Working with a therapist can help you overcome a variety of life’s challenges, like family conflict or daily stress, and learn to manage the symptoms of a chronic mental illness. But even if there are independent practices or outpatient centers conveniently located near you, barriers to treatment can make it challenging to get appropriate care. Clients need to consider factors like insurances accepted, commute time, scheduling availability, and if the practice is accepting new patients.
If you’re looking for a therapist in New Bedford, MA, consider an online platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp can make therapy more flexible, allowing you to attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule.
While BetterHelp does not currently provide services to children or treatment approaches suitable to younger clients, like play therapy, the experienced professionals on the platform offer adults one-on-one treatment to help them manage various challenges. Whether you need support managing the symptoms of anxiety disorders or learning disabilities, coping with work stress or tension with family members, or learning techniques for anger management, online therapy can help.
If you are in the New Bedford or Fall River area and feel lost about how to get started or are ready to take the next step, connect with one of the therapists below to learn more.

Jane Gotshalk
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and seniors. My three areas of passion are working with trauma survivors, working with combat veterans, and feminist practice. When I was 39, I commissioned in the US Army as a behavioral health officer and deployed to Iraq through Operation New Dawn. I love helping women create their best lives despite conventional pressures of marriage and child rearing. I also love working with male or female veterans from all branches of service and have limited experience working with veterans who were Rangers and Special Ops.

Peggy Whelan
Hi. My name is Peggy. I'm a Masters level counselor, licensed in Massachusetts. I believe therapy is your journey. My role is to guide and gently challenge you to achieve your goals. With over 25 years experience, I'm able to follow your pace and use the most helpful interventions to suit your needs. Are you looking for solutions? Wanting to gain Insight? Let's get started!

Lynda Ketcham
Hello, I am a licensed social work therapist in Massachusetts with 30 years of professional work experience. If you are a client facing mid life challenges or a client who is facing challenges of growing older then I can help. Our lives bring unexpected events that can be scarey, or depressing. Relationship changes, family conflicts, financial stress are just some of the reasons people like yourself come to therapy. If you suffer from chronic illness, loss of a job, a loved one, or just wondering who you are in your stage of life, then I can help. I utilize my skills of compassion, understanding, healing,amd humor (when appropriate!). 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 reach out for help and I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Taking care of yourself is of the utmost importance and I hope you will let me be part of your team.

Julie Barzal
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervisory designation in Ohio and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with over 6 years of professional therapy experience. I have experience helping adult and adolescent clients with issues involving LGBTQ-IA concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, low self esteem/self confidence, grief, blended family concerns, Substance use disorders and family management of SUD disorders. In practice, I utilize many forms of therapy, inclusive of cognitive behavioral therapy , solution focused therapy, problem solving techniques, motivational interviewing, Affirmation and Commitment therapy, client centered therapy and strengths based therapy. I have always been passionate about helping and advocating for others and have always strived to be the positive change I wish to see in the world. I have experience in diagnosing DSMV mental health disorders, providing direct counseling and telehealth therapy, crisis and case management services with adolescents and adults. From a personal perspective, I embody empathy, engagement, advocacy, a tireless work ethic, active listening skills, critical thinking skills, cultural humility, gender and identity inclusion, and a client centered, strengths based focus that strives to always meet my clients where they are at. I want my clients to know that their time with me provides 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 takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started and making your mental health a priority. I am mindful that each person’s story is unique, reinforcing the importance for meeting clients where they are in their own personal mental health journey. It is my hope that our work together will be challenging, insightful and empowering because YOU are worth it. Fun Facts: I am left-handed but am ambidextrous. I became a mom as a teenager. I did not attend college until I was 40 years old (earned Bachelors and Masters ) because I believe it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

Laura Schulke
Hello! I believe that therapy can help us solve problems, and feel better about things that cannot or will not change. I use structured types of therapy (CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, problem solving and solutions focused therapies) to help you explore your concerns, challenge thinking and behaviors that aren't working for you, and emotionally come to terms with the tough stuff. I am excited to help you feel more in control of your emotional wellbeing. I'm glad you're here, and look forward to connecting with you! I have expertise treating OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, stress & life transitions, chronic illness and post-partum mental health. I hold a Master's in Counseling Psychology which I earned at Assumption College (Worcester, MA) in 2012. Since then, I have worked in outpatient mental health clinics, community mental health clinics, residential care and online providing telehealth.

Jeremy Miller
I am licensed in Massachusetts with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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. CBT Certified

Patrick Armano, Ed.D
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counsellor licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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!

Tarah Doyle
Are you stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you ready to make a change and feel better? Are you interested in learning practical tools to transform stress, reduce anxiety, and find more peace and calm? I take a holistic and integrative approach to helping my clients. I believe that talk therapy alone is not enough. I teach simple, effective, and evidence-based mind-body-energy techniques to help my clients feel more grounded, present, and calm. Practicing these techniques DAILY is key! I assist my clients in creating a daily practice that aligns with their goals/needs. I support and encourage my clients to commit to consistent practice, for it is the cumulative effect over time that yields benefit. If this holistic approach resonates with you, I invite you to reach out.

Anthony Vario
Hi. I'm Anthony. I believe that we all deserve to receive and accept love, grow from love, and love our growth. You are the painter of your life's portrait, and it is yours for the painting. Its path depends on your vision, care, creativity, and self-regard. In therapy, we will observe, understand, receive and accept your authenticity. We will also enliven and embrace your self exploration and self-awareness to characterize your originality. You will encounter your luminous watercolors, and the grooves of your greatest creation. I am professional, caring and creative. I wish to support you in your artistry, and witness the beauty that exists within you, and with your trust, coach you through a variety of techniques which will serve to stimulate your inspiration, artistic direction, and potential. Above all, we'll lean into the love and acceptance that you have for yourself. Nobody's going to be you other than you, so you have to be you, so be brilliant, shimmering and bold.

Desiree Maldonado-Peluffo
I am licensed in Massachusetts with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I have great understanding and compassion for the difficulty of having these struggles along with a history of trauma. Therapy can provide emotional support, enhanced coping skills, and personal growth. If you'd like to feel more hopeful and improve the relationship with yourself and others, my goal is to give you the tools to do just that. I utilize Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, CBT, and Mindfulness. I offer ways to remove the control negative emotions and unhealthy mindsets can have. Mindfulness strategies also allow us to stay connected to the present moment and build a more meaningful life. Therapy is a non-judgmental place and I am here to help!
Find a therapist serving clients in Massachusetts
What types of therapists are available to clients in New Bedford?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in New Bedford that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in New Bedford available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. New Bedford therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, New Bedford therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the New Bedford region and in the state of Massachusetts.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in New Bedford can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in New Bedford may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in New Bedford offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.