With the stress and challenges of daily life, many of us can benefit from the support of therapy at one point or another. When it comes to finding a therapist, Bridgeport, CT offers more choice than many other small towns or rural areas, but even in a thriving city getting the appropriate care can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest secure practice. 

When it comes to clinical psychology, there are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches available. However, the efficacy of these approaches can vary depending on the mental health concerns and the individual, so it can be important to get the right sort of help. While a family conflict counselor can be just what you need to heal a family rift, they may not be as effective when it comes to processing traumatic life events for an individual. This is why just like medical care; psychological care is divided into specializations. The therapist you need may not be available in your area. 

This is where online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be helpful. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health care professionals that specialize in a variety of approaches, and have experience working with diverse populations. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp can connect you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because a strong therapeutic relationship can be essential to the success of the therapeutic process, if you feel that you need to switch therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can also be a good choice for busy parents, students, and professionals. Online sessions can fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Life challenges can come to us all, and whether you’re seeking support for a major life transition, need help learning to better communicate with friends or family, are looking for a holistic approach to wellness, or want to focus on building inner strength, therapy can help you in moving forward toward those goals. Contact BetterHelp for a simple and easy way to get started on your mental healthcare journey. 

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Kelley Machado

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Kelley Machado, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Connecticut. You may wonder what does Licensed Clinical Social Worker mean, what does that allow me to do? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have the unique opportunity to help people work through various points in their lives. In the years I have been a social worker I have worked with various populations of people from many socioeconomic, cultural, and racial backgrounds as well as people with various presenting concerns. I began my career working in the mental health system, then the criminal justice system, then onto medical social work including various medical issues as well as aging and end of life concerns. I believe people can experience difficulties with coping whenever faced with a transition in life. These changes can include monumental transitions that are both good or bad, like a new job, new family members, loss, separations, disappointments, traumatic events, etc. These types of experiences can cause psychosocial distress which can have far reaching impacts on many aspects of our lives. I work with my clients who include children, adults, couples, and families to find healthy coping methods in order to gain a healthier perception of themselves which can help to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others so they can find themselves as comfortable, secure, and whole. I take time to get to know each of my clients on an individual basis so that I can tailor approaches to care because I have learned that not one approach impacts and helps all clients. I have been trained and adapted many approaches to provide therapeutic support including cognitive behavioral, attachment theory, developmental theory, trauma theory, and dialectical behavioral theory. Change is not easy and embarking on change takes a tremendous amount of courage and actions. I congratulate you on your wish, strength, and wisdom for seeking help and taking this first step towards making a change in your life. If you are prepared to move beyond wishes and intentions to action and fulfillment- I am here to empower and support you to achieve your goals. I would love to help you reach your goals, whatever that may be in life so you can move forward.

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David Archibald

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello there! My name is David and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing services to various populations in a variety of settings. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity of treating children, adolescents, and adults and a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, in-home, residential, in-home, and emergency rooms. I’ve utilized a variety of approaches, including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques in helping people heal. I really strive to create a safe space for people to speak openly about their experiences without fear of judgment and invalidation. I look forward to working together, and helping you find resolution and support for your journey.

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Lisa Richardson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,LPC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome to Better Help. Your journey into self-care has begun with your efforts to find a solution for change. Please let me introduce myself. I am Lisa Richardson a licensed mental health counselor for the past 10 years with a license in Florida - MH11228, and in Connecticut - LPC001923. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My counseling degree is a Masters of Arts in Art Therapy from Albertus Magnus College. I have a private practice in Florida which opened in 2015, before, I have worked at community mental health facilities in Connecticut and Florida. I work with a diverse population employing an eclectic approach based on humanistic person-centered therapy. Working collaboratively with my clients, we explore their emotional needs to better understand the personal challenges that bring them to therapy. Together we use this insight to identify solutions and develop coping skills to improve the client’s ability to manage stress and to increase positive feelings of emotional wellbeing. Our therapy sessions will include mindfulness techniques, positive regard, creative expression when words are not enough, and trauma-based techniques. Clients that I have worked with sought help to manage their feelings of anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, and other challenges including the parent-child relationship, focus and concentration, and trauma symptoms. Thank you for stopping by, Lisa

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Erin Latham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Connecticut with over 16 years of experience working in human services and social work. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, substance use, career challenges, intimate partner violence, community justice, LGBTQIA+, and trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and believe everyone deserves support. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and strength-based therapies. I work with each client to tailor sessions and treatment to fit your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Laurel Eigner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello. My name is Laurel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience from Connecticut. I am kind, empathetic, caring and trustworthy. I have a great deal of experience with clients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I also have experience with clients who are in crisis and have provided crisis stabilization. I have worked with variety of populations including young adults, adults, families and the geriatric population. I am easy going and like clients to feel relaxed when providing support and counseling.

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Dr. Randall Raymond

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I am Dr. Randall Raymond. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut, where I have practiced for over 20 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, and , career challenges. I have also helped many people who are feeling stuck and are looking for ways to improve their daily life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I look forward to working with you!

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Martha Ayala-Tannis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LMSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello my name is Martha Ayala-Tannis. I have been in the mental Health field since 1997, with training in a variety of approaches; and I am always looking forward to working with my clients and learning from them. Christian counseling available.

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Melissa Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Putting yourself first can truly feel impossible. Many of us have responsibilities to work, family or relationships that can easily be prioritized over our own wellbeing and happiness. It's easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck, especially when you don't know how to help yourself. Trying to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, alcohol/drug use or other mental health concerns can make the process even more challenging. I'm here to help explore solutions so that you can live the life you want to. My practice draws on concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), through which we can explore effective skills and strategies to deal with the challenges and make meaningful changes. My work is very much strengths-based, so we can work together to find solutions that are realistic and achievable. I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients, to help create a space that allows for trust and vulnerability. I believe that you are the expert of your own experience and it’s my job to help support you in your journey toward reaching your goals. Together, we can work to identify unhelpful patterns in your life and make positive changes. Please be advised that I generally respond to messages within 1 business day, and generally have limited ability to respond on weekends.

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Lorrie St.Pierre

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Connecticut. I received my Masters’ degree in Social Work in 2011 from Springfield College in Massachusetts. Since then I have been facilitating groups and working with individuals in a therapeutic environment. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Melissa Dennis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficulties
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I have over 14 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am an LGBTQIA affirmative therapist. In addition, I have extensive experience working with people who have disabilities. I am a breast cancer survivor which this is mentioned due to the nuances of enduring this experience can be unique and daunting with multiple stressors associated. I disclose this lived experience as it may be an area that you encounter where we can relate and move through the therapy process together. I am here for you to support you in navigating your journey.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bridgeport

Finding the best therapist close by in Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport. 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 Bridgeport, 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 Bridgeport region and in the state of Connecticut. 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, elsewhere in Fairfield, or in the greater state of Connecticut.

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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport may not take health insurance, some in the state of Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Bridgeport online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bridgeport, Connecticut 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bridgeport 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.

Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 CT, 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 06601 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 Bridgeport counselor?

Before seeing your Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport.

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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, Connecticut 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.

Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, Connecticut

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 Bridgeport.

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

06601, 06602, 06604, 06605, 06606, 06607, 06608, 06610, 06673, 06699

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