If you're interested in connecting with a therapist, Boston, MA has different options available. 

A therapist can help you with a variety of mental health challenges, whether you’re dealing with an underlying condition like anxiety or depression or struggling with personal growth and positive change. Whether you need a trauma informed counselor or aren’t sure about which therapeutic approach is right for you, finding a therapist can be challenging. With BetterHelp, most people are matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up. Because so many therapists are available on the platform, you can switch at no extra charge until you find the right fit. Most BetterHelp therapists have a master’s or doctoral degree, use evidence based treatments, and work to create a collaborative environment in a judgment free space. 

If you’re worried about therapy cost, BetterHelp is generally more affordable than many in-person therapy options. If you’re ready to start a life changing journey, boost self confidence, and improve your everyday life, speak to a Boston-based therapist today.

 

This is Ellen Curran's avatar and link to their profile

Ellen Curran

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Ellen Curran is a licensed independent clinical social worker who received her masters in clinical social work from Boston University School of Social Work in 2000. She works collaboratively with families, and adults in an empathetic, client centered hopeful environment. She respects the client’s strengths, making her clients aware of them so that they can utilize these strengths to improve their relationships, find self- acceptance and reach their goals. Offering a calm accepting haven, Ellen utilizes CBT and mindfulness techniques to work with clients to improve self esteem for those who battle with ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety/depression, anger and relationship issues that often appear during life stage changes. When not working with her clients, Ellen enjoys travel, biking and working with local environmental groups. Ellen meets with her clients on Tuesdays in the morning and late afternoon. Presently there are openings at 8:00 am, and 7:00 and 8:00 pm until they are filled.

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This is Dr. Mark Chustz's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Mark Chustz

Offering therapy in MA
License: PhD,LICSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

Thank you for checking my profile. Congratulations for getting this far in reaching out to a stranger for help. It's never easy. I know from personal experience. I have been a Social Worker for 34 years. I love being able to help people make the changes they know they need to make. If you don't know what changes you need to make, that may be where we start. We all have a part of ourselves that knows what we need to do or how we need to be. Part of a therapist's job is to help you find that part of yourself and give it a voice. I have seen and heard it all in my time as a therapist. So, have no concerns about sharing information with me, whenever you feel comfortable. We will start from where you are. You are in the perfect place to take the next step on your way to a better life. Remember that the perfect human does not exist. We are all working to make progress, not to become perfect. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient mental health centers for years. I recently retired from teaching Social Work and Healthcare Management at a local 4-year college. I have also worked in Hospice and Home Health for many years. The type of sessions we have will be based on your needs. Every client is different. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Susan Landers

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am a licensed, independent, clinical social worker with more than 25 years of experience working with people in mostly out patient settings. I am trained in many different modalities, and enjoy tailoring a treatment approach that best matches the individual person I am seeing. That being said, I guess if I had to choose an over-arching treatment approach, I would say I am client centered. I am also body centered, meaning that I believe the body carries our wounds and is a great source of information and potential healing. And I use expressive arts in my work with some clients, exploring issues through music, art, movement and play. I have a master's degree in social work as well as a master's in feminist counseling and have taken many graduate courses in expressive therapies. I have been a foster parent and adoptive parent and have a great deal of experience, personally and professionally, working with attachment issues and early childhood trauma.

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Heather Watson

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I believe you deserve to live your best life possible. I am an independent social worker licensed in Massachusetts with over 20 years of experience working in human services. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar disorder, adoption, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe our experiences are life lessons, not life sentences, and that we can learn and grow from our mistakes. I also believe that life is better with laughter, and many clients have commented on how my sense of humor has helped them through some difficult times. 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 and to be by your side every step of the way. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Pam Bolarinho's avatar and link to their profile

Pam Bolarinho

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

Pam Bolarinho, LICSW, currently a full time VP of Acute Care Services. I have worked in the field of social work for twenty plus years in various clinical support and leadership roles. I started her career as a social worker with the Healthy Families Program and then as a social worker for the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families until obtaining her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Bridgewater State University where I was also the Class Representative for her MSW cohort. In addition to my role as the ESP Director for the past three years, my prior experience includes working as the Clinical Director for inpatient psychiatric facility as well as the Social Work Manager at an acute medical hospital for over seven years. I am a proud Portuguese American who immigrated to the United States at age five. SI have have dedicated my life to helping those in need, especially the most vulnerable populations. I have been working closely with many community providers including the Suicide Prevention Coalition, Help & Hope Southcoast, Labor & Human Trafficking, and Opioid Taskforce to name a few. I was instrumental in starting a co-response program with the local Police Department nearly three years ago resulting in over 400 patient’s being seen in the community as part of the co-response model; I am proud of the great work that program is doing in keeping over sixty-five percent of those individuals home who may have otherwise ended up in a local emergency room. I have worked closely with individual providers, community agencies, local police departments and with the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership and Beacon Health Options in identifying ways to continue to divert patients from seeking the emergency room as their first line for their behavioral health needs. I have always been a patient centered/strength based clinician and find that when you take that approach people tend to respond to treatment in a positive way with positive outcomes. Throughout my career I have worked with trauma victims, end of life, foster care/adoption, individual suffers from reactive attachment disorder, elders, adults suffering from addiction as well as ongoing mental health and chronic mental health.

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Melissa Hudson

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 12+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, a strong understanding of medical diagnoses & coping with life changes. 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.

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This is Dr. Andrew Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Andrew Walker

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist with 5 years of experience working in psychotherapy and psychological assessment, providing services to people who are navigating challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and other concerns. My therapeutic approach is tailored to your specific needs. However, broadly speaking it can include helping you learn practical CBT-based skills to address your daily challenges and provide a safe and supportive environment for your deeper exploration based on Jungian depth psychology and other approaches. My specialized training in neuropsychology allows me to bring a strong science-based approach to our time together.

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This is Sonjit Mukherjee's avatar and link to their profile

Sonjit Mukherjee

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. 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.

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This is John Mitchell's avatar and link to their profile

John Mitchell

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with managing stress and anxiety, recovery from addictions, coping with bipolar disorder, overcoming depression, and a wide range of other conditions and life adjustment issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our discussions 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 this process toward better health, joy and well-being.

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This is Mary Gooding-Call's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Gooding-Call

Offering therapy in MA
LGBTTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Boston

Finding the best therapist close by in Boston 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 Boston. 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 Boston, 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, elsewhere in Suffolk, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Boston, Massachusetts 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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:

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 Boston 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 Boston 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 MA, 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 02206 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, Massachusetts 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.

Boston 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:

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

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

02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02112, 02113, 02114, 02115, 02116, 02117, 02118, 02119, 02120, 02121, 02122, 02123, 02124, 02125, 02126, 02127, 02128, 02129, 02130, 02131, 02132, 02133, 02134, 02135, 02136, 02137, 02152, 02163, 02196, 02199, 02201, 02203, 02204, 02205, 02206, 02210, 02211, 02212, 02215, 02217, 02222, 02241, 02266, 02283, 02284, 02293, 02297, 02298, 02467

Popular cities near Boston, MA

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