Martha Witkowski
Multiculturally aware, bilingual, independently licensed mental health therapist who understands that compassion and relationship building are at the core of the healing process. I am a trauma-informed, dialectical, and person-centered clinician who believes in both practical and deeply, emotionally based healing processes. I am a graduate of John Carroll University and have 9 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients in various community mental health settings with problems ranging from situational life stress to severe mental illness. Some special interests include: PTSD and trauma related disorders, anxiety disorders, life transitions, parenting issues, existential issues, couples counseling and personality disorders. I have also completed multiple research projects focusing on anxiety and the efficacy of different treatment modalities. I possess the skills, expertise and compassion to help individuals with a wide range of issues or concerns. I take a person-centered approach, where I work on building a strong therapeutic relationship with each client in order to help them reach their greatest potential and work towards reaching their goals. I believe that connection and relationship are the two foundations to personal growth. The strength of the relationship is based on my ability to maintain a non-judgmental, trusting and validating environment for the client while encouraging growth. My techniques include an integrative approach, combining multiple techniques, with an emphasis on Mindfulness-based techniques and DBT skills.
Dava Wilson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Kentucky, but also licensed in Tennessee and, South Carolina, and Florida with 9 years' experience working with people making change in their life. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and life changing situations. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and strengths-based drawing heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, positive, respectful, and safe. I believe that you have the ability to rewrite your own story with support from a professional. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am excited to meet you and work together to identify your goals and make plans to achieve them! Be proud of yourself for taking this first step to your new narrative! Please allow 24 hours for responses via any method (chat, email, etc.) for brand new clients and 24-48 for additional inquiries, although most will be within 24 hours. Please remember that therapists need self-care as well, so weekends I will not be responding to emails as I will be spending time with my family. If it is an emergency and you are having thoughts of self-harm or harming others please call 911 immediately.
Natalie Patton
Hello! I'm Natalie, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky. I appreciate your taking a moment to view my profile, and I truly hope that you find the support you need. I've worked in the mental health field for sixteen years, and I honor the courage it takes to reach out for help. I have worked with folks experiencing a wide range of concerns including the impact of trauma, depression, anxiety, mood instability, and interpersonal relationships. I've worked in a community mental health center, an emergency room, and in a program for people who have experienced domestic violence. I approach the therapeutic relationship with compassion, respect, and curiosity. I bring empathy, insight, and a non-judgmental stance into this relationship as three of my greatest strengths, and the work I do with a client is going to be guided by the needs of that client. I utilize techniques from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and I approach each person with a strengths-based perspective that aligns with one of my core values -- every person has worth and deserves to be heard. Some folks come to therapy with a specific situation, and some folks come to therapy with much more to unpack. Either way, growth and change can feel scary or overwhelming. I'll be honored to walk through it with you. I wish you the best on this journey.
Mary Lindsey Higgins
Searching for a clinician that is right for you is an important step in the change process. It takes courage and strength. I encourage you to be proud of yourself for simply exploring therapy as an option to enhance your wellness. I have worked as a therapist since 2015 and in the mental health field since 2009. I achieved my Master's in Social Work at Western Kentucky University in 2015. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Kentucky LCSW 253593). I have obtained education and supervision in the utilization of person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, strengths-based therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy inspired interventions. I work through a person-centered approach, meaning the interventions and therapy approach utilized will be determined based on each individual's specific expressing, processing and learning styles. This ensures each individual I partner with receives the best possible care and support, specifically for their individualized life and circumstances. I have trained experience with working with individuals regarding life stressors, self-worth/self esteem concerns, behavioral pattern concerns, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar I and II, grief, and a number of other concerns. I strive to provide each person I see with an authentic environment, filled with empathy, education and empowerment, to enable them to develop and reach their wellness and/or life goals. Even if you have not been able to identify your goals, and know you just want something different, you are at a place to begin your process.
Nicholas Bloodworth
I am currently a PhD student for marriage and family therapy. I have a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have a Master's of Arts in Psychology. I have more than 7 years of experience in working in mental health. This broad experience includes private practice, community mental health and serving as the clinic/program director for a psychiatric residential treatment facility. I Specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have a variety of experience in working professionally with those with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, couples counseling, Marital counseling, and family therapy. I am a certified Batterer' Intervention Provider for domestic violence. I also have training in Trauma Focused- CBT and CBT for Psychosis.
Denisha Oggs
I am licensed in Kentucky with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I dont believe in stigmatizing labels. 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.
Chelsea Arnold
Hi there! I am licensed in Kentucky with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a wide variety of concerns including motivation, self esteem, and confidence & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Gene Alexander
Thank you for checking out my BetterHelp profile. My name is Gene "Steven" Alexander, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Kentucky with 35+ years of professional work experience. My education includes a BS in Theology - Mid-Continent University, EdS in Clinical Counseling - Murray State University, PhD in Psychology - Madison University, and post graduate studies at Southern Illinois University and John Hopkins University. In the past I have served as a mental health therapist, clinical supervisor for a residential substance abuse treatment center, administer for a regional mental health agency, and 22 years in private practice with offices in four cities. My clinical experience includes treating a wide range of mental health disorders, family & marriage issues, and substance abuse & dependence. 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. Best wishes, Steven
Brittany Renaker
I am licensed in Kentucky with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.
Amy Collier
I am licensed in Kentucky with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find counseling in Westwood
Finding the best therapist close by in Westwood 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Westwood. 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 Westwood, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Westwood or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Westwood area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Westwood, elsewhere in Jefferson, or in the greater state of Kentucky.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Westwood area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Westwood 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 Westwood 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 Westwood may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kentucky may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Kentucky you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Westwood, Kentucky 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Westwood 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 Westwood helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Westwood 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
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 Westwood 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?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.
A psychologist 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 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 Westwood 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 lot of people in KY, providers 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 40242 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Westwood counselor?
Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Westwood 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 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.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy 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 professional 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 Westwood, Kentucky 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.
Westwood 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?
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
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Westwood:
40242