinic specializing in domestic violence, and community mental health clinics), and as a psychologist in community mental health. Licenses: Colorado and Oregon: Clinical Psychologist

This is Linda Newton, LCSW's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Newton, LCSW

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Please read below. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience in a variety of settings. I have worked with veterans who have chronic, complex PTSD, both combat and Military sexual trauma, addictions. and couples/families. In my career, I was part of a team who focused on trauma due to military sexual assault. I have developed curriculum for psychoeducational classes, which involve how PTSD affects one's life, self-esteem, and drug/alcohol abuse. My strongest expertise is in Trauma with co-occurring diagnosis, e.g. anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and coming to terms with religious/moral conflict. I invite you to schedule an appointment with me. I will respond within 24-48 business hours. I look forward to hearing from you. Quote: “Your past does not have to control your present or future, or define who you are.” “Let go and become the person you dream of being.” -Anonymous-

This is Karlyn Markaity's avatar and link to their profile

Karlyn Markaity

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Colorado and Michigan with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

This is Dr. LaToya Gaines-Plunkett's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. LaToya Gaines-Plunkett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas and Colorado with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Douglas Robinson's avatar and link to their profile

Douglas Robinson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC ,LAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Colorado with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.

This is Jessica Woods's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Woods

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Colorado with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

This is Sarah Kress's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Kress

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Colorado with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Cortez

Finding the best therapist close by in Cortez can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Cortez that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Cortez. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Cortez, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Cortez region and in the state of Colorado. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Cortez or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Cortez area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Cortez therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Cortez, elsewhere in Montezuma, or in the greater state of Colorado.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Cortez area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Cortez therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Cortez due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Cortez may not take health insurance, some in the state of Colorado may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Colorado you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Cortez online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Cortez, Colorado working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Cortez psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Cortez above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Cortez helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Cortez therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Cortez therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Cortez?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cortez therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Cortez therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Cortez therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Cortez therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CO, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 81321 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Cortez counselor?

Before seeing your Cortez therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Cortez.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice from a therapist. A Cortez licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Cortez counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Cortez, Colorado can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Cortez has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Cortez, Colorado

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

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

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Cortez.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Cortez:

81321

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